PANEL SESSION PRESENTATION A DECADE OF PROACTIVE PROGRESS IN RESOLVING ARIZONA HIGHWAY-WIDLIFE CONFLICTS

摘要: Arizona first captured the road ecology community’s attention in 2002 when 2 State Route (SR) 260 wildlife underpasses were completed. Arizona’s efforts to resolve conflicts between and highways promote connectivity have since expanded dramatically both scope scale, yet Department of Transportation (ADOT) its partners face new challenges. This paper provides an overview these addresses emerging issues that will challenge ecologists transportation managers sustaining this progress. Construction Retrofitting: The phased reconstruction SR with 11 is nearly complete; high-profile status was eclipsed by US Highway 93 (US 93) project 3 overpasses targeting desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) connectivity. Reconstruction along 68 also addressed permeability fencing. All comprehensive “big projects” planned address landscape-scale However, major construction funding dwindling, retrofitting during smaller widening projects needs likely increase importance over next decade. Retrofitting utilizes existing structures suitable accommodate passage wildlife-vehicle collision (WVC) “hotspots” integrated fencing holds considerable potential. Such approach has been pursued on innovative cost-effective designs, applications products. With not present or adequately spaced, “drop-in” (e.g., precast arch underpasses, overpasses) currently being highways: state’s 86 Tohono O’odham Nation, 77 overpass, underpass, linking them large bridges. These are funded Pima County Regional Authority, a model for sustainable commits $45 million 20 years Research: ADOT separate research 2002, including intensive 5 monitor enhance effectiveness. Intensive 10 develop data-driven strategies WVC