# ASIAN CARP Control Strategy Framework 

# FY 2012 February 2012

## THE ASIAN CARP REGIO NAL COORDINATING COM MITTEE



# FY 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 201 2

Contributing Members:
City of Chicago Great Lakes Fishery Commission Illinois Department of Natural Resources Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Indiana Department of Natural Resources Michigan Department of Natural Resources Michigan Office of the Great Lakes Minnesota Department of Natural Resources New Y ork Department of Environmental Conservation Ohio Department of Natural Resources Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration United States Army Corps of Engineers United States Coast Guard United States Department of Transportation/Maritime Administration United States Environmental Protection Agency United States Fish and Wildlife Service United States Geological Survey White House Council on Environmental QualityFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

i 

## Table of Contents

**Section Page**  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

............................................................................................................................. 1

1.0 Introduction

............................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Mission Statement

........................................................................................................ 2

1.2 Situation

....................................................................................................................... 2 1.3 Framework Purpose and Proposed Outcomes

............................................................ 2 1.4 Asian Carp Ecology and Potential Impact

................................................................... 4 1.4.1 Distribution

...................................................................................................... 4 1.4.2 Diet and Life History

....................................................................................... 5 1.4.3 Potential Habitat

............................................................................................. 5 1.4.4 Potential Risk to the Great Lakes Basin

.......................................................... 6

2.0 Strategic Management of Asian Carp

..................................................................................... 12

2.1 Stages of Invasion Model

............................................................................................ 12

2.2 ACRCC Strategic Approach

........................................................................................ 15 2.3 Management Options for Strategic Direction

........................................................... 15 2.3.1 Prevention and Development of Prevention Technologies

.......................... 15 2.3.2 Monitoring and Development of Monitoring T echnology

........................... 17 2.3.3 Development of Control Technology and Impact Mitigation

...................... 18
2.3.4 Other Supporting Activities (Education, Outreach, Regulatory Support)

... 18
2.4 Summary

...................................................................................................................... 19 3.0 Critical Efforts Underway

....................................................................................................... 20
3.1 Electric Dispersal Barriers in the Chicago Area Waterway

................................ ...... 20 3.2 GLMRIS

....................................................................................................................... 22 3.2.1 Focus Area 1: CAWS

...................................................................................... 24 3.2.2 Focus Area 2: Other Aquatic Pathways

........................................................ 24 3.3 Monitoring and Removal in CAWS

........................................................................... 25 3.4 eDNA

.......................................................................................................................... 28
3.5 Risk Assessment

.......................................................................................................... 31 3.6 S cientific Research and Development

....................................................................... 34 3.7 Enforcement Activities

............................................................................................... 36 3.8 Federal and State AIS Management

.......................................................................... 36
3.9 Asian Carp Efforts Downstream of the Electric Barrier System

............................... 39 4.0 Agency Coordination and Roles Against Asian Carp

............................................................. 41

4.1 ACRCC Coordination

.................................................................................................. 41 4.1.1 Monitoring and Rapid Response Workgroup

............................................... 42 4.1.2 Communications and Outreach Workgroup (CWG)

................................... 43 4.2 Agency Roles, Responsibilities, and/or Authorities

.................................................. 44 5.0 Stakeholder Participation

....................................................................................................... 50FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

ii **Exhibits**
**Page** Exhibit 1. Predicted Suitable Environment for Asian Carp in North America

................................... 9 Exhibit 2. Conceptual Illustration of Framework Strategy

................................................................ 12 Exhibit 3. Artificial Connections to the Great Lakes

.......................................................................... 14 Ex hibit 4. Great Lakes Tributaries Likely Suitable for Asian Carp Spawning

................................... 14 Exhibit 5. Electric Barrier Design

....................................................................................................... 20 Exhibit 6. Electric Barrier System Location on the CAWS

................................................................ 21 Exhibit 7. GLMRIS Study Area Map

................................................................................................... 23 Exhibit 8. The ACRCC Organization

.................................................................................................. 41 Exhibit 9. Non

- Federal Technical and Policy Group

....................................................................... 42

**Tables Page**  Table 1. Prevention and Prevention Technology Management Options

........................................... 16 Table 2. Monitoring and Monitoring Technology Management Options

........................................ 17 Table 3. Control Technology and Impact Mitigation Management Options

.................................... 18 Table 4. Other Management Actions

.................................................................................................. 19

**Appendices**

Appendix A 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Matrix - Funding by Agency Appendix B 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework Action ItemsFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

ES -1 

## EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Great Lakes food web has been significantly degraded in recent decades by aquatic invasive species (AIS). T he most acute AIS threat facing the Great Lakes today is m ovement of carp not native to the United Sates (bighead and silver )— collectively known as Asian carp

— through the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS), Wabash River, Grand Calumet River, and possibly other pathways that can connect the Great Lakes to the outside Mississippi River Basin. The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (ACRCC), with support from federal, state, and local agencies, and other private stakeholder entities, is working to create a sustainable Asian carp control program and to implement action s for protect ing and maintain ing the integrity and safety of the Great Lakes ecosystem from an Asian carp invasion via all viable pathways. This Framework lay s out the strategy and present s the proposed action items to achieve this goal.
The Obama Administration is implementing a n unprecedented and comprehensive set of actions
to prevent Asian carp introduction into the Great Lakes, and to ensure sustainable Asian carp populations do not exist within the Great Lakes. The Administration’s actions include studying options or controls that could be utilized to implement ecological separation, which could include hydrological separation, of the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins to permanently solve the potential Asian carp problem at the connection points, as well as to address other AIS. E ngineering controls, biological control s, and rapid response s to achieve eradication throughout the two basin s are also under development in order to deal with possible Asian carp introduction s to the Great Lakes via other vectors such as human transport or error.

T he ACRCC has specified the following goals/actions within the 2012 Framework:

• Provide a sound strategy for addressing the threat of an Asian carp invasion in the Great Lakes such that the Framework continues to provide direction to participating agencies and actions , and identify areas for future action

.

• Identify efforts that supplement direct management action, such as education and outreach, or increased regulatory structure

.

• Increase program sustainability through Framework action items. Action items such as rotenone stockpiling, net development, and the use of DIDSON technology will build the program base and can implemented if an emergency arises. F urther development of biological control agents will assist with the eradication of populations below the electric barrier system

.

• Identify ongoing or potential collaboration between ACRCC entities
, and specify partner roles

.

• Document , track, and communicate the monumental actions of ACRCC partners in apply ing full authorities, capabilities, and resources to prevent introduction and establishment of Asian carp in the Great Lakes

.

• Further engage with governmental, industry, environmental
, and other stakeholders

.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

ES -2 • Apply technologies and lessons learned to below the electric dispersal barriers and concurrent national Asian carp efforts where applicable

. The best science available underscores this Framework

. Widespread agreement exists among scientists and stakeholders that preventing movement of Asian c arp into Lake Michigan is critical to reducing the probability of Asian carp establishment in the Great Lakes.

This document describes ACRCC management strategy and its current and future actions

. This Framework is designed to be inclusive, allowing government agencies and outside stakeholders to engage in developing and implementing all plausible control actions

.
M anagement actions that comprise the Framework’s strategy are based upon the three typical stages of invasive species invasion

. Each Framework ac tion item is categorized within one of the following stage s of invasion and management action it would impact the most:

• Prevention and Development of Prevention Technologies

• Monitoring and Development of Monitoring Technologies

• Development of Control Technology and Impact Mitigation

• Other Supporting Actions (Education, Outreach, Regulatory Support)

. In addition to the many efforts described in this document as part of the ACRCC strategy
, the Great Lakes ’ States continue to undertake efforts against Asian c arp and other invasive species. Through a cost

- share grant program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have been able to provide assistance to states for creati ng and implementing AIS management plans and activities. In 2009 and 2010 , the Great Lakes S tate s invested over $26.7 million in prevention and control of aquatic invasive species

— of which almost $900,000 was committed to Asian carp control efforts. The following are previous or current efforts by the Great Lakes states as part of their AIS prevention, management, and control programs:

• New rapid response plans developed by Great Lakes states and approved by the AIS Task Force

• State

- led rapid response actions and other control efforts

• AIS education and outreach , including i ncreased signage t o inform the public about various AIS

• Inspections and enforcement of laws regarding AIS

• AIS barrier studies and design

• AIS monitoring and surveillance

.
T he ACRCC seeks development of a n effective and fiscally sustainable Asian carp biological control program throughout the Great Lakes Basin
, as well as throughout the Mississippi River Basin

. The near term goal is to prevent entry of Asian carp to the Great Lakes, which will give the ACRCC time to do the research and develo pment necessary to meet the long term goal of eradication/management through biological controls or other ecological separation measures. Because Asian carp are already well established throughout the Mississippi River Basin , thisFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

ES -3 program will be essentia l to decrease spread of Asian carp and prevent establishment of Asian
carp in new waterway systems.

