New salt brine maker gives ODOT crews a boost in Eastern Oregon
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE – Oregon Department of Transportation crews in Eastern Oregon are deploying a new tool to combat winter weather: an onsite salt brine manufacturing system.
The newly installed brine maker at the La Grande maintenance station allows crews to produce treatment materials locally. Officials say the system provides faster access to supplies and increased flexibility during unpredictable storms, specifically targeting conditions like freezing fog and early-morning frost common to the region.
Unlike magnesium chloride, salt brine does not draw in moisture or refreeze, reducing the need for repeated applications. Because it is applied as a liquid, it adheres to dry pavement and prevents ice from bonding to the road surface.
ODOT estimates the brine may cost approximately half as much as magnesium chloride, excluding labor. While crews will continue to use solid salt, when necessary, the brine offers a more efficient alternative for short cold snaps.
“Brine provides another option that works well for many of the conditions crews face in Eastern Oregon,” ODOT Public Information Officer Kacey Davey said.
Davey explains the trailer (pictured above) is the actual brine maker machine, then the brine is pumped into storage tanks and then filled into ODOT’s trucks.
Photo via ODOT
