As a commercial truck driver I drive the snoqualmie pass everyday and watched the overpass being built over several years. I always though what a waste of taxpayer money to build this giant overpass but now that I’ve watched this presentation and see the animals actually using this overpass and being kept safe, I’m proud of Washington State for these efforts to protect wildlife. I HATE Roadkill and it sickens me to see dead innocent animals on the side of the road; I applaud these efforts to protect them!
@@atrumphasmatis6719 thats not a troll comment. Roadkill is a waste of an animal that typically doesnt get utilized while hunting feeds and sometimes clothes people. why dont *you* grow up a little?
As a former truck driver knowing our roads have so negatively affected the natural flow of nature, seeing this is like a new breath of air. Thank God there are people that can actually get something done, doing it.
They found a wolf the other day that is from MT/ID area, they found him in southern California. Also so many stories of cats going from wa to ny. The animals are figuring it out.
@@jeffalbillar7625 Grizzlies are doing the same. Many say we will have grizzlies in central Idaho from Yellowstone within 15 years. They already captured one on the western boarder of Idaho and Montana. It's kind of crazy. I will see grizzlies in the Sawtooths one day.
@@pokerman9108 animals are resilient and can thrive if not for us. Even with our presence, they find a way to survive. I live in Orange County Ca, and we have a lot of what you would call wild animals in the city. Orange County is densely populated. Los Angeles county starts about 5 minutes away from where I grew up, yet we still have raccoons, skunk's, possum's, raptors, and we have a major coyote problem in many areas. We used to have foxes, but I don't think that they are here anymore. Coyotes are quite the success story here. L.A. still has black bears {I believe} running around it's hills and canyons. I once saw a mountain lion track that was as big as my hand in La Habra hills. I really wasn't happy about seeing it as l was alone and it looked new. Do you remember what part of So. Cal. the wolf was spotted?
Here in WA we value our beautiful forests & all the animals that come with it. I've seen panicked deer stranded in wide medians and in a different area than this highway so I hope they build more of these crossings.
Please continue building more of these everyone! This is peace for our souls - as well as - our hearts and minds. This is a way to bring more peace to our land. I live in Oregon, to see this and all the other really important things people in the NW are doing to help and save wildlife makes me feel proud to be human.
@@pendlera2959 Over populated prey species are not uncommon and human hunters have been part of the American landscape for at least 23k yrs, 2M yrs for much of the world. Get over it already.
The Dutch have been doing this for decades.. the first ecoduct over a highway was build in 1988.. so this is nothing new for Dutchies.. can't believe Americans waited for this long to do something similar...
There are animal crossings in other areas, they are slowly happening in more places, both over and under the roads. They need to keep doing these awesome projects. You can search here on YT animal highway crossing videos for more 😃
@ET...Took me about 1 minute to research the history of wildlife crossings...Canada and the US also have decades of experience, building them.. BTW, since Europeans are so keen on reminding Americans on their youth, shouldn't the Dutch and the other citizens be a tad embarrassed it took them so long to implement the idea? P.S. Remind yourself of the history of overhunting done by European aristocracy, not only in Europe, but when they arrived in North America as well. Let's not forget to include African safaris! Etc... Next time you decide to chide an entire continent on their wildlife preservation habits, you may want to know your history first...
I am an Australian woman living in a forested and mountainous state called Tasmania. We could really use the expertise and collaboration you have shown in these stunning projects. I am so completely awed and proud of you all working with WSDOT to create these effective and awesome wild life corridors. I am proud of a private organisation called Bush Heritage that works over the whole of Australia buying and reinvigorating large areas of spent agricultural land to become wildlife corridors for the native fauna and flora in vastly different areas of our large country.Thank you for your wonderful vision for Washington state.
@@KevinWhite-zb5os That's what I thought of too. People get seriously injured and even killed when they hit large animals on the highway. This not only makes the animals safer; it's making humans safer. Win-win.
Spent 33 years driving over the road. This is one of the prettiest drives in the country. This is awsome more states need to do this. Good job Washington
I have lived in Washington for 56 years, born in Idaho. The wildlife in every state needs to have these things incorperated into every road building project in the future. This crew did an incredible job. For anyone not familiar with the Washington State wildlife population I encourage you to check it out. Check it out in your own states as well. Always push for preservation. If we don't, there will be a day we will regret it.
I agree with that… I lived in Washington for 20 years. I always heard my friends and others that they got accident with deers. I also saw deer die on side road.
Just a jewel! What a huge project and what an amazing outcome. So emotional and uplifting to see the animals use the over and underpasses and how well though out the overpasses were. You wouldn't know there was a highway right there or concrete underneath the soil. Kudoes to all the planners and workers who made this all possible. Washington, you did a fantastic job, and I hope you talk to other states.
This lady has a heart of gold. When she was in side by side and started clapping and saying gooddy gooddy and clapping her hands she was so proud and happy for the animals and that will make anyone smile. This is a awesome idea and could work in a lot of places . I give Washington their propts they did something that changed the way we should treat animals and show respect to them
Now this is what I call intelligent and well thought out construction to accommodate both human and wildlife traffic. Plus the added safety factor for floods and avalanches. Kudos to all involved.
I don't even live in Washington.. I live in Georgia, but this makes me feel really proud. What a great thing for humanity to do for wildlife. I believe that if and when I come to Washington state, for whatever reason, I want to see your work. I'm not even involved, and it makes me feel like I'm a steward of wildlife.
You will love WA state. We have plenty of wildlife, large old evergreens and the forests are so beautiful and amazing. I've been to GA and it's also a beautiful state - different kind of trees, but also interesting wildlife.
My husband has built the fence along that whole project. I had no idea what an amazing thing you guys are doing. Wow those animals look.so happy and safe,. I am just blown away and thuroughly amazed. You guys are amazing a big thank you to all of you for helping nature's sweet animals.
I travel this road all the time. It is so nice to see the extreme decline in roadkill. It is really great to see that Elk herds are starting to use the crossing.
I’ve been driving the pass for over forty years and monthly since 2005. It’s been great to see the many improvements. The wildlife crossings are a welcome addition, but also kudos to wsdot for the improved road, the fast good snow removal and the lighted signs that give road conditions and changing speed limits to meet those conditions. It’s a safer route for all creatures than it was twenty years ago. Many thanks to all who worked on it.
