Efforts to Control Sea Lamprey in Great Lakes Receive Public Engagement
In an ongoing effort to curb the spread of the invasive sea lamprey, authorities are inviting public input on a proposed barrier in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The initiative is led by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The project, which commenced with the enhancement of fish passage through the replacement of undersized culverts with a bridge, is now entering its second phase. This phase involves the construction of a barrier aimed at preventing the sea lamprey from infiltrating the Sucker River in Alger County. For more details on the project, refer to the official document.
Pete Hrodey, associated with the sea lamprey control program at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Marquette, highlighted the persistent threat posed by these invasive creatures. “They’ve been very successful in invading and occupying Great Lakes habitats,” he noted. The lampreys, which have been present in the Great Lakes since the early 20th century, can consume up to forty pounds of fish during their 12- to 18-month feeding phase, according to life cycle studies.
The adjustable barrier is designed to be operational during the lamprey’s spawning season, enhancing the efficacy of chemical treatments by restricting lamprey access to areas where lampricides are less effective. “We should be seeing less larval sea lamprey making their way back out into the Great Lakes to prey on fish,” Hrodey explained.
The initiative is not only focused on controlling invasive species but also on improving fish passage for native species, aiming for “win-win projects where everybody is able to walk away with something,” as Hrodey put it.
The Great Lakes Fishery Commission’s press release emphasizes that reducing sea lamprey numbers here could free up resources for managing the species in other areas of the Great Lakes.
Feedback from the public is being accepted until February 22. Comments can be directed to Pete Hrodey. Construction on the barrier is slated to commence this summer, contingent on the feedback received, with completion anticipated by early fall.
This project is supported by a coalition of federal, state, and non-profit entities.
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