On a Saturday evening in late August, the Chaleur Lightning hockey team had just finished an exhibition game against the Miramichi Timberwolves and were on their way back to Bathurst on the team bus. Assistant coach Alex Ouellet recalled that as they were driving, the bus suddenly collided with a moose on the highway, causing a loud bang. Fortunately, everyone on board, including the team and coaches, escaped unharmed except for the driver, who sustained minor scratches.
The incident left a lasting impact on Ouellet and the team, similar to many others in New Brunswick who have encountered large animals on the road. Ouellet mentioned that he would always remember the event, especially when traveling at night.
Coincidentally, during the same week, the province announced the addition of two new wildlife crossings on the highway where the collision occurred. These crossings, including wildlife fencing and tunnels, aim to prevent animals like moose from wandering onto roadways.
Transportation Minister Chuck Chiasson explained that the placement of these measures is determined based on collision data provided by law enforcement to identify high-risk areas. While extensive wildlife fencing lines both sides of 331 kilometers of New Brunswick highways, the province also features 82 wildlife crossings, including newly installed tunnels on Route 8.
These tunnels, measuring over four meters tall and wide, are designed to be easily accessible for various wildlife species. According to wildlife ecologist Graham Forbes, who studied the impact of wildlife tunnels in the past, animals quickly adapt to using these passages, enhancing their safety while crossing roads.
Forbes noted that the tunnels are not only utilized by large mammals like moose but also by smaller creatures such as beavers, ducks, and bats. Despite the presence of wildlife crossings, the Department of Transportation has not observed a significant decrease in collisions, with the highest recorded in 2024. Chiasson emphasized the importance of implementing mitigation measures to ensure safe travel for individuals.
Ouellet expressed his hope for additional fencing in the area to enhance safety but acknowledged the challenges in preventing every collision. He emphasized the importance of taking preventative measures to address such situations effectively while navigating the highways for future games.