I've been driving across Snoqualimie Pass for 40 years. This project makes my heart sing! It's worth every extra minute it took to cross some years -- I even spent an hour stopped at Hyak while they were blasting! Make me proud to be from Washington State.
Makes me proud to be a Washingtonian ..grown up here my whole life and it's awesome seeing our state care about the wildlife, fauna, rivers, lakes, oceans etc.. our state is amazing and love it here.. Traveled all over and nothing beats the PNW!
Outstanding. I used to live in the Seattle area & I was absolutely so very thankful that the State chose to save the critters, with the advent of this program... Thank You
Thank you, WSDOT, a thousand times over for protecting us humans with safer passage and equally important, protecting and preserving our wildlife! The plant restoration is awesome, too! Thank you to our great state’s government for approving these improvements You deserve all the blessings possible! ❤️🙏🏼❤️
Perfection does exist and here we have a perfect example. So long over due, so perfectly responding to the people's natural sense and understanding of what it truly means to live in harmony. This model system should be celebrated globally, Sir David Attenborough should be involved and the entire method should be immediately implemented. Thankyou
What an awesome job you All did! Congratulations on the success of the project. You ALL went way beyond that "extra mile". Just look at what happens when everyone cooperates with each other! Such a BEAUTIFUL sight!!! Many Blessings, Light and Love to you All⭐💖🙏
I am so inspired by this video. A fantastic use of my tax $$$. I have appreciated the WSDOT for years as I watched its efforts to keep the pass clear and safe during the winter. And, of course, watching the improvements of the I-90 corridor. However, I had no idea of all the additional work and benefits taking place behind the scenes. Thank you to every person and organization who has made this possible and continue to work to bring this dream to fruition. Glen Williams, a satisfied tax payer.
A bill would have to be introduced for legislation to begin iver and underpass funding. It would be great. Lets call our congress people! Meantime, if you tap your car horn when animals are crossing in your neighborhood or in the country, any animal will immediately run off of the roadway
This is amazing. I had the privilege to involved in a small way with the wild life crossings project along the IR-80 corridor in Nevada. It was done in similar manner. It has been very successful also.
Just snowshoed Price Creek up to Microwave Hill. Long walk from Kachess Road, but I remembered the crossing and finally watched this full video. Happy to see the animals have safe passage. (None bothered us on the hike, and we stayed nice and quiet to avoid spooking them).
I read about this a couple years ago and it's so cool to see it completed.This needs to be a model for the entire country. These people are doing incredible work.
I live in Roslyn, WA, and I play music for a living. I have had to travel over the I90 Snoqualmie pass many times; at least twice a week for 10+ years. I remember when all this was being built. I was not only extremely impressed by the ingenuity that went into this immensely huge project, but also so very happy about the deep concern for wildlife that this project was all about. Great job Washington!
There's one of these as well as a tunnel under Oracle Road just north of Tucson bordering the Catalina mountains. Mule-deer activity has increased dramatically on both sides of Oracle since the underpass and overpass were built four years ago. Badgers, bobcats, javelina, coati, cottontails, coyotes, foxes, jackrabbits, raccoons, roadrunners and skunks use it regularly and mountain lions and bighorn sheep have also been spotted near it.
I was stationed at Ft Lewis in 94 and lived there until 2001. Some of the best years of my life. Traveled I 90 many times. Beautiful it was then in the mountains and the snow. I really miss Washington state the people there treated me good. A great place to live with the rain also. The rain grew on me. I hope to move back one day. Dreaming Washington.
As a recently retired trucker who drove over I-90 every day, and experienced the construction process over 6 years, I must say that the finished project is remarkable.
This yet another reason that I am glad our family moved to Washington State 20 years ago. It makes me so proud to be part of a “village” that cares about nature and all it’s denizens. I am so glad to see my tax dollars going to such a worthy project. Thank you to all who are participating in such a wonderful project!
I am just, just so grateful to be a resident of this jewel, Washington State. I've smiled as I roll through the overpass but didn't know about the bridges. You did right, WSDOT and everyone.
@@riccardorinaldo7934 certainly not never no never. I signed a petition to support secession of my side of the State to join Idaho, where govt is God-respecting. That's why we call that over there the Left Half
This really warmed my heart to see the animals using what was created for them to have access to their habitat. It is also exciting to see individuals who care about their work to provide this amount of care for the animals. Graduate students working in this endeavor will always have this experience as a building block for their careers. Props to WSDOT for having the wherewithal to proceed in this enormous project without allowing corporate interference. Very impressive! Blessings always!
Oh please don’t give corporations any ideas! I see it now! “This wildlife over crossing brought to you by Budweiser!” And then putting a sticker on each animal that uses it😂 “Look Mom, I crossed the WDOT Budweiser over crossing” stuck on the rump of an elk😅😅😅
Wow, I applaud WSDOT for this project. I remember seeing a lot of construction when I was through their years ago and didn't know what was going on. Amazing Project that seems to be working well thank you so much for protecting our wildlife.
When I'm having a bad day, this is where I come for solace. To see human beings working with nature as a partner instead of an enemy or an afterthought is SO INSPIRING. We can do it right. We don't have much time left, but if we put our energy & money into creating & nurturing instead of destroying, we can pass on this beautiful planet in better shape than we received it. Thank you to everyone involved in this project.
@@drsrsv8884 major cities have turned into crime/drug hot spots. Homelessness is worse than ever. It doesn’t feel safe to walk around Seattle and Tacoma anymore especially if you don’t know the area
This made me cry multiple times. I wish I could impact our world like this. It makes me so happy that some people really care about this planet and the other inhabitants we share it with. I wish all states would take this approach. This is the future of highways. Thank you everyone who contributed.
I am sure your state DOT has PUblic Information Officers. You can ask they how you can get involved and push these projects forward in your state. They can let you know when they have project open houses and public commenting. I would also encourage you to email,call, and visit your local state representative.
