Book buzz: 'Crossings' Investigates Roads' Effect on Nature

Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings“

In a world where roads span approximately 40 million miles, their significance often goes unnoticed, merely seen as conduits for human travel. However, environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb explores the profound impact of roadways on our planet in his acclaimed book, "Crossings." Named one of the best books of 2023 by prestigious publications such as the New York Times, the New Yorker, and Smithsonian Magazine, "Crossings" represents five years of dedicated research and travel around the U.S. and the world.

Goldfarb's journey began in 2013, atop a wildlife overpass across Highway 93, sparking his fascination with mitigating the environmental impact of human transportation. Through conversations with over 250 experts in wildlife biology, transportation engineering, and road ecology, Goldfarb crafted a comprehensive exploration of how roads affect ecosystems and what measures can be taken to minimize their impact.

"Crossings" sheds light on the stark contrast between how humans view roads as mere conveniences and how wildlife experiences them as disruptive and deadly forces. Despite the staggering toll of a million animals killed by cars daily in the U.S., the book reveals that the harm of highways extends beyond roadkill. Creatures such as antelope and salmon are losing their ability to migrate, invasive plants spread through tire treads, road salt pollutes water bodies, and traffic noise drives songbirds from their habitats.

In his book, through interviews with various stakeholders, Goldfarb showcases innovative solutions proposed by road ecologists. These include building wildlife bridges for California's mountain lions, constructing tunnels for English toads, deconstructing logging road networks in national forests, rehabilitating car-orphaned wallabies in Tasmania, and community efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of highways on American cities.

As the global road network continues to expand, the science of road ecology becomes increasingly vital. "Crossings" offers a passionate and timely investigation into humanity's alteration of the natural world, aiming to raise awareness and support for creating a better future for all living beings.