Mojave Desert Wildlife Crossings Reconnect Habitats

Two new wildlife crossings are being developed in California's Mojave Desert to mitigate habitat fragmentation caused by State Route 62. These vital structures will span the highway, reconnecting protected areas like Joshua Tree National Park and the Sand to Snow National Monument. Conservationists aim to facilitate safe passage for species such as bighorn sheep, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.

Significant funding has been secured for the project, with grants totaling over $5.5 million from the California Wildlife Conservation Board and the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy. Researchers are currently gathering data, including DNA analysis of animal scat, to understand wildlife movement patterns and genetic exchange across the highway. This research will provide a baseline for measuring the crossings' impact post-construction.

While construction is anticipated to be years away, the initial planning and engineering phases are projected to take approximately three years. Additional funding will be sought for the construction phase, which is dependent on securing adequate financial resources. These crossings are expected to enhance road safety by reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and support the coexistence of desert communities with their natural environment.