Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

In the face of unavoidable urban development, preserving and restoring ecological networks is essential for the conservation of ecosystems. Wildlife passages are a solution for mitigating habitat fragmentation caused by urban infrastructure (Iuell et al. 2003). This master's thesis introduces a fragmented area that needs to be reconnected and proposes a multi-use overpass for both animals and people. The proposed study area is Hagby, the north of Täby municipality, Stockholm, Sweden, intending to reconnect fragmentation that occurs by Road 265 (Norrortsleden).

This project is inspired by the TRIEKOL research project (Helldin et al. 2024) and the GIS thesis project by Jonsson (2017). The project's main focus is designing a passage to mitigate the road's negative impacts on fauna, particularly roe deer, which are frequently involved in vehicle collisions in the study area. The objectives are to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and promote ecological connectivity by reconnecting fragmented habitats and facilitating safe animal movement.

Additionally, the proposed passage includes a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists, addressing the lack of a safe path across Road 265. Recognizing that human use of the passage is unavoidable, the design incorporates strategies to manage human presence and minimize disturbances to wildlife by employing "cues to care" techniques that discourage excessive human use of the passage.

The methodology combines theoretical research with practical design, involving literature review, landscape analysis through site inventory, document reviews, GIS and map studies, and field observations. In site analysis, the study utilizes the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) tool to assess the landscape character types. The tool helps to choose a suitable location for the proposal.