Big moves are being made in Washington to change the way wildlife and human infrastructure interact. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is partnering up with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to give us the Washington Habitat Connectivity Action Plan (WAHCAP), according to their press release. This plan is all about reducing wildlife-vehicle run-ins and keeping habitats connected despite all the new development.
Julia Michalak, WDFW’s point person for habitats and species, said, "Wildlife don’t stop at county lines or property fences." This plan has got Washington using a common map and tools to get local planners, landowners, tribal governments, and agencies to work together, connect the land again WDFW's announcement detailed. It seems like every year, thousands of animals are getting hit by cars, and that's rough for everyone, causing injuries, damage, and wildlife deaths, including species that are already struggling to stick around.
The WAHCAP has identified 38 chunks of highway for starters, places where animals cross often and where building some wildlife passages could make a big difference. They've also got their eyes on larger swaths of land, 13 areas that really matter for keeping the eco-network going strong. Interactive maps are also part of the package, giving the public access to important ecological data to guide decisions.
Plenty of local and tribal governments, conservation groups, and technical whizzes helped shape the WAHCAP. Glen Kalisz, from WSDOT, noted that this coordination is key for planning safer roads and designing more effective wildlife crossings. The plan is up for grabs at WDFW's website, and they've got the tools for planning on ArcGIS online, too.
The WDFW is all about keeping the state's fish, wildlife, and ecosystems in good shape, while also making sure people can enjoy and make a living from them. WSDOT, on the other hand, is focusing on creating transportation options that are safe and sustainable, but they’re also making sure those options work well for the communities and businesses they’re designed to serve.
