Herpetological fence

herpetological hurdle

Herpetological fence is a prefabricated concrete barrier used to protect amphibians and reptiles from entering roads and directing them to ecological crossings. They are manufactured from C35/45 grade concrete with technology that ensures a smooth surface to prevent animals from climbing and a lifespan of more than 50 years. They are used in road and railroad investments as a mandatory element to minimize amphibian mortality in accordance with environmental decisions.

For each investment herpetological fences price is calculated individually based on the length of the route, type of elements, height of barriers and installation conditions. We guarantee comprehensive advice on the selection of the system, professional transport and installation, and as-built documentation. We invite you to request a free quote tailored to the requirements of your project.

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Prefabricated herpetological fence – effective protection for amphibians

Herpetological fence is a key element of ecological infrastructure in the construction of roads and railroads crossing amphibian and reptile migration routes. Prefabricated concrete elements manufactured under controlled factory conditions guarantee uniform quality and parameters necessary for effective animal protection. The modular system allows adaptation to a variety of terrain conditions and route lengths.

The production of herpetological fences is based on the use of concrete of minimum class C35/45 with a compressive strength of 45 MPa. Special molding technology in steel molds ensures the smoothness of the surface Ra < 3 μm, preventing the adhesion of amphibian paws. Hydrophobic additives reduce water absorption to < 4%, increasing the frost resistance of F200.

Construction of prefabricated herpetological barriers

Herpetological fences consist of modular segments of 2.0-4.0 m in length and an above-ground height of 40-50 cm. An additional depression of 15-20 cm in the ground prevents undermining of animals. The thickness of the elements 8-12 cm ensures stability under wind and snow loads.

The connection system of the herpetological fence uses grooves and splines that eliminate gaps between segments. The width of the gaps max 5 mm prevents the smallest amphibians from getting through. Flexible EPDM seals compensate for the thermal expansion of the concrete.

Special elements of the protection system

Corners and arches of herpetological fences factory-molded with a radius of R>50 cm for smooth animal guidance. Gate elements with self-closing mechanism for service access. Drainage ditch crossings with backflow prevention flaps.

Integrated culvert tunnels in the base of the herpetological fence with a cross section of 30×30 cm every 50-100 m of the route. Interiors of tunnels with anti-slip texture and micro-slope for water drainage. Guide system to direct animals to the passages.

Surface finish and labeling

The top edge of herpetological fences with an overhang of 5-10 cm to prevent amphibians from climbing. The outer surface can be colored in the mass with iron oxide pigments for integration with the environment. Optional textures to imitate natural stone on the road side.

The herpetological fence marking system includes: information plates every 500 meters, warning pictograms for maintenance services, reflective markers for night visibility. Numbering of segments facilitates inventory and maintenance.

Advantages of prefabricated herpetological fence

Effectiveness of herpetological minnow protection

Concrete herpetological fence reduces amphibian mortality by 95-99% on road sections with migrations. The smooth surface of the concrete prevents even small amphibians from climbing. The system directs animals to safe ecological crossings.

Durability of herpetological fences

Herpetological hurdles made of C35/45 concrete maintain parameters for a minimum of 50 years. Resistant to UV, frost and road salt without degradation. No need for replacement as with plastic barriers every 10-15 years.

Economics of herpetological fences price

Herpetological fences price returns by eliminating maintenance costs. No need for repairs after roadside mowing. Savings of 70% over a 30-year cycle relative to temporary barriers.

Herpetological fence installation speed

Herpetological fence installed at a rate of 100-200 mb/day by a 3-person team. Prefabrication eliminates concrete setting time on site. Can be installed all year round, including winter.

Structural stability of herpetological fences

Herpetological hurdles resistant to snow pressure and blast from vehicles. The dead weight of 80-120 kg/mb ensures stability. The system does not require additional supports or lashings.

Ease of maintenance of the herpetological fence

The smooth surface of the herpetological fence does not accumulate dirt. Cleaning with water jet once every 2-3 years. No moving parts requiring lubrication.

Aesthetics of herpetological fences

Herpetological fences in natural earth colors integrate into the landscape. Can be made of architectural concrete. The system does not disfigure the environment like metal nets.

