Wildlife safety took center stage at the Montana Legislature's House Transportation meeting on March 28, 2025, as lawmakers discussed the effectiveness of wildlife exclusionary fencing and proposed new legislation aimed at improving pedestrian safety at crossings.

The meeting highlighted the mixed success of wildlife exclusionary fencing along Highway 200 and the Missouri River Canyon. While some installations have proven effective in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, concerns were raised about the lack of proper crossings that could hinder animal migration. "From a road user perspective, the fencing is effective where we put it in and as long as it's maintained," noted a representative, emphasizing the need for natural crossing points to avoid trapping wildlife.

In a related discussion, lawmakers reviewed Senate Bill 471, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety at crossings equipped with pedestrian-activated devices. Senator Dave Fern introduced the bill, which seeks to clarify driver responsibilities when approaching these crossings. The proposed legislation includes increased fines for violations and holds drivers accountable for damages to the pedestrian devices. "This bill attempts to make it clear what you should do as a driver and as a pedestrian," Fern explained.

Support for the bill was voiced by advocates who highlighted the importance of raising awareness among drivers about pedestrian safety. "It is only a good thing to encourage drivers to be a little bit more vigilant," said Laura Collins from the Montana Environmental Information Center.

As the meeting concluded, lawmakers expressed optimism about the potential impact of these initiatives on both wildlife conservation and public safety. The discussions underscored a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by wildlife crossings and pedestrian safety in Montana.