With an earlier-than-usual start to winter, combined with frequent snow and freezing rain events, has put sustained pressure on salt supplies. This came after a challenging 2025 season that significantly reduced reserve inventories.
While some salt mines are operating at full capacity, supply has been unable to keep pace with demand. Municipal and regional road authorities continue to be prioritized for deliveries, leaving private snow and ice contractors further down the supply chain. At the same time, wholesale salt prices have increased sharply, adding financial strain to businesses.
We know these conditions create real operational challenges for members. Limited access to salt, rising costs and liability concerns can make day-to-day decision-making and operations difficult, particularly when client expectations don’t always reflect the current supply realities.
To help navigate the situation, Landscape Ontario encourages members to consider the following steps:
Manage and optimize material use
- Prioritize plowing and mechanical snow removal before applying de-icing material.
- Monitor and adjust application rates so you understand exactly how much material is being used under different conditions.
- Blend salt with sand or other traction-enhancing materials where appropriate to extend available supply.
- Consider calibrated application methods or pre-treatment approaches where possible.
Communicate clearly with clients
- Set realistic expectations with property managers and customers about service levels during periods of limited supply.
- Explain the broader supply situation and the need for responsible salt use.
- Reinforce that “bare pavement” conditions may not always be achievable under current constraints.
Review contracts and manage risk
- Ensure contracts reflect realistic service expectations given supply limitations.
- Use standardized contract language where possible. Landscape Ontario’s Standard Snow & Ice Maintenance Contract is available to members to help manage liability exposure.
Landscape Ontario continues to engage with media and decision-makers to raise awareness of the ongoing shortage and to advocate for longer-term solutions that address both supply planning and the liability framework facing our industry. Read the press release here.
