More Snow Calls for More Rock Salt
Port of Coeymans Sees Increased Demand for Rock Salt Shipments
COEYMANS, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The recent frequency of snowstorms has led to a surge in demand for rock salt, resulting in increased shipments to the Port of Coeymans. A large shipment arrived on Friday, with many more expected to follow.
Rock Salt Shortage Drives Up Demand
Pesky storms have driven up the demand for rock salt, and the statewide shortage has led to a high-volume of calls from those looking to stock up. The Port of Coeyms has received a significant number of inquiries from suppliers and municipalities seeking to restock their supplies.
Local Suppliers Feel the Impact
Mark Deschamps, owner of 43 Farms Deschamps Brothers Inc., a client of Apalachee Salt, one of three local suppliers based out of the port, has noticed a significant increase in demand. “December and January were a little slow, but February has been very busy,” he said. “A ton of rock salt now costs between $10 and $15 more.”
The Impact on Prices
Deschamps explained that the more frequent and smaller storms are driving up the price of rock salt. “Where you just get an inch and it’s in between being able to plow or use salt to get rid of it. There’s been a big difference, and a lot of municipalities have been using more as well, so they’re coming to this area to get the salt. That’s really a shortage,” he said.
Keeping Communities Safe
The rock salt is brought over by ships, which typically take a two-week journey from places like Chile, Italy, and Egypt. Friday’s shipment came from Chile, and workers expect it to take a few days to unload. Once unloaded, another ship will follow, ensuring a steady supply of rock salt for the region.
FAQs
* Q: Why is there a shortage of rock salt?
A: The recent frequency of snowstorms has driven up demand, leading to a statewide shortage.
* Q: What is the current price of rock salt?
A: A ton of rock salt now costs between $10 and $15 more due to the shortage.
* Q: How is the Port of Coeymans addressing the shortage?
A: The port is receiving regular shipments of rock salt to meet the increased demand.
* Q: What is the impact on local suppliers?
A: Local suppliers, such as 43 Farms Deschamps Brothers Inc., are feeling the pressure of the shortage, with a significant increase in demand and price.
