The R.M. of Springfield provides a user pay dust control service to residents. Dust control is just as it sounds. It is meant to control dust on the roadways, not to eliminate it completely. Typically a calcium or magnesium chloride product is used, depending on the cost from the distributor. These products when applied, adhere to the gravel surface. These products retain moisture (from rain, humidity), which weighs down the dust particles, making them less likely to become airborne after a vehicle has passed over the area. Dust control should last for one summer season. However under extended dry periods with minimal or no moisture, these products will not be able to perform as well and residents may notice a slight increase in airborne dust. This does not mean that these products are not functioning properly, as the end result will be better than areas where the product has not been applied.
Residents may purchase a single pass (centre of road), or a two pass (shoulder to shoulder) of dust control. Residents must advise the RM of how many feet they want applied (min. 100 feet). Residents must pay by cheque or exact cash only in person at the Public Works office at 27055 Oakwood Rd. 64N in Oakbank. All orders must be placed by June 1st of each year, this is for budgetary and logistics reasons. It is costly and time consuming to have equipment traveling all over the R.M. after large regions of the R.M. have been covered. The cost of the dust control to residents varies slightly from year to year depending on the cost of the product from the distributor and the cost of application.
The dust control program does not begin until the weight restrictions have been lifted by Manitoba Highways. This is typically around the end of May, however due to ground conditions, these restrictions could stay in place for extended periods. P.W. will apply the dust control product as quickly as possible. Dust control can not be applied in rainy conditions or to a saturated road surface; this may cause some delays depending on weather conditions.
Any dust control disturbed by road preparations (grading, gravel application) for the annual gravel program will be re-applied if required. If there are a large number of potholes in an area where dust control has been applied the road may require re-grading. In these instances dust control will not be re-applied.
Beginning Sept. 15TH of each year, grading of all roads begins in preparation for winter. This also includes all areas that have been applied with dust control. No re-application of dust control will be provided.
Please review the Policy which has been approved by Council. This provides more information on our program and becomes effective immediately. Dust Control Policy
