New Amphibian Bridge Aims to Protect Frogs and Salamanders in Prince George Park

Bridge Built in Response to Amphibian Trampling

A new bridge spanning an amphibian migration trail in Forests for the World park, Prince George, is giving salamanders, frogs, and toads a better chance at survival during their annual migration. The eight-metre-long structure, located on the northwest shore of Shane Lake, allows visitors to walk above the migration path, reducing the risk to these tiny creatures during the critical July and August period.

Protecting Vulnerable Species

The park, a large nature reserve, is home to many wildlife species, from black bears and moose to long-toed salamanders, western toads, wood frogs, and Columbia spotted frogs. Amphibian biologist Matt Robinson, Michael Le Morvan from the City of Prince George, and Dean Price of Nahanni Construction were among those involved in the bridge's development. The bridge was completed on November 12 as a collaborative project featuring the City of Prince George, Nahanni Construction, and other partners.

Origins of the Project and Community Involvement

The initiative was sparked by Prince George resident and forester Ashley Sutherland. After noticing the high number of amphibians accidentally crushed by hikers during a walk in August 2022, Sutherland contacted the city about the issue. She later spearheaded the installation of informational signs in the park to raise awareness. Eventually, support from both local and provincial organizations helped bring the bridge project to fruition. "With that city partnership, and with so many organizations and individuals involved, it's unreal to be a part of a real change," Sutherland said.

Amphibian Migration and Mortality

Each summer, salamanders, toads, and frogs migrate in the thousands from Shane Lake to the surrounding forest. Sutherland highlighted the difficulties they face: their small size and green coloration make them easy to overlook and vulnerable to being stepped on. According to data collected in 2025, mortality on the main loop trail around the lake reached as high as 12.8 percent, though not all deaths could be attributed to trampling. Sutherland also pointed out that only about one in every 100 amphibians survives to full maturity, so protecting as many as possible during migration is vital to maintaining healthy populations.

Funding and Future Plans

The cost of the bridge was not fully disclosed, but about 30 percent was covered by the City of Prince George, with the remainder funded by donations, according to Dean Price of Nahanni Construction. Michael Le Morvan from the city's parks department described the project as "wonderful" and announced that planning is underway for a second bridge at another amphibian crossing roughly 100 meters from the current site.

Environmental Stewardship in Prince George

The new amphibian bridge exemplifies community engagement in environmental stewardship, demonstrating what can be accomplished when individuals and organizations work together. With continued partnerships, efforts to protect the amphibian population in Forests for the World park are expected to expand with additional infrastructure and public awareness campaigns.

Source: cbc.ca.