Everyone needs to be relocated to one area and tear up these roads, buildings and other manmade structures. We humans need to really thing about our population so we can save our wonderful wildlife and our planet Earth. There are way to many humans on this earth and its destroying our beautiful wildlife and nature. Being native American, environmentalist, vegan and a long time PETA member, I cried seeing them tag the frogs. I'm so upset they would do this. How people came to this land and destroyed our way of life, our habitat. It will take me a long time if ever recovering from viewing this video. Those poor retiles and other animals being tagged didn't deserve such horrible things being done to them, nobody understands they are creatures of our loving great spirt. My children and I cried so much watching this video, I have to call my therapist now to get in hopes to get group counseling for us now. Maybe some herbal chi tea and meditation will help calm us down but I don't know at this point since we are so distraught. I sing and pray this to the Great Spirit Wakan Tanka, Hunkaschila Wohitika Oyate Nagi Tanka, Tunkasila Akicita, Oyate. Wiyan Wakan, Hanhepi-Wi Nakacijin, Oyate. Heyyy... ayy... hee... ooh! Wakan Tanka, Hunkaschila. Wohitika, Oyate. Niyaha, Le Mita Cola. Kiksuyapi, Oyate. Wicoti, Mitawa Wichasha Wakan Mitakuye, Oyasin. Oyate! He... Ayy... Heeee... Ahey!
Fair warning, I'm also a nature lover, it's a long reply if you dont like to read, but it's good information. Try your state's dept of natural resources, or better yet your game commission for more information since they would be the ones to get calls about animals and accidents on the roads. The state police may also have some valuable information about accidents involving larger animals but PLEASE use the NON emergency number, DON'T just call 911 because many depts are already short staffed and can barely handle all the actual emergency calls they receive. Be prepared to call back another time if they're busy when you call. If you have a wildlife rehabilitator in your area, they would know if a local road or highway is causing a lot of animals to be injured or killed since they'd be the ones to be helping treat and help heal the injured wild animals. The game commission would likely be getting the calls for the injured animals and then taking them to the wildlife rehabilitation facility. Finding out some basic information first will be VERY helpful before contacting your congressional representative to tell them there's a problem. These crossings and underpass projects are very large, expensive projects involving many departments and agencies, so it's not going to do much to say you saw a video and think there should be more. As much as I KNOW your heart is in the right place, specific information with proof to back up your request for them to look into it, is what will get you the best chance of them actually looking into it and doing something. 🙂 Do NOT get discouraged, just keep calling every so often and asking, perhaps with updated information with approximately how many more animals have since been harmed or killed, how many more accidents have been caused by deer being hit or larger animals, etc. Good luck, don't get discouraged, be patient and it's ok to be passionate about a cause, but you also have to communicate clearly and calmly or they will just write you off as a tree hugger. 🙄🤦♀️ That's why it's SO important to back up the cause with factual evidence so they can't just write you off or ignore you. If you have like minded friends who can stay calm and focused as well, by all means ask them to help you do your homework. Your local university or college's dept of animal biology may have students who would be interested in doing a thesis or dissertation on the effects on migration of animals across a highway to breed, or road mortality of threatened animals caused by a certain road or section of road. That would be a tremendous help if you had actual evidence and numbers to make your case and that's also where a wildlife rehabilitator could be of significant help also. They keep careful records too of all the animals they treat and release. Sorry to write a novel but I'm also passionate about nature, I hope it helps 😃👍
Anyone can volunteer with your local extension office to plant for restorations. Or haul bucket of water. Most counties have conservation districts that do this work, and they can always use an extra pair of hands.
Proud to be a Washingtonian after watching this video. Glad that a local and state government can find ways to help humans and nature at the same time. Listening to science and understanding the environment. Great video!
Pattie and Kelly your drive and determination to spearhead this project is amazing. Thank you for the opportunity to enjoy seeing this project come full circle. Thank you to all the Forest Service personal who worked on this project.
The collaboration on this entire project is stunning. Over 50 government and collage departments and others got together and layed out this intricate plan and are driving it to fruition. Kudos ALL AROUND! Especially the Washington Dept. of Transportation. They are central to this effort. That is working better than expected.
Great to see all these partners work together! Enjoyed learning all about this project, especially the underpasses (and that another overpass is in the works for more animals!)
IKR That’s what shocked/impressed me the most is how that department head from DOT and all the biologist and everyone involved came together for one good. So impressive. Will never see this in the state of Florida right here around Orlando. Smdh GREAT JOB to all yall
A project like this is what I would donate to on a regular basis if they were in done in our state. Lessons to be learned PennDot! I applaud everyone involved that made THIS happen. 🌲🌳🌱🌼🐾
Across Alligator Alley in the Florida Everglades animals can cross safely under the highway in several areas. This was the first time I had seen a deliberate attempt by DOT to connect habitat. It is so good to know this goes on elsewhere! Amazing effort!
You folks are doing a fantastic job. I believe that our wildlife issues are humanity's fault. This is a way for humanity to not harm wildlife. Bravo to you all.
I lived at Snoqualmie Pass from 1969-1972. 13-16. It was the best time of my life. The Rock Chalet was still there. My parents owned and ran CONIFER LODGE by the Fire Station now. There's a basket ball court up there still. We ran it in the Summer. Thank you for protecting the animals. It is a lovely thing to do.
I love the new pass. It’s so much more safer and I LOVE the fact that the wildlife is protected and the thought that went into this! ❤ keep up the work! You have our support
I lived in Arizona my entire life and moved to WA in my early 20s. I got lost in on the way to my home in Bellevue stopped on I-90 in Snoqualmie. The beauty left me speechless, and I spent hours on the side of the road eating blackberries and taking it all in. I moved back to Arizona after five years but really enjoyed the entire state with the endless opportunities and wealth it granted me. What a great state! I'm happy to learn that WSDOT is managing the transporation system with such care.
They prove that the greatest projects are achieved by everyone doing a part - and it doesn't always have to be about money. Bravo!!! Thanks for saving and helping so many species! Amazingness that will last for many years to come!! 👏👏👏
This is just wonderful! We need this in all states in every county! I pray for this stuff. God bless America & it's wildlife heritage and tens of thousands even longer historical crossing paths. It's theirs. Thank You!
