Utah’s Wildlife Overpass: A Success for Animal Safety and Driver Peace of Mind
Early Results Exceed Expectations
Utah’s Department of Transportation (UDOT) constructed the state’s largest wildlife overpass over Interstate 80 in 2018. Despite initial projections that it would take years for wildlife to adapt to the new structure, footage captured over the past two years reveals a remarkable adoption rate.
Animal Use and Benefits
The overpass, strategically located based on animal migration patterns, spans 320 feet in length and 50 feet in width. It features a naturalized surface of rocks and logs to encourage animal use. Cameras installed along the guardrails have documented a diverse range of wildlife crossing the bridge safely, including deer, moose, elk, black bears, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, yellow-bellied marmots, and porcupines.
Safety Enhancements
Prior to the construction of the overpass, UDOT recorded over 100 vehicle-animal collisions in the area, resulting in numerous animal fatalities and human injuries. The wildlife overpass, combined with over three miles of fencing to guide animals toward the crossing point, has significantly reduced the number of accidents.
Environmental Impact
Studies conducted on similar wildlife crossings in other regions have demonstrated their effectiveness in preventing collisions and protecting both human and animal lives. Experts estimate that crossings and fencing can reduce vehicle-animal collisions by 85 to 95 percent.
Human-Wildlife Interaction
While the overpass is intended exclusively for animal use, UDOT has observed instances of people trespassing on the structure. This behavior poses risks to both individuals and wildlife, as moose and other large animals can be unpredictable and dangerous. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources strongly advises against trespassing on the overpass.
Ongoing Monitoring
UDOT plans to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the overpass’s impact on wildlife safety and driver behavior after three to five years of operation. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of this innovative infrastructure and inform future wildlife management strategies.
Additional Benefits
Beyond its primary purpose of enhancing wildlife safety, the overpass also contributes to the local ecosystem by providing a safe passage for animals to access critical habitats and resources. This connectivity is essential for maintaining healthy wildlife populations and preserving biodiversity.
Conclusion
Utah’s wildlife overpass has proven to be a resounding success, exceeding expectations in terms of animal adoption and safety benefits. The structure demonstrates the importance of investing in wildlife-friendly infrastructure to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and protect both animal lives and driver safety. As ongoing monitoring continues, the overpass will provide valuable data to further refine wildlife management strategies and ensure the long-term success of this innovative solution.
