Science On Tap 7/22 In PDX: How Did The Frog Cross The Road? Portland’s Frog Tunnel (Photo) - 07/01/26

Date: Wed, July 22

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_jul_22_frogs/

Red-legged frogs and the success of U.S. 30's tunnel!

Every winter, the amphibians of northwest Portland enter a real-life game of Frogger. Most drivers on U.S. Route 30 never notice the small, slimy critters leaping across the asphalt on rainy nights. But for northern red-legged frogs, the stakes are high—reach the water to lay their eggs, or die trying.

In response to their plight, biologists are using innovative solutions to help frogs and other vulnerable wildlife cross roads. With the help of buckets and bulldozers, over a decade of conservation efforts have inspired a growing community of amphibian enthusiasts in Portland. In the summer of 2024, they broke ground on their biggest venture yet: a tunnel for frogs beneath Route 30. 

Less than two years later, the project is shaping up to be an early success story. Along the way, scientists are using specialized technology to document northern red-legged frog behavior and develop strategies to protect this common, yet cryptic species. 

Join us to learn about the challenges our amphibian neighbors face and how we can help overcome them, while gaining a glimpse into the fascinating lives of frogs. 

Alyson Yates is a graduate student in the School of Earth, Environment and Society at PSU and a freelance photojournalist. Her work has been featured by National Wildlife Magazine, Bats Magazine, Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation, OSU, and other media outlets.

Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.