This is so beautiful it brings tears because it demonstrates our states understanding and love for our land and our amazing wildlife. THANK YOU WSDOT you deserve medals and kudos galore.
The statistic was said so quickly it was almost missed - the decrease in animal/car collisions on I-90 is phenomenal! I lived at Hyak for many years and will never forget the time an entire herd of elk wiped out by a semi-truck. Glad to know that no one - human or animal - will experience that kind of trauma again. Sure the lane closures were inconvenient during the construction but WSDOT did an excellent job of rerouting lanes to keep as many open as possible. This was just an excellent project from start to finish.
Agree. Sorry about the elks. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
This brings tears to my eyes how you can save all those critters and build habitats. I have a grandson who would love to do this. He was always under the porch catching and finding out how bugs live and what they eat. Now he's 19 , I'll have him watch this! I called him Dr. Doolittle because of his love for creatures of every kind. Good work DOT!
Yes! I’m in UK, where BBC has just posted an article about the solitary male mountain lion trapped for many years between major highways in Hollywood: now as he’s elderly he’s been caught to be relocated as he’d begun hunting pets. Shame there was no safe way for him to cross back to wilderness 😢
Wow! I could not stop crying with GRATITUDE and RELIEF at this profound project and collaboration with all departments working together seeing the bigger picture and SUSTANING the wildlife habitats to continue to co-exist with us humans! Amazing project. I hope all other states use this as an example to implement this blueprint to sustain our wildlife forevermore! Applauding everyone on board. 👋👋👋
What an awesome task in giving the wildlife access to more refuge and safe passage along our busy but dangerous roads and yet keeping it with their natural habitat.❤ Thank you for that!
I'd love to be on their crew. This makes me very happy. Something to be really proud of and the positive effects on the wildlife will live on for generations long after these people are gone. What a legacy. 👏
This a great documentary. There was a need for a wider interstate, a reality, and everything possible to preserve nature and correct the mistakes from the past was made. Congratulations
Great video! Very informative. I've been aware of it going up for a long time, but I was not aware of the enormous amount of coordination and effort that went into making it happen. When gov't works well. Thanks to all who made this happen. Thanks for the reminder for responsible driving practices!
This is so brilliant! Now that's something to be proud of. Well done Washington!! What a crazy collaboration! Thanks for sharing this. Excellent message start to finish. ❤❤❤
As a commercial truck driver I drive the snoqualmie pass everyday and watched the overpass being built over several years. I always though what a waste of taxpayer money to build this giant overpass but now that I’ve watched this presentation and see the animals actually using this overpass and being kept safe, I’m proud of Washington State for these efforts to protect wildlife. I HATE Roadkill and it sickens me to see dead innocent animals on the side of the road; I applaud these efforts to protect them!
It's a great place to hunt too.
The only things that should be hunted are hunters. Stop killing animals, fruitcake.
@@rigger4695 i agree it really is but it’s obvious you’re just trying to troll the oc. Maybe grow up a little
@@atrumphasmatis6719 thats not a troll comment. Roadkill is a waste of an animal that typically doesnt get utilized while hunting feeds and sometimes clothes people. why dont *you* grow up a little?
I'm pretty sure that's called poaching
I absolutely love this. This should be used as an example to the rest of the country.
I know where I'm going hunting next time. 😄
@@Mrbfgray douche
@@Mrbfgrayboy shut your a** up
As a former truck driver knowing our roads have so negatively affected the natural flow of nature, seeing this is like a new breath of air. Thank God there are people that can actually get something done, doing it.
They found a wolf the other day that is from MT/ID area, they found him in southern California. Also so many stories of cats going from wa to ny. The animals are figuring it out.
@@pokerman9108 what part of So. Cal. Did they find it at?
@@jeffalbillar7625 Grizzlies are doing the same. Many say we will have grizzlies in central Idaho from Yellowstone within 15 years. They already captured one on the western boarder of Idaho and Montana. It's kind of crazy. I will see grizzlies in the Sawtooths one day.
@@pokerman9108 animals are resilient and can thrive if not for us.
Even with our presence, they find a way to survive.
I live in Orange County Ca, and we have a lot of what you would call wild animals in the city.
Orange County is densely populated.
Los Angeles county starts about 5 minutes away from where I grew up, yet we still have raccoons, skunk's, possum's, raptors, and we have a major coyote problem in many areas.
We used to have foxes, but I don't think that they are here anymore.
Coyotes are quite the success story here.
L.A. still has black bears {I believe} running around it's hills and canyons.
I once saw a mountain lion track that was as big as my hand in La Habra hills.
I really wasn't happy about seeing it as l was alone and it looked new.
Do you remember what part of So. Cal. the wolf was spotted?
Here in WA we value our beautiful forests & all the animals that come with it. I've seen panicked deer stranded in wide medians and in a different area than this highway so I hope they build more of these crossings.
This is a model that needs to be replicated all over the Nation. Great job!
100% !!!
Please continue building more of these everyone! This is peace for our souls - as well as - our hearts and minds. This is a way to bring more peace to our land. I live in Oregon, to see this and all the other really important things people in the NW are doing to help and save wildlife makes me feel proud to be human.
Heartwarming and wonderful!!! We should be doing this everywhere!
Easy pickens for human hunters too. 😉
@@Mrbfgray Lamest troll attempt ever.
@@pendlera2959 Over populated prey species are not uncommon and human hunters have been part of the American landscape for at least 23k yrs, 2M yrs for much of the world. Get over it already.
I would love to see these bridges become the norm everywhere. So nice to see the animals being cared for.
The Dutch have been doing this for decades.. the first ecoduct over a highway was build in 1988.. so this is nothing new for Dutchies.. can't believe Americans waited for this long to do something similar...
There are animal crossings in other areas, they are slowly happening in more places, both over and under the roads. They need to keep doing these awesome projects. You can search here on YT animal highway crossing videos for more 😃
@@HighDutchMan77 common in Canada, at least from Alberta and west.
@ET...Took me about 1 minute to research the history of wildlife crossings...Canada and the US also have decades of experience, building them..
BTW, since Europeans are so keen on reminding Americans on their youth, shouldn't the Dutch and the other citizens be a tad embarrassed it took them so long to implement the idea?
