The Importance of Protecting Wildlife Corridors

I. Introduction

Welcome to the world of wildlife corridors! In this article, we will explore the importance of protecting these vital pathways for our wildlife. Wildlife corridors, also known as ecological corridors or wildlife highways, are strips of land that connect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to move freely between different areas. These corridors play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting healthy ecosystems, and promoting the survival of various species.

As human activities continue to encroach upon natural habitats, wildlife corridors become even more essential. They provide safe passage for animals to search for food, find mates, and establish new territories. By enabling the movement of wildlife, corridors help prevent genetic isolation, allowing for gene flow and maintaining healthy populations.

Furthermore, wildlife corridors contribute to the overall health of ecosystems. They facilitate the dispersal of seeds, pollen, and nutrients, promoting plant diversity and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Corridors also help mitigate the negative impacts of climate change by allowing species to adapt and migrate to more suitable habitats.

Protecting wildlife corridors is not only beneficial for wildlife but also for humans. These corridors provide opportunities for eco-tourism, recreational activities, and educational experiences. They offer a chance for people to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and importance of biodiversity.

II. Benefits of Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and ensuring the survival of various species. These corridors provide a safe passage for wildlife populations, promote genetic diversity, mitigate habitat fragmentation, and support migration patterns. Let’s explore the benefits of wildlife corridors in more detail:

A. Facilitating movement of wildlife populations

One of the primary benefits of wildlife corridors is their ability to facilitate the movement of wildlife populations. As human activities continue to encroach upon natural habitats, animals face increasing challenges in finding suitable areas for feeding, breeding, and dispersal. Wildlife corridors serve as vital connections between fragmented habitats, allowing animals to move freely and access essential resources.

For instance, imagine a scenario where a population of deer is isolated in a small forest patch due to urban development. Without a wildlife corridor, these deer would be confined to a limited area, leading to overcrowding, competition for resources, and increased vulnerability to diseases. However, with the presence of a well-designed corridor, the deer can disperse to nearby habitats, reducing population pressure and ensuring their long-term survival.

B. Promoting genetic diversity

Genetic diversity is crucial for the long-term survival and adaptability of wildlife populations. Inbreeding can lead to reduced genetic variation, making species more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes. Wildlife corridors play a vital role in promoting genetic diversity by enabling the movement of individuals between populations.

When animals can freely migrate and interact with individuals from other populations, they have a higher chance of breeding with genetically distinct mates. This genetic exchange helps prevent inbreeding and enhances the overall fitness of the population. By maintaining healthy levels of genetic diversity, wildlife corridors contribute to the resilience and adaptability of species in the face of changing environmental conditions.

C. Mitigating habitat fragmentation

Habitat fragmentation is a significant threat to biodiversity worldwide. When natural habitats are fragmented into smaller patches, it disrupts ecological processes and isolates populations, leading to a loss of species diversity and ecosystem functionality. Wildlife corridors act as bridges, connecting these fragmented habitats and mitigating the negative impacts of habitat fragmentation.

By providing a continuous pathway, wildlife corridors allow species to move between habitats, access resources, and establish new territories. This connectivity helps maintain ecological processes such as pollination, seed dispersal, and predator-prey interactions. It also allows for the recolonization of previously occupied areas, reducing the risk of local extinctions and preserving the integrity of ecosystems.

D. Supporting migration patterns

Many species undertake seasonal migrations to find suitable breeding grounds, feeding areas, or overwintering sites. These long-distance movements are essential for their survival and reproductive success. However, human activities such as urbanization, infrastructure development, and habitat fragmentation can disrupt these migration patterns.

Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in supporting migration patterns by providing safe and unobstructed routes for migrating animals. Whether it’s the annual migration of wildebeest in Africa or the seasonal movement of birds across continents, wildlife corridors offer a lifeline for these species. By ensuring the continuity of migration routes, wildlife corridors contribute to the conservation of migratory species and the maintenance of their ecological functions.

