How Utah Was the First to Make a Bridge for Wildlife To Avoid Collisions

The State of Utah was ahead of its time when in 1975 they built a bridge for wild animals to get across the road without getting hit. Since that time, 50 more places for animals to migrate across roads have been built with more to come. 

Study Shows Bridge for Wildlife Has Been Successful 

Many of the wildlife access points go under the highways or freeways, but in Parley’s Canyon where I-80 goes through the state built a $5 million bridge for animals to cross. A study by Utah State shows the effort has worked out well. 

It found that mule deer had crossed 97% of the time successfully and moose were at %100 improvement. Camera footage shows that it is used by other animals including black bears that have made their way across. 

More Wildlife Access Points Coming 

Because of Utah’s success, many other states have built bridges for animals to cross. Some of these can get pretty elaborate with massive thoroughfares covered in trees and other natural features. 

In Utah, highway 89 runs through the middle of the state. The number of collisions of deer with cars has been brought way down with several tunnels under the road. As the money is allocated and grants received, the state will continue to build more. 

Read More: Know the Animals in Utah You Can Hunt Year Round

These underpasses can still be dangerous for migrating animals as some predators have learned to hunt near these areas. However it isn't much different from waiting near game trails and watering holes. And there is a lot less damage to vehicles.