Environmental compatibility of the herpetological fence

Herpetological fence meets all the requirements of environmental decisions. Certificates confirming the effectiveness of amphibian protection. Documentation facilitates acceptance and inspections by the RDOŚ.

Application of herpetological fence in road investments

Herpetological fence is an obligatory application for all linear investments crossing amphibian and reptile migration corridors. Prefabricated barriers are installed both on new routes and upgrades to existing roads. The system adapts to a variety of terrain conditions and categories of protected species.

Highways and expressways

On highways, herpetological fences installed on both sides along the entire length of the passage through areas of natural value. Barrier height of 50 cm with overhang for protection against gray and green toads. System integrated with bottom crossings for medium-sized animals every 500-1000 m.

Highway interchanges require a special configuration of herpetological fences with arching elements to guide amphibians away from collision points. Additional barriers on connecting roads and service roads. The system must maintain continuity despite the complex geometry of the interchange.

National and provincial roads

On national roads, the herpetological fence used point-wise in places of greatest migration. Sections of 500-2000 m in the area of water bodies and forest complexes. Integration with existing culverts converted to amphibian crossings.

Modernization of provincial roads uses herpetological fences the price of which is lower due to one-sided installation. Directing amphibians to drainage ditches with safe exits. The system is adapted to lower traffic speeds.

Railroad lines

Railroad tracks require herpetological fences with an increased height of 60 cm due to the width of the corridor. Special under-track crossings at historical migration routes. Barriers resistant to vibrations from passing trains.

The modernization of the E65 railroad line uses a herpetological fence in sections of 20 km through the Bialowieza Forest. The system protects not only amphibians, but also reptiles – pond turtles and grass snakes. Monitoring the effectiveness by cameras in the crossings.

Bypasses of localities

New bypasses in river valleys obligatorily equipped with herpetological fences. Protection of grass frogs and toads during spring migration to breeding reservoirs. Guidance system for overpasses and flyovers used as crossings.

Local and municipal roads

Local governments install herpetological fences price temporary during peak migration. Demountable elements installed for 6-8 weeks. System supplemented with amphibian relocation actions by volunteers.

Investment areas

Industrial zones next to naturally valuable areas surrounded by a herpetological fence as a permanent barrier. Protection against the encroachment of amphibians on construction sites. The system integrated with the fencing of the project site.

Airports

Runways require herpetological fences to eliminate collisions with amphibians. Barriers at the border of the operational part of the airport. The system must withstand blast from jet engines.

National parks and reserves

Roads through protected areas equipped with herpetological fence financed by environmental funds. Population monitoring before and after installation. Educational system with information boards for tourists.

Retention tanks

Embankment of flood control reservoirs with herpetological fences to protect against mass migrations during breeding. Culverts to allow amphibians to return after spawning. System integrated with hydrotechnical infrastructure.

Natura 2000 areas

Investments in Natura 2000 areas obligatorily use herpetological fences in accordance with the impact assessment. Special protection of species from Annex II of the Habitats Directive – natterjack toad, great crested newt. Monitoring of effectiveness for 5 years after implementation.

Technical parameters of the herpetological fence

The herpetological fence is designed and manufactured in accordance with the guidelines “Protection of amphibians on roads” developed by the GDOŚ and the German standards of MAmS and RiStWag. The structure meets the requirements of PN-EN 13198:2005 for precast concrete elements of small architecture. All the elements have a CE declaration of performance.

Material parameters of concrete

Prefabricated herpetological hurdles are made of concrete of minimum class C35/45 with the following parameters: compressive strength fck = 35 MPa, water absorption < 4% by weight, frost resistance F200 (200 freeze-thaw cycles). Exposure class XC4/XF4 for elements exposed to de-icing salts.

Herpetological hurdles price includes reinforcement with steel class A-IIIN in the amount of 60-80 kg/m³. Reinforcement mesh φ6-8 mm with a mesh of 10×10 cm. The concrete cover of 25 mm ensures durability in aggressive environments. Sealing additives reduce water permeability.

