Stop the Asian Carp
|
The Facts You Need to Know
- The Asian Carp is an invasive species that has made its way up the Mississippi River, leaving in its wake many ruined fisheries and eco-systems.
- Now, the Asian Carp could reach the Great Lakes through the Chicago Shipping Locks, which offer a straight-shot to Lake Michigan.
- An electronic barrier to prevent the spread of the carp has proven ineffective as an Asian Carp was recently found beyond the barrier.
- If the Asian Carp reaches Lake Michigan, the 100-lb. fish that eats up to 40% of its weight daily in plankton and algae, will destroy the Great Lakes ecosystem at its roots by eating up the food source for the region's native fish.
- The massive Asian Carp is easily startled and will jump up to seven feet out of the water. Boaters can be injured or killed by these invasive fish.
Three Things You Can Do (in 5-Minutes)
Sign the Petition
- Quickly sign the online petition by visiting http://www.stopasiancarp.com/. This, literally, takes seconds.
Form Letter
- Copy the text below and send in an e-mail to President Obama at http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact.
I am writing to demand immediate action from the federal government to prevent Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes through the waterways in the Chicago area. Federal agencies have acknowledged that these voracious and destructive fish pose the gravest threat yet to a Great Lakes ecosystem already plagued by invasive species. But despite the government’s own finding that two species of Asian carp have migrated to the edge of Lake Michigan, it has refused to take effective, comprehensive action.
As a citizen of a Great Lakes state, I have a vested interest in protecting the Great Lakes from the potentially devastating infestation by Asian Carp. People and businesses in the Great Lakes states depend upon the health of this ecosystem, and the fishing, recreational, and other resources the Lakes provide. Accordingly, I strongly urge the federal government to immediately assume a leadership role by passing into law HR 4472 or S 2946. This legislation will avert this potential catastrophe by closing the locks and forcing any other action necessary to prevent the passage of Asian carp into Lake Michigan.
I also urge the government to quickly find a permanent and reliable solution to this threat. The federal government, in conjunction with responsible state and local officials, should promptly develop and implement plans to permanently separate the carp-infested waterways from Lake Michigan.
Add Your Organization's Support
- If you are the head of a company or organization, add your organization to the list of supporters by e-mailing info@stopasiancarp.com.
Let your Chamber know that you helped. Fill out a quick form by clicking here.