Why It Matters
A $12 million project will address one of southeast Idaho’s most dangerous stretches of highway for both drivers and wildlife. The construction aims to protect migrating mule deer while reducing vehicle collisions on US Highway 30 near Montpelier.
The project will provide economic benefits to Bear Lake County by preserving wildlife populations that support hunting and outdoor recreation industries.
What Happened
Idaho Transportation Department will begin construction this month on three wildlife underpasses along US Highway 30 between mileposts 442 and 448. The project includes two concrete box culverts, one bridge, and six miles of eight-foot-tall fencing.
The construction targets Rocky Point, a topographic bottleneck that funnels migrating mule deer across the highway. Idaho Fish and Game data shows approximately 70 percent of deer killed along a 20-mile stretch of US 30 occur at this location.
The project received federal funding through the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, which awarded $125 million in grants to 16 states. Construction is expected to finish by fall 2026.
By the Numbers
• $12 million total project cost
• 3 wildlife underpasses planned
• 6 miles of fencing to be installed
• 70% of deer fatalities on a 20-mile stretch occur at Rocky Point
• $125 million awarded nationally through federal pilot program
What They’re Saying
Regional wildlife manager Zach Lockyer with Idaho Fish and Game said the project has received broad support from Bear Lake County residents. He noted that hunters and wildlife enthusiasts value the mule deer population, and protecting it benefits both the local economy and quality of life in southeast Idaho.
ITD District 5 environmental planner Alissa Salmore said local citizens and the Montpelier maintenance crew have requested a solution at this location for decades.
Zoom Out
Wildlife-vehicle collisions represent a significant safety and economic concern across Idaho and the Mountain West. The Federal Highway Administration’s Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program aims to reduce these conflicts while maintaining wildlife migration corridors that support healthy animal populations.
Similar wildlife crossing projects in other western states have demonstrated significant reductions in both animal deaths and vehicle collisions.
What’s Next
Construction begins in April 2026 with completion targeted for fall 2026. Once operational, the underpasses and fencing system will guide migrating mule deer safely beneath the highway rather than across traffic lanes.
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