Dimensions and geometry of the elements

Standard dimensions of the herpetological fence: segment length 2.0/2.5/3.0/4.0 m, total height 55-65 cm (40-50 cm above ground + 15 cm underground), thickness 8-12 cm depending on the height. Segment weight 150-250 kg/mb.

The profile of the upper edge of herpetological fences with overhang at an angle of 45° with an overhang of 5-10 cm. The radius of the rounded edge R=20 mm eliminates the possibility of injury to animals. Cross slope of the upper surface 2% for water runoff.

Surface parameters

Smoothness of the surface of the herpetological fence from the protected side: roughness Ra < 3 μm, no pores and depressions > 2 mm. Hydrophobic surface due to silicone impregnation. Coefficient of friction for a wet amphibian paw < 0.2.

The outside of herpetological fences can be textured for aesthetic purposes. Available textures: smooth, sandblasted, split, wood imprint. Tinting in the mass with pigments in colors: gray, brown, green, sand.

Connection system

Connecting the segments of herpetological fences price with a groove-in-groove system with a depth of 50 mm. Maximum gap between elements 5 mm. EPDM gaskets of 60 Shore hardness installed at the factory. Thermal expansion compensation ±10 mm.

Herpetological fence foundation anchors – φ16 mm steel rods sunk into 40×40×60 cm concrete footings every 4 m. Alternatively, driven piles φ60 mm long 1.5 m for weak-bearing soils. Leveling system with M16 adjusting screws.

Special elements

Culvert tunnels in herpetological fences: section 30×30 cm or φ40 cm, length adapted to the width of the road crown 6-12 m. Longitudinal slope of 1-2% with grills against backfill. Inlet/outlet light unobstructed.

Herpetological fence corner elements with angles of 45°, 90°, 135° or arches with a radius of R=1.0/1.5/2.0 m. Service gates 3.0 m wide with a self-closer and locking device. Ditch crossings – U-shaped elements with flaps.

Strength parameters

Resistance of herpetological fences to loads: wind 1.0 kN/m² without damage, snow pressure 2.0 kN/m, vehicle impact 5 kN at a height of 30 cm. Stability to pull out – force 10 kN/mb. Deflection under load < L/150.

Protective Effectiveness

Functional parameters of herpetological hurdles price: impassability for amphibians with body length > 3 cm, directing 95% of individuals to crossings, reducing mortality by 90-99%. Preservation of migration permeability for 80% of the population.

Durability and warranty

Design life of herpetological fence minimum 50 years in exposure class XF4. Carbonization < 10 mm after 50 years. Decrease in strength < 10% over the entire period. Manufacturer’s warranty 10 years against latent defects.

Marking and identification

Labeling of herpetological fences: manufacturer’s logo, date of production, lot number, CE mark. Information plates every 500 m with pictogram and manager’s phone number. Mileage markers for inventory.

Installation of the herpetological fence – instructions for implementation

Proper installation of prefabricated herpetological fences requires precise routing, preparation of the ground and ensuring the continuity of the barrier along its entire length. The process carried out in accordance with environmental design and conservation guidelines. The modular system allows quick installation without heavy equipment.

Route delineation and site preparation

Routing of the herpetological fence according to the detailed design with an accuracy of ±5 cm. Marking the locations of amphibian crossings, service gates and special elements. Width of the working strip 2 m from the axis of the barrier. Removal of the humus layer and leveling of the area.

For herpetological fences, prepare a foundation trench 20-25 cm deep and 30 cm wide. In cohesive soils, narrow-space trench 15 cm. Subsoil compacted to Is=0.95. sand ballast layer of 5 cm leveled to ±1 cm.

Installation of foundation elements

Foundation footings for herpetological fences price conc reted every 4 m in trenches 40×40×60 cm. C20/25 concrete with φ16 mm steel anchors protruding 20 cm. Setting time minimum 7 days before installation of elements. Alternatively, driven piles for organic soils.

For light herpetological fences, direct foundation in the ground is possible. Depth 15-20 cm below ground level. Backfilling with B10 dry concrete or soil stabilized with cement. Compaction in layers every 10 cm.

Setting up the barrier segments

Installation of herpetological fence starting from the corner elements and at the transitions. Segments set in a groove on sand ballast. Leveling of the upper edge with a tolerance of ±5 mm over a length of 4 m. Verticality checked with a spirit level ±5 mm/m height.

