From its humble roots as an addition to a controversial freeway overpass project, no one probably could have imagined the "mindshare" impact that the Davis Toad Tunnel has had on the community. While the lack of toads using the tunnel hasn't affected much physically, most of the changes that did result from the toad tunnel all occurred within the community. New events and public monuments erected in dedication to the toads is testament to that change. We've taken a look at the debate surrounding the development of the overpass, the public's reception to the tunnel, and the lessons learned from this experience. On the outset, while the thought of spending $14,000 on a good-intentioned, but otherwise ill-received tunnel (from the standpoint of the toads who don't use it) may be unsettling to some, it is certainly interesting to see how this little tunnel has changed the way that people look at Davis. Adults now have something new to talk about in town, and children of all ages have been able to use the toad tunnel example to better appreciate and champion future environmental causes in their lifetimes. If you get a chance, take a visit to Toad Hollow, or go for a leisurely stroll on Toad Lane. The Lessons Resources Contact the author