As Virginia faces increasing challenges related to wildlife-vehicle conflicts, habitat fragmentation, and biodiversity loss, the Mid-Atlantic Chapter continues to support proactive measures that are being taken to address these pressing issues. The proposed legislation, HB 2025/SB 1341, led by Delegate Gardner and Senator Marsden, aims to create a framework that benefits both wildlife and communities throughout the state. Here’s a closer look at the significance of this legislation and its potential impact.
Establishing a Wildlife Crossing Program
One of the primary goals of this legislation is to create a Wildlife Crossing Program administered by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). This initiative will align with federal guidelines and focus on evaluating risks associated with large-animal crashes during the planning stages of highway projects. By implementing effective strategies to mitigate these risks, the program aims to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions, helping to protect both drivers and animals
Securing Sustainable Funding
Effective conservation efforts require adequate funding. The legislation emphasizes the importance of establishing sustainable funding sources for the Wildlife Corridor Action Plan. Virginia state agencies will seek dedicated funding, competitive grants, and private contributions while prioritizing allocations for communities that have been historically underserved. This approach ensures that localities have the necessary resources to implement vital wildlife protection measures.
Standardizing Data Collection
To address wildlife-vehicle conflicts more effectively, the legislation mandates that all highway maintenance contracts include specifications for logging GPS coordinates and animal types for wildlife carcass removals. This standardized data collection will enhance the identification of conflict hotspots, enabling planners to strategically place wildlife crossings where they are needed most. Improved data-driven decision-making can lead to more effective interventions.
Enhancing Flood Resilience and Wildlife Passage
Climate change poses significant threats to both human infrastructure and wildlife habitats. The Department of Conservation and Recreation will promote wildlife-friendly designs in flood resilience infrastructure. By integrating wildlife corridor priorities into the development of culverts and drainage systems, the legislation seeks to ensure that infrastructure not only withstands climate challenges but also facilitates safe wildlife passage.
Addressing the Impact of Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions
Virginia currently ranks among the top ten states for wildlife-vehicle collisions, resulting in over 60,000 deer crashes annually. These incidents not only pose risks to human life but also strain taxpayer resources and threaten biodiversity. Research indicates that wildlife crossings can reduce collisions by up to 96%, illustrating their potential to significantly enhance public safety while protecting wildlife populations.
Supporting the Budget Amendment
To support the implementation of these critical initiatives, Delegate Simonds and Senator Marsden are proposing a $460,000 budget amendment. This funding will provide essential resources for state agencies and localities to carry out corridor and crossing projects. Additionally, these funds will serve as a vital match for federal grants, helping to remove financial barriers faced by many localities when pursuing wildlife conservation efforts.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The legislation HB 2025/SB 1341 represents a significant opportunity for Virginians to advocate for wildlife protection and resilient infrastructure. By contacting your House and Senate representatives, you can support measures that not only enhance public safety but also promote biodiversity conservation and address the impacts of climate change.