Solution Salt Mining Summary
Salt and How It Is Mined
Approximately 8,500 square miles of New York State are underlain by rock salt beds of potential commercial thickness. Salt is mined in New York via two methods: rock salt mining and solution mining. New York typically ranks third in total salt mined among the salt-producing states.
Where the Salt Is Found
New York's salt deposits occur layered with shale, dolomite, and anhydrite in the lower part of the Silurian-aged Salina group. The Salina group outcrops in an east-west band from near Buffalo and Rochester through Syracuse to Herkimer County. At the southern edge of the state the salt is 3,000 feet deep.
Where Solution Mining Occurs
Solution mining operations for salt or brine recovery currently take place at two fields in Schuyler County and three fields in Wyoming County.
The solution mining method has also been used and is planned for future use to create underground caverns for storing natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas. This use is not included in the well and production statistics compiled below.
How Solution Mining Works
Fresh water is injected into the salt beds, through wells which are similar in construction to oil and gas wells, to dissolve the salt. The resultant brine is then pumped to the surface.
Solution Mining Statistics - 2006
Well Summary
Plugged wells at current facilities: 211
Unplugged wells at current facilities: 128
Brine Production
Fresh water injected: 2.14 billion gallons
Brine withdrawn: 2.09 billion gallons
How the Salt Is Used
Brine is brought to the surface for evaporation or chemical manufacturing. Salt mined in New York State is used for chlorine and soda ash production as well as for food products and processing.
