Genesee News

Michigan Congressman Tim Walberg has expressed concerns about the discovery of silver carp environmental DNA (eDNA) in the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan. He is worried about the potential threat this invasive species poses to the Great Lakes region and its economy. Congressman Walberg has requested updates on testing outcomes and prevention actions.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducts regular eDNA surveillance, and a single positive sample of silver carp eDNA was found in the St. Joseph River. While this does not confirm the presence of live fish, it raises concerns about potential invasive species. Boater activity in the area is believed to have contributed to this detection. Michigan's Department of Natural Resources is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conduct additional eDNA sampling to assess the risk of invasive species.

Efforts have been made to capture and remove grass carp from the St. Joseph River since 2022, but no observations of silver carp have been made so far. However, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will continue these efforts until October. Michigan remains vigilant through early detection endeavors, fish population surveys, and public awareness campaigns. The state has a comprehensive management plan in place to respond to potential invasive carp incidents and is actively working to prevent the entry of such species into the Great Lakes, including supporting initiatives like the Brandon Road Interbasin Project.

The Brandon Road Interbasin Project aims to prevent the intrusion of invasive carp and other aquatic nuisances into the Great Lakes through the Illinois Waterway. It includes structural measures such as a flushing lock, an engineered channel with an electric barrier, underwater acoustic deterrent, air bubble curtain, and automated barge clearing deterrent. Non-structural measures like public education, monitoring, pest management, research, and development are also part of the project. The pre-construction engineering and design phase of the project began in December 2020 and is expected to last three years.

In conclusion, Congressman Walberg is concerned about the potential threat of silver carp to the Great Lakes region and its economy. Efforts are being made to assess the risk and prevent the entry of invasive species. The Brandon Road Interbasin Project is one of the initiatives aimed at safeguarding the ecosystem by preventing the intrusion of invasive carp into the Great Lakes. Michigan is actively involved in these efforts to protect its waters and natural resources.