P.S. Remind yourself of the history of overhunting done by European aristocracy, not only in Europe, but when they arrived in North America as well. Let's not forget to include African safaris! Etc...
Next time you decide to chide an entire continent on their wildlife preservation habits, you may want to know your history first...
These actions are phenomenally great for wild life. Most appreciated. 👍👍👍👍👍👍
Thank you to everyone involved in such projects. True Earth stewards.
Amen!! I live in the South and don't have opportunity to travel, so, seeing this is absolutely fantastic!!!
I am an Australian woman living in a forested and mountainous state called Tasmania. We could really use the expertise and collaboration you have shown in these stunning projects. I am so completely awed and proud of you all working with WSDOT to create these effective and awesome wild life corridors. I am proud of a private organisation called Bush Heritage that works over the whole of Australia buying and reinvigorating large areas of spent agricultural land to become wildlife corridors for the native fauna and flora in vastly different areas of our large country.Thank you for your wonderful vision for Washington state.
im native to Washington and I’ve always wanted to visit Tasmania just based on the description of the environment. It reminds me of me of here.
So glad this came across my feed. I'm so impressed and amazed! Thank you to everyone involved in this project! Thank you for saving the wildlife!♥️🙏🇺🇲
Not to mention the lives of the people on that stretch of highway.
@@KevinWhite-zb5os That's what I thought of too. People get seriously injured and even killed when they hit large animals on the highway. This not only makes the animals safer; it's making humans safer. Win-win.
Wonderful! Good job everyone ❤
Well Done Washington State Department of Transportation and Team.
Spent 33 years driving over the road. This is one of the prettiest drives in the country. This is awsome more states need to do this. Good job Washington
I have lived in Washington for 56 years, born in Idaho. The wildlife in every state needs to have these things incorperated into every road building project in the future. This crew did an incredible job. For anyone not familiar with the Washington State wildlife population I encourage you to check it out. Check it out in your own states as well. Always push for preservation. If we don't, there will be a day we will regret it.
They do this in Canada as well.
We need major migration routes in our country, says me who knows nothing about such things.
I agree with that… I lived in Washington for 20 years. I always heard my friends and others that they got accident with deers.
I also saw deer die on side road.
@@isaacstone7899 I live in Utah, and deer accidents happen all the time here as well…
Not all that old (no offense intended) but I highly agree, born in idaho too haha. Small town saint maries
Just a jewel! What a huge project and what an amazing outcome. So emotional and uplifting to see the animals use the over and underpasses and how well though out the overpasses were. You wouldn't know there was a highway right there or concrete underneath the soil. Kudoes to all the planners and workers who made this all possible. Washington, you did a fantastic job, and I hope you talk to other states.
This lady has a heart of gold. When she was in side by side and started clapping and saying gooddy gooddy and clapping her hands she was so proud and happy for the animals and that will make anyone smile. This is a awesome idea and could work in a lot of places . I give Washington their propts they did something that changed the way we should treat animals and show respect to them
I believe that Norway does this routinely.
absolutely yes!
Now this is what I call intelligent and well thought out construction to accommodate both human and wildlife traffic. Plus the added safety factor for floods and avalanches. Kudos to all involved.
💯 absolutely heartwarming.
Amen,, I agree 99.9 %
Remember lying Democrats claiming Trump did nothing to help our infrastructure?
@@chadsimmons6347 You can bet your last dollar that every time a Dem opens their mouth, they are lying.
@@michaelfisher7835 😆😆😆👍
I don't even live in Washington.. I live in Georgia, but this makes me feel really proud. What a great thing for humanity to do for wildlife. I believe that if and when I come to Washington state, for whatever reason, I want to see your work. I'm not even involved, and it makes me feel like I'm a steward of wildlife.
Commercial and wildlife can work helping each other. Better roads and bridges for both man and animals.
Me too but I'm in Alabama
Washington is being ravaged by humanity! Too many of us destroying the landscape, other species and consuming resources!
You will love WA state. We have plenty of wildlife, large old evergreens and the forests are so beautiful and amazing. I've been to GA and it's also a beautiful state - different kind of trees, but also interesting wildlife.
I lived in WA state for over 30 yrs & can't wait to drive Snoqualmie Pass/I90 Wildlife Corridor in the future. Excellent job!!! 🐀🐸🐻🐿️🦇🐝🐟🐐🏞️🌱
My husband has built the fence along that whole project. I had no idea what an amazing thing you guys are doing. Wow those animals look.so happy and safe,. I am just blown away and thuroughly amazed. You guys are amazing a big thank you to all of you for helping nature's sweet animals.
Thank your husband for us!
? maybe give hubby a horn for christmas and suggest he toot it once in a while ! B-)
@@solarnaut Very well said ~~ you have a way with words. 😂
They look so happy and safe? Can you show us some pictures?
@@jonnybalz You could watch the video.
Hats off to every single person involved in this endeavor, thank you for taking care of our wildlife 👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I travel this road all the time. It is so nice to see the extreme decline in roadkill. It is really great to see that Elk herds are starting to use the crossing.
Projects like these are absolutely the right thing to do.
ABSOLUTELY! I don't know why it took this long for human to realize animals need to cross roads too.
A radio-tracked toad! Now that is a caring study. Poor guy, it probably interfered with life in general
Wow! The U.S. finally caught up with Canada! Canada has had these in B.C. for 2 decades.
@@karlzipp181 Canucks are very practical. They stand as an example of logic.
Job should have been done correctly the first time, It's not like animal migration is something new .
I’ve been driving the pass for over forty years and monthly since 2005. It’s been great to see the many improvements. The wildlife crossings are a welcome addition, but also kudos to wsdot for the improved road, the fast good snow removal and the lighted signs that give road conditions and changing speed limits to meet those conditions. It’s a safer route for all creatures than it was twenty years ago. Many thanks to all who worked on it.
Agree. Tap your car horn when any animal crosses you. Youll see how well this works to make them run off
I've been driving across Snoqualimie Pass for 40 years. This project makes my heart sing! It's worth every extra minute it took to cross some years -- I even spent an hour stopped at Hyak while they were blasting! Make me proud to be from Washington State.
