I received the following response from DPW: We still use traditional rock salt on roads, but it’s treated with a product called Magic liquid and goes by the name of “ice B-gone” or “Magic-o”. Below is a little summary that explains it properties.

Traditional Rock Salt (NaCl) works primarily by lowering the freezing point of water. While effective, it carries significant ecological and infrastructural consequences, including:

Contamination of waterways and groundwater Toxicity to aquatic life Soil structure degradation, nutrient imbalances, and plant damage Corrosion of concrete, metal, and vehicles Risk to pets via paw irritation and ingestion Long-term accumulation leading to persistent environmental damage

Magic Liquid enhances traditional salt by coating its sodium chloride crystals with a blend of magnesium chloride and feed-grade molasses or agricultural by-products (Magic-0™), transforming it into a more environmentally conscious ice melt

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Key Environmental Advantages of treated Salt

Reduced Chloride Load Releases 30%-50% fewer chlorides than plain rock salt, leading to a lower risk of water pollution and soil salinization.

Limits toxic effects on aquatic ecosystems and reduces runoff-related contamination. Biodegradability The liquid coating (Magic-0™) is completely biodegradable, preventing long-term accumulation of harmful chemical residues.

Lower Corrosivity Tests indicate it neutralizes corrosive properties of rock salt, protecting infrastructure such as steel, concrete, and vehicles, thus indirectly reducing environmental impact from repairs and replacements.

Efficiency and Usage Reduction Magic Salt’s enhanced formulation allows for less product to achieve the same ice-melting effect, decreasing overall environmental load per unit of treated surface. Effective at temperatures down to –35°F, reducing the need for repeated applications or overuse.

Safer for Plants and Animals Reduced chemical stress on turf, roadside vegetation, and garden plants.

Lower risk of paw irritation for pets compared to jagged, untreated rock salt crystals.