With the help of AI, we offer a detailed analysis of official news releases, enhancing quality and accuracy. #GreatLakesProtection Governor Whitmer unveils a major agreement to protect the Great Lakes from invasive species with a federal-state partnership
Carp Invaders Beware!
In a striking move to protect Michigan’s cherished Great Lakes, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced a significant agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Illinois. The plan aims to fortify defenses against invasive carp and other aquatic nuisances. This ambitious project will unlock over $388 million in funding for the first phase, marking a pivotal step in a broader $1.15 billion initiative. The Great Lakes, the lifeblood of Michigan’s economy and environment, stand at the heart of this bold undertaking.
The Battle Begins
The agreement, spearheaded by the Biden Administration, aligns federal and state resources to launch the Brandon Road Interbasin Project near Joliet, Illinois. This site, a strategic chokepoint, will employ a complex series of deterrents to prevent the invasive carp from infiltrating the Great Lakes. These aquatic villains—bighead, silver, and black carp—pose a dire threat to native species and the region’s fishing and boating industries. The project is a testament to years of collaborative effort among Michigan, Illinois, and various federal agencies.