Wildlife crossings, from highway overpasses to underpasses, tunnels, and fences, are proven to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by more than 90%.
In addition to preventing deaths, injuries, property damage, and medical costs for drivers, these structures reconnect important habitats and support the conservation of wildlife.
According to Pew, one wildlife crossing can prevent about 1,400 accidents over a 70-year lifespan, resulting in billions of dollars in savings.
But to see those results, the infrastructure needs to be built.
Some states, like Colorado and Arizona, have begun to devote larger amounts of funding to building wildlife crossings. And Montana just launched a new way to pay for these structures: specialty license plates.
Starting today, July 1, Montana motorists can now select a specialty license plate that funds wildlife connectivity programs statewide.
Back in 2025, the state legislature established a program to designate specific funding to wildlife crossings, and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks estimates that the license plate fundraiser will bring in about $100,000 annually to that program.
The license plate design features a snow-covered wildlife crossing, with cool-toned mountains in the background, and an elk stepping onto an overpass.
It was created by Kylie Bute, a recent graduate of Gallatin High School. She was selected as the winner of a contest organized by several conservation organizations and state agencies.
“My passion for art has always been about telling stories, and this design is a way to spread awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation and movement,” Bute said in a statement.
“I’m deeply appreciative and proud to know that my artwork will soon be on vehicles across our great state, helping Montanans connect with the incredible wildlife that surrounds us.”
The license plate costs an additional $20 to purchase and renew, with each sale going directly toward the state’s Wildlife Highway Crossings and Accommodations Account.
To learn more or purchase a license plate yourself, visit the Montana Motor Vehicle Division’s website.
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Header image by Jitze Couperus (CC BY 2.0)
