Wildlife Bridge: What do you think?

I ran across this article about a proposed wildlife bridge crossing over I-70 west of Vail. The issue, near to hearts in Colorado, is relevant a lot of places and introduces a great discussion on the intersection of humans, wildlife and technology.

Engineering firms all over the world have submitted designs for this proposed bridge that would, in theory, help decrease the number of vehicle-wildlife collisions and create a safe passage for wildlife such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, lynx, black bear, snowshoe hares. Proponents argue that it would also allow wildlife easier movement/migration and a larger habitat through the mountains, currently restricted by the I-70 corridor. Strategically placed cameras along the crossing could also help scientists monitor wildlife patterns.

There are a number of arguments against the idea too, primarily the price tag associated with such a project and the reality of how much it would help or decrease the problem (stated above).

Check out the proposed designs and weigh in on the debate. For more information:

http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_16725692

http://nativeecosystems.org/campaigns/wildlife-bridge

Giant Sequoias

I just learned that Giant Sequoias are more amazing than I had ever realized. These magnificent species grow up to 300 ft. tall. They move one full ton of water up their trunk every day. The oldest specimens are approximately 3000 years old. They are some of the largest organisms on the planet. These trees have both significant ecological and spiritual value, and are truly one of the most unique species on earth. However, as the story so commonly goes, they're in peril. Threatened by global warming and eventual water deficits that are predicted to come with rising temperatures. If the Giant Sequoias don't have enough water, like most living things, they'll die. It truly saddens me to think that of what we've done to so many species on our planet in such a short time. 

Though it's sometimes hard to find the silver lining when things seem out of control and beyond the crisis point, you have to look for it. There is a silver lining to the story of the Giant Sequoias. Scientists are working on the problem from a variety of angles. They're studying Giant Sequoias more now than ever. Their research methods have changed. The data is better, and we now know how to better protect these giants. There are also more positive large-scale changes occurring to combat the bigger issue of human-caused climate change: hybrid cars, reduced emissions, greater awareness of environmental issues, more focus by government, industry and the general public.



As stewards of the land, I think we need to do all we can to protect our environment. Be it from recreational impacts or impacts that are more global in scale. If we can collectively work to minimize our footprint on the environment - at the micro and macro levels - we're all going to be better off in the long run. Especially those Giant Sequoias.