Salinity Reduction
Salinity Reduction (“Hold the Salt!”)
Big Sky reuses 100% of treated wastewater for irrigation and snowmaking. Salt-based water softeners add salt to wastewater that cannot be removed during treatment. Over time, elevated salinity can harm soil, affect vegetation, and reduce the quality of snow made with reclaimed water.
By reducing unnecessary salt use now, we can help protect Big Sky’s beneficial reuse system and avoid costly future upgrades.
Why Salinity Matters
- Salt from traditional water softeners travels through the sewer system and the Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF).
- The WRRF provides advanced treatment and nutrient removal, but salt passes straight through.
- Higher salinity in reclaimed water can:
- degrade soil health
- affect plant and turf health
- reduce snow quality when used for snowmaking
You Can Help Reduce Salt at the Source
- Test your water hardness using water from a spigot before any softener (results in GPG or PPM).
- Only soften water if needed — many homes may not need softening at all.
- If scale is a concern, soften hot water only — it can significantly reduce salt discharge.
- Consider high-efficiency or non-salt options with your plumber or installer.
- If you use a salt-based softener, consider potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride.
- Share this information with neighbors and businesses.
Water Softening & Conditioning Options
A Decision Guide for Salinity Reduction
Download the Water Softening & Conditioning Options Handout (PDF)
