Salt Symposium Transitions Ownership to University of Minnesota
For years, Bolton & Menk has been proud to bring together a wide audience to explore cutting-edge solutions for the threat of chloride pollution. The Salt Symposium has served to inform and inspire action for a low salt future. Today, we’re excited to share an important next step for the event that has shaped so many important conversations: the Salt Symposium will transition to the University of Minnesota’s Cold Climate Stormwater Center of Excellence (CCSCoE).
A History Built on Collaboration
The Salt Symposium has always been defined by partnership.
Fortin Consulting had the initial vision for the Symposium and, through perseverance and without government funding, made that vision a reality in 1999 by launching the first event. The Freshwater Society played an initial role as a long‑standing planning partner, connecting stakeholders, elevating research, and championing chloride education. Their dedication helped build the Symposium into a trusted venue for learning and collaboration.
Under the continued leadership of Fortin Consulting, the event broadened as they grew the Road Salt Symposium into the Salt Symposium, expanding the focus beyond transportation to include water softening, fertilizers, dust suppressants and other chloride-rich industries. They brought the event online, increasing accessibility and international engagement.
When Fortin Consulting joined Bolton & Menk in 2022, we were honored to help carry this work forward. Together with our partners, we continued strengthening the Symposium’s role as a leading source of chloride education, research, and inspiration.
About the Cold Climate Stormwater Center of Excellence
The CCSCoE, co‑led by the University of Minnesota and the University of New Hampshire in partnership with the National Municipal Stormwater Alliance, focuses on the unique stormwater challenges faced in cold climates. Their work includes conducting research; providing technical assistance to state, Tribal, and local governments; and collaborating with the other National centers.
What’s Ahead Under CCSCoE
As the Salt Symposium enters a new era under the CCSCoE, its focus sharpens on expanding research and education through stronger university connections, increasing training and certification opportunities, and fostering broader collaboration among municipalities, agencies, and industry partners. This transition ensures the Symposium remains a leading forum for innovation and best practices in cold climate stormwater management, drawing on the expertise of a growing community dedicated to protecting infrastructure and the environment.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all who have presented, sponsored, and attended the Salt Symposium with us over the years. We honor the collaborative spirit that has defined the event’s journey, and we look forward to continuing our engagement with the Symposium community as we embrace this new chapter under CCSCoE. This transition is guided by the principle of putting education back in the hands of the educators, ensuring that those with expertise lead the way in developing and sharing knowledge for the benefit of all.
Learn more about the Salt Symposium’s goal of Designing a Lower Salt Future!