Crossing Structures

Wildlife crossing structures

Wildlife crossing structures are bridges or culverts designed to move animals safely over and under roads. They are strategically placed in locations where high numbers of animals cross busy roads. Crossing structures significantly reduce wildlife mortality, while also decreasing vehicle damage and personal injuries that result from wildlife-vehicle collisions.

In 1975, the Utah Department of Transportation installed the first wildlife bridge in the nation on I-15 near the town of Beaver. Since then, over 50 wildlife crossings have been built across the state.

Wildlife crossings are now becoming an essential tool to maintain healthy wildlife populations in modern society. In Utah, traffic volumes have doubled in just the past 25 years. Rising traffic volumes make it difficult for wildlife to safely cross roads without being killed or severely injured.

The Migration Initiative and its partners are mapping the movements of wildlife so crossing structures can be placed in areas that coincide with movement corridors. Wildlife crossings provide a critical link between seasonal habitats for wildlife. Use the map below to view locations and pictures of crossing structures throughout the state.