Migrating Wildlife are increasingly at risk of vehicle collisions in Wyoming, a danger to motorists and the future of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Photo: Josh Metten
It’s a story many know. For me it was on Christmas Day, I was driving early in the morning in a light snow storm when out of the darkness a white tail doe appeared in my headlights. I hit the brakes, but it was too late, the doe went under the car and was killed instantly.
I was lucky, the car was relatively undamaged and I was uninjured. Collisions with wildlife are dangerous and costly. 1 in 15 highway deaths in Wyoming involves wildlife and damage to vehicles can exceed $10,000. It doesn’t have to be this way, and fortunately a coalition of conservation organizations including the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Muley Fanatics Foundation, and Wyoming Wildlife Federation are working on a solution.
HB0039, “Wildlife Conservation License Plates” was just introduced to the Wyoming Legislature today, and is a step in the right direction to protect wildlife migration corridors across highways in Wyoming. Funding from the voluntary sale of license plates would go directly to the construction of wildlife crossing structures, fencing, and other highway mitigation measures which are proven to reduce wildlife collisions. Structures already in place south of Jackson Hole have led to a nearly 80% decline in crashes, protecting our migrating wildlife and people on the road.
Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures is proud to support HB0039 and has committed to buying 6 plates for our vehicles should the bill pass. In addition, guides Laura Kruseski, Verlin Carlton Stephens, Mike Vanian, Chelse Grohman, Mariah Childs, Josh Metten, Mark Byall, and Amanda White, have all signed the pledge to purchase plates. Wyoming Residents can voice their support by visiting the Muley Fanatic Foundation website here.
As wildlife enthusiasts we encourage all Wyoming residents to support this “Wyoming Solution to a Wyoming Problem.” Making our roads safer for wildlife and motorists alike also makes economic sense, tourism revenue from Wyoming’s Wildlife makes up the number two sector of our State’s Economy. The bill needs a 2/3rds majority to pass, please voice your support today by adding your name to the support pledge here and calling your representatives.
Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures was created to help people connect with the natural world through wildlife observation and natural history interpretation. We believe that knowledge of the intricate workings of an ecosystem leads to a deeper appreciation and connection with the environment. Let us help maximize your Jackson Hole Experience today, click the “Book Now” Button for live availability. We can also be reached by phone at 307-690-9533 or email info@jhecotouradventures.com.
Written by Naturalist Josh Metten