III. Threats to Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the survival of various species. However, these corridors face numerous threats that need to be addressed in order to protect and preserve them for future generations. In this section, we will explore some of the major threats to wildlife corridors.

A. Urbanization and Habitat Loss

One of the biggest threats to wildlife corridors is urbanization and the resulting habitat loss. As human populations continue to grow, there is an increasing demand for land for housing, infrastructure, and commercial development. This often leads to the destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats, including the wildlife corridors that connect different ecosystems.

Urbanization not only destroys the physical habitat but also disrupts the natural movement patterns of wildlife. As cities expand, roads, buildings, and other structures act as barriers, preventing animals from accessing essential resources such as food, water, and mates. This fragmentation can isolate populations, reduce genetic diversity, and increase the risk of extinction for many species.

To mitigate the impact of urbanization on wildlife corridors, it is crucial to incorporate conservation measures into urban planning and development. This can include creating green spaces, wildlife-friendly infrastructure, and implementing zoning regulations that protect critical habitats and connectivity.

B. Infrastructure Development

Another significant threat to wildlife corridors is infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, railways, and canals. These linear structures can fragment habitats and disrupt the natural movement of wildlife. Animals often face challenges crossing these barriers, leading to isolation and reduced access to essential resources.

Infrastructure development can also result in habitat destruction, especially in ecologically sensitive areas. The clearing of land, excavation, and pollution associated with construction activities can have detrimental effects on wildlife populations and their habitats.

To minimize the impact of infrastructure development on wildlife corridors, it is essential to consider ecological connectivity during the planning and design stages. This can involve the construction of wildlife crossings, such as underpasses and overpasses, that allow animals to safely navigate through human-made barriers. Additionally, implementing measures to reduce habitat destruction and pollution can help protect wildlife and their habitats.

C. Climate Change

Climate change poses a significant threat to wildlife corridors and the species that depend on them. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events can alter ecosystems, disrupt migration patterns, and affect the availability of food and water resources.

As climate change continues to accelerate, some species may need to shift their ranges to adapt to new conditions. Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in facilitating these movements, allowing species to find suitable habitats and maintain genetic diversity. However, if these corridors are fragmented or destroyed, species may be unable to reach new areas, leading to population declines and increased vulnerability to extinction.

Addressing the impacts of climate change on wildlife corridors requires a comprehensive approach that includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting and restoring habitats, and promoting landscape connectivity. Conservation efforts should focus on creating resilient ecosystems that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change and support the movement of species.

D. Human-Wildlife Conflict

Human-wildlife conflict is another significant threat to wildlife corridors. As human activities encroach upon natural habitats, conflicts between humans and wildlife can arise. This can include crop raiding, livestock predation, and the destruction of property, leading to negative attitudes towards wildlife and a desire to eliminate or control their populations.

Human-wildlife conflict can directly impact wildlife corridors by creating barriers and obstacles that prevent animals from moving freely. Fences, barriers, and other deterrents are often put in place to protect human interests, but they can hinder the movement of wildlife and disrupt their natural behavior.

To address human-wildlife conflict and ensure the protection of wildlife corridors, it is crucial to implement effective mitigation strategies. This can include the use of non-lethal deterrents, such as electric fences and sound devices, to prevent conflicts between humans and wildlife. Additionally, promoting community engagement, education, and awareness can help foster coexistence and reduce negative interactions.

IV. Designing Effective Wildlife Corridors

Designing effective wildlife corridors is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the survival of various species. By identifying key habitats and connectivity areas, incorporating ecological principles in corridor design, collaborating with landowners and stakeholders, and implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure, we can create corridors that are both functional and sustainable.

A. Identifying key habitats and connectivity areas

Identifying key habitats and connectivity areas is the first step in designing effective wildlife corridors. This involves conducting thorough research and surveys to determine the locations where different species thrive and move. By understanding the specific needs and behaviors of wildlife, we can identify the areas that are critical for their survival and connectivity.

