Car crashes involving wildlife claim the lives of around 200 Americans each year. This grim statistic underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions to reduce such incidents. In recent years, federal funding has played a pivotal role in aiding states to develop safe passages for animals, aiming to curb these tragic and costly encounters.
Addressing the Risk: A National Commitment
Every 26 seconds, a vehicle collision with wildlife occurs somewhere in the United States. To combat this, a nationwide push to construct wildlife-friendly crossings has gained momentum. These efforts involve building structures that allow animals to traverse roads without risking their lives—or the lives of motorists. For instance, Rick Knight from Colorado has contributed significantly by creating a low-cost crossing under U.S. Highway 287, enabling deer and other animals to pass safely.
Ingenious Local Solutions
In Larimer County, Colorado, Knight, along with college students, implemented a crossing that cost less than $500. By using vertical posts spaced 15 inches apart, they created a pathway conducive to wildlife movement while keeping livestock out. This local initiative highlights how simple infrastructure improvements can make a significant difference in mitigating human-animal conflict.
Innovative Designs for Varied Needs
Diverse wildlife necessitates diverse crossing designs. In Wyoming, pronghorn, which avoid underground passages, are accommodated with dedicated overpasses. Elsewhere, tunnels, culverts, and fencing adapt to the anatomical and behavioral preferences of different species. Jeremy Romero of the National Wildlife Federation emphasizes that the size and shape of each crossing are crucial to its effectiveness.
Federal Support Accelerating Progress
The passing of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs law has been a game-changer, providing essential funding for wildlife crossings. More than half of the US states, alongside five Indian tribes, have already benefited from this law. A notable project nearing completion is a $15 million overpass near Denver, which represents one of North America's largest efforts to date. These initiatives not only reduce animal fatalities but also enhance vehicular damage prevention, ultimately saving the nation about $8 billion annually.
Wildlife Crossings: A Necessary Investment
As roadside ecosystems are considered in infrastructure planning, the benefits extend beyond safety. Economic savings are substantial; the cost to repair a single vehicle after a wildlife collision often reaches tens of thousands of dollars. At Ozzie's Body Shop in Larimer County, repairs for a damaged Toyota RAV4 due to a deer collision were estimated at $10,000. This figure highlights the potential financial relief offered through effective wildlife protection measures.
Studies indicate that well-placed crossings can reduce such incidents by around 90%. These measures not only protect wildlife but also ensure human safety, creating a seamless coexistence between nature's paths and human roads.
