Listen up, innovators; the State of Michigan is seeking ideas on how to keep invasive bighead, silver, and black carp out of the Great Lakes, through the DNR’s Invasive Carp Challenge.
Governor Rick Snyder and the Michigan Legislature have authorized $1 million to launch a global search for creative thinkers who can provide the best solutions to this looming crisis.
Silver and bighead carp have been located within 10 miles of the electric barrier dams near the Chicago River. The carp can grow to more than 100 pounds, jump out of the water, and threaten local ecosystems and native species. The invasive species could greatly affect the $7 billion fishing industry in the Great Lakes and disrupt the largest freshwater ecosystem in the world.
The good news is you can help prevent further movement of silver and bighead carp. Submit your solutions to prevent invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. Cash prizes will be awarded for one or more solutions submitted, and everyone with an idea is encouraged to apply.
For more information, visit michigan.gov/dnr.
Photo Courtesy of Michigan Sea Grant