This Framework is a living document and is a continuation of the efforts of previous Asian Carp Framework iterations. It recognizes potential hurdles whil e providing a baseline reference for collaboration among agencies and the interested communities through which a compelling plan of action can be initiated

. P reventing establishment of a self

- sustaining Asian carp population requires an understanding of ec ological, economic, and hydrological complexities

— leading to the conclusion that a comprehensive approach
, which cannot rely on only a single strategy
, is

ne cessary to reduce the risk of Asian carp invasion.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

1 

## 1.0 **INTRODUCTION**
The Great Lakes food web has been significantly degraded in recent decades by aquatic invasive species (AIS). T he most acute AIS threat facing the Gr eat Lakes today is movement of carp not native to the United Sates (bighead and silver )— collectively known as Asian carp

— through the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS), Wabash River, Grand Calumet River, and possibly other pathways that can connect the Gr eat Lakes to the Mississippi River Basin

. For purposes of this report, Asian carp is limited to bighead and silver carp. However, efforts to contain b lack and
grass carp , species of increasing concern, would benefit from some actions specified in the Frame work. The Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework (Framework) has been prepared by the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee’s (ACRCC) participating agencies, states, and stakeholders to specify actions for control ling Asian carp movement

. This section briefly presents the problem of the Asian carp movement toward the Great Lakes ecosystem , reviews the purpose of the Framework, reviews Asian carp ecology and potential impact to the Great Lakes, and cites additional work proceeding outside of this Framework. Section 2.0 presents the ACRCC Fiscal Year (FY) 201 2 plan for strategic management of Asian carp throughout the Great Lakes Basin

. Strategic management of Asian carp was divided into the following categories:

• Prevention and Development of Prevention Technology

• Monitoring and Development of Monitoring Technology

• Development of Control Technology and Impact Mitigation

• Other Supporting Actions (Education, Outreach, Regulatory Support)

. Section 3.0 discusses the critical efforts underway as part of the overall Framework in the following areas:

• Electric Dispersal Barriers in the CAWS

• Great Lakes and Mississippi River Inter

- Basin Study (GLMRIS)

• Monitoring and Removal

• Environmental Deoxyribonucleic A cid (eDNA) Calibration Studies

• Risk Assessment

• Scientific Research and Technology

• Enforcement Activities

• Federal and State AIS Management

.
T he agencies and stakeholders that participate in development of the Framework and coordinat e activities of participating agencies and organizations are presented in Section 4 .0. Section 5 .0 describes stakeholder actions likely to supplement the Framework involving the public andFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

2 providing for communication and outreach to parties outside the immediate circle of participating intergovernmental agencies.



## 1.1 Mission Stat ement
The ACRCC, with support from federal, state, and local agencies, and other private stakeholder entities, will create a sustainable Asian carp control program for protecting and maintaining the integrity and safety of the Great Lakes ecosystem by prev enting establishment of a sustainable Asian Carp population into that ecosystem via all viable pathways. This Framework lay s out the strategy and present s the proposed action items to carry out this goal.



## 1.2 Situation
The introduction of AIS into the Great Lakes is occurring at an alarming rate. Since the beginning of the 19th century, more than 180 non

- native species have been introduced into the Great Lakes. Some of these species have become ‘ in vasive ’ (causing ecolog ical or economic damage or threatening human health). These invasive fish, invertebrates, viruses, bacteria, and parasites can devastate native communities , as well as cause great economic damage to the Great Lakes commercial, sport, and tribal fisheries. T he geographic range of Asian carp species is expanding in the Mississippi River B asin and threatening invasion of the Great Lakes. The potential invasion of Asian carp is one of the most serious invasive species threats facing the Great Lakes today.

The ecological and economic damage in the Mississippi River watershed that followed Asian carp invasion was an early warning of potential impacts of Asian carp on the Great Lakes. This warning has resulted in extensive mobilization of local, state, and federa l entities
, and creation of the ACRCC

— an organization responsible for coordinating and conducting actions to prevent a n A sian carp invasion in to the Great Lakes.

T he ACRCC works daily to execute an aggressive, multi

- tiered strategy to prevent establishme nt of self

- sustaining populations of Asian carp in the Great Lakes, and to ensure vigilant monitoring in order to assess need s for response actions.



## 1.3 Framework Purpose and Proposed Outcomes
The Obama Administration is implementing a n unprecedented and comprehensive set of actions to prevent Asian carp introduction into the Great Lakes and to ensure establishment of Asian carp within the Great Lakes does not occur

. The Administration’s actions include studying options or controls that could be utilized to implement ecological separation, which could include hydrological separation, of the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins to permanently solve the potential Asian carp problem at the connection points, as well as to address other AIS. Engineering con trols, biological controls, and rapid response to achieve eradication or separation between the two basins are also under development to deal with possible Asian carp introduction to the Great Lakes via other vectors such as human transport or error.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

3 Imp lementation of the Framework actions documented herein have brought together experts and

resources across f ederal agencies
, Great Lakes states , and local agencies to implement a coordinated plan of immediate actions that would allow time to complete the lo nger term strategy action items. This Framework highlight s the ongoing efforts of the ACRCC and its member agencies; it also provide s strategic guidance regarding current and proposed actions to combat Asian carp within the Great Lakes Basin

. To coordin ate management and prevention of Asian carp among the ACRCC entities, the first F ramework was released in early 2010. P revious F ramework editions had listed respective goals, milestones completed, funding sources, and responsible agencies for each manageme nt action underway by ACRCC entities or collaborative partners. Increasing knowledge of Asian carp and expansion of ACRCC membership since publication of the 2010 F ramework has exposed the need to describe how , together, projects strategically address the invasion problem. The 2012 version of the Framework is a product of recent action s , lessons learned, and a desire to create a more sustainable and long

- term approach to both controlling and eradicating existing Asian carp populations

. In sum, the near term efforts are focused on preventing entry of Asian carp to the Great Lakes, which will give the ACRCC time to do the research and development necessary to meet the long term goal of eradication/management through biological controls or ecological separation.
The ACRCC has specified the following goals/actions within the 2012 Framework:

• Provide a sound strategy for addressing the threat of an Asian carp invasion in the Great Lakes such that the Framework continues to provide direction to participating agencies and actions, and identify areas for future action.

• Identify efforts that supplement direct management action, such as education and outreach, or increased regulatory structure.

• Increase program sustainability through Framework ac tion items. Action items such as rotenone stockpiling, net development, and Dual Frequency Identification Sonar ( DIDSON ) development will build the program base and can be implemented if an emergency arises. Further development of biological control agents will assist with the eradication of populations below the electric barrier system.

• Identify ongoing or potential collaboration between ACRCC entities, and specify partner roles.

• Document, track, and communicate the actions of ACRCC partners in applying full authorities, capabilities, and resources to prevent establishment of a sustainable Asian carp population in the Great Lakes.

• Further engage with governmental, industry, environmental, and other stakeholders.

• Apply technologies and lessons learned to below the electric dispersal barriers and concurrent national Asian carp efforts where applicable.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

4 

## 1.4 Asian Carp Ecology and Potential Impact

Possible invasion of Asian carp into the C AWS and the Great Lakes poses numerous ecological and economic impacts that are under extensive study

. Investigations als0 focus on potential invasion of Asian carp into other pathways between the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins. This section provides information about Asian carp and their potential impacts
, and why the Obama Administration is committing financial and staff resources to prevent Asian carp establishment within the Great Lakes

.

1.4.1 Distribution In North America, Asian carp usually refers to bighead carp ( Hypophthalmichthys nobilis ) , silver carp ( H. molitrix ) , black carp ( Mylopharyngodon piceus ), and grass carp ( Ctenpharyngodon idella )

. They all are members of the family Cyprinidae

. T he t wo species identified for rapid response action und er this plan are the silver carp and bighead carp because they pose the greatest threat

. This Framework does not address g rass carp and black carp . G rass carp are already widely dispersed and have been recorded in 45 states and the Great Lakes . B lack carp are not yet widely distributed, but may be a target of future Asian carp efforts 1

. Bighead and silver carp species reportedly were first introduced in the Mississippi River watershed 30 to 40 years ago to keep retention ponds clean and thus imp rove water quality in aquaculture and wastewater treatment facilities by keeping retention ponds clean
, and to serve the food industry 2

. Escape of Asian carp from these facilities could have occurred in many ways , including inadvertent releases, overland flooding events, or intentional releases from bait or aquaria. However they may have escaped, Asian carp have rapidly spread in the Mississippi River watershed
, and threaten the ecologic and economic value of the neighboring Great Lakes

. For example, s ilver carp introduced to Arkansas sewage lagoons and aquaculture ponds in the early
1970s have since spread to 23 surrounding state s and as far north as South Dakota and Minnesota 2

. During 2002 monitoring efforts, Asian carp were detected in the upper Illinois River just 60 miles from Lake Michigan . I n 20 10 , a single bighead
carp was captured in Lake Calumet , just 6 miles from Lake Michigan 3

. Based on currently available information; the ACRCC has concluded that there is

no evidence of an established Asian carp population above the Electric Barrier System within the CAWS.

