Animal Detection Systems

General Description:

Animal detection systems use a series of sensors to detect animals that may be entering the roadway and use signs to inform motorists of the hazard ahead. 

Effects of Solution:

¨ Increase Passenger Throughput

¨ Increase Roadway Capacity

þ Manage System Efficiency (Improves safety of a facility)

¨ Reduce Local Demand

Animal Detection Systems are designed to increase safety along roadways with heavy animal traffic.

Examples of Implementation:

Yellowstone National Park

Doug Madsen, Outdoor Recreation Officer, Planning Office

Cost/Financial Information:

The cost of an Animal Detection System can begin at about $4,000 per unit, depending upon the technologies used.  There are other alternatives that may be appropriate such as flashing signs (see the Improved Traffic Control Devices fact sheet).

Additional Resources:

Western Transportation Institute

http://www.coe.montana.edu/wti/wti/display.php?id=4

State of Alaska web page:

http://www.dot.state.ak.us/iways/proj-research.shtml

Department of Transportation Rural ITS summary report:

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