For example, migratory birds require stopover sites along their migration routes, while large mammals need areas with abundant food and water sources. By mapping out these key habitats and connectivity areas, we can ensure that our corridors provide the necessary resources for wildlife to thrive.

B. Incorporating ecological principles in corridor design

When designing wildlife corridors, it is essential to incorporate ecological principles to ensure their effectiveness. This means considering factors such as habitat quality, landscape connectivity, and the needs of different species. By taking into account these ecological principles, we can create corridors that mimic natural habitats and provide the necessary conditions for wildlife to move and thrive.

For instance, corridors should include a variety of habitat types, such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands, to accommodate different species. They should also consider the specific requirements of target species, such as the presence of specific plant species or the availability of suitable nesting sites.

Additionally, corridors should be designed to promote landscape connectivity, allowing wildlife to move freely between different habitats. This may involve creating stepping stones, such as small patches of suitable habitat, to bridge gaps between larger habitat areas.

C. Collaborative efforts with landowners and stakeholders

Designing effective wildlife corridors requires collaboration with landowners and stakeholders. This collaboration is essential to ensure the protection and management of the corridor areas. By involving local communities, landowners, and other stakeholders in the design and implementation process, we can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the corridors.

Collaborative efforts can involve working with landowners to implement wildlife-friendly land management practices, such as reducing pesticide use or creating buffer zones around habitats. It can also involve engaging with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife corridors and the benefits they provide.

Furthermore, collaboration with stakeholders, such as government agencies and conservation organizations, can help secure funding and support for corridor projects. By pooling resources and expertise, we can ensure the long-term success of wildlife corridors.

D. Implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure

Implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure is a crucial aspect of designing effective wildlife corridors. This involves incorporating features that facilitate safe passage for wildlife, such as underpasses, overpasses, and wildlife crossings.

For example, underpasses and overpasses can be constructed to allow wildlife to safely cross highways and other barriers. These structures should be designed to mimic natural habitats and provide suitable cover and vegetation for wildlife. Additionally, wildlife crossings can be created over or under railways to prevent collisions with trains.

Furthermore, it is essential to minimize the negative impacts of human activities on wildlife corridors. This can include reducing light pollution, noise pollution, and habitat fragmentation caused by urban development and infrastructure projects.

By implementing wildlife-friendly infrastructure, we can ensure that wildlife corridors are functional and safe for the movement of various species.

V. Case Studies of Successful Wildlife Corridors

In this section, we will explore three case studies of successful wildlife corridors that have made a significant impact on conservation efforts.

A. Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative

The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) is a groundbreaking project that aims to protect and restore the wildlife habitat and corridors spanning from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in the United States to the Yukon in Canada. This vast area covers approximately 2,000 miles and encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, rivers, and grasslands.

Y2Y recognizes the importance of maintaining connectivity between these ecosystems to ensure the survival and well-being of numerous species, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and migratory birds. By creating a network of protected areas, wildlife crossings, and land-use policies that prioritize conservation, Y2Y has successfully established a functional wildlife corridor that allows for the movement of animals across this vast landscape.

One of the key strategies employed by Y2Y is collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, Indigenous communities, landowners, and conservation organizations. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in securing support and resources for the initiative, as well as fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the protection of wildlife and their habitats.

B. The Great Eastern Ranges Initiative

The Great Eastern Ranges Initiative (GER) is an ambitious conservation program in Australia that aims to protect and restore the natural habitats and ecological connectivity along the eastern coast of the continent. Spanning over 3,600 miles, GER covers a diverse range of ecosystems, including rainforests, wetlands, coastal areas, and alpine regions.

GER recognizes the importance of maintaining ecological connectivity to enable the movement of species and the exchange of genetic material. By establishing a network of protected areas, wildlife corridors, and habitat restoration projects, GER has successfully created a functional landscape-scale corridor that supports the movement of native wildlife.