1 USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Fact Sheet Ctenopharyngodon idella (grass carp). http://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?speciesID=514 2 Kolar , C.S., D.C. Chapman, W.R. Courtenay Jr., S.M Housel, J.D. Williams, D.P. Jennings. 2007. “ Bigheaded Carps: A biological synopsis and environmental risk assessment.” American Fisheries Society Special Publication 33, Bethesda, Maryland. 3 Conlin, M. 2 002. “Asian carp poised to invade the Great Lakes.” News from the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species: ANS Update , 8(3).FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

5 1.4.2 Diet and Life History Asian carp can dominate fisheries in abundance and bio mass. Bighead carp can live over 20 years , grow over 5 feet in length
, and weigh 100 pounds or more. Bighead and s il ver carp are planktivorous, eating predominantly phyto plankton and zooplankton, but can be opportunistic and consume a variety of food sources. Bighead carp feed on plankton at the base of the food web. The ir dietary patterns may allow them
to out

- compete both small and large Great Lakes native fish . M aturity is reached between 2 and 7 years of age , depending on the climate and population levels

. At maturity , bighead carp generally spawn during the times of flooding when water temperatures are approximately 80 degrees F. M ultiple spawning peaks during a given year have been documented

. Silver carp are generally smaller than bighead carp, with similar feeding and spawning habits. Silver carp are often referred to as “flying fish.” When disturbed by boat mot ors and startled, these fish will jump from the water, pos ing danger to boaters, anglers, and other recreational users.

1.4.3 Potential Habitat To successfully complete their life cycle, Asian carp (silver and bighead carp) n eed access to suitable habitat for spawning of adults, for development and hatching of eggs
, recruitment of larvae and early juveniles, as well as habitat for growth and survival of sub

- adult s and adult s

. The Great Lakes provide a diverse array of habitat types and would therefore likely p rovide the necessary physical habitat components for all life stages of Asian carp. For establishment of Asian carp, however, these habitats must be positioned in such a way as to facilitate growth and survival
, and sufficient food resources must be availa ble. Given that Asian carp have rather specific requirements for reproduction and recruitment
, and that they require concentrations of food resources, areas of the Great Lakes likely are present that would provid e these resources and would attract Asian c arp. Although exact spawning cues remain unknown, after a threshold of water temperature has been exceeded, Asian carp find flowing habitats in channels of rivers, with flows over two f ee t per second to spawn following a rise in water level that is usuall y accompanied by an increase in turbulence and turbidity. Spawning habitat, therefore, consists of access to areas providing these cues, as well as those providing a sufficient length of flowing water to allow development of eggs and early larvae (see Sec tion 2.1 – Stages of Invasion for more information regarding Great Lakes tributaries that may provide suitable spawning habitat for Asian carp). Early life stages of Asian carp typically inhabit warm, productive, protected, backwater and wetland areas. We tlands and backwater habitats adjacent to tributaries that can support spawning of Asian carp would be at risk of colonization.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

6 Using a bioenergetics model that consider s only plankton as food resources, Cooke and Hill concluded that many open water regions of the Great Lakes could not support growth of juvenile or adult Asian carp due to low concentrations of plankton 4

. But U.S. Geological Society ( USGS ) scientists have recently documented Asian carp feeding on Cladophora algae and de tritis , indicat ing that Asian carp could grow in productive regions such as Green Bay, western Lake Erie
, and some other embayments and wetlands. Guts of Asian carp contain other items in addition to plankton. Whether these foods are nutritious enough to sustain Asian carp is also being tested in the model.
While the results of studies suggest a varied Great Lakes distribution and subsequent impacts from Asian carp infestation, the potential threat to the ecology and economy of the Great Lakes compels immediate precautionary actions to ensure that sel f- sustaining Asian carp populations do not become established

.

1.4.4 Potential Risk to the Great Lakes Basin An Asian carp invasion can cause significant, permanent damage to the economic and ecological health of a region. 5 A cquisition of a n increasing amount of data indicates that an invasion into the Great Lakes by Asian carp c ould be financially, ecologically, biologically, and socially devastating

. These categories of impact are interconnected, all significantly affecting one another

. A n active, multi

- disciplinary approach will be necessary to prevent the negative impact s an invasion c ould
exert on the Great Lakes.
The Great Lakes cover more than 9 4,000 square miles and host valuable tribal, sport , and commercial fishing industr ies . Following introduction of Asian carp into the Great Lakes basin
, controlling their spread throughout these areas c ould be nearly impossible. Establishment of Asian carp in the Great Lakes could have lasting and potentially negative effects. Under conditions in the Great Lakes (especially their tributaries and estuaries) such as water temperature, food abundance, slow moving wetland regions, expansive area for migration, a nd lack of natural predators, Asian carp populations could expand quickly. These species could significantly impact local ecosystems.
However, financial and social costs are associated with actions needed to stop Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes. F or instance, permanent closure to the Chicago area locks would greatly affect commerce and recreational use of Lake Michigan and the CAWS. About seven million tons of cargo pass es through the O'Brien Lock each year, as do more than 19, 000 recreational boa ts many of which are docked along the Calumet River and reach Lake Michigan through the lock. Additional cargo, ferry, and pleasure boats use the Chicago Lock. In 2010 , 11,699 lockages and 36,33 4 vessels pass ed through the Chicago Lock

— traffic of a size s econd only to the Hiram M

4 Cooke S.L. and W.R. Hill. 2010. “Can filter

- feeding Asian carp inv ade the Laurentian Great Lakes? A bioenergetic modeling e xercise.” Freshwater Biology 55: 2138

– 2152. 5 Hansen, M. 2010. The Asian Carp Threat to the Great Lakes . A ccessed September 18, 2011. On

- line address: http://www.glfc.org/fish mgmt/Hansen_testimony_aisancarp.pdf . Great Lakes Fisheries Committee, Ann Arbor, Michigan.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

7 Chittenden Locks in Seattle, Washington

. The locks are also used by the Coast Guard stations on the Lake Michigan side of the locks in responding to emergencies on the canal and in patrolling critical infrastructure facilities wi th in the river system.

Financial Risk As Great Lakes leaders know from experience, it is difficult and expensive to deal with invasive species after their establishment . An example is the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission’s (GLFC) expenditure of over $ 300 million since 1956 to control sea lampreys
, an invasive species to the Great Lakes

. However, Dr. Michael Hansen , Chair of the Commission during 2010 , concluded that this expenditure is a fraction of the billions of dollars in revenue lost because of th e sea lamprey ’s direct role in decline of lake trout, a native keystone species, by a staggering 99 percent

. Fishing in the Great L akes is an industry estimated to generate billions of dollars of revenue

. An invasion of Asian carp to the Great Lakes co uld be detrimental to the fishing industry and those financial assets. The potential financial risk to fishing alone indicate s the significance of an Asian carp invasion to the Great Lakes region

.
Social Risk The social implications of an Asian carp invasion of the Great lakes range from indirect ( outcompeting [ thus eradicating ] native sport populations ) to direct ( physical harm to people)

. The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) estimates that nearly 1 million boats and personal watercraft operate on the l akes (GLC 2003) 6 , thereby plac ing more than a million people in potential contact with the silver carp , a projectile fish

. T he hazards these projectile fish pose to those boating, Jet

skiing, and waterskiing on the Illinois River system would be compounde d on the Great Lakes because of a significantly larger boating population, thus posing a larger health and safety issue

. 7 The social risk that Asian c arp represent to the Great Lakes is directly relevant to the financial risk as well

. If Asian c arp do mak e their way into the Great Lakes, recreational activities could be significantly affected, directly impacting revenue based on those activities.
Ecological and Biological Risk A ssessments indicate that the carp are certain to tolerate the Great Lakes Basin ’s climate, because the basin is well within the ir native climate range. Mean annual air temperatures that support Asian carp populations range between -2 degrees Celsius ( oC ) and 22oC for bighead carp and

- 6oC and 24oC for silver carp

— a temperature span that would support these populations in much of the United States and Canada, including the Great Lakes. 8 An invasive species becomes an issue when it changes the native habitat and populations that inhabit an ecosystem

. Biologists reported similar diets were reported by b iologists among Asian carp and native fishes in the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, which suggests the Asian carp would likely outcompete native fish for food. 9 T he invasive sea lamprey has changed the Great Lakes ecosystem forever, dem onstrating the

6 Hanson, above n 5. 7 Ibid 8 Ibid 9 IbidFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

8 impact one invasive species can exert on an ecosystem

. Mandrak and Cudmore (2004) 10 concluded that the consequences of establishment of grass and silver carp on the genetics of native species would be certain and profound, and would be reaso nabl y certain and significant from establishment of bighead and black carp. Invasive species are nearly impossible to eradicate, rendering prevention of Asian carp invasion that much more important . Herborg et al. 11 used ecological modeling to predict the suitable environmental habitats for Asian carp in North America. Exhibit 1 represents the suitable environmental habitats

— including the Great Lakes

— for each of the two Asian carp species central to this Framework: silver and bighead carp

.

