347: Creating Safe Passage—Road Ecologists and the Intersection of Wildlife and Development (Pt 1)

Guest Ben Goldfarb is an environmental journalist whose work has appeared in National Geographic, the Atlantic, Smithsonian Magazine, and many other publications. He is the author of Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, named one of the best books of 2023 by the New York Times, and Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter, winner of the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Elise, and his dog, Kit — which is, of course, what you call a baby beaver. Summary In this episode, Jeff Ikler talks with author and environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb about his book Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet. They explore the intersection of wildlife conservation and infrastructure, focusing on wildlife crossings, roadkill reduction, and habitat preservation. Ben highlights the economic and environmental benefits of wildlife-friendly infrastructure and discusses the importance of advocacy, public awareness, and collaboration to address the challenges posed by human development. Focus of Part 1

• Defines road ecology

• Explains why crossings are critical

• How various groups—road ecologists, wildlife biologists, conservation aid organizations, government agencies, and transportation departments—collaborate to bring about beneficial solutions

• How crossings are financed

• Argues that we must commit to habitat preservation as well as providing safe passage

Overall Takeaways

1. Wildlife Crossings Save Lives: Properly designed crossings dramatically reduce roadkill and improve public safety, addressing the economic and ecological costs of animal-vehicle collisions.

2. Collaboration is Key: Road ecology requires partnerships between transportation agencies, conservationists, policymakers, and communities to implement effective and sustainable solutions.

3. Advocacy and Awareness Matter: Public support and legislative action are essential to fund and prioritize wildlife crossings and habitat preservation projects for long-term impact.

Social Media / Referenced

Website: https://www.bengoldfarb.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben.a.goldfarb/

X: https://twitter.com/ben_a_goldfarb

Books:

Crossings: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1324005890

Eager: https://www.amazon.com/Eager-Surprising-Secret-Beavers-Matter/dp/160358739X