Monthly newsletter - January 2025

Road Ecology Project: Kicking Off in February!

Feb 04, 2025

After months of preparation, consultations, and securing essential funding, we are thrilled to announce that the Road Ecology Project officially begins this February. This milestone marks a crucial step in tackling wildlife-vehicle collisions in Hoedspruit.

Photo credit: Andrew Rider (@andyswildlife)

How the project will run

Our research is structured into two main phases:

Phase 1: Baseline Survey

Identifying high-risk areas for wildlife-vehicle collisions using citizen science data and systematic patrols
Assessing underpasses & culverts use to determine their potential as safe wildlife crossings.
Mapping crossing hotspots to prioritize safety measures using citizen science and other data.

Phase 2: Mitigation Measures

Analyzing data to develop targeted solutions.
Engaging with the community to ensure solutions are practical and effective.
Implementing and reviewing mitigation strategies to measure their success.

Although we recognize the urgency of the issue, gathering preliminary data is crucial to ensuring we implement effective solutions correctly rather than hastily.

This work will provide critical insights to improve road ecology practices in South Africa and beyond.

Our progress so far

We have consulted five international and national road ecologists to ensure our methodology is scientifically sound, and we are ready to start data collection.
A major sponsor has covered most of our project budget. Read the press release to get the details!
Andre Brandao, CEO of AirNav Systems and Ingwe Research Program Team
Three master’s students will conduct their research with us in collaboration with Transfrontier Africa. The first internship opportunity is now open for applications.
Data collection tools are in place, and we are calling on the Hoedspruit community to participate as citizen scientists.
We have applied for the first of two necessary research permits and are preparing our second application.
Media outreach is in full swing! We’ve prepared newspaper articles and will be on Hoedspruit FM this Thursday at 15:30 to discuss the project.

How you can help

Join us as a citizen scientist by logging wildlife roadkill data if you are in the Hoedspruit area.
Share our work to spread awareness and expand our reach.
Support us financially through PayPal, GoFundMe, or direct bank transfers.
Contribute by donating equipment such as camera traps—check our online shop for details.
Support artists who support us—a portion of proceeds from their work helps fund our initiatives.