Yellowstone-to-Yukon Corridor Named Earthshot Prize Finalist for Wildlife Connectivity

Thirty years after its inception, the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative has been shortlisted for the 2026 Earthshot Prize, recognizing its work to reconnect wildlife corridors across a 3,400-kilometre stretch of the Rocky Mountains. The program has facilitated the construction of more than 200 wildlife overpasses, underpasses and protective fences, dramatically reducing vehicle collisions with large mammals in places like Banff.

By collaborating with Indigenous Nations, private landowners, state and provincial transportation agencies, the initiative has helped protect roughly 24 million hectares of land. The project’s origins trace back to tracking a wolf named Pluie, whose movements highlighted the need for trans-boundary habitat. Jodi Hilty, president and chief scientist of the initiative, emphasizes that animals ignore political borders and require coordinated solutions. The Earthshot Prize will award £1 million to each of five winners, and the initiative plans to expand protection by another 20 million hectares and add at least 50 new crossings by 2030.