10 Mandrak, N. E., and B. Cudmore. 2004. Risk assessment for Asian carps in Canada. A ccessed September 18, 2011

. On

- line address: www.dfo

- mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/DocREC/2004/RES2004_103_E.pdf . Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Great Lakes Laboratory for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Burlington, O ntario. 11 Herborg, L., Mandrak, N., Cudmore, B., and MacIsaac, H. 2007. Comp arative Distribution and Invasion Risk of Snakehead (Channidae) and Asian Carp (Cyrpinidae) Species in North America. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 64: 1723

- 1735.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

9 **Exhibit 1**  **. Predicted Suitable Environ**  **ment for Asian Carp in North America**

Note: Environmental suitability is represented as a number (out of a maximum of 100) of models that predicted a particular location as suitable. From top to bottom
, ( H. moltrix ) silver carp and (H.nobilis) bighead carp.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

10 The Great Lakes are home to many important species of food and sport fish such as whitefish, bloater chubs, and yellow perch, as well as sport fish including trout and walleye. The potential impact of Asian carp on the Great Lakes’ sport and commercial fishing industry can be seen now in the Mississippi River Basin where in a few short years following Asian carp int roduction, many commercial fishing locations have been abandoned, as native fish have been significantly impacted by Asian carp. The presence of Asian carp is a concern because they are prolific, grow and mature quickly, and feed on plant and animal plankt on (phytoplankton and zooplankton)

. They may alter energy flow in the Great Lakes, which in turn could lead to undesirable consequences for sport and commercial fisheries. A 2002 workshop convened by the Great Lakes Protection Fund, as well as the 2003 Aqu atic Invasive Species Summit convened by the City of Chicago and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), determined that introduction of Asian carp into the Great Lakes ecosystem would threaten the sport and commercial fisheries, and could res ult in ecological and economic damages exceeding those caused by the sea lamprey and zebra mussel invasion

. 12
The Great Lakes are home to nearly 80 federally

- listed threatened or endangered fish, mollusks, plants, mammals, insects, and reptiles, and many mo re species listed as threatened or endangered at the state level. Nationally, about 42 percent — 400 of 958 — of the species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act are considered at risk primarily because of predation or compet ition with exotic species. 13 Introduction of Asian carp to the region could further stress these organisms through mechanisms that are difficult to predict and perhaps lead to their extirpation. One such fish of concern is the lake sturgeon, which is protected by the State of Michigan because its remaining populations are less than 1 percent of the original population due to overfishing and habitat loss

. Many of t hese fish age to nearly 25 years for females and 12 years for males before reaching maturity, a nd are bottom feeders with a diet including snails, mussels, and crustaceans. Because Asian carp populations could reach self

- sustaining levels near the confluence of the Lake Michigan tributaries and canals in the Chicago vicinity
, it is highly likely tha t range expansion within the lake’s watershed c ould occur over time as a result of density

- depend e nt dispersal

. If higher concentrations of Asian carp are realized within an established area, Asian carp w ould move to new areas seeking suitable habitat and resources. Through this natural dispersal process, populations of Asian carp may become established in embayments, estuaries, lagoons, and river mouths of medium to large rivers and streams proximate to the h ome range of an established population

. These types of water bodies are found within Lake Michigan and throughout the entire Great Lakes Basin

.

12 Chick, J. H. 2002. Establishment of Asian Carp in the Upper Mississippi River and Potential Threats to the Great Lakes. Illinois Waterway Barrier Workshop hosted by the Great Lakes Protection Fund, in Chicago

. 13 Nature Conservancy. 1996. America’s Least Wanted: Alien Species Invasions of U.S. Ecosystems. Arlington, Va: The Nature Conservancy; Wilcove D.S., D. Rothstein, J. Bubow, A. Phillips, and E. Losos. 1998. “Quantifying threats to imperiled species in the United States.” BioScience 48(8): 607 - 615.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

11 ACRCC Risk Management Although further delineation is necessary, the risk of an Asian carp invasion of the Great Lakes and assoc iated basin waters exists

. In order to proactively prevent invasion of these Asian carp with potentially damaging impacts on the Great Lakes, a suite of actions have been undertaken or are planned as part of the ACRCC management strategy . The 2012 Framework describes these actions and strateg ic distribut ion of these actions to address this problem . Section 3.5 of this document also describes current and future risk assessment activities to further delineate the risk to the Great Lakes Basin. **Isolated Instances of Bighead Carp Found in Ohio River and**  **Western Lake Erie** In addition to the established populations throughout the Mississippi River and other basin waterways, bighead carp have been found in the upper portions of the Ohio River and Lake Erie. The single bighead carp found in the Upper Ohio River is believed to have traversed through the Mississippi River B asin and lock systems of the Ohio River

. Five bighead carp have been individually collected between 1995 and 2003 in western Lake Erie. Since 2004, in response to these discoveries
, USFWS has monitored western Lake Erie in Sandusky and Toledo, Ohio, using trammel nets

. This surveillance sampling has not resulted in any additional collections of bighead or silver carp. These sampling efforts suggest a reproducing population does not exist in Lake Erie. Additional information on collection points can be found in the USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database at http://nas.er.usgs.gov/.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

12 **Exhibit 2**  **. Conceptual Illustration of Framework Strategy** 

## 2.0 **STR ATEGIC**  **MANAGEMENT OF ASIAN CARP** 
In order to execute the mission to prevent further introduction and establishment of Asian carp, this section of the framework provides strategic guidance for decisions that are made when selecting and executing actions, and how types of actions should be distributed to address the mission. The stages of the invasion process are first introduced to provide insight for the strategic approach and management options at each stage

.


## 2.1 Stages of Invasion Model

T his section of the f ramework provides strategic guidance for decisions regarding select ion and implementation/distribution of actions. The stages of the invasion process are first described to reveal the strategic approach and management options at each stage

. Common steps i n invasion of many species are: (1 ) arrival and introduction to a novel system, (2 ) successful reproduction and establishment within the novel system, and (3 ) spread throughout the system that results from increasing abundance and continued successful rep roduction 14 . Exhibit 2 below depicts the common stages of an AIS invasion and the categories of management options that correspond to those stages. The inverted triangle illustrates the relative distribution of Asian carp management actions included in the Framework . That is, the largest number of Framework actions should focus on prevention and development of prevention technolog ies , followed by those to stop establishment, and then by those develop ing technologies to minimize spread of Asian carp in the CA WS and Great Lakes ( if this proves ultimately possible)

.

14 Lodge, D.M., S.L. Williams, H. MacIsaac, H. Hayes, B. Leung, S. Reichard, R.N. Mack, P.B. Moyle, M. Smith, D.A. Andow, J.T. Carlton, and A. McMichael. 2006. “Biological Invasions: Recommendations for U.S. policy and management.” Ecological Applications 16: 2035

- 2054.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

13 F irst a species must arrive at and be introduced in to the water body. Introduction to the Great Lakes waters can occur through various pathways . F or Asian carp, purported pathways include: artificial connections to the Great Lakes (Exhibit 3 ), Great Lakes tributaries (Exhibit 4 ), organism ic movement through the bait or aquarium trade, intermittent hydrologic connections (e.g. Wabash

- Maumee area), and organism transport by shipping and ballast water. Once a species has arrived in an ecosystem and can successfully reproduce the stage of invasion advances toward establishm ent . Finally, an invasion advances to the spread stage if an established population continues to increase in abundance and spread throughout the novel habitat

. Note that Exhibit 4 below also shows the Great Lakes tribuataries in the U.S. likely suitable fo r Asian
carp spawning. These tributaries lack dams and have minimum length s of 100 kilometers ( km ) that may be suitable for Asian carp spawning. Other waterways not shown here could still be conducive to spawning and are at least potential corridors for mo vement to the Great Lakes. 15 Preliminary findings as part of Framework action item 2.5.11 have indicated a shorter river length
may suffice for Asian carp to spawn successfully. It has been documented that the CAWS is the primary corridor of concern for Asi an carp expansion into the Great Lakes.

15 Kolar, C.S., D.C. Chapman, W.R. Courtenay Jr., S.M Housel, J.D. Williams, D.P. Jennings. 2007. Bigheaded Carps: A biological synopsis and environmental risk assessment. American Fisheries Society Special Publication 33, Bethesda, MDFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

14 **Exhibit 3**  **. Artificial Connections to the Great Lakes**

**Exhibit 4. Great Lakes Tributaries Likely Suitable for Asian Carp Spawning**FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

15 

## 2.2 ACRCC Strategic Approach

E arly warning of Asian carp introduction allows Great Lakes managers and the ACRCC a unique opportunity to focus on preventing further introduction. Therefore, a majority of efforts underway and documented in this F ramework are aimed at direct prevention of Asian carp introduction through its various pathways, and development of prevention technologies. Other Framework actions address the establishment and spread stages of invasion. It is important to understand this does not indicate that Asian carp have advanced to these invasion stages

— rather
, the actions addressing establishment and spread are proactive and function to help prevent occurrence of these stages. M onitoring for Asian carp presence in the G reat L akes and its tributaries is prudent . Monitoring allows early detection and the onset of rapid response (EDRR) actions that halt advancement to the establishment stage of invasion. Control technologies may also be used to reduce current Asian carp populations in infested waterways, potentially lowering the risk of a Great Lakes invasion. Deve lopment of long

- term control methodologies is also important; thus
, if introduction to the Great Lakes should occur, agencies would be armed with control tools that limit spread, and minimize ecologic and economic impacts. This also enables application of developed methods outside of the CAWS and the Great Lakes Basin

. In this way, management would be wholly prepared to minimize effects at each stage of invasion . Y et actions are appropriately focused first and foremost on prevention, as this is the goal of the ACRCC and is likely to be the most cost

- effective approach over both the short term and the long term. Representative actions underway or soon to commence as part of the FY 2012 strategy are referenced below ; a complete list and description s of FY 201 2 action items is in Appendix B of this document.



