Indiana Creates Barrier to Prevent Asian Carp From Traveling to Great Lakes

The $4.4 million effort creates an earthen berm to prevent the invasive species from traveling to Lake Erie.

The state of Indiana is introducing a new measure to help keep Asian carp out of the Great Lakes. The state’s Department of Natural Resources has put up a barrier at the Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve in Fort Wayne, Indiana that prevents the invasive species from traveling between rivers. Spokesperson Phil Bloom says during floods, the Wabash River can spill over into the Maumee River.

“It was recognized about six years ago that under certain conditions, the two watersheds could mingle and provide a potential pathway for Asian carp to reach Lake Erie.”

Phil Bloom, Indiana Department of Natural Resources

Bloom says though no Asian carp have been detected in Wabash or Maumee Rivers, the fish has been moving northeast towards the Great Lakes. He says the Chicago Area Waterway System still poses the biggest challenge to stopping the spread of Asian carp.

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  • Eli Newman
    Eli Newman is a Reporter/Producer for 101.9 WDET, covering breaking news, politics and community affairs. His favorite Motown track is “It’s The Same Old Song” by the Four Tops.