Abstract

New developments are encroaching on what was pristine conservation space for wildlife. Across America, housing developments replace prime wilderness without thought to the consequences. My FLL Team was challenged with the topic of SMART MOVES this season. Most Teams explored transportation and how people move, our kids were intrigued with how wildlife moves and how, what we do as a society, greatly affects the long term sustainability of wildlife species and their habitats. They had a curiosity to learn more. Everyday on the way to school, they pass several different Wildlife Crossing signs, lasting the entire length of the commute. Researching, the kids learned they were living in the middle of a wildlife corridor and wondered what that meant for the animals and what responsibility residents should bear. They discovered solutions for Wildlife Crossings, but most focus on the animals. The kids quickly realized for an idea to be effective, the solution must rely on the intelligence of people to help the wildlife. While underpasses work, you must count on animals to pass in this specific area. Educating the public and instituting effective signage is low cost and puts the responsibility on the party who has control, in this case, the motorist. These 11 year-olds taught me you don't have to come up with an expensive idea or complicated invention. Their solution to this important problem was well researched and thoughtful and has the potential to have a significant impact in the area of highway, Department of Transportation, Wildlife Crossings.

Submission Document

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