Paul Smiths, NY, May 18, 2010 — A generation ago, acid rain caused by coal burning power plants in the Midwest was seen as the biggest threat to Adirondack lakes and waterways.

New environmental regulations have stopped much of that pollution. But a growing number of advocates say the next big danger is coming from a source closer to home. Every winter, state and local trucks dump thousands of tons of salt in an effort to melt the snow and ice on North Country roads.

Critics say the current system is too toxic. But a growing number of state and local officials say spreading all that salt is also too expensive. Brian Mann has our story.