Temporary Jumping Carp Barrier In Place At Iowa Great Lakes; Permenent Barrier On The Way

Date posted - June 12, 2012

Milford, Iowa — Jumping Asian Carp are a hazard to the ecosystem and to boaters. Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist Mike Hawkins says the fish were discovered in the Iowa Great Lakes chain last year.

Hawkins says, however, in the meantime, especially with all the rain the area has had, including some heavy rain events, that the fish were again at risk of swimming into the Iowa Great Lakes.

We talked to Hawkins about the cost of the permanent electric fish barrier.

Hawkins says fish that are already in the lake system are not much of a threat, as they can’t reproduce in standing water.

He says another benefit is that the barrier will also stop common carp from coming in and will keep some fish in the lake system. He says they’re not quite as effective at keeping fish in, as if they actually get stunned by the electric current, the water current may carry them through, but the permanent barrier will certainly keep some game fish in, as when they feel the electricity, most of them will turn around. As far as people, Hawkins says the barrier is very safe, as there’s not enough electric current to harm people.

Hawkins also thanks the public for staying behind this project and for all the fundraising people have done.

PHOTO CAPTION: Top photo is the temporary fish barrier on the Little Sioux Dam. Bottom photo is an electric fish barrier similar to the one the DNR and others hope to install on the Little Sioux. The one pictured is near Heron Lake, Minnesota.