-The Obama administration made a 2011 commitment to increase Asian carp prevention measures for the Great Lakes in December of 2010.
-The plan calls for $47 million in funds to be applied to Asian carp detection, removal, and prevention.
-At the top of the amped-up policy initiative, stands environmental DNA (eDNA) detection methods, which will be used to more accurately direct prevention and removal measures.
-Great Lakes protective measures against Asian carp are incredibly important because the invasive species threatens the multi-billion dollar Great Lakes fishing industry, as well as the Great Lakes ecosystem.
-Some of the efforts already in place include electronic fish barriers and fences, as well as elimination of Asian carp that are already in waterways that connect to the Great Lakes.
-The eDNA programs that will be implemented will be used to help better focus such migratory prevention and numbers management.
-Many environmentalists argue however, that the only surefire way to keep Asian carp from thoroughly invading the Great Lakes is by closing the Chicago locks. Illinois and Chicago business leaders stand in strong opposition to this option, due to the economic impact it would have on waterway commerce for their economies. Even so, the Army Corps of Engineers is currently investigating such options, and will release a comprehensive report on the matter in 2015.
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