Proposal for Wildlife Tunnels and Corridors in The Township of East Hampton

This initiative aims to address the critical issue of habitat fragmentation caused by roads and fenced properties, ensuring safe passage for wildlife and promoting biodiversity across our town.

EchoWild’s mission is to build a harmonious coexistence between people and nature through wildlife rescue, conservation, and education. This proposal aligns with that vision, offering practical solutions to protect our unique natural heritage while fostering community engagement and long-term environmental stewardship.

The Problems

1. Habitat Fragmentation

Roads and fenced-in properties have disrupted wildlife movement, causing an increase in roadkill incidents and limiting access to essential habitats.

2. Road Safety

Wildlife-vehicle collisions pose a significant risk to drivers and animals alike. In 2023, Suffolk County recorded 1,449 animal-related crashes, the highest number since at least 2018, ranking third in New York State for such incidents. Implementing wildlife crossings, including tunnels, has been proven to reduce these incidents, creating safer roads for everyone.

3. Ecological Integrity

Connected habitats enable species to thrive, adapt to changing environments, and maintain genetic diversity. Establishing wildlife corridors would ensure the long-term health of our ecosystems.

Proposed Solutions

1. Wildlife Tunnels Under Roads

We propose the construction of wildlife tunnels at key crossing points identified through local ecological studies. These tunnels would be designed to accommodate species commonly crossing roads in The Townships of East Hampton, ensuring their safety and reducing collisions.

Features:

• Designed for local species (e.g., deer, foxes, rabbits, possums, raccoons, turtles)

• Integrated with fencing to guide animals toward the tunnels.

• Constructed in identified high-priority areas based on ecological studies

2. Wildlife Corridors/ Map

Wildlife corridors are green pathways that connect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to travel freely and safely

Features:

• Can include land bridges, rewilded road verges, or unfenced pathways.

Proposal for Wildlife Tunnels and Corridors in The Township of East Hampton

The Problems

1. Habitat Fragmentation

Roads and fenced-in properties have disrupted wildlife movement, causing an increase in roadkill incidents and limiting access to essential habitats.

2. Road Safety

3. Ecological Integrity

Connected habitats enable species to thrive, adapt to changing environments, and maintain genetic diversity. Establishing wildlife corridors would ensure the long-term health of our ecosystems.

Proposed Solutions

1. Wildlife Tunnels Under Roads

We propose the construction of wildlife tunnels at key crossing points identified through local ecological studies. These tunnels would be designed to accommodate species commonly crossing roads in The Townships of East Hampton, ensuring their safety and reducing collisions.

Features:

• Designed for local species (e.g., deer, foxes, rabbits, possums, raccoons, turtles)

• Integrated with fencing to guide animals toward the tunnels.

• Constructed in identified high-priority areas based on ecological studies

2. Wildlife Corridors/ Map

Wildlife corridors are green pathways that connect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to travel freely and safely

Features:

• Can include land bridges, rewilded road verges, or unfenced pathways.

• Utilizes GIS mapping to identify and connect critical habitats.

• Collaborates with private landowners to create wildlife-friendly fencing.

A comprehensive map will identify:

• Key habitats and migration pathways.

• Road hotspots where wildlife crossings are needed.

• Properties with fencing that obstructs wildlife movement.

This map will serve as a planning tool for wildlife-friendly infrastructure and guide collaboration with landowners and developers.

Implementation Plan

Phase 1: Research and Mapping

• Collaborate with ecologists to identify critical wildlife 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 solutions.

• Launch a public awareness campaign highlighting the benefits of wildlife crossings.

Phase 3: Pilot Projects

• Construct pilot wildlife tunnels at high-priority road crossings.

• 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 development.

• Expand the initiative to include additional crossings and corridors.

Benefits to the Township of East Hampton

• Environmental Conservation: Protects local species and ecosystems.

• Public Safety: Reduces wildlife-vehicle collisions.

• Community Engagement: Encourages residents to participate in conservation efforts.

• Enhanced Reputation: Positions East Hampton as a leader in sustainable development and wildlife conservation.

Partnerships and Funding

EchoWild will seek collaboration with:

• Local Government: For funding, permits, and policy support.

• Environmental Experts: For corridor and tunnel design.

• Community Volunteers: For monitoring and educational outreach.

• Grant Providers: To secure funding from conservation organizations.

• Reduce Harmful Lawn Chemicals

• Support Pollinators through Wildflower Verges and Native Gardens