There’s no doubt that many deer in the Methow Valley suffer the consequences of collisions with vehicles, but exactly how many collisions there are — and where they occur — is less apparent.
To learn more about where these accidents happen — and whether anything can be done to prevent them — the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is studying deer-crossing patterns and factors that contribute to collisions. The study focuses on Highway 20 between Twisp and Early Winters Campground west of Mazama.
The Methow Valley is home to the state’s largest wintering concentrations of migratory mule deer. The study also looks at white-tail deer.
The goal of the study is to better understand environmental factors that contribute to deer-vehicle collisions and to provide recommendations that could lower the number of collisions.
Washington State University researchers are currently analyzing data collected over the past two years. Researchers collected information using game cameras, visual tracking and carcass counts. Last year they expanded the study to track deer movements through radio collars.
WSDOT is soliciting input from the public about factors they believe contribute to deer collisions, as well as ideas for solutions. Information and a link to a survey are at https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/planning/studies/sr-20/wildlife-safety/home. People can fill out the survey until the end of February.
Researchers will also solicit feedback at the mule deer summit hosted by the Okanogan Trails Chapter of the Mule Deer Foundation on Feb. 23.
Funding for the study was provided by a $106,775 grant from Western Federal Lands (WFL) division of the Federal Highway Administration, which was matched with $28,225 of state funds.
The final report and recommendations will be provided to WFL in April.