Bro wh cares about animals when we still have plies of homeless downtown
@@kagraeb when wildlife cross a freeway where motorists are traveling in excess of 70 mph, both animals and motorists are killed.
@@xx5zi good point
@@xx5zi shut up
I agree, time for a wildlife crossing over I5 from the Olympic Peninsula
Makes me proud to be a Washingtonian ..grown up here my whole life and it's awesome seeing our state care about the wildlife, fauna, rivers, lakes, oceans etc.. our state is amazing and love it here.. Traveled all over and nothing beats the PNW!
Outstanding. I used to live in the Seattle area & I was absolutely so very thankful that the State chose to save the critters, with the advent of this program... Thank You
This project is by far my favorite thing dot has done!!!
A wonderful story of humans helping wildlife and succeeding.
Not helping wildlife; mitigating the damage, and reconnecting wildlife corridors broken by humans.
@@Pbav8tor exactly
Thank you, WSDOT, a thousand times over for protecting us humans with safer passage and equally important, protecting and preserving our wildlife! The plant restoration is awesome, too! Thank you to our great state’s government for approving these improvements You deserve all the blessings possible!
❤️🙏🏼❤️
Perfection does exist and here we have a perfect example. So long over due, so perfectly responding to the people's natural sense and understanding of what it truly means to live in harmony. This model system should be celebrated globally, Sir David Attenborough should be involved and the entire method should be immediately implemented. Thankyou
What an awesome job you All did! Congratulations on the success of the project. You ALL went way beyond that "extra mile". Just look at what happens when everyone cooperates with each other! Such a BEAUTIFUL sight!!! Many Blessings, Light and Love to you All⭐💖🙏
I am so inspired by this video. A fantastic use of my tax $$$. I have appreciated the WSDOT for years as I watched its efforts to keep the pass clear and safe during the winter. And, of course, watching the improvements of the I-90 corridor. However, I had no idea of all the additional work and benefits taking place behind the scenes. Thank you to every person and organization who has made this possible and continue to work to bring this dream to fruition. Glen Williams, a satisfied tax payer.
Every single one of you are heroes in my book! My heart is singing! Thank you!
So awesome and thoughtful for our wild friends. Hopefully we will see more states follow your lead.
They have been going up all over the west for the last 20 years. I work for Nevada DOT.
If only we could look after people this well.
A bill would have to be introduced for legislation to begin iver and underpass funding. It would be great. Lets call our congress people! Meantime, if you tap your car horn when animals are crossing in your neighborhood or in the country, any animal will immediately run off of the roadway
This is amazing. I had the privilege to involved in a small way with the wild life crossings project along the IR-80 corridor in Nevada. It was done in similar manner. It has been very successful also.
Just snowshoed Price Creek up to Microwave Hill. Long walk from Kachess Road, but I remembered the crossing and finally watched this full video. Happy to see the animals have safe passage. (None bothered us on the hike, and we stayed nice and quiet to avoid spooking them).
Ya still spooked them -why can’t humans stay out of wild areas. Must you really invade their space?
@@Wee162 I suspect we spooked them less than the snowmobiles and trail grooming equipment on those forest service roads.
So good to hear something so positive taking place.
I read about this a couple years ago and it's so cool to see it completed.This needs to be a model for the entire country. These people are doing incredible work.
We have these animal crossings in Florida and they work
World needs more of this!
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
Such an excellent initiative! Kudos to all involved for creating a safe habitat and crossing for so many species. Great film-making too!
I live in Roslyn, WA, and I play music for a living. I have had to travel over the I90 Snoqualmie pass many times; at least twice a week for 10+ years. I remember when all this was being built. I was not only extremely impressed by the ingenuity that went into this immensely huge project, but also so very happy about the deep concern for wildlife that this project was all about. Great job Washington!
There's one of these as well as a tunnel under Oracle Road just north of Tucson bordering the Catalina mountains. Mule-deer activity has increased dramatically on both sides of Oracle since the underpass and overpass were built four years ago. Badgers, bobcats, javelina, coati, cottontails, coyotes, foxes, jackrabbits, raccoons, roadrunners and skunks use it regularly and mountain lions and bighorn sheep have also been spotted near it.
Wow that’s an amazing group of animals that can move freely without accidents! So Beautiful in every way! Thank you for sharing 🤗
I was stationed at Ft Lewis in 94 and lived there until 2001. Some of the best years of my life. Traveled I 90 many times. Beautiful it was then in the mountains and the snow. I really miss Washington state the people there treated me good. A great place to live with the rain also. The rain grew on me. I hope to move back one day. Dreaming Washington.
More people, more cities need to give more consideration to animals. This is simply wonderful.
I wish that would happen
As a recently retired trucker who drove over I-90 every day, and experienced the construction process over 6 years, I must say that the finished project is remarkable.
This is so incredible!! Well done, WSDOT 👏
This yet another reason that I am glad our family moved to Washington State 20 years ago. It makes me so proud to be part of a “village” that cares about nature and all it’s denizens. I am so glad to see my tax dollars going to such a worthy project. Thank you to all who are participating in such a wonderful project!
Hello how’re you doing?
Repent to Jesus Christ ““A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34 NIV
J
😂😂😂😂 you can keep it Europe has had these for 40 years
Cesspool of lefties
Outstanding! I absolutely Love this concept! We need this in Oregon. Thank you so much for sharing!
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
I hope they make thousands of these all over the US
Love the DOT creativity and the collaboration between US Forest/Park/Preservation service. :) The care with the plant species is heart warming.
I am just, just so grateful to be a resident of this jewel, Washington State. I've smiled as I roll through the overpass but didn't know about the bridges. You did right, WSDOT and everyone.
Bet you love your leftist government, too.
@@riccardorinaldo7934 certainly not never no never. I signed a petition to support secession of my side of the State to join Idaho, where govt is God-respecting. That's why we call that over there the Left Half
This really warmed my heart to see the animals using what was created for them to have access to their habitat. It is also exciting to see individuals who care about their work to provide this amount of care for the animals. Graduate students working in this endeavor will always have this experience as a building block for their careers.
