Wildlife crossings potentially save millions in Washington state

In Washington state, wildlife crossings—such as bridges and underpasses—are proving effective in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions. A study by Washington State University found that these structures can save approximately $235,000 to $443,000 annually per crossing by decreasing the number of wildlife collisions by 1 to 3 per mile each year in a 10-mile radius around each crossing.

The study analyzed data from 13 wildlife crossings, comparing collision rates before and after their construction. It found that bridges, in particular, significantly reduce collisions involving deer, which are often the culprits in these accidents. Underpasses tend to be more frequented by predators like black bears.

With 22 wildlife crossings in Washington, and more expected due to recent federal funding, these structures not only aid in wildlife movement and safety but also contribute to road safety and cost savings by reducing accidents and associated damages. Future research might expand to include insurance data for a broader perspective on the benefits of wildlife crossings.