Asian Carp Found Near Lake Michigan Overcame Barriers

The Asian Carp found within 9 miles of the Great Lakes in June was able to travel past the electric barrier meant to keep the invasive species out. The new finding adds to the growing pressure for an increased barrier system.

According to the results of an autopsy released Friday, the fish was a full-grown, male silver carp. It spent up to a few months beyond the barrier system, a few miles from Lake Michigan. The rest of its life was spent in the Mississippi and Illinois river systems, where Asian carp are well-established.

Silver carp are one of the four species of Asian carp considered a threat to the Great Lakes. A recent report by the US Army Corps of Engineers recommends a series of preventive measures including underwater noise, water jets, and additional electric barriers. The measures would be deployed near where the Silver Carp was found. The plan’s estimated cost is $275 million.