Earlier in the year, in response to an increase in bear activity along Highway 99, a group of concerned stakeholders gathered to discuss measures to mitigate bear-vehicle collisions along the Sea-to-Sky Highway . The Culliton Creek Bridge was identified as a high hazard area with numerous bear sightings and consequent traffic interruptions from vehicles slowing down and/or pulling over to view wildlife. This initiative was the second in as many weeks to help mitigate highway conflict. On October 14th, bear warning signs were installed along Highway 99 from Squamish to Whistler; these five signs are the first of their kind in British Columbia.

The planting of trees along the eastside of the bridge, at both the north and south ends, provides a visual screen to any wildlife that might be foraging. Blocking the vehicle sight lines to wildlife will reduce the likelihood of vehicles stopping and creating dangerous highway hazards. This tree planting initiative will keep both humans and wildlife free from conflict.

“The District of Squamish is a Bear Smart certified community and we are very pleased to be partnering with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoT), Miller Capilano Maintenance Corporation (MCMC) and Carney's Waste Systems on the Highway 99 tree planting initiative at the Culliton Creek Bridge," said Mayor Greg Gardner. 

The District of Squamish is committed to creating opportunities and finding solutions to reducing human-wildlife conflict. This innovative initiative was set in motion by a co-operative venture between the District of Squamish Bear Aware Program, the MoT, MCMC, and Carney's Waste Systems and would not be possible without assistance from these important community partners. The District of Squamish is committed to ensuring both residents and visitors are aware that we are not only living, but also commuting in bear/wildlife country.