Will County committee unanimously backs adding invasive Asian carp to federal agenda

Will County's Federal Legislative Agenda Committee voted unanimously Sept. 11 to include a request about invasive Asian carp in the county's federal legislative agenda.

Committee member Julie, who put the item forward, called the carp "a matter of grave concern for our region." Members described heavy carp populations in local waterways, near-term risks to navigation and recreation and existing regional removal efforts.

Member Dan described how stocking and other past uses contributed to the carp's spread and said the fish are ‘‘within 15 miles of Lake Michigan.’' Members noted commercial removal and diversion efforts, including reports that carp are being harvested and used for animal feed.

The committee used an informal raise-of-hands straw poll and "unanimous" support was recorded by the chair. The committee will forward the inclusion to the full county board agenda for consideration.

Ending: The item will be sent forward with the other committee additions to the full county board; no federal funding request language or appropriation amount was specified at the meeting.