One of the key achievements of GER is the establishment of the Great Eastern Ranges Wildlife Linkages Project, which focuses on identifying and enhancing key wildlife corridors and habitat patches. This project utilizes scientific research, community engagement, and strategic partnerships to prioritize conservation actions and ensure the long-term viability of the corridor.

C. The European Green Belt

The European Green Belt is a transboundary initiative that aims to protect and restore the natural habitats and ecological connectivity along the former Iron Curtain, which divided Europe during the Cold War. Stretching over 7,700 miles, the European Green Belt spans 24 countries and encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, grasslands, and mountains.

The European Green Belt initiative recognizes the importance of ecological connectivity for the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of sustainable development. By establishing a network of protected areas, ecological corridors, and transboundary cooperation, the European Green Belt has successfully created a continuous corridor that allows for the movement of wildlife across national borders.

One of the key achievements of the European Green Belt is the collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local communities to implement conservation measures and promote sustainable land use practices. This collaborative approach has not only contributed to the protection of biodiversity but also fostered cross-border cooperation and reconciliation.

VI. Government Policies and Conservation Efforts

In order to protect wildlife corridors and ensure the survival of various species, governments around the world have implemented national and international legislation. These laws are designed to regulate activities that may have a negative impact on wildlife and their habitats. By enacting these policies, governments aim to strike a balance between development and conservation.

A. National and international legislation

National legislation plays a crucial role in protecting wildlife corridors within a country’s borders. These laws may include provisions for the establishment of protected areas, the regulation of hunting and fishing activities, and the conservation of endangered species. For example, in the United States, the Endangered Species Act provides legal protection for species that are at risk of extinction, including those that rely on wildlife corridors for migration.

At the international level, countries collaborate through various agreements and conventions to protect wildlife corridors that span multiple borders. One such agreement is the Convention on Biological Diversity, which aims to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources. By ratifying and implementing these international agreements, countries demonstrate their commitment to the conservation of wildlife corridors on a global scale.

B. Protected area management

Protected areas are designated spaces that are managed to conserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems. These areas play a crucial role in maintaining wildlife corridors by providing safe havens for species to migrate and access essential resources. Protected area management involves various activities, such as habitat restoration, invasive species control, and monitoring of wildlife populations.

Efforts to manage protected areas often involve collaboration between government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities. By working together, these stakeholders can ensure that protected areas are effectively managed and that wildlife corridors are preserved for future generations. Additionally, protected area management may involve the implementation of visitor guidelines and regulations to minimize human disturbance and maintain the integrity of wildlife corridors.

C. Conservation organizations and initiatives

Conservation organizations play a vital role in protecting and preserving wildlife corridors. These organizations work tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife corridors, advocate for their protection, and implement conservation initiatives on the ground.

One example of a prominent conservation organization is the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The WWF focuses on conserving the world’s most vulnerable species and ecosystems, including those that rely on wildlife corridors for survival. Through their initiatives, such as the establishment of protected areas and the promotion of sustainable land-use practices, the WWF contributes to the preservation of wildlife corridors worldwide.

Other initiatives, such as the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, aim to protect and restore a vast wildlife corridor that spans from the Yellowstone National Park in the United States to the Yukon in Canada. By collaborating with various stakeholders, including indigenous communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, this initiative seeks to ensure the long-term viability of the corridor and the species that depend on it.

VII. Economic and Social Benefits of Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in not only preserving biodiversity but also in providing numerous economic and social benefits. These interconnected pathways allow for the movement of various species, ensuring their survival and promoting a healthy ecosystem. In this section, we will explore the economic and social advantages that wildlife corridors bring, including ecotourism and local economies, ecosystem services, and cultural and recreational value.

A. Ecotourism and Local Economies

One of the significant economic benefits of wildlife corridors is the boost they provide to ecotourism and local economies. These corridors attract nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers who are willing to explore and experience the wonders of the natural world. Visitors are drawn to these areas to witness the diverse range of species that utilize the corridors for migration, feeding, and breeding.

