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70 <br />especially since use of magnesium chloride might allow reduction in the use ofsalt and sand, and <br />thus reduce the presence of trace materials that are carried by salt and sand. <br /> <br /> General Conclusions <br /> <br /> The overall conclusion of the study is that application of magnesium chloride deicer <br />having a chemical composition and application rate similar to those of 1997-98 is highly unlikely <br />to cause or contribute to environmental damage at distances greater than 20 yds from the <br />roadway. Even very close to the roadway, the potential of magnesium chloride deicer to cause <br />environmental damage is probably much smaller than that of other factors related to road use and <br />maintenance, including pollution of highway surfaces by vehicles and use of salt and sand <br />mixtures to promote traction in winter. Magnesium chloride deicer may offer net environmental <br />benefits if its use leads to a reduction in the quantity of salt and sand applied to roadways. The <br />environmental safety of magnesium chloride deicer depends, however, on low concentrations of <br />contaminants and avoidance of rust inhibitors containing phosphorus. Appropriate specifications <br />for vendors and routine testing can insure the continued environmental acceptability of <br />magnesium chloride deicers. <br /> <br /> Acknowledgmems <br /> <br /> This study was supported by the Research Division of the Colorado Department of <br />Transportation. The study benefitted from the advice and assistance of the Intemgency Planning <br /> <br /> <br />