U.S. Needs Creative Solutions to Improve Ecosystem Connectivity

Collected resources on restoring connections among essential fish and wildlife habitats

Restore, Conserve Fish and Wildlife Corridors
A wildlife crossing spans Interstate 90 in Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. A network of bridges and culverts in the North Cascades is improving ecological connectivity and helping to make the region more resilient to climate change.
Washington State Department of Transportation Flickr Creative Commons

Many fish and wildlife species move and migrate as part of their life cycle, often following food sources throughout the seasons. But roads, dams, culverts, and other infrastructure can obstruct these pathways. By eliminating or retrofitting some of those barriers, or by building crossings, states can help restore and maintain critical wildlife corridors and migratory routes. And as higher temperatures alter fish and wildlife habitat, improved connectivity can help species move freely to find new resources and more suitable places for foraging, shelter, breeding, and other vital activities.

The research and analysis collected here reflect the breadth of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ efforts to restore and conserve fish and wildlife corridors throughout the U.S.