## 2.3 Management Options for Strategic Direction

C orresponding management actions may prevent occurrence or advancement of each stage of invasion (Exhibit 2 ). Recognition of these stages and the corresponding management options is likely to improve short - and long

- term management plannin g 16

. The categories of management options are described in more detail below, and are organized according to management actions implemented during each stage of invasion.

2.3.1 Prevent ion and Development of Prevention Technologies Management options to prevent introduction generally can be categorized as prevention actions and development of prevention technology. Actions that fall under these categories are: ( 1 ) investigating likely pa thways through risk assessment or other means ; (2 ) reduc ing the number of invasive species in known pathways (including reducing invasive species in neighboring watersheds to control the source population) ; (3 ) enforc ing transport regulations (e.g. bait tr ade, inter and intrastate transport) ; and ( 4 ) deploy ing or investigat ing new prevention technology ( see Sections 3.1 , 3.3 , and 3.5 for an explanation of the some prevention and prevention technology efforts currently underway) . Thus
, to prevent Asian carp introduction , the ACRCC has employed a

16 Lodge et al, above n 14.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

16 suite of these types of actions

. Table 1 lists a ctions that prevent introduction and thus e ffectively address all invasion stages. In the short term, prevention of invasion prevents advancement to establishment and spread stages. In the long term, should introductions occur, some actions will reduce the abundance of species that could enter the Great Lakes by first preventing introduction, and over time, reducing the propagule pressure, or number of individuals that normally would cause damage to the Great Lakes. For instance, installation and operation of the electric barrier operation in the CAWS deters movement of Asian carp to the Great Lakes and thus reduces the likelihood of introduction from this pathway.
In the long term, should introductions occur, this management action still functions to deter species and lessen the impacts to the Grea t Lakes by reducing the number of species that could migrate to the Great Lakes. Risk assessment action for Asian carp will help to target monitoring activities to critical areas, as well as identify follow

- on removal efforts that should occur. For example
, F ramework action item 2.4.5 identifies the likelihood of species introductions from various pathways. A potential use of the results could be to prioritize location and timing of action so that the pathway with larger relative risk can be minimized first. Table 1 below provides examples of current and proposed applications for prevention and development of prevention technology by member agencies in this Framework. Not all preventative actions address all life stages of Asian carp . Th is point highlights t he need for future work and development of long

- term solutions to prevent further introduction of young

- of

- year fish, juveniles, and adult Asian carp to the Great Lakes. Note s : (1) many Framework actions described in this document can be categorized under more than one M anagement category ; (2) each specific action indicate s at least one of the dominant types of Framework actions completed as part of that work.

**Table 1. Prevention and Prevention Technology Management Options**  General Management Categories Specific Actions Selected Framework Actions* **Risk assessment** Identify potential pathways for Asian carp to enter Great Lakes 2.4.2, 2.4.6, 2.5.1, 2.5.11, 2.5.17 Identify and/or assess likelihood of species in pathways 2.4.5

**Prevention** Reduce Asian carp abundance/ distribution/ movement in pathways (e.g. bait trade, tributaries, human mediated transport/shipping) 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3, 2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.2.3, 2.3.3, 2.3.5

Enforce transport regulations 2.7.2 **Development of prevention**  **technology** Implement b arrier safety and operations testing, defense 2.2.3, 2.3.2, 2.3.4, 2.3.6, 2.3.7, 2.4.1, 2.5.2, 2.5.6, 2.5.19, 2.5.20 ***View Appendix A and B for detail s of individual projects** 

**.**FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

17 2.3.2 Monitoring and Development of Monitoring Technology Management options to prevent establishment can be categorized generally as monitoring actions and development of monitoring technology that allows managers to rapidly detect early arrivals to the Great Lakes or tributaries. These critical actions allow management to delineate the current distribution of Asian carp in nearby watersheds, and determine where removal and other preventative measures should occur. In addition, rapid response actions such as electrofishing and netting can occur upon detection of individuals to remove the Asian carp from the newly invaded habitats. This helps prevent movement toward the Great Lakes, and would help with rapid removal of any individuals already within the Great Lakes. Actions that fall under these categories are those that: ( 1) investigate habitats in the Great Lakes likely to harbor Asian carp ; (2 ) develop or refine methods, such as eDNA or bacterial source tracking, that can be used to detect
carp presence ; (3 ) track abundance using various forms of monitoring (electrofishing ), movement (telemetry), and presence/absence (eDNA) of Asian carp in critical locations within and neighboring the Great Lakes ; and ( 4 ) employ r apid r esponse actions that remove detected individuals (e.g. rotenone, electrofishing , netting ) ( see Sections 3.3 , 3.4 , 3.5 , and 3.6 below for

more detail regarding some current monitoring and monitoring technology efforts) . Selected Framework examples of these actions are listed in Table 2 . Note: c ategories of management actions that prevent introductions of Asian carp also thus inhibit advanc ement to establishment stages of invasion, and selected Framework numbers that execute these actions are shown (i.e.

r apid response and removal follows early detection of individuals that have arrived at or near the Great Lakes). Many Framework actions within this document fall into more than one Management cat egory ; each specific action indicates at least one of the dominant types of Framework actions completed as part of that work.

**Table 2. Monitoring and Monitoring Technology Management Options**  General Management Categories Specific Actions Selected Framewo rk Actions* **Risk assessment** Great Lakes Habitat Suitability modeling 2.4.5, 2.5.4, 2.5.5 **Development of monitoring**  **technology** eDNA refinement 2.5.3, 2.6.1, 2.6.4, 2.6.5

Development of new detection methodology 2.5.1 5, 2.5.16

**Monitoring for Early Detection**  Electrofishing 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.3.4 Telemetry 2. 3.4 eDNA 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.6.2, 2.6.3 **Rapid Response** Rotenone application 2.1.2, 2.1.3 Other species removal efforts 2. 2.1, 2.2.2
***View Appendix A and B for individual project detail.**FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

18 2.3.3 Development of Control Technology and Impact Mitigation I t is necessary to investigate long

- term control methodologies that can effectively eliminate Asian carp species or prevent their movement while minimizing damage to native biota. Actions that fall under these categories are : ( 1 ) investigat ing species

- specific control methods, ( 2 ) determin ing efficacy of long

- term hydrologic separation, and ( 3 ) test ing other possible control mechanisms (e.g. application of hydro guns) ( see Sections 3.2 and 3.6 below for a more in

- depth look at some current control technologies and impact mitigation efforts). Development of these methodologies requires investigation and/or laboratory development and testing before deployment in the field

. H owever, species

- specific and permanent control tools are necessary for successful long

- term control of source populations. For example, species

- specific lampricide was developed to control the harmful sea lamprey i n the Great Lakes . The lampricide is applied annual ly at key tributary locations to mitigate impacts and to control the number of lampreys that arrive at the Great Lakes.

Selected Framework actions are shown in Table 3 . Note: S elected Framework action s implemented as components of specific actions are listed. Many Framework actions described in this document fall into more than one Management category ; each specific action indicate s at least one of the dominant types of Framework actions completed as part of that work.

**Table 3.**  **Control Technology and Impact Mitigation Management Options** General Management Categories Specific Actions Selected Framework Actions* **Development of population control**  **technology** Investigate species specific control methods 2.5. 7, 2.5.8, 2.5.9, 2.5.10, 2.5.12, 2.5.13, 2.5.15, 2.5.20 Permanent separation efficacy 2.4.2, 2.4.6, 2.4.7

Other long

- term control mechanisms 2.5.6, 2.5.19

***View Appendix A and B for individual project detail.**

2.3.4 Other Supporting Activities (Education, Outreach, Regulatory Support) Actions that support Asian carp management include those that increase public awareness of the threat of Asian carp
, and the ACRCC continues to inform and engage the public, stakeholder organizations, and governmen tal organizations in this regard . This is an unprecedented effort to disseminate information about preventing the spread of invasive species

— via meetings, press events, and communications. Moreover, e ducation and outreach can lead to behavior changes that may prevent release of the species through bait trade (e.g. 2.7.1). Actions that meet these objectives are listed in T able 4 , which shows supporting actions for Asian carp management and selected Framework examples for each type.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

19 **Table 4. Other Supporti ng Activities** 



## 2.4 Summary

The ACRCC has implemented and will continue to conduct actions to directly prevent Asian carp establishment in the Great Lakes, while monitoring for signs of Asian carp in the Great Lakes

. T he ACRCC is also investigating critical methods for long

- term control of Asian carp

. A ction s have been conceived and implemented to address all stages of invasion by preventing introduction
, utilizing technology to achieve long

- term control

. **General Management Categories**  **Specific Actions Selected Framework**  **Examples***

**Other Supporting Activity**  ACRCC coordination, support, and public relations 2.4.8, 2.5.18, 2.7.4, 2.8.1, 2.9.1

Education and outreach to raise awareness of Asian carp threat 2.7.1, 2.7.3, 2.7.4, 2.7.5, 2.7.6,
2.7.7 ***View Appendix A and B for individual project detail.**FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

20 

## 3.0 **CRITICAL EFFORTS UND ERWAY** 
This section provides summaries of efforts underway within the Framework and accomplishments since its inception in 2010. Much of this ongoing work will continue to generate critical knowledge and tools for the efforts against Asian carp.



