Cost Benefit Tool

This online tool allows transportation agencies to estimate the return on investment of implementing blowing snow control practices such as living snow fences or standing corn rows on private lands.

Please note: The Blowing Snow Control Cost Benefit Tool is intended only as a tool for professionals. It does not replace judgment or experience. Each user must determine for themselves the appropriateness of the tool and its outcome. Snow Control Tool Partners do not guarantee any particular outcome from using the tool. By using the tool, you waive any claim against Snow Control Tool Partners for any and all loss, cost, property damage and personal injury.

Sponsors

This tool was created by partnering staff at the Minnesota Department of Transportation with the University of Minnesota ExtensionCenter for Transportation Studies, and Center for Integrated Natural Resources & Agricultural Management.

Introduction to using the Snow Control Cost-Benefit Tool

This 30-minute webinar recording from provides an introduction to using the Snow Control Cost-Benefit Tool.

Presenters: Gary Wyatt, Extension Educator, University of Minnesota; Daniel Gullickson, Natural Resource Program Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Transportation; David Smith, Research Assistant, University of Minnesota

Date: January 28, 2015

Interpreting the results of the Snow Control Cost-Benefit Tool

The first 20 minutes of this webinar focuses on how to interpret the results of the cost-benefit tool.

Presenters: David Smith, Research Assistant, University of Minnesota; Daniel Gullickson, Natural Resource Program Coordinator, Minnesota Department of Transportation

Date: June 17, 2015

Snow Control Cost-Benefit Tool: Interpreting Results from a Landowner's Perspective

June 15, 2018

This webinar recording explains how to interpret results of the blowing snow control cost-benefit calculator from the perspective of a landowner.

Presenter: David Smith, USDA, former Research Assistant, University of Minnesota

Snow Control Cost-Benefit Tool: Interpreting Results from an Agency’s Perspective

June 15, 2018

This webinar recording explains how to interpret results of the blowing snow control cost-benefit calculator from the perspective of an agency like the MnDOT.

Presenter: David Smith, USDA, former Research Assistant, University of Minnesota