Road salt doesn’t “melt” snow on contact. It lowers the freezing point of water, which helps break the bond between ice and pavement so plows can scrape it away.

Once temperatures drop below about 15°F, salt becomes far less effective, so crews switch to sand for traction instead.

Sand gives tires grip on icy surfaces but won’t melt snow. After winter, it’s swept up during spring cleanup to protect drainage systems. Applying less salt in deep cold also helps protect nearby vegetation and water sources.

Plows follow a priority route system: main connector and school routes first, followed by emergency and high-traffic roads, and finally residential streets. This ensures emergency and high-traffic roads are open as soon as possible before crews move into neighborhoods.

Plowing often begins around 3 – 4 AM so main roads are cleared before the morning commute. Operators then return throughout the day as needed to manage drifting and refreeze.

Plows push snow to the right for safety and visibility. That means snow from the street sometimes ends up at the end of driveways — even ones just cleared.

Crews can’t lift the blade at every property, so residents are encouraged to clear an area to the left of their driveway (facing the road) to reduce buildup.

Most mailbox damage comes from the weight of snow, not from direct plow contact. Setting your mailbox 6–8 inches back from the pavement edge, using a sturdy post, and mounting it at the correct height prevents most damage.

Straightaways and rural roads often need less salt than hills, intersections, or shaded areas where ice lingers. Targeted application reduces cost, runoff, and environmental impact.

Signs override the general rule, always follow on-site signage first.

Some denser areas near Fort Drum housing or village limits have posted variations. These designations are made based on road width and emergency access needs.

Vehicles may be towed at the owner’s expense.

The Highway Department will make every reasonable effort to contact the owner before requesting a tow. Towing is a last resort, used only when the vehicle can’t be moved and is preventing safe snow removal.

Maintain a safe distance from the pavement edge to prevent damage during plowing. Items placed too close may be struck by heavy snow or plow equipment.

After plows pass, clear the end of your driveway and any sidewalks along your property. Keep snow within your yard — do not push it into the roadway, as this creates hazards.

Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks adjoining their property.

Install reflective markers or stakes before the first snowfall. These help plow operators identify driveways, culverts, and lawn edges, reducing the risk of accidental damage.

Maintain access to your mailbox and any nearby fire hydrants. This ensures safe mail delivery and quick emergency access.

Keep a safe distance when driving behind or near plow trucks. Snowplows have large blind spots and may stop or turn unexpectedly. Always stay several car lengths back.

If you notice icy intersections, blocked culverts, fallen signs, or other hazards, contact the Highway Department so crews can respond promptly.

Pushing, shoveling, or blowing snow into the street creates traffic hazards and is illegal under NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law §1219. Always keep snow on your own property or the lawn edge.

Vehicles parked on roadways make it difficult and unsafe for plows to pass. Parking is prohibited from December 1 through April 1 between 1 A.M. and 6 A.M., and violators may be ticketed or towed.

Keep these areas visible and accessible for emergency and utility services. Blocked hydrants or drains slow response times and increase flooding risk during thaw periods.

The Town of LeRay maintains Town roads only. Jefferson County and the State of New York are responsible for their own highways, and the Villages of Black River and Evans Mills maintain village streets.

For safety, do not flag down or confront plow drivers while they’re working. If you have a concern, contact the Highway Department office directly so it can be logged and addressed properly.