Connecting successive herpetological fences with a tongue-and-groove system with pressing EPDM gaskets. Pressure of segments with a crowbar through a wooden washer. Expansion gaps of 5-10 mm every 20-30 m filled with polyurethane putty. Control of the continuity of the barrier line.

Assembly of special elements

Culvert tunnels in the base of herpetological fences price set on a concrete bench. Tunnel cross-section 30×30 cm with a slope of 1-2%. Connection to the barrier sealed with waterproof mortar. Inlet grilles installed after completion of earthworks.

Herpetological fence service gates set on φ80 mm steel posts in 60×60×80 cm foundation. Adjustable hinge system and spring-loaded door closer. Bottom ratchet lock to prevent the passage of amphibians under the gate.

Backfilling and landscaping

Backfill of herpetological fences with native soil on the protected side at an angle of 45°. The height of the backfill equal to the lower edge of the overhang. On the side of the road the minimum backfill for the exposure of the barrier. Mechanical compaction in layers every 20 cm.

At the base of the herpetological fence make a guide trough 30 cm wide. Lined with geotextile and backfilled with 8-16 mm gravel. The system directs amphibians along the barrier to the crossings. Slope of the terrain 2% in the direction of the passages.

Connection to infrastructure

Integration of herpetological fences with road culverts through transition elements. Sealing the joint with mortar and bentonite tape. Steel mesh 5×5 cm at the inlet of the culvert against backfill. Marking the passage with an information plate.

Passage of herpetological fences price through drainage ditches with U-shaped elements. Depth of depression 50 cm below the bottom of the ditch. HDPE plastic check flap on hinges. System cleaned during ditch maintenance.

Quality control of the assembly

Acceptance of the herpetological fence includes: checking the continuity of the barrier along its entire length, checking the above-ground height of 40-50 cm ±2 cm, leakage test of the passages – max 5 mm, verification of slopes and patency of the tunnels.

As-built documentation of herpetological fences: protocol of acceptance of works, surveying inventory, photographic documentation, certificates of materials, DTR of elements. Provision of maintenance and upkeep instructions to the road manager.

Monitoring of effectiveness

After installation of herpetological fence, installation of monitoring system: cameras in culvert tunnels, trail mats in front of passageways, control feeding traps. Reporting of effectiveness through the first migration season. Possible corrections and additions.

Herpetological fences price – cost calculation for amphibian protection

Herpetological fences price is shaped by the length of the barrier, type of elements, ground conditions and environmental design requirements. Pricing includes the cost of prefabricated elements, transportation, installation and as-built documentation. Herpetological fence price significantly depends on the scale of the project – with long sections possible quantity discounts of up to 15-20%.

Cost structure of herpetological fences

The main component affecting the price of the herpetological fence is the cost of prefabricated elements, which accounts for 55-65% of the value. The price of a standard segment of 2 m length is 180-280 PLN, which gives 90-140 PLN/mb. Herpetological fences price of special elements – corners 250-350 zł/unit, tunnels 800-1200 zł/unit.

Transportation is 5-10% of the cost at distances up to 100 km. Herpetological fences price of installation is 30-50 PLN/mb including earthworks. Documentation and nature supervision 5-10% of the investment value. Monitoring of effectiveness for the first season 10000-20000 zł.

Price list 2024 for herpetological fences

In 2024 there is an increase in interest in herpetological barriers due to the tightening of regulations. Herpetological fence price in 2024 complete with installation: standard barrier 140-180 zł/mb, with overhang 160-200 zł/mb, with tunnels every 50 m – 180-250 zł/mb.

Current rates in 2024 show that herpetological fences price for large highway contracts (>10 km) drops to 120-150 PLN/mb. Small implementations < 500 m cost 180-250 PLN/mb due to fixed costs. In 2024, subsidies from environmental funds up to 50% of costs available.

Price forecast for 2025

Predictions for 2025 indicate price stabilization with increasing demand. Herpetological minnow price in 2025 may increase by 3-5% due to inflation. New EU biodiversity standards will increase the obligatory use of barriers.

