Public Advisory: Wildlife Detection System Activated Today

The Department of Transportation and Works advises that the province’s first wildlife detection system will be activated today (Thursday, October 13) on a 1.5 kilometre section of the Trans Canada Highway (TCH) east of the Salmonier Line interchange.

The system is part of a series of pilot projects involving wildlife detection systems and wildlife fencing aimed at reducing moose vehicle collisions. It uses sensor technology and flashing warning lights to alert drivers when a large animal is in the highway right-of-way. Warning lights attached to large signs that say “Moose on Highway When Lights are Flashing” will be located at the beginning of this section of highway in both the eastbound and westbound lanes. Once activated, the lights will flash for a period of two minutes.

Drivers are advised to use caution and drive according to road conditions.

A second wildlife detection system on the TCH near Grand Falls-Windsor, as well as a section of wildlife fencing on Newfoundland’s west coast, are expected to be installed by the end of October.

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2011 10 13                                                10:40 a.m.