In 2018, a wildlife overpass was built in Parleys Canyon to allow animals to safely cross over Interstate 80. From 2020 to 2022, Utah State University (USU) studied the impact of the wildlife bridge.
During their two-year study, USU found that the wildlife bridge is working: “Researchers found that 97 percent of mule deer and 100 percent of moose that approached the bridge successfully crossed to the other side.” In 2021 alone, 706 animals used the wildlife overpass, from deer and moose to fox and even black bears!
According to the USU study, this one wildlife overpass is estimated to save an estimated $15 million over its lifetime. Since its construction, wildlife-vehicle collisions in the area have dropped by as much as 77 percent!
What’s Happening Now?
The Utah Legislature will consider establishing a permanent $7–10 million annual fund for wildlife crossings during the special session the week of November 17th. This is a historic opportunity to make Utah’s roads safer for drivers and protect the wildlife that makes our state so special.
The Utah Wildlife Federation (UWF) is collecting letters of support to deliver in person to legislators before the session. We already have a strong start—but the more letters we deliver, the louder Utahns’ voices will be heard!
📝 How You Can Help
Please take a few minutes to write a short letter urging legislators to support the creation of a permanent wildlife crossing fund. Your letter doesn’t need to be long—just heartfelt!
You can:
- Emphasize how wildlife crossings save both animal and human lives by reducing collisions.
- Mention that wildlife is a public resource deserving of protection.
- Highlight that crossings are a smart investment—saving money, reducing crashes, and preserving Utah’s outdoor heritage.
📬 How to Submit Your Letter
Letters are due by Friday, November 7th so they can be hand-delivered before the special session. Email a photo or a PDF of your signed letter to [email protected].
✉️ Need Inspiration?
We’ve provided three sample letters you can use as templates. Feel free to personalize one in your own words. The key is to show genuine support for protecting Utah’s wildlife and keeping our highways safe.
🐾 Let’s make history for Utah’s wildlife!
Together, we can help ensure safe passages for animals and safer roads for drivers—now and for generations to come. Email [email protected] with any questions you have!
