The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, a groundbreaking project that aims to create a safe passage for wildlife over the busy 101 Freeway, reached a significant milestone on Monday. Although to the average passerby it may seem like a bridge to nowhere, the addition of specially manufactured soil marked a critical step towards completing Stage 1 of the project. The top of the crossing is set to be seeded and planted with native shrubs and perennials by the end of this summer, bringing us closer to the ultimate goal of providing a much-needed corridor for wildlife to navigate the urban landscape of Los Angeles.
Human Ingenuity in Action
The journey towards creating this wildlife crossing has been a testament to human ingenuity and dedication. From building thick walls to minimize traffic noise to adding a special drainage system to prevent water accumulation on the structure, every detail has been carefully considered. The soil, a carefully crafted mix of sand, silt, and clay inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi, has been meticulously analyzed and adjusted to ensure the perfect balance of pH levels and chemical compounds. The attention to detail extends to the collection and cultivation of native plant species, with over 1 million seeds from 30 different plants nurtured into 1-gallon pots.
Restoring Nature’s Balance
As we look ahead to Stage 2 of the project, which will see the crossing connected to the hills at the north and south, the focus remains on restoring the mountain to its former glory. By burying utility lines and creating natural slopes off the crossing, an additional 12 acres of space will be planted with native vegetation to seamlessly blend with the surrounding hills. The goal is to create an environment where wildlife can traverse the freeway without even realizing they are crossing a man-made structure.
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing represents a beacon of hope in a world where human development has encroached on natural habitats. As Jeremy Wolf, mayor pro tem of Agoura Hills, aptly put it, “Humans created this problem, and now we are fixing it with human ingenuity for good purposes.” The project serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations to enjoy.
The completion of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing may still be several years away, but each step brings us closer to creating a safe haven for wildlife in the midst of an urban landscape. With a team of dedicated individuals, from government officials to scientists to longtime supporters, working tirelessly towards this shared goal, the future of wildlife conservation in Los Angeles looks brighter than ever.
