JACKSON, Wyo. — The annual Wildlife-Vehicle Collision (WVC) summary report has been released. Since 2015, the report has been released both for informational purposes and to identify areas to focus on to mitigate wildlife collisions. Data for the most recent reports was gathered between May 1, 2023, and April 31, 2024.
According to the summary released on May 1, there has been a 67% reduction in annual WVC reports after the construction of wildlife crossings on US89 south of town. As a result, the five-year average dropped in that zone from 51 collisions to 17.
“South 89 mitigation is showing immediate, measurable success,” said Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation Executive Director Renee Seidler in a press release. “This year’s findings highlight a clear win: science-based infrastructure works and its benefits are visible right now on the ground. Restoring connectivity for wildlife is a conservation success story.”
The report also found that a total of 191 WVCs were recorded in Teton County, Wyoming, and 54 in Teton County, Idaho, although the actual number of collisions is estimated to be two to four times higher due to expected underreporting. Mule deer accounted for 43% of reported collisions in Teton County, WY, which was lower than previous years. According to the report, the reduction in mule deer collisions may be attributed to fluctuations in weather and the change from the wildlife crossings.
“The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is very pleased to see the effectiveness in reduced wildlife collisions,” said resident engineer for WYDOT Bob Hammond. “These connectivity projects increase safety for both driver and animal. We are thankful for the support from our community partners and look forward to using reports and data like this to develop more needed connectivity projects around the state.”
