By ADAM STEWART

Staff writer

Marion County Road and Bridge Department is making the transition from summer to winter work.

The department wrapped up summer road projects several weeks ago, Road and Bridge Superintendent Jim Herzet said.

The most obvious of the department’s winter duties is snow removal. Wind speeds play a role in determining when snowplows go to work, Herzet said. If winds are calm, they can begin clearing roads as soon as snow begins falling.

But strong winds and drifting snow can delay road clearing.

“They can drift shut on you about as fast as they open up,” Herzet said.