Safe Passage for an Endangered Species
Humans reshape landscapes with roads and infrastructure — but wildlife often pays the price. In Finland, conservationists have pioneered an elegant solution for the endangered flying squirrel: crossing poles that allow safe gliding across traffic corridors.
Tehomet’s Contribution in Jyväskylä
In 2021, Tehomet delivered two 10-metre crossing poles to Rautpohja in Jyväskylä. The poles were carefully designed for a narrow roadside space, blending with the natural surroundings. At the top, branch-like steel projections (300–500 mm) provide perches for squirrels and birds.
Engineered for Gliding, Not for Lighting
Unlike standard light poles, these structures are taller, taper upwards, and feature a roughened, painted surface — ensuring grip for climbing squirrels. No lights are included, as the poles function purely as ecological infrastructure.
Sustainable Materials and Design
The crossing poles, adapted from Tehomet’s Pallas model, are both cost-efficient and customizable. Made of GL28h glulam pine beams (PEFC-certified) combined with hot-dip galvanized, powder-coated steel, they balance strength, longevity, and environmental responsibility.
Protecting Finland’s Unique Wildlife
Flying squirrels don’t actually fly — instead, they glide up to 80 metres using a membrane between their limbs. Strictly protected under the EU Habitats Directive and Finnish law, they are only found in Finland and Estonia within the EU. Providing safe passageways is essential for their survival.
Local Impact and Broader Potential
The Jyväskylä project demonstrates how modern engineering can work hand-in-hand with conservation. The poles show that even small interventions can become powerful tools for preserving biodiversity — cost-effective, replicable, and visually discreet.
- Location: Jyväskylä, Finland
- Construction year: 2021
- Used in: Traffic
- Designer: Tehomet
- Photographer: Ilpo Aalto
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