Volunteers Help Frogs Safely Cross a Highway in Oregon

On rainy nights between December and March, a group of volunteers in Northwest Portland gathers to help Northern red-legged frogs navigate their perilous migration across U.S. Highway 30. Led by Philip Fensterer, who refers to himself as the “frog taxi captain,” these individuals work tirelessly to protect the frogs as they move between their spawning grounds in the Harborton wetlands and their summer habitat in Forest Park.

The frogs’ journey is fraught with danger as they attempt to cross the busy roadway, where speeding vehicles pose a significant threat. The Harborton Frog Shuttle began over a decade ago after a resident witnessed the grim aftermath of the migration season—dozens of frogs crushed on the highway. Since then, volunteers have constructed a temporary barrier to guide the frogs away from traffic and into the safety of their hands, ensuring they reach their destination unharmed.

The frogs’ survival depends on the conditions. Volunteer Garrett Wong said, “If it’s too cold or dry, there’s less activity. But on the right nights, we see a lot of frogs.” In 2024, the group successfully transported over 1,400 male frogs and counted nearly 740 egg masses in the wetland, signaling a promising year for the species.

Despite these efforts, the process is labor-intensive, requiring thousands of volunteer hours each year. Fensterer acknowledges the challenges of sustaining the operation, and a long-term solution is being explored. The Oregon Wildlife Foundation, in partnership with state and local agencies, is working on a plan to build a culvert under the highway. This specialized tunnel would allow frogs to cross safely, guided by small fences directing them to the passage.

Tim Greseth, the foundation’s executive director, explained that while similar projects have been implemented successfully for larger wildlife in Oregon, funding remains a significant hurdle. The Harborton Frog Crossing project’s design and construction are estimated to cost several million dollars, with completion of the second phase not expected until 2027.

Until then, the volunteers will continue their mission, braving late nights and wet conditions to ensure these vulnerable amphibians have a fighting chance. As Fensterer says, “Otherwise, it becomes real-life Frogger.”

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