The issue of Asian Carp is big along the Great Lakes, Mississippi River, and Illinois River, with numerous efforts being made to keep the carp from entering the Great Lakes through the Chicago River. The Corps of Engineers has been building various kinds of barriers to prevent that from happening. The following is an article on the subject and on a statement from U.S. Representative Candice Miller (Mich.), a big supporter of boating (her parents own a marina).
 
Larry Innis
MRAA Legislative Affairs

Rep. Miller Praises Release of Study on Combating the Threat of Asian Carp

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Candice Miller (MI-10), co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. House Great Lakes Task Force, today made the following comments regarding the release of the Great Lakes Commission and Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Cities Initiative’s study on options for separating the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins in the Chicago Area Waterway System. This study outlines options for separating the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins to prevent the spread of Asian carp and other invasive species is not only possible, but a natural step toward much-needed action to improve the waters. Miller said:

“For years, I have been advocating for the health and protection of the Great Lakes in the halls of Congress. I and so many others have raised concerns over the threat of Asian carp and other invasive species pose to the Great Lakes. Today, we are encouraged by the release of this study outlining the full option for separating of the Chicago area locks, as well as other separation and modernization alternatives. We all know there will be a negative impact that will have to be addressed within the Chicago area with closing the locks – however, that impact pales in comparison to the damage that will be done if the Asian carp becomes established in the Great Lakes.

“It is my hope that this study will be a useful tool in calling on Congress and the Administration to support the separation of the waterways and ensure a permanent solution to preventing the Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes. This action is necessary and achievable. The Great Lakes are an environmental treasure to both our economy and natural resources, protecting them is of the utmost importance.”

For more information and to view the full report, please visit here: http://www.glc.org/caws/