On March 23, 2010, the second animal pathway was completed and put into operation in Hokuto City.
The design and construction were carried out by Shimizu Construction.
Total length: Approximately 13m
Height: Approximately 6.9m
The red pin above indicates the location of Animal Pathway No. 2 (No. 1 is below).
It is located near the Mibayashi intersection on Prefectural Route 11 (Yatsugatake Kogen Line).
Construction process:
1. Installation of pillars
Due to unexpected heavy snow, the construction was delayed by one day. Despite the deep snow, two pillars were successfully completed.
2. Installation of scaffolding and electrical work
Scaffolding was installed on the two support pillars. Although some of the snow had melted, the ground was still in poor condition, resembling slush.
Artificial cedar bark was wrapped around the support pillars to make it easier for animals to climb.
Subsequently, work was carried out for attaching metal fittings and wiring for electricity.
3. Assembly of the upper structure
Members of the research team participated as volunteers and assembled the frame, floor, roof, and shelters. The snow had completely melted, and the work took place in the forest next to the support pillars.
4. Attachment to the support pillars
Traffic restrictions were implemented at the construction site, and the assembled pathway was lifted by a crane and attached to the support pillars. It was a cold day with occasional drizzle turning into snow, but fortunately, there was no wind.
5. Installation of monitoring equipment
Cameras and HD recorders for monitoring were installed on-site, and tests were conducted. The setup inside the camera housing and electrical box had been completed the previous day, but due to unexpected issues, the start was made with only one camera on the north side.
6. Development of access roads and installation of nesting boxes and feeding stations
To inform wildlife about the presence of the animal pathway, access roads and feeding stations were installed in the surrounding forest.
7. Completion and start of operation
The scaffolding was removed within a day, and it was possible to take photos of the completed pathway in the evening. The monitoring recording also started on the same day. Now, we can only hope that the animals will start using it as soon as possible.
Monitoring footage
he monitoring system adopts equipment similar to that of Hokuto City Animal Pathway Unit. 1, and the recorder is installed on-site to record the footage. Approximately one and a half months after completion, the second pathway also had its first users.
※Preparation video for publication
Footage of Japanese Marten (ヤマネ): It appears from the right side.