Nonstructural ice control measures are used for reducing the frequency and severity of ice jam damages that do not rely on the use of a structure placed in the river. This report is a comprehensive review of current nonstructural ice control methods in use. Both advance measures and emergency response methods are addressed. where possible, the effectiveness of these methods has been assessed, and cost of application has been tabulated. In terms of development, some of these are still in their infancy, while others are well advanced in terms of available guidance and field experience. Nonstructural methods can be used to extend the operating envelope of structural measures and can play a role in an ice control strategy that uses both structural and nonstructural components to provide the desired results. There is little guidance currently available to predict the reduction in ice jam potential due to application of any of these measures. Further work in this area should focus on developing governing relationships that relate ice and river properties and meteorological conditions to ice jam potential and severity.

Surveys of highway connected agencies and an extensive literature search of maintenance research in the U.S., Great Britain, and Europe were conducted to compile a review of existing nonchemical methods of snow removal and ice control of concrete surfaces. Details of permanent installations, the water pipe and electrical heating element customarily installed in concrete slabs, are given. Potential applications of electrical and gas-fired infrared heaters are discussed. other methods investigated included covered bridges, electrically conductive road surfaces, snow melting pits, and bridge deck insulation.

Technology of snow and ice control has changed considerably in the last decade, with the development of many cost saving techniques, equipment, and materials. Environmental concerns have forced a rethinking of old techniques and this book provides a detailed source of information on the subject.