OREGON’S NEW WILDLIFE UNDERPASS PROJECT-
The majority of Oregonians want to protect wildlife migration routes, as reported by Ehuntr. As a result, officials have announced Oregon’s new wildlife underpass project. During recent research, wildlife managers have found Highway 97 near Gilchrist is a major crossing point for wildlife. Consequently, this is the site of the new wildlife underpass. Projects like wildlife underpasses protect from unwanted vehicle-wildlife collisions. Several other projects along Highway 97 have reduced collisions by almost 90%. Wildlife crossing projects are an important part of protecting migration routes. Wildlife officials are tasked with finding the best place to create a safe crossing.
This is a win-win for both drivers and wildlife,” said Sara Gregory, ODFW wildlife habitat biologist. “Data shows wildlife underpasses greatly reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions.”
Federal Grants and Conservation Groups Work Together
Earlier this year the Department of Interior released grant money to help with wildlife protection projects. The total funds provided by the grant was approximately $187,000. During this project a number of conservation groups stepped up to match the grant. In total the groups raised $343,000. The Oregon Hunters Assoc., Oregon Wildlife Foundation, RMEF, MDF, and the U.S. Forest Service all provided funds for the project. The grant must be matched before it is used. ODFW and ODOT also provided funding and staff time. ODF cleared trees and brush from the fenceline. ODOT built the underpass itself. Consequently, The Oregon Hunters Assoc. agreed to maintain the fence once construction is complete.
“Under crossings and wildlife connectivity to habitats take many hands, and natural resource agencies and hunting/conservation groups are teaming up to meet the challenge,” said Ken McCall of the Oregon Hunters Association. “Many of the same partners supporting funding for the underpass fencing have also teamed up on other projects on both public and private lands in the Fort Rock area.”
Oregon’s new wildlife underpass is looking like a success. What are your thoughts on safe wildlife crossing projects? Let us know in the comments.
