Wildlife Tunnels & Corridors Initiative

This initiative addresses the urgent problem of habitat fragmentation caused by roads and fenced properties, ensuring safer passage for wildlife and strengthening biodiversity across East Hampton.

EchoWild’s mission is to cultivate a harmonious coexistence between people and nature through wildlife rescue, conservation, and education. This proposal supports that mission by offering practical, science-based solutions designed to protect our region’s natural heritage while fostering community engagement and long-term environmental stewardship.

The Problems

1. Habitat Fragmentation

Roads and fenced properties disrupt essential wildlife movement, increasing roadkill incidents and restricting access to food, shelter, and breeding grounds.

2. Road Safety

Wildlife-vehicle collisions endanger both animals and motorists. In 2023, Suffolk County recorded 1,449 animal-related crashes—the highest number since at least 2018, ranking third in New York State. Wildlife crossings, including tunnels, have been shown to reduce these incidents and create safer roads for everyone.

3. Ecological Integrity

Healthy ecosystems depend on connected habitats. Wildlife corridors allow species to move freely, adapt to changing environments, and maintain genetic diversity. Strengthening these connections supports the long-term resilience of our local ecosystems.

Proposed Solutions

1. Wildlife Tunnels Under Roads

We propose the construction of wildlife tunnels at key crossing points identified through ecological studies. These tunnels would meet the needs of local species commonly crossing roads in East Hampton, reducing collisions and ensuring safe passage.

Features:

Designed for local species such as deer, foxes, rabbits, possums, raccoons, and turtles
Integrated with guiding fencing to direct animals safely toward the tunnels
Positioned in high-priority locations identified through ecological data

2. Wildlife Corridors / Ecological Mapping

Wildlife corridors are dedicated pathways that reconnect fragmented habitats, enabling animals to move freely and safely across the landscape.

Features:

Can include land bridges, rewilded road verges, or unfenced pathways
Uses GIS mapping to identify and connect critical habitats
Allows collaboration with private landowners to create wildlife-friendly fencing solutions

A comprehensive map will identify:

Key habitats and migration routes
Road hotspots where wildlife crossings are most needed
Properties with fencing that obstructs wildlife movement

This map will guide planning for wildlife-friendly infrastructure and support cooperation between landowners, developers, and the town.

Implementation Plan

Phase 1: Research and Mapping

Partner with ecologists to identify critical pathways and roadkill hotspots
Develop a GIS-based wildlife corridor map to visualize proposed routes

Phase 2: Community and Stakeholder Engagement

Host workshops to educate property owners about wildlife-friendly fencing
Launch a public awareness campaign to highlight the importance of wildlife crossings

Phase 3: Pilot Projects

Construct pilot wildlife tunnels at high-priority sites
Monitor their effectiveness in reducing roadkill and improving wildlife movement

Phase 4: Expansion and Policy Integration

Use data from pilot projects to advocate for policy changes supporting wildlife-friendly infrastructure
Expand the initiative to include additional tunnels and corridors

Benefits to the Township of East Hampton

Environmental Conservation: Protects native species and strengthens local ecosystems
Public Safety: Reduces wildlife-vehicle collisions
Community Engagement: Encourages residents to participate in conservation initiatives
Enhanced Reputation: Positions East Hampton as a leader in sustainable development and wildlife protection