On a late August Saturday night, following an exhibition game against the Miramichi Timberwolves, the Chaleur Lightning hockey team was on their way back to Bathurst when their bus encountered a moose on the highway. Assistant coach Alex Ouellet described the moment of impact, highlighting that everyone on board, except for the driver who sustained minor scratches, emerged unharmed.
The incident left a lasting impression on Ouellet and the team, reminiscent of similar encounters by other New Brunswickers with large wildlife. Coincidentally, the province announced the installation of two additional wildlife crossings on the same highway stretch that week.
New Brunswick employs various strategies to prevent wildlife collisions on roadways, such as wildlife fencing and tunnels. Transportation Minister Chuck Chiasson explained that the placement of these measures is determined by analyzing collision data to identify high-risk areas.
Currently, wildlife fencing lines both sides of 331 kilometers of New Brunswick highways. However, the province recognizes the need for wildlife to access their habitats and food sources, hence the deployment of wildlife crossings. These crossings include concrete tunnels, with 82 already in place across the province, including recent additions on Route 8 between Miramichi and Bathurst.
Wildlife ecologist Graham Forbes emphasized the effectiveness of wildlife tunnels, noting that various animals, not just large mammals, utilize these passages. While the tunnels have not significantly reduced collision rates, the province remains committed to enhancing road safety through strategic mitigation efforts.
Despite the potential challenges, Ouellet expressed optimism about the added protection provided by wildlife fencing and tunnels. He acknowledged the difficulty of preventing every wildlife collision but emphasized the importance of implementing preventive measures to enhance safety on the roads.