Props to WSDOT for having the wherewithal to proceed in this enormous project without allowing corporate interference. Very impressive! Blessings always!
Oh please don’t give corporations any ideas! I see it now! “This wildlife over crossing brought to you by Budweiser!” And then putting a sticker on each animal that uses it😂 “Look Mom, I crossed the WDOT Budweiser over crossing” stuck on the rump of an elk😅😅😅
Very well done show, as well as engineering and environmental accomplishment!
Wow, I applaud WSDOT for this project. I remember seeing a lot of construction when I was through their years ago and didn't know what was going on. Amazing Project that seems to be working well thank you so much for protecting our wildlife.
Jayne Segman
0 seconds ago
Agree. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
This is brilliant, creative, collaborative work, all around. Thank you!
Hi how are you doing?
When I'm having a bad day, this is where I come for solace.
To see human beings working with nature as a partner instead of an enemy or an afterthought is SO INSPIRING. We can do it right. We don't have much time left, but if we put our energy & money into creating & nurturing instead of destroying, we can pass on this beautiful planet in better shape than we received it.
Thank you to everyone involved in this project.
I’m not often proud of Washington these days, but I am proud of this! We need more of these throughout the state, and nation.
@@drsrsv8884 major cities have turned into crime/drug hot spots. Homelessness is worse than ever. It doesn’t feel safe to walk around Seattle and Tacoma anymore especially if you don’t know the area
And the world
Awesome work WSDOT and everyone involved! Thanks for sharing!
This made me cry multiple times. I wish I could impact our world like this. It makes me so happy that some people really care about this planet and the other inhabitants we share it with. I wish all states would take this approach. This is the future of highways. Thank you everyone who contributed.
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
I am sure your state DOT has PUblic Information Officers. You can ask they how you can get involved and push these projects forward in your state. They can let you know when they have project open houses and public commenting. I would also encourage you to email,call, and visit your local state representative.
Everyone needs to be relocated to one area and tear up these roads, buildings and other manmade structures. We humans need to really thing about our population so we can save our wonderful wildlife and our planet Earth. There are way to many humans on this earth and its destroying our beautiful wildlife and nature. Being native American, environmentalist, vegan and a long time PETA member, I cried seeing them tag the frogs. I'm so upset they would do this. How people came to this land and destroyed our way of life, our habitat. It will take me a long time if ever recovering from viewing this video. Those poor retiles and other animals being tagged didn't deserve such horrible things being done to them, nobody understands they are creatures of our loving great spirt. My children and I cried so much watching this video, I have to call my therapist now to get in hopes to get group counseling for us now. Maybe some herbal chi tea and meditation will help calm us down but I don't know at this point since we are so distraught.
I sing and pray this to the Great Spirit
Wakan Tanka, Hunkaschila
Wohitika Oyate
Nagi Tanka, Tunkasila
Akicita, Oyate.
Wiyan Wakan, Hanhepi-Wi
Nakacijin, Oyate.
Heyyy... ayy... hee... ooh!
Wakan Tanka, Hunkaschila.
Wohitika, Oyate.
Niyaha, Le Mita Cola.
Kiksuyapi, Oyate.
Wicoti, Mitawa Wichasha
Wakan Mitakuye, Oyasin.
Oyate!
He... Ayy... Heeee... Ahey!
Fair warning, I'm also a nature lover, it's a long reply if you dont like to read, but it's good information.
Try your state's dept of natural resources, or better yet your game commission for more information since they would be the ones to get calls about animals and accidents on the roads.
The state police may also have some valuable information about accidents involving larger animals but PLEASE use the NON emergency number, DON'T just call 911 because many depts are already short staffed and can barely handle all the actual emergency calls they receive. Be prepared to call back another time if they're busy when you call.
If you have a wildlife rehabilitator in your area, they would know if a local road or highway is causing a lot of animals to be injured or killed since they'd be the ones to be helping treat and help heal the injured wild animals.
The game commission would likely be getting the calls for the injured animals and then taking them to the wildlife rehabilitation facility.
Finding out some basic information first will be VERY helpful before contacting your congressional representative to tell them there's a problem.
These crossings and underpass projects are very large, expensive projects involving many departments and agencies, so it's not going to do much to say you saw a video and think there should be more.
As much as I KNOW your heart is in the right place, specific information with proof to back up your request for them to look into it, is what will get you the best chance of them actually looking into it and doing something. 🙂
Do NOT get discouraged, just keep calling every so often and asking, perhaps with updated information with approximately how many more animals have since been harmed or killed, how many more accidents have been caused by deer being hit or larger animals, etc.
Good luck, don't get discouraged, be patient and it's ok to be passionate about a cause, but you also have to communicate clearly and calmly or they will just write you off as a tree hugger. 🙄🤦♀️
That's why it's SO important to back up the cause with factual evidence so they can't just write you off or ignore you. If you have like minded friends who can stay calm and focused as well, by all means ask them to help you do your homework.
Your local university or college's dept of animal biology may have students who would be interested in doing a thesis or dissertation on the effects on migration of animals across a highway to breed, or road mortality of threatened animals caused by a certain road or section of road.
That would be a tremendous help if you had actual evidence and numbers to make your case and that's also where a wildlife rehabilitator could be of significant help also. They keep careful records too of all the animals they treat and release.
Sorry to write a novel but I'm also passionate about nature, I hope it helps 😃👍
Anyone can volunteer with your local extension office to plant for restorations. Or haul bucket of water. Most counties have conservation districts that do this work, and they can always use an extra pair of hands.
What a well made video, great job to the entire production team behind this!
Amazing job. As a person that was always concerned with conservation of species and ecosystems I am so proud of the work you all have done.
Hi how are you doing?
Proud to be a Washingtonian after watching this video. Glad that a local and state government can find ways to help humans and nature at the same time. Listening to science and understanding the environment. Great video!
Pattie and Kelly your drive and determination to spearhead this project is amazing. Thank you for the opportunity to enjoy seeing this project come full circle. Thank you to all the Forest Service personal who worked on this project.
This is a wonderful video! Thank you so much1
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
It is great the crossings were done! Keep making more of them!
This is wonderful!!!!!!!! Thank you!!!! All those who wanted it and all those who made it reality.