## 3.1 Electric Dispersal Barriers in the Chicago Area Waterway
The CAWS is the only known continuous connection between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basin s and, as such, poses the greatest risk for transfer of aquatic nuisance species.
The Electric Dispersal Barriers are located near Romeoville, I llinois in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal ( CSSC ) within the CAW S (see Exhibit 6) . They are designed to prevent the inter

- basin transfer of fish between the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basin s via the CSSC. The barriers are formed of steel electrodes secured to the bottom of the CSSC, and connected to a raceway

co nsisting of electrical connections to a control building while not inhibiting waterway vessel traffic (see Exhibit 5) . Equipment in the control building generates a direct current (DC) pulse through the electrodes, creating an electric field in the water t hat discourages fish from crossing
, as depicted below

. **Exhibit 5**  **. Electric Barrier Design** FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

21 **Exhibit 6**  **. Electric Barrier System Location on the CAWS**

Barrier I, also known as the Demonstration Barrier, has been operational since 2002. Due to its original demonstration status, it was designed and built with materials that were not intended for long

- term use. The Water Resources Development Act of 2007 authorized the upgrade of Barri er I to a permanent barrier. Construction of the permanent Barrier I is scheduled to begin in 2012.

Barrier IIA was placed into full

- time operation in 2009. Barrier IIB was activated in April 2011 with the same operating parameters as Barrier IIA. As of J une 2011, Barrier IIA was in warm standby pending a final decision on optimal operating parameters

.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

22 The Water Resources Development Act of 2007 also directed the United States Army Corps of Engineers ( USACE ) to conduct a study of a range of options or technologies for reducing impacts of hazards that may reduce the efficacy of the Electrical Dispersal Barriers through analyzing various technical, environmental
, and biological factors. The study was divided into several segments, or interims, as described b elow.
Interim Report I identified areas of potential bypass and recommended construction of fence and concrete barriers along the Des Plaines River and a stone blockage barrier in the Illinois and Michigan ( I&M ) Canal. These measures, completed in October 2010, reduce the risk of Asian carp bypassing the barriers during flooding.

Inte rim Report IIA , completed in September 2011, documents research to determine optimum operating parameters for the dispersal barriers based on safety and operational impacts of altering parameters and the location of very small Asian carp in the upper Illin ois River. Although sufficient information was available to serve as a basis for a decision on operating parameters, release of a follow

- on report, Interim IIB, is expected after additional tests and evaluation of risk factors have been completed. Interim IIB will be used primarily to improve barrier operations and verify the recommendation in Interim IIA.
Interim Report III , completed in July 2010, evaluat es possible risk reduction through changes in operation of structures with in the CAWS such as locks, sluice gates, and pumping stations. The report recommend s con struction and installation of bar screens for two sluice gates at both the O’Brien and Chicago Locks. Implementations of these recommendations were completed in January 2011.

Int erim Report IIIA , completed in July 2010, consider s how technologies such as bubbles, light
, and sound barrier s can inhibit Asian carp movement
, and recommend s construction of an acoustic bubble curtain with strobe lights as a demonstration project. Funding and authority for implementation are required to initiate design of this project.
The comprehensive efficacy report will update the status of the aforementioned efforts and recommend risk reduction measures to address pathways not addressed in the interi m reports.



## 3.2 GLMRIS
The Great Lakes and Mississippi River Inter

- basin Study (GLMRIS) is a congressionally authorized feasibility study. The authorization directed the USACE to consult with appropriate f ederal, s tate, local
, and nongovernmental organizations on the range of options and technologies available to prevent spread of AIS between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River Basins through the CSSC and other aquatic pathways. The study will provide a thorough identification of potential hydraulic connections between the two basins, identif y and explor e existing and potential aquatic nuisance species, and assess aquatic nuisance species control techn ologies. These control technologies include but are not limited to physical or hydrologic separation.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

23 **Exhibit 7**  **. GLMRIS Study Area Map** The study is proceeding in two focus areas to fix upon a possible solution as soon as possible given the complexity of the task . Focus Area I is the CAWS and Focus Area II encompasses all aquatic pathways outside the CAWS, commonly referred to as the Other Pathways . See Exhibit 7 below for the complete GLMRIS study area

.

The main purpose of the GLMRIS is to analyze op tions for preventing inter

- basin transfer of A I S via aquatic pathways. While not directed solely at Asian carp, any solution identified and recommended for implementation would serve to prevent Asian carp movement to the Great Lakes via the CAWS or other aquatic pathways where Asian carp are a threat.
As part of GLMRIS, the USACE is conducting a comprehensive analysis of AIS controls and will analyze the effects each AIS control or combination of controls may have on current uses of: (1 ) the CAWS, a continu ous aquatic pathway between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins
, and (2 ) other aquatic pathways between these basins. The USACE will:

• Inventory current and forecast future conditions within the study area

.

• Identify aquatic pathways that may exist between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River B asins

.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

24 • Inventory current and future potential aquatic nuisance species

.

• Analyze possible AIS controls to prevent AIS transfer, to include hydrologic separation of the basins

.

• Analyze the impacts each AIS control may have on significant natural resources
, and on existing and forecasted uses of the lakes and waterways within the study area

.

• Recommend a plan to prevent AIS transfer between the basins. If necessary, the plan will include mitigation measures f or impacted waterway uses and significant natural resources.
Significant issues associated with GLMRIS may include, but are not limited to:

• Significant natural resources such as ecosystems and threatened and endangered species

• Commercial and recreational f isheries

• Current recreational uses of the lakes and waterways

• AIS effects on water users

• Effects of potential AIS controls on current waterway uses such as flood risk management, commercial and recreational navigation, recreation, water supply, hydropower
, and conveyance of effluent from wastewater treatment plants and other industries

• Statutory and legal responsibilities relative to the lakes and waterways.

3.2.1 Focus Area 1 : CAWS The CAWS is the primary pathway for inter

- basin transfer of A IS . It is the only known continuous aquatic connection between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins, and therefore poses the highest risk of potential A I S transfer. Focus Area 1 addresses the goal of preventing transfer of A I S via the CAWS.

3.2.2 Focus Area 2 : Oth er Aquatic Pathways In addition to the CAWS, in 2010, 36 other potential aquatic pathways were identified along the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins divide. An expedited study in fall 2010 eliminated 18 of these pathways, and identified one pathw ay (Wabash – Maumee) for expedited action. Within Focus Area 2 , risk of AIS transfer at the remaining 18 pathways will be evaluated, and, based on this evaluation
, the USACE is
to develop recommendations to prevent transfer of AIS via these pathways, start ing with the highest risk locations.
The aquatic connection that forms across the Wabash – Maumee Pathway (aka Eagle Marsh) in Fort Wayne, I ndiana, was identified in 2010 as the highest riskFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

25 aquatic pathway within Focus Area 2. The risk posed by Asian car p in close proximity to the location resulted in the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR) , supported by United States Environmental Protection Agency ( USEPA ) , N ational R esource C onservation S ervice (NRCS) , USGS, USACE, Allen County
, and the Little River Wetlands project, cooperating to complete construction of a temporary barrier to adult Asian carp movement across the marsh during flood events

. As part of the Focus Area 2 effort, USACE is conducting a feasibility study at this location to determine what action or set of actions could attain a long

- term solution that prevents inter

- basin transfer of AIS across the Eagle Marsh in Fort Wayne, I ndiana . Analys e s will include identification of structural and non

- structural measures and a s ystematic evaluation of the completeness, effectiveness, efficiency
, and acceptability of each measure in order to formulate a recommended plan.

Th e USACE welcomes information that will enhance the study and that might shorten the time otherwise required for the necessary review, including results of the Great Lakes Commission and Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River Cities’ studies of options for ecological separation.



