The Salt-Smart Plants Project
York Region, along with the City of Richmond Hill and community partners, are testing whether salt-tolerant plants, called halophytes, can reduce the amount of salt entering Lake Wilcox and the watershed. These salty but sweet plants will be hard at work for the next 5 years.
- In June 2024, researchers from Toronto Region Conservation Authority, Royal Military College of Canada, Queen’s University, Toronto Metropolitan University and others shared information about using plants to help clean salty soil and water
- One presentation showed that chloride (salt) levels in Lake Wilcox have been rising
- Richmond Hill and York Region partnered with researchers to test if halophytes can help reduce salt movement into the lake
- This is the first time halophytes are being tested in seed mixes and near street trees in this area
- The project will run for several years while experts study the plants, soil and trees
- A new seed mix was created for this project — it contains about 60% halophytes
- The team will compare this new mix to a regular seed mix to see which one works better
How We Measure Success
- Testing soil before and after planting to measure salt levels
- Studying plant leaves to see how much salt they take up
- Watching how well plants grow and compete with each other
- Checking tree health to see how they survive in salty conditions
How You Can Help
While these salty but sweet plants are at work, please do not trample or mow over them. These plants will be easily identified by signs located near Lake Wilcox and along Bayview Ave.
Use less road salt in the winter by following these tips
Salt and the Environment
- Winter road salt washes into soil, storm drains, streams, lakes and groundwater
- Too much salt can harm freshwater animals, plants and drinking water
- Salt levels in Lake Wilcox have been rising for more than 25 years
- Salt stays in the environment for years and keeps moving into lakes long after winter
- York Region’s Source Water Protection program helps keep drinking water safe from pollutants like winter salt
- York Region and Richmond Hill use winter salt carefully and follow strict rules
Frequently Asked Questions
What are halophytes?
Halophytes are plants that can grow in salty places. They take up and store salt from surrounding soil, intercepting the salt before it moves into surface waters, such as lakes and streams. This process is called Salt Phytoremediation. Halophytes can store salt in their leaves and stems, stopping it from getting into the water.
Why is road salt a problem for Lake Wilcox?
Salt levels in Lake Wilcox in the City of Richmond Hill have been rising steadily since the 2000s. Road salt can wash into storm drains and lakes. Over many years, salt builds up and can harm fish, plants and the whole freshwater ecosystem.
Where is the pilot project happening?
Three test locations in the City of Richmond Hill are being used:
- A native seed mix with halophytes, including prairie cordgrass and switchgrass, will be planted along a new multi-use path being constructed along the west side of Bayview Avenue
- Halophytes will be planted on the east side of Bayview Avenue
- Halophytes will be planted near select street trees along Bayview Avenue to test their survival rate in salty conditions
How long will the study last?
Planting will begin in spring 2026 and will be monitored and tested for 5 years. During this time, researchers will track changes in soil, plants and trees over time.
