Ecological Connectivity

Ecological connectivity is the unimpeded movement of species and the flow of natural processes that sustain life on Earth (Hilty et al., 2020). Ecological connectivity allows fish, wildlife, plants, water and natural processes to move across all landscapes. These connections support species survival, reproduction and movement, sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem health, as well as long-term species resilience.

Roads, railways, canals, dams, energy, utilities and other developments fragment habitat, disrupt species movement and migration, and create sources of wildlife mortality, significantly contributing to species imperilment. Thoughtfully planned infrastructure can maintain and restore ecological connections using solutions such as simple habitat linkages, wildlife crossings and fish and aquatic organism passages.  

Ecological connectivity considerations are required during most environmental assessments and permitting. Additionally, integration into projects can reduce habitat fragmentation, improve public safety, support species conservation and increase infrastructure resilience. Early consideration can reduce project risk, support regulatory compliance, improve funding competitiveness and create infrastructure that works better for both people and nature.

Ecological connectivity should be considered as early as possible during planning and design, however it’s never too late. Opportunities exist throughout the project lifecycle, including long-range planning, project initiation, planning, design, permitting, construction and operations and maintenance. Existing infrastructure can often be easily retrofitted to improve ecological connectivity with little cost and effort.

Yes. Environmental reviews require evaluation of impacts such as habitat fragmentation, species mortality, wildlife movement and ecosystem impacts. Addressing ecological connectivity supports environmental compliance, strengthens permitting success, reduces project risk and meets conservation and mitigation requirements. 

Integrating ecological connectivity begins with understanding how species, habitats, ecological processes and the built environment interact. We enable clients to incorporate ecological connectivity objectives into infrastructure planning, design and delivery through measures such as wildlife and fish passages, habitat restoration, nature-based solutions and corridor conservation strategies.