Enhancing Ecological Resiliency: Modeling Road Crossing Structures for Shifting Ecosystems in Southwestern Alberta, Canada

Keywords: cological Resiliency, Yellowstone to Yukon, Wildlife Crossing, Ecological Services, Habitat Fragmentation, Alberta
Session Type: Virtual Guided Poster Abstract
Day: Saturday
Session Start / End Time: 2/26/2022 05:20 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/26/2022 06:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 63

Abstract

Resilient ecosystems are dependent upon unencumbered movement of matter and energy, which includes animal movement. Where roads are significant fragmenting agents to this movement, road-crossing structures have partially helped reconnect some fragmented areas. Studies of road crossings over the last three decades have identified specific animal use and behavior associated with these crossings. Additionally, research shows animal use is maximized by establishing optimal crossing locations and appropriate structure design for specific species. Several geophysical features are critical in determining the best location and design. As climate change results in shifting ecosystem structures and locations, these changes will result in altered animal movement based on needs associated with geophysical features. Highway 3 is an east-west transportation corridor that bisects five natural regions in Southern Alberta. The highway is one of two transportation routes connecting goods and people across the Canadian Rockies. The corridor does not currently have wildlife road-crossing infrastructures, to facilitate safer passage of wildlife and provide an important safety measure for both animals and motorists. This study modeled locations and types of crossing structures best suited to wildlife needs and shifting ecosystems within this multiuse landscape to preserve ecological diversity under projected climate change scenarios.