On a late August Saturday night, the Chaleur Lightning hockey team concluded an exhibition game against the Miramichi Timberwolves and boarded their bus back to Bathurst. Assistant coach Alex Ouellet recalled a sudden gasp from the driver as the bus collided with a moose on the highway shortly after departure. Fortunately, the team and coaches escaped unharmed, with only minor scratches to the driver.
The encounter left a lasting impression on Ouellet and the team, a common experience for many New Brunswickers who have faced similar incidents. The incident coincided with the announcement of the addition of two new wildlife crossings on the same highway stretch that week.
The province utilizes various methods, including wildlife fencing and crossings, to deter moose from venturing onto roads. Transportation Minister Chuck Chiasson explained that collision data guides the placement of these measures to address high-risk areas effectively. Currently, 331 kilometers of New Brunswick highways feature wildlife fencing on both sides.
To facilitate safe wildlife passage, the province has constructed 82 wildlife crossings, including two recent installations on Route 8 between Miramichi and Bathurst. These tunnels are over four meters tall and wide, allowing large animals easy passage. Wildlife ecologist Graham Forbes highlighted the importance of intuitive design to encourage animal use of these crossings.
Forbes noted that the tunnels are not exclusive to large mammals, as various wildlife species, including beavers, ducks, and bats, utilize them. Despite the presence of wildlife tunnels, the Department of Transportation has not observed a significant decrease in collisions, with 2024 recording the highest number of incidents.
While the goal remains to enhance road safety, Chiasson emphasized the need for ongoing mitigation efforts, such as brush clearing, to reduce collisions. Ouellet expressed hope for additional fencing in the area but acknowledged the challenges of preventing every crash. Despite the risks, he stressed the importance of implementing preventive measures to mitigate future incidents on the highway.
