Keeping invasive Asian Carp fish out of the Great Lakes is a critical and difficult task. A coalition of governors has asked the federal government to fund the effort in the 2022 Water Resources Reform and Development Act.
Asian carp can wreak havoc on the ecosystem of the Great Lakes. The Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Joliet, Illinois is considered the most critical “pinch point” where the invasive species can be stopped from entering Lake Michigan.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said, “The Great Lakes are the beating heart of Michigan’s economy, and we are taking action to put Michigan first and protect the Great Lakes.”
Dan Eichinger of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said, “Guarding the Great Lakes against the ravages of invasive carp is one of the most urgent tasks for those charged with protecting and managing Michigan’s natural resources.”
Eichinger explained, “The Brandon Road Lock and Dam marks a key pinch point for keeping these harmful species out of the lakes. This proposed funding will help secure a better future for the Great Lakes and for all those who cherish and depend upon them.”
The Brandon Road project has a $29 million price tag and will take several years to complete.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
