Safe for all: The virtual deer fences protect motorists as well as wildlife including sambar deer, which is the dominant species in Victoria.
Virtual fencing is proving successful in a joint program to reduce the risk to motorists in north-east Victoria from deer.
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As part of a joint program between Forest Fire Management Victoria and Regional Roads Victoria two virtual fences have been installed along the Mount Buller Rd, near Sawmill Settlement, and the Great Alpine Rd, near Harrietville.
The fences are activated by car headlights to deter deer and other native wildlife from crossing roads at night.
“We know deer and other native wildlife can cause a significant risk to motorists, so we are pleased that this trial project is proving successful,” FFMVic Hume planning manager — invasive species David Pasztaleniec said.
“The virtual fence is activated by car headlights, and the device emits an ultrasonic sound and flashes a blue light into the vegetation beside the road.”
RRV regional director Hume Steve Bowmaker said safety of the community was the top priority, and the trial results were promising.
“Initial results show a decrease in reports of collisions between animals and vehicles at both locations,” Mr Bowmaker said.
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