As tourists flock to these regions, local businesses thrive. Accommodation providers, restaurants, tour operators, and souvenir shops all benefit from the increased demand for their services. The revenue generated from ecotourism helps to support local communities and create employment opportunities. Additionally, the presence of wildlife corridors can lead to the development of nature-based tourism infrastructure, such as hiking trails, observation decks, and educational centers, further enhancing the visitor experience.

B. Ecosystem Services Provided by Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife corridors offer a range of ecosystem services that contribute to the well-being of both humans and the environment. These services include water purification, soil fertility, pollination, and pest control. The interconnectedness of habitats within the corridors allows for the movement of species that play vital roles in maintaining these services.

For example, birds and bats that use wildlife corridors for migration also serve as pollinators for plants, ensuring the reproduction of various flora species. Similarly, predators that utilize the corridors help control the population of herbivores, preventing overgrazing and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. The preservation and restoration of wildlife corridors, therefore, contribute to the overall health and sustainability of the surrounding landscapes.

C. Cultural and Recreational Value

Wildlife corridors hold immense cultural and recreational value for communities and individuals. These corridors provide opportunities for people to connect with nature, fostering a sense of appreciation and understanding of the natural world. They offer spaces for recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography, allowing people to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Furthermore, wildlife corridors hold cultural significance for indigenous communities and those with a deep connection to the land. These communities often have traditional knowledge and practices that revolve around the wildlife and ecosystems found within the corridors. Preserving and protecting these areas not only safeguards biodiversity but also respects the cultural heritage and traditions of these communities.

VIII. Challenges and Solutions in Wildlife Corridor Conservation

A. Balancing conservation with development needs

One of the major challenges in wildlife corridor conservation is finding a balance between conservation efforts and development needs. As human populations continue to grow and expand, there is an increasing demand for land and resources. This often leads to the destruction and fragmentation of wildlife habitats, including the corridors that connect different ecosystems.

Conservationists and policymakers face the difficult task of finding ways to accommodate development while minimizing its impact on wildlife corridors. This requires careful planning and collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and conservation organizations.

One solution to this challenge is the implementation of smart growth strategies. These strategies aim to promote sustainable development by focusing on compact and efficient land use, preserving open spaces, and minimizing the ecological footprint of human activities. By incorporating wildlife corridors into urban planning, it is possible to create a balance between development and conservation.

Another solution is the use of conservation easements and land trusts. These legal mechanisms allow landowners to voluntarily restrict the use of their land for conservation purposes. By establishing easements along wildlife corridors, it is possible to protect these vital habitats from development while still allowing for some level of human activity.

B. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts

Engaging local communities in wildlife corridor conservation efforts is crucial for the long-term success of these initiatives. Local communities often have a deep connection to the land and its natural resources, and their support is essential for the effective management and protection of wildlife corridors.

One challenge in engaging local communities is the lack of awareness and understanding of the importance of wildlife corridors. Many people may not be aware of the role these corridors play in maintaining biodiversity and supporting the movement of wildlife. Therefore, education and outreach programs are essential to raise awareness and foster a sense of stewardship among local residents.

Community-based conservation initiatives can also be effective in engaging local communities. These initiatives involve local residents in the decision-making process and empower them to take an active role in the conservation and management of wildlife corridors. By involving local communities in monitoring, research, and habitat restoration activities, it is possible to build a sense of ownership and responsibility for the protection of these vital habitats.

C. Securing funding for corridor protection and management

Securing funding for corridor protection and management is another significant challenge in wildlife corridor conservation. Conservation efforts require financial resources to acquire and manage land, conduct research and monitoring, implement conservation strategies, and engage local communities.

One solution to this challenge is the establishment of public-private partnerships. By bringing together government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private stakeholders, it is possible to pool resources and expertise to fund and implement corridor conservation projects. These partnerships can leverage public funds, private donations, and grants to support the long-term sustainability of wildlife corridors.

Another approach is the development of innovative financing mechanisms. For example, conservation impact bonds and environmental impact funds can provide a new source of funding for wildlife corridor conservation. These mechanisms involve private investors who provide upfront capital for conservation projects and receive a return on their investment based on the achievement of specific conservation outcomes.

