Snow Plowing in Saskatchewan: Equipment and Techniques

[MikePhua]

Snow plowing is a critical task in regions with heavy winter snowfall, and Saskatchewan is no exception. The province experiences some of the harshest winters in Canada, with long periods of snow and ice accumulation on roads, highways, and driveways. Proper snow clearing is essential for maintaining safety, accessibility, and efficiency during the winter months. In this article, we explore the methods, challenges, and equipment used for snow plowing in Saskatchewan, offering insights into how operators handle the region's tough conditions.

The Challenges of Snow Plowing in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan's climate presents unique challenges for snow removal. The province is known for its cold, dry winters, with average snowfall ranging from 100 cm to over 150 cm (39 to 59 inches) annually. This snow accumulation can affect everything from public roadways to rural driveways, and the need for efficient snow plowing operations is critical. Some of the challenges snowplow operators face in Saskatchewan include:

1. Heavy Snowfalls: Blizzards and large snowstorms are common, and they can drop significant amounts of snow in a short period. Plowing during or after a snowstorm requires fast, efficient, and reliable equipment to clear roads and prevent hazardous conditions.
   
2. Extreme Temperatures: The extreme cold, with temperatures often reaching -20°C (-4°F) or lower, can make plowing difficult. Frozen equipment, thick ice build-up, and the risk of frostbite for operators all increase the difficulty of the job.
   
3. Wind Drifts: Strong winds, especially during winter storms, often cause snow to accumulate in drifts, which can block roads and make snow clearing even more difficult.
   
4. Rural Areas: A significant portion of Saskatchewan is rural, with long, isolated roads that require constant attention throughout the winter months. Plowing these areas takes longer due to their remoteness and the lack of immediate backup services.
   

Snow Plowing Equipment
Given the challenges, snowplow operators in Saskatchewan rely on specialized equipment to clear snow efficiently and safely. The choice of equipment depends on the type of terrain, the amount of snow, and the urgency of the task. Some of the most common equipment used for snow plowing in Saskatchewan includes:

1. Heavy Duty Plow Trucks: These are the most common machines used for plowing highways and city streets. Equipped with large, adjustable plow blades, these trucks can clear significant snow accumulation in one pass. Many of these trucks are mounted with salt spreaders to prevent ice build-up on the roads.
   
2. Skid Steers: In rural areas and for more detailed work, such as clearing driveways or small roads, operators often use skid steers with snow plow attachments. These versatile machines are ideal for tight spaces and maneuvering through challenging conditions like snowdrifts.
   
3. Wheel Loaders: These machines are often used for clearing large amounts of snow, especially in industrial settings or large parking lots. Wheel loaders can scoop up snow and move it to designated areas or load it into trucks for disposal.
   
4. Tractor-Mounted Snow Blowers: In some rural and agricultural areas, operators use tractor-mounted snow blowers, which can throw the snow a great distance. These are particularly useful when clearing wide stretches of unpaved roads and fields.
   
5. Snowplow Attachments for 4WD Vehicles: For smaller residential or less-traveled roads, snowplows attached to 4WD trucks are used. These vehicles are often used in smaller municipalities or by private companies to clear snow from streets, parking lots, and driveways.
   

Techniques for Effective Snow Clearing
In Saskatchewan, the methods used for snow plowing depend largely on the type of snow, the area to be cleared, and the equipment available. However, some general techniques are widely used to maximize efficiency and minimize the impact of winter weather:

1. Layered Plowing: Operators often use a layered plowing technique where the snow is pushed in stages. This method allows the plow to gradually clear large amounts of snow without overloading the machine. Layered plowing is particularly effective in snowstorms when snow continues to accumulate while clearing is ongoing.
   
2. Plowing at Night: Many operators choose to plow during the nighttime when roads are less trafficked, and snow accumulation is at its peak. This method is more efficient as it reduces the risk of delays or obstacles and allows the equipment to work without interference.
   
3. Salting and Sanding: Once the snow is cleared, salt or sand is often applied to prevent ice formation. Salt helps to melt snow and ice, while sand increases traction, making roads safer for drivers. In Saskatchewan, where road safety is a concern due to the extreme cold, salting and sanding are crucial to ensure that roads stay clear and safe.
   
4. Snow Fencing: In certain regions of Saskatchewan, snow fences are set up along highways and roads to prevent the wind from carrying snow across the road and creating dangerous drifts. These fences are particularly useful in areas with strong winds, such as the southern and central parts of the province.
   

Common Issues and Maintenance for Snow Plowing Equipment
Snowplow operators in Saskatchewan face a variety of mechanical and operational challenges. Some of the most common issues and maintenance tips include:

1. Frozen Hydraulics: In extreme cold, the hydraulic systems in snowplows can freeze, causing the plow blade or other parts to become inoperable. To prevent this, operators should ensure that all hydraulic components are properly maintained and lubricated.
   
2. Worn Blades: After extensive use, plow blades can wear down and lose their effectiveness. Regular inspection and replacement of blades are essential for efficient snow clearing.
   
3. Salt and Ice Build-Up: The combination of salt, snow, and ice can cause equipment parts to corrode. Operators should clean their machines thoroughly after each shift to prevent long-term damage.
   
4. Engine Overheating: Long hours of operation in freezing conditions can cause snowplow engines to overheat, particularly if the radiator becomes clogged with snow and debris. Keeping the engine properly maintained and ensuring airflow is not obstructed are critical to preventing breakdowns.
   

Snow Plowing in Saskatchewan: A Lifesaver for Winter Operations
Snow plowing is essential in Saskatchewan for ensuring the safety and accessibility of roads and highways during the harsh winter months. The right equipment, skilled operators, and effective techniques are key to keeping roads clear and preventing accidents. As temperatures continue to drop, operators in Saskatchewan remain vigilant, utilizing a mix of traditional methods and modern technology to keep their communities moving safely through the winter.
Whether it's a heavy snowstorm or a light dusting, snow plowing in Saskatchewan remains a vital part of the province's winter infrastructure, with ongoing improvements and solutions to address the unique challenges posed by the region's weather.