## 3.3 Monitoring and Removal in CAWS

The USFWS, USACE, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IL DNR) monitor for the presence of Asian carp in the CAWS . Additional s tate and f ederal agencies, universities, and consultants are conducting additional monitoring in the CAWS as prescribed by the Monitoring and Rapid Response Workgroup’s (MRRWG) a nnual monitoring and rapid response plan. This plan was created in 2010 by the MRRWG and revised for the 2011 sampling season to incorporate data gathered during the 2010 monitoring

season. This section highlights many of the ongoing efforts in conjunction with and independent of the MRRWG’s monitoring and rapid response plan.
**Fixed site electrofishing samples** – IL DNR, USFWS, and USACE have coordinated their efforts and are sampling five fixed sights and additional reaches in the CAWS for the presence of Asian carp and local fish population . In 2011 , over 2,100 person

- hours were spent electrofishing the waters above the electric dispersal barriers. In addition to monitoring for Asian carp, these data are used to inform a fishery statistical

- based model th at will ultimately quantify the potential of Asian carp presence/absence and relative abundance . This effort is part of a larger CAWS monitoring program developed by the MRRWG of the ACRCC. In addition, USACE conducts monthly electrofishing surveys at the Barrier, outside of the regular MRRWG monitoring at fixed sites.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

26 **Netting and commercial fishing efforts in the CAWS**  – As part of the MRRWG monitoring program and its monitoring and rapid response plan
, the IL DNR extensively monitors the CAWS above the e lectric dispersal barriers with traditional fishing gears and nets, and contracts with local commercial fishermen. In 2011 , 1, 590 person

hours were spent netting these waters and 67.4 miles of nets were set.
**Rapid response planning in the CAWS** – MRRWG me mbers ha ve worked extensively with partner agencies and the ACRCC executive committee to develop a decision matrix to trigger a respo nse action to positive detections of Asian carp results (eDNA and traditional gear monitoring ) in the CAWS . Response actions include intensive and focused sampling with traditional gears, commercial netters, and potentially the use of rotenone.
**eDNA monitoring and study design** – USFWS and IL DNR are sampling eDNA from the CAWS on a regular schedule (weekly basis) ; USACE and US EPA filter the water samples, and USACE processes the samples at the Engineer Research and Development Center laboratories. This effort began with the USACE in 2009 and will transition to the USFWS in 2013. Additional sampling is planned for f all 2011/ s pring 2012 during which multiple crews will strategically sample eDNA concurrently across the CAWS for an instantaneous look (“real

- time snapshot”) of any possible
water

- borne Asian carp eDNA in the system (amount and location of material) . During the 2010 monitoring season, USACE was able to collect over 1200 samples to test for presence of Asian carp DNA. **Des Plaines/CSSC barrier monitoring** – La C rosse and Carterville Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices ( FWCO ) have developed a plan and response actions to address threats from overflow from the Des Plaines River into the CSSC, should flooding

occur. USFWS and collaborating agencies will attempt to monitor and potentially collect and stop any Asian carp life forms that may cross between the two water bod ies. In addition to monitoring of the area, in 2010 , the USACE completed a 13

- mile barrier above the electric dispersal barrier between the Des Plaines River and the CSSC atFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

27 the areas deemed most susceptible to flood conditions

. This is a steel

- reinforced
, concrete barrier and reinforced heavy

- duty fencing that allow s water to flow but prevents transfer of Asian carp into the CSSC.
**Des Plaines River sampling** – LaCrosse FWCO is sampling the Des Plaines River below Hoffman Dam to monitor for Asian carp adults that may have migrated up to the dam for spawning. **Asian carp gear development** – Columbia FWCO is working in the Missouri River to develop various fishery gears more suitable for catching Asian carp where they are known to exist in large numbers. The pur pose of this gear development is to transfer the technology to the CAWS to better monitor
, collect
, and remove Asian carp. Additional work by the IL DNR working with a panel of carp experts and the Illinois Natural History Survey
, University of Illinois is proceeding to develop fishery gear to more efficiently capture Asian carp. We have brought together commercial fishers from across the country to gain valuable expertise. Gears for 2012 include extremely deep gill nets, 6- foot hoop nets, and other nets in development. Assessment of gears most effective for collection and sampling of Asian carp juvenile s is also underway

. **Fish behavior near the electric dispersal barrier as determined**  **through DIDSON and Telemetry studies**  – The Carterville FWCO of the USFWS, with support from USACE, has a new project that utilizes DIDSON to observe fish behavior in and around the barrier. Both feral and captive fish are viewed. Feral fish are viewed in timed (pre

- determined) runs in and through the barrier, and c aptive fish are being confined and transported through the barrier in a boat

- mounted cage to observe their reaction to the electric field. USACE is leading the effort, using ultrasonic telemetry, to directly assess the efficacy of the Barrier by determinin g if tagged fish are able to challenge and/or penetrate the Barrier. Other purposes of the telemetry project are to determine if Asian carp are able to navigate through lock structures in the Illinois Waterway system, to determine the leading edge of the A sian carp populations, and to directly test the response of smaller sizes of fish to the Barrier. An acoustic array is established in the CAWS and the Illinois Waterway, spanning about 50 miles, which is also supplemented by monthly mobile tracking. USACE implanted 200 fish with transmitters
, and their movement s are tracked by the series of acoustic receivers throughout the waterway. Above the Barrier and immediately below, fish other than bighead and silver carp are studied (common carp, buffalo, grass car p, freshwater drum); in the lower pools (Dresden Island Pool), bighead andFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

28 silver carp are tagged and monitored. To date, over 1.2 million detections since 2010 indicate no tagged fish have crossed the Barrier since the operating parameters were increased.
USACE is also using innovative technology to track fish movement at the Barrier. Preliminary analysis shows tagged fish moving upstream toward the Barrier, then turning and moving back downstream. This new technology will give us insight to fish aversion response near the Barrier.
**Asian carp removal below the electric dispersal barrier system**  – As part of the MRRWG program, IL DNR contracts with commercial fishermen to remove Asian carp (both bighead and silver carp) from the waterways below the electric barrier system. The goal of this initiative is to reduce the populations of Asian carp that are able to challenge the barrier. A total of 351.7 tons of Asian carp were caught and removed in 2011. The impacts of harvesting were studied to en sure that th is is significant and beneficial . The initial results of the Southern Illinois University study on fish removal will be released in early 2012

.


## 3.4 eDNA

eDNA is a surveillance tool used to indicate the presence of genetic material of bighead carp and silve r carp . Fish, including Asian carp, naturally release cells containing DNA into the environment through mucoidal secretions, feces, and urine. DNA degrades in the environment, but the process is not instantaneous
, and DNA can be held in suspension and tra nsported. Species can be detected by filtering water samples and then extracting and amplifying short fragments of the shed DNA. Unlike other surveillance methods, eDNA does not rely on direct observation of Asian carp to detect presence.
Currently, eDNA i s used by the ACRCC in the Monitoring and Rapid Response Plan (MRRP) developed by its interagency subgroup, the MRRWG. eDNA has been used a s an early detection surveillance tool since 2009

. It has yielded “presence/absence” eDNA data for the reaches of the waterway sampled. In 2010 and 2011, eDNA has been used as a regular weekly monitoring tool to help inform rapid response decisions as part of the MRRP. Results are posted regularly on the USACE Chicago District website: http://www.lrc.usace.army.mil/AsianCarp/eDNA.htm . In 2012, the eDNA sampling strategy will be set by analyzing the 2011 results, including the large event in December 2011 ( the eDNA snapshot )
, whe n six sites (720 samples) were sampled over three days.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

29 From 2009 through 2011, over 6000 water samples have been analyzed for bighead and silver carp DNA. The eDNA method has undergone two review processes. The first was in 2009 when the University of No tre Dame laboratory was audited by an EPA team. That audit concluded that the eDNA method is sufficiently reliable and robust in reporting a pattern of detection that it should be considered actionable in a management context; and the team expressed a high degree of confidence in the basic Polymerase Chain Reaction ( PCR ) method used to detect bighead and silver carp eDNA. The second was completed in December 2010, when the USACE contracted an independent external peer review of eDNA science and methodolog y, and findings were presented in the report, Revised Final Independent External Review Report Environmental DNA (eDNA) Science and Methodology . The review panel found some clear advantages and disadvantages of the eDNA methodology. In the Panel’s opinion, no other single method could provide the suite of advantages offered by the eDNA samples, which included the following: sampling can take place over a large spatial area very rapidly at relatively low cost, and the method is potentially more sensitive fo r detecting Asian carp in environments typical of the CSSC than are traditional fishery methods. Key limitations of the method, however, are that the location s and condition (live or dead) of fish contributing eDNA to a water sample are not known. Additionally, eDNA detections do not provide information on the size, age
, or gender of individuals present. Furthermore, the method cannot distinguish between pure silver or bighead carp and their hybrids, and detection is not immediate because of a time delay between water sample collection and processing for eDNA.
To date, USACE and the MRRWG have acknowledged that a positive eDNA sample indicate s presence of Asian carp DNA and possible presence of live fish. Currently, the ACRCC cannot rely

s olely on eDNA as evidence to verify whether live Asian carp are present, whether the DNA may have come from a dead fish, the number of Asian carp in an area, or whether water containing Asian carp DNA may have been transported from other sources (e.g., tra nslocation by vessels or birds). eDNA cannot presently provide exact , real