Additionally, raising public awareness about the importance of wildlife corridors can help generate support and funding for their protection. By highlighting the ecological and economic benefits of these corridors, it is possible to mobilize public support and secure funding from government agencies, foundations, and individual donors.

In conclusion, wildlife corridor conservation faces several challenges, including balancing conservation with development needs, engaging local communities, and securing funding. However, by implementing smart growth strategies, engaging local communities, and developing innovative financing mechanisms, it is possible to overcome these challenges and ensure the long-term protection and management of wildlife corridors.

IX. Best Practices for Wildlife Corridor Monitoring and Evaluation

Wildlife corridors play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the survival of various species. Monitoring and evaluating these corridors is essential to understand their effectiveness and make informed conservation decisions. In this section, we will explore the best practices for tracking wildlife movements and behavior, assessing corridor effectiveness, and implementing long-term monitoring and adaptive management strategies.

A. Tracking wildlife movements and behavior

Tracking wildlife movements and behavior is a fundamental aspect of monitoring wildlife corridors. By understanding how animals use these corridors, we can identify potential barriers or threats and implement appropriate conservation measures. Here are some best practices for tracking wildlife movements and behavior:

• Use GPS tracking technology: GPS collars and tags provide valuable data on animal movements, allowing researchers to map their routes and identify key corridors.
• Camera traps: Deploying camera traps along wildlife corridors can capture images and videos of animals, providing insights into their behavior and habitat preferences.
• Radio telemetry: Radio telemetry involves attaching radio transmitters to animals and using receivers to track their movements. This technique is particularly useful for studying elusive species.
• Collecting scat and hair samples: Analyzing scat and hair samples can help identify the presence of different species and provide information on their diet, health, and genetic diversity.

By combining these tracking methods, researchers can gather comprehensive data on wildlife movements, habitat use, and migration patterns within wildlife corridors.

B. Assessing corridor effectiveness

Assessing the effectiveness of wildlife corridors is crucial to determine whether they are achieving their conservation goals. Here are some best practices for evaluating corridor effectiveness:

• Population monitoring: Regular population surveys can help assess the abundance and distribution of species within wildlife corridors. Comparing population trends before and after corridor establishment can provide insights into their effectiveness.
• Genetic analysis: Genetic studies can reveal the connectivity and gene flow between populations in different parts of the corridor. This information is vital for maintaining genetic diversity and preventing inbreeding.
• Assessing habitat quality: Evaluating the quality of habitat within the corridor is essential to ensure it meets the needs of wildlife. Factors such as food availability, water sources, and shelter should be considered.
• Mapping landscape connectivity: Using GIS technology, researchers can analyze the landscape connectivity between different habitat patches and identify potential barriers or bottlenecks.

By regularly assessing corridor effectiveness, conservationists can identify any shortcomings or threats and implement appropriate management strategies to enhance their functionality.

C. Long-term monitoring and adaptive management

Long-term monitoring and adaptive management are crucial components of successful wildlife corridor conservation. Here are some best practices for implementing long-term monitoring and adaptive management:

• Establishing baseline data: Before implementing any conservation measures, it is essential to gather baseline data on wildlife populations, habitat conditions, and threats. This data will serve as a reference point for future monitoring.
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring should be conducted to track changes in wildlife populations, habitat conditions, and corridor functionality. This allows conservationists to detect any negative trends and take timely action.
• Engaging local communities: Involving local communities in monitoring efforts can enhance the effectiveness of conservation initiatives. Local knowledge and participation can provide valuable insights and foster a sense of ownership.
• Adaptive management: Adaptive management involves adjusting conservation strategies based on new information and feedback from monitoring efforts. This flexible approach allows for continuous improvement and better conservation outcomes.

By implementing long-term monitoring and adaptive management practices, conservationists can ensure the sustained functionality and effectiveness of wildlife corridors.