Bison cross the road on Highway 3 in southern Northwest Territories earlier this year. - Stewart Burnett/NNSL photo

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
The territorial government is reminding the public to be wary of bison on highways following a serious collision last month.

A tractor-trailer travelling south on Highway 3 between Behchoko and Fort Providence hit a herd of bison on the road early in the morning. That collision happened about a month ago. Michael Conway, regional superintendent with the Department of Transportation, said low visibility conditions contributed to the collision.

"(Collisions) usually happen in low-visibility situations," he said.

Conway could not give details about whether there were any injuries or how many bison were struck. He said bison collisions vary year to year.

"I think that the efforts that the Departments of Transportation and Environment and Natural Resources have made over the last few years with regards to ensuring people are aware of bison areas has probably reduced the amount of collisions but they still do happen," said Conway.

He pointed to fog, rain, heavy snow and sleet as situations as potential hazards that may make bison less visible while driving on the highway.

"You tend to see bison all year long along the highway," said Conway. "In summer time we have a lot more light, we don't have blowing snow and weather conditions are a lot more favourable to allow drivers to see the bison in time."

Historically, most bison collisions in the territory happen between August and December. Highway staff try to determine where bison are located and communicate with travellers through social media and electronic sign messaging. Permanent signs are placed in particularly prevalent areas. Conway advises drivers to consider weather conditions and to slow down and watch for bison because they can appear out of anywhere.

Bison/traffic collisions in nwt

*Includes all on animals sighted on roadways

Source: GNWT

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