Monitoring systems integrated with barriers are expected to become widespread in 2025. Herpetological fences will increase in price with cameras and sensors by 30-40%. The development of prefabrication will reduce production costs by 5-8%.

Cost comparison of different solutions

Analysis shows that herpetological fences price concrete ones 20% higher than plastic barriers in the first year. After 10 years, the total cost of concrete lower by 40% due to the lack of replacement. Temporary barriers made of mesh 30-50 zl/mb, but the effectiveness is only 60%.

Foils and geomembranes cost 40-60 zl/mb, but require replacement every 3-5 years. Herpetological fence price galvanized steel 150-200 zlotys/mb with a life span of 20-25 years. Wooden barriers cheapest (60-80 zl/mb), but durability only 5-7 years.

Optimize project costs

Reduction of herpetological fence expenditures price possible by: optimizing the route – routing along the shortest line, grouping amphibian crossings every 100 m instead of 50 m, abandoning overhanging where there are no toads, using existing culverts.

Savings at herpetological hurdles price by staging – installation only during the migration period, use of temporary barriers in trial sections, bulk purchase for several projects, installation by the manager’s own forces.

Operation and maintenance costs

Annual maintenance costs of the herpetological fence price: visual inspection 2x a year – 5 PLN/mb, cleaning of tunnels before migration – 20 PLN/piece, repair of mechanical damage – 100 PLN/place, mowing of the belt near the barrier – 3 PLN/mb.

Maintenance of herpetological fences thorough price every 5 years: pressure washing 10 zł/mb, replenishment of seals 15 zł/mb, painting of steel elements 20 zł/mb. Total maintenance cost 10-15 zl/mb/year.

Investment financing

Sources of funding for herpetological fences price: road investor’s own funds 100%, environmental funds – grants up to 50%, nature offsets – 100% within the offset, LIFE+ programs for Natura 2000 areas – up to 75%.

For local governments available herpetological fence price financing from: WFOŚiGW – preferential loans of 1-2%, NFOŚiGW – grants for supra-regional projects, ROP – funds for local roads with an environmental component, Local Government Roads Fund – up to 80% for comprehensive modernization.

Social and environmental costs

Lack of herpetological fences social price: loss of biodiversity valued at 500-1000 zlotys/person of rare amphibian, cost of cleaning up dead animals 50 zlotys/person, risk of collision and vehicle damage 2000-5000 zlotys/event, loss of natural values of the area.

Benefits of installing a herpetological fence price: preservation of amphibian population – natural value immeasurable, improvement of traffic safety – reduction of collisions by 90%, increase of tourist attractiveness of the region, meeting environmental requirements – avoidance of fines 50000-500000 PLN.

Sample project calculations

City bypass 5 km through the river valley: herpetological fences price both sides 10 km × 150 PLN = 1,500,000 PLN, tunnels every 100 m – 100 pieces × 1000 PLN = 100,000 PLN, annual monitoring = 20,000 PLN. Total: PLN 1,620,000 net.

Modernization of the provincial road 2 km: herpetological fences price one-sided 2 km × 180 zloty = 360 000 zloty, crossings in culverts 5 × 5000 zloty = 25 000 zloty, documentation = 15 000 zloty. Total: PLN 400,000 net, after subsidy PLN 200,000.

Communal road 500 m near ponds: herpetological fence temporary price 500 m × PLN 80 = PLN 40,000, installation/removal 2 × PLN 10,000 = PLN 20,000, relocation of amphibians volunteer = PLN 0. Total: PLN 60,000 net.

The final herpetological fence price of each project requires individual analysis of site conditions, species protection requirements and funding opportunities. We encourage you to contact us to prepare a detailed offer of amphibian protection system tailored to the specifics of your road project.

What are ?

Precast concrete units are prefabricated building components produced off-site that can be assembled into larger structures at the project site. These are standard, repetitive modules produced in series at industrial plants, which greatly speed up and facilitate construction work in various construction sectors.

What are the types of ?

Reinforced concrete. prestressed concrete, post-tensioned concrete – 20+ types

What is the use of ?

Rapid modular construction of various structures

What are the properties of the ?

Repeatability, precision, speed of installation, durability

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