The Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the WYldlife Fund have successfully raised $2.7 million to support Wyoming’s application for the Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program. This funding will contribute to the non-federal match requirement for a federal grant of more than $17 million, which would help implement wildlife crossings along U.S. Highway 26. This stretch of highway, from Stoney Point to the Wind River Indian Reservation, is a high-priority area due to frequent wildlife-vehicle collisions, particularly involving mule deer.
The project, if awarded, will include the construction of one wildlife overpass, four underpasses, and improvements to existing structures to facilitate wildlife movement. It will also involve the installation of 18 miles of big game fencing, jump-outs, and cattle guards. This initiative aims to reduce the nearly 7,700 annual wildlife-vehicle collisions in Wyoming, of which around 70% involve mule deer.
Key partners in this effort include the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wind River Tribes, and other nonprofit organizations. WYDOT Director Darin Westby emphasized that the project is a win-win for both wildlife and human safety. Wyoming has committed $5 million to the project, adding to the $2.7 million raised by private donors.
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