CARSON CITY– Gov. Joe Lombardo signed into law AB 486, which will require the Nevada Department of Transportation to report on the progress and unmet needs for wildlife crossings, allowing Nevadans more transparency on how funding is being used and where it is needed. This will also help ensure that the wildlife connectivity priorities identified are consistently recognized and advanced across the agency.
Wildlife crossings are vital and cost-effective ways to maintain habitat and ecosystem connectivity, protect animals and people from vehicle collisions, and save the state and Nevadans money.
In Nevada, there are more than 500 reported wildlife-vehicle collisions killing over 5,000 animals, costing the state nearly $20 million annually, according to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). Such crashes are notoriously underreported, and transportation officials estimate the number is significantly higher.
Wildlife often cross roads and highways at specific spots year after year, targeted investments in wildlife-friendly transportation infrastructure can make roadways safer for humans and wildlife — a small investment can save Nevada massively year after year. This bill allows us to have accurate data to make the best informed decisions on when and where these crossings should be.
Infrastructure interventions like wildlife overpasses and underpasses have reduced collisions by as much as 90% while facilitating natural wildlife migrations and movements.
Nevada has a long history of leadership in addressing this issue. It has 79 animal crossings, including six overpasses, for both large and small animals, but expanding these crossings will only benefit the state’s budget and the safety of everyday Nevadans.
“This bill is a step towards progress — protecting Nevadan drivers and our wildlife by ensuring we have the most accurate and up-to-date data to make well-informed, smart choices,” Kristee Watson, Executive Director of Nevada Conservation League, said. “We’re grateful to the legislators, the governor, and the everyday Nevadans who helped make this bill a reality. NCL will continue to take action to ensure the safety of our state’s wildlife and those who travel on our roads.”
“With increasing threats like high-intensity wildfires, drought, and human development, it is critical we make efforts to learn how to maintain wildlife habitat connectivity throughout our state,” said Russell Kuhlman, executive director of the Nevada Wildlife Federation. “AB486 is a step towards that direction. Increased coordination and transparency of the various state agencies that are responsible for the safety of motorists and Nevada’s wildlife will help ensure we have the best research and tools to get the job done.
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The Nevada Conservation League is the independent voice of Nevada’s conservation community. NCL works to maintain and enhance the natural character of Nevada and the quality of life for Nevadans through effective advocacy, the election of pro-conservation candidates, and building collaboration.