Okoboji –
Several lakes area organizations, including the Okoboji Protective Association, the Spirit Lake Protective Association and the Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council along with the Iowa Great Lakes Association and East Okoboji Lakes Improvement Corp. have joined forces in an effort to combat invasive Asian carp in the Iowa Great Lakes by building an electric fish barrier.
The two types of carp, bighead and silver, are rapidly spreading throughout the Midwest, and were found throughout the Little Sioux Watershed, including in East Okoboji Lake last year.
The silver carp are known for their ability to jump out of the water when startled, and can cause serious injury to skiers, tubers, wakeboarders and jet skiers.
Phil Peterson, Executive Director of the Iowa Great Lakes Association is co-chairing the fundraising efforts for the barrier, and says that the electric barrier would be installed near the existing DNR dam at the outlet of the Iowa Great Lakes. He adds that it is expected to cost $700,000. To date, some $500,000 dollars has been raised.
“We’re very grateful to the DNR, who contributed $300,000,” he says. “We’re hoping the legislature will come through with another $200,000 so that we can begin the project.”
Peterson notes that once the monies are raised, he hopes that the barrier could be constructed this summer. He says many other organizations, including fishing clubs have contributed to the project.
Peterson notes, that for more information or to make donations, contact the Okoboji Protective Association, the Spirit Lake Protective Association or the Iowa Great Lakes Water Safety Council. Donations should be marked “Fish Barrier Fund”
Website: http://www.iagreatlakes.org/
