The U.S. army has been called in to tackle the scourge of invasive species in the Great Lakes, in a $1.14 billion project that scientists hope will provide a blueprint for America’s aquatic ecosystems.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have signed a Project Partnership Agreement with the states of Michigan and Illinois to construct a barrier aimed at blocking invasive carp species from entering the Great Lakes.
The project seeks to prevent invasive species such as bighead, silver, and black carp, along with other aquatic invaders, from breaching the Great Lakes by obstructing their route through the Des Plaines River into the Chicago Area Waterway System, without hindering commercial shipping.
The federal government is covering 90 per cent of the expenses, largely funded through President Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill.
The remaining 10 per cent will be shared between Michigan and Illinois, with Michigan contributing $64 million and Illinois allocating $50 million.
Both state legislatures have already approved their respective funding, according to a press release.
Newsweek has contacted the office of Michigan’s Attorney General for additional comment and information.
“The Great Lakes hold countless memories for many of us, from catching our first fish to watching loved ones play on their shores,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said.
“They are central to our Pure Michigan identity. This landmark agreement marks a significant victory in protecting these lakes from invasive, dangerous carp, ensuring the joy and beauty of these waters remain for all to enjoy.”
“Today’s agreement will help us get shovels in the ground as soon as possible on the critical Brandon Road project,” added Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
“The Great Lakes are the beating heart of Michigan’s economy, and Brandon Road will help us protect local communities and key industries, including fishing and boating, that support tens of thousands of good-paying jobs,” she said.
Invasive carp, particularly bighead and silver carp, present a substantial threat to the region.
They consume large quantities of phytoplankton, which form the basis of the lakes’ ecosystem, and reproduce at a rapid rate, outcompeting native fish species. These invasive carp also have no natural predators in the Great Lakes.
The damage from an established invasive carp breeding population in the Great Lakes is estimated to exceed $1 billion, affecting the ecosystem, tourism, and fisheries, according to the press release.
A joint study by multiple universities recently found that America’s waterways are increasingly becoming home to more invasive species, putting the “delicate balance” of native species under threat.
The research detected a 13 percent increase in fish communities per decade, and a 7 percent rise in species diversity.
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
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