The collaboration on this entire project is stunning. Over 50 government and collage departments and others got together and layed out this intricate plan and are driving it to fruition. Kudos ALL AROUND! Especially the Washington Dept. of Transportation. They are central to this effort. That is working better than expected.
I have been driving I90 since 1975. Great job WDOT! 😃👏🏼
Great to see all these partners work together! Enjoyed learning all about this project, especially the underpasses (and that another overpass is in the works for more animals!)
IKR That’s what shocked/impressed me the most is how that department head from DOT and all the biologist and everyone involved came together for one good. So impressive. Will never see this in the state of Florida right here around Orlando. Smdh
GREAT JOB to all yall
A project like this is what I would donate to on a regular basis if they were in done in our state. Lessons to be learned PennDot! I applaud everyone involved that made THIS happen. 🌲🌳🌱🌼🐾
Chip in a few thousand dollars then.
Across Alligator Alley in the Florida Everglades animals can cross safely under the highway in several areas. This was the first time I had seen a deliberate attempt by DOT to connect habitat. It is so good to know this goes on elsewhere! Amazing effort!
Right on!!! I’m so excited to see the crossing! So happy to see Washington putting these up!!!
You folks are doing a fantastic job. I believe that our wildlife issues are humanity's fault. This is a way for humanity to not harm wildlife. Bravo to you all.
I lived at Snoqualmie Pass from 1969-1972. 13-16. It was the best time of my life. The Rock Chalet was still there. My parents owned and ran CONIFER LODGE by the Fire Station now. There's a basket ball court up there still. We ran it in the Summer. Thank you for protecting the animals. It is a lovely thing to do.
Wow. I Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
I love the new pass. It’s so much more safer and I LOVE the fact that the wildlife is protected and the thought that went into this! ❤ keep up the work! You have our support
I lived in Arizona my entire life and moved to WA in my early 20s. I got lost in on the way to my home in Bellevue stopped on I-90 in Snoqualmie. The beauty left me speechless, and I spent hours on the side of the road eating blackberries and taking it all in. I moved back to Arizona after five years but really enjoyed the entire state with the endless opportunities and wealth it granted me. What a great state! I'm happy to learn that WSDOT is managing the transporation system with such care.
Keep up the good work! Both humans and animals need more kindness in our world.
This is wonderful.
Job well done by all those involved!
They prove that the greatest projects are achieved by everyone doing a part - and it doesn't always have to be about money. Bravo!!! Thanks for saving and helping so many species! Amazingness that will last for many years to come!! 👏👏👏
This is just wonderful! We need this in all states in every county! I pray for this stuff. God bless America & it's wildlife heritage and tens of thousands even longer historical crossing paths. It's theirs. Thank You!
This is the BEST NEWS EVER! My heart cries with joy! Lucky are those involved! God bless you all 💖 (shared to facebook, public)
Thank you so much for sharing this with others! I hope the word gets out to All😍
This is so beautiful it brings tears because it demonstrates our states understanding and love for our land and our amazing wildlife. THANK YOU WSDOT you deserve medals and kudos galore.
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
The statistic was said so quickly it was almost missed - the decrease in animal/car collisions on I-90 is phenomenal! I lived at Hyak for many years and will never forget the time an entire herd of elk wiped out by a semi-truck. Glad to know that no one - human or animal - will experience that kind of trauma again. Sure the lane closures were inconvenient during the construction but WSDOT did an excellent job of rerouting lanes to keep as many open as possible. This was just an excellent project from start to finish.
Agree. Sorry about the elks. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
This brings tears to my eyes how you can save all those critters and build habitats. I have a grandson who would love to do this. He was always under the porch catching and finding out how bugs live and what they eat. Now he's 19 , I'll have him watch this! I called him Dr. Doolittle because of his love for creatures of every kind. Good work DOT!
Such a great job that everybody did to make all of these wonderful and necessary changes!! Congratulations!!!
Love it‼️‼️‼️
Hello 👋how’re you doing?
This is so cool, I hope we do this in California at some point. There's so much roadkill everywhere.
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
N.101 of LA has the Liberty Canyon Wildlife crossing is still in the works.
Yes! I’m in UK, where BBC has just posted an article about the solitary male mountain lion trapped for many years between major highways in Hollywood: now as he’s elderly he’s been caught to be relocated as he’d begun hunting pets. Shame there was no safe way for him to cross back to wilderness 😢
Great job Wsdot and all the project participants, they have done this up in Canada main highway 1 to Calgary.
Nice job!!
Wow! I could not stop crying with GRATITUDE and RELIEF at this profound project and collaboration with all departments working together seeing the bigger picture and SUSTANING the wildlife habitats to continue to co-exist with us humans! Amazing project. I hope all other states use this as an example to implement this blueprint to sustain our wildlife forevermore! Applauding everyone on board. 👋👋👋
What an awesome task in giving the wildlife access to more refuge and safe passage along our busy but dangerous roads and yet keeping it with their natural habitat.❤ Thank you for that!
Beautiful documentary, I am so proud of all involved....thank you.
I'd love to be on their crew. This makes me very happy. Something to be really proud of and the positive effects on the wildlife will live on for generations long after these people are gone. What a legacy. 👏
I share your enthusiasm. Outstanding work!
This a great documentary. There was a need for a wider interstate, a reality, and everything possible to preserve nature and correct the mistakes from the past was made. Congratulations
Great video! Very informative. I've been aware of it going up for a long time, but I was not aware of the enormous amount of coordination and effort that went into making it happen. When gov't works well. Thanks to all who made this happen. Thanks for the reminder for responsible driving practices!
Love this!!
It’s wonderful and necessary to bridge the wildlife connection.
Agree. Lets ask our congresspeople. Also try tapping your car horn when any animal crosses in front of your car. This includes squirrels
This is so brilliant! Now that's something to be proud of. Well done Washington!! What a crazy collaboration! Thanks for sharing this. Excellent message start to finish. ❤❤❤
STELLAR. Great project, great people, and a great video to highlight this state-sponsored project. Kudos to all involved!
My heart is filled with admiration, I have no words to describe this wonderful undertaking folks in Washington State decided on! 💕🥰