- time information on locations of Asian carp because of the requisite two

- week sample processing time. However, the eDNA method can be used as a basis for precautionary and prudent actions. Moreover, for making critical management decisions
, the eDNA method can be a useful complement to traditional fish sampling gears, and can greatly improve the efficiency of the monitoring program for detecting Asian carp.
To help resolve the issue s identified above and manage these uncertainties, the USACE is leading an eDNA calibration study (ECALS) with USGS and USFWS. ECALS will be investigating alternate sources of Asian carp DNA, improving existing genetic markers, and determining the relation ship between the number and distribution of positive eDNA samples with the density of Asian carp. In addition, ECALS will investigate ways we can make the eDNA process more efficient (decrease processing time and cost). This will allow managers to better interpret what eDNA results mean and obtain results faster.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

30 The following efforts are or will be undertaken as part of ECALS:

**eDNA v**  **ector assessment**  – This effort will identify potential vectors for Asian carp DNA to enter the CAWS without originating from a live, free

- swimming bighead or silver carp. Potential vectors include introduction of tissue and other cell matter containing Asian carp DNA from both :

• Movement of carp and carp material via fish

- eating birds, particularly eDNA deposition via bird excrement, and

• Discharge of carp and carp material via storm sewers that empty into the CAWS (specifically in regions of Chicago where Asian carp are sold in markets on the street).
Additionally, this is to be an effort to determine the rate and duration of eDNA loading from fish carcasses. Fish carcasses could pass barrier via barges, commercial sales and traffic, fish

- eating birds, etc.
These are deemed the most likely alternative routes for eDNA to move around the CAWS, and
must be investigated to indica te the likelihood of these mechanisms result ing in positive eDNA sample results.
**Develop eDNA markers for improved population inference** – This effort will develop high

fidelity, sensitive genetic markers for detecting the presence of Asian carp DNA and fo r making broad estimates of Asian carp abundance. These new markers will provide an increased ability to estimate the minimum number of Asian carp genotypes represented in an eDNA sample
, and, along with models of fish movement and population genetic struc ture, will broadly project Asian carp abundance.
**Decreasing analysis time** – This effort will develop techniques to decrease the time required for an important step in the analysis process, and develop assays that are expected to be more sensitive to lower concentrations of eDNA. As a result, eDNA processing time may be cut from

10 working days to 5 working days, allowing for much quicker turnaround time for results and more rapid response to new eDNA hits. In addition , this effort will assess whether diffe rent water sampling protocols might improve Asian carp detection probabilities (depth integrated sampling, new filtering techniques, and appropriate volume of water to sample).
**Determine eDNA assay sensitivity under** no flow **conditions** – This effort will de termine the relationship between Asian carp size, number of carp, and carp behavior on eDNA loading rates (DNA shedding, sloughing). It will also identify the minimum amounts of eDNA required for detection and time to detection, and the rate at which detec table amounts of eDNA fill a volume of water under non

- flowing conditions. This will be important for areas such as Lake Calumet and other embayments where no flow occurs

. **Determine eDNA assay sensitivity under** flowing water **conditions** – This effort will h elp determine the rate at which detectable amounts of eDNA fill a volume of water under flowingFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

31 conditions. This will be important for most of the CAWS
, where flow occurs under most conditions.
**Quantify relationships between major environmental factors and eDNA degradation**  **under** no flow **conditions** – This effort will determine relationship s between environmental factors

— water temperature, light exposure, zooplankton
, and microbial biomass, pH

— and eDNA degradation rates in no flow systems.
**Develop guidance o n using calibration data to broadly estimate Asian carp abundance**  **under** no flow **conditions** – This effort will help evaluate likely spread of eDNA from source points in no flow systems so that sampling can be planned such that sample points are reasonably expected to represent independent eDNA conditions (not from same eDNA plume).
**Develop a hydrodynamic eDNA transport predictive model to characterize fish**

**occurrence** – This effort will develop models based on fish behavior and CAWS water flow dynamics to extrapolate eDNA behavior in the system and to identify likely carp population scenarios associated with an array of eDNA monitoring outcomes. A hydrodynamic model for eDNA transport in the CAWS (down to Lockpo rt Lock) will be developed.

**ECALS Products:**

Vectors: the vectors investigation will result in a conceptual model with all possible vectors that allow eDNA to persist in the system from a source other than a live fish. Studies will specifically investiga te the viability of DNA from dead fish and alternative sources, such as storm sewers and piscivorous birds

— these results will be provided in reports to the ACRCC.

Markers: PCR markers (fragments of DNA able to bind only to specific strands of to Asian car p DNA) will be developed and independently tested; results will be reported to the ACRCC and MRRWG to enhance sampling protocols and increase efficiency.

Calibration: several studies will be conducted to refine eDNA sensitivity as to how environmental

var iables influence detection, degradation, and transport through the CAWS. All study results will be reported to the ACRCC.
The long

- term strategy for eDNA monitoring is to transfer this responsibility to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, La Crosse Fish Hea lth Center, in 2013. USFWS will then take on the responsibility of eDNA monitoring as part of the MRRWG’s MRRP.



## 3.5 Risk Assessment
Risk assessment is a process that incorporates existing biological information to assess the risk and potential impacts of an invasive species. Risk is evaluated as the sum of the probability of introduction and the magnitude of consequences should a species successfully invade. The probability of introduction is based on four metrics : the probability an invasive species will ar rive in a system, the probability that the species will survive in the system, the probability that theFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

32 species can establish in the system, and the probability that the species can spread within the system. Coupled with this evaluation of risk is the unce rtainty of the conclusion, based on the amount and quality of the information available. A n evaluation of the potential ecological impacts of the invader occurs , often using ecosystem modeling. Based on the information derived from the biological assessment of risk, a socio

- economic evaluation of risk also may occur . Risk assessment is part of a larger process call ed risk analysis that includes the risk assessment, risk management or mitigation, and risk communication.
Broad, national

- level ecological risk assessments have previously been completed for Asian carp in Canada and the U

. S. Both risk assessment s categorized the risk of Asian carp as high, with high or fairly high certainty. However, neither risk assessment specifically evaluated the risk of Asia n carp to the Great Lakes. Since completion of these risk assessments in 2004 and 2005, substantial new information about Asian carp has become available and more specific management questions have arisen surrounding the probability of Asian carp introduct ion into the Great Lakes. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announced in October 2010 that it would lead, through its Centre for Excellence in Aquatic Risk Assessment, a risk assessment of Asian carp for the Great Lakes. This project is coordinated by the GLFC to facilitate smooth transfer of information among agencies on both sides of the border. Release of the final risk assessment is expected by the end of 2012 . A socio

- economic analysis of the potential impacts of Asian carp will follow completion of t he biological risk assessment in 2012. In combination with ongoing research by USGS, USFWS, NOAA, and others, the DFO

- led risk assessment will help inform subsequent risk assessments looking in more detail at the ecological and bio

- economic impacts of Asia n carp on the Great Lakes.
Several risk assessment activities surrounding Asian carp are also ongoing or planned by U.S. agencies through the 201 1 and 201 2 Framework s

. Current research activities provide information
to be used in risk assessment s

. Some of these efforts are occurring outside of the ACRCC Framework; however
, USGS is communicating and coordinating with the ACRCC to ensure that information is incorporated into the ACRCC’s ongoing activities.

In 2010 and 201 1, USGS undert ook the project titled, Great Lakes’ Tributary Assessment for Asian Carp Habitat Suitability (2.5.11) focusing on the Milwaukee River in Wisconsin and the St. Joseph River in Michigan. The outcomes of this project included the following:FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

33 • Determin ation of a more exact ti meline for A sian carp to achieve required key developmental stages

• Determin ation of the minimum velocities needed to keep Asian carp in early, non

swimming life stages suspended in the water column

• Doppler current profile data, the mean velocities and long itudinal particle dispersion coefficient of rivers most likely to be used as spawning habitat by Asian carp

• Model ing of the transport of A sian carp eggs and larvae to assess spawning habitat suitability

. The hydraulic and water quality data obtained will be analyzed and documented to finish the ongoing risk assessment within the Milwaukee River in Wisconsin by th e end of 2011 . Additional testing of the other Asian carp species at the USGS Columbia Environmental Research Center will verify the developm ent series and density data obtained

. Spawning suitability models will be developed with the University of Illinois. In 2012 , one additional tributary will be assessed.
USGS scientists conducted research in 2011 to examine the suitability of the Maumee Riv er for spawning of bighead carp. Findings indicate that the temperature regime and water flow characteristics of the Maumee River appear to be suitable for spawning of bighead carp. The research manuscript describing these results has been submitted to a scientific journal and publication is expected by June 2012. Additional research is planned for 2012 to identify potential spawning locations or to determine if entire river length is suitable for development of mitigation options. These study methods w ill be applied to six other major tributaries in Ohio: Sandusky, Portage, Huron, Vermilion, Black, and Grand Rivers.

USFWS and NOAA are collaborating on a project titled, Ecological/Biological Risk Assessments (2.4.4) . This project will develop biologi cal and/or ecological models for Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and Lake Huron to more accurately predict the potential for establishment and impacts of A sian
carp on each water body.

NOAA is also leading an effort titled, Forecasting Spread and Bio

‐ economic Im pacts of AIS from Multiple Pathways (2.4.5) . This effort will forecast the probability of establishment of non

‐ indigenous species likely to be introduced into the Great Lakes via three major pathways: (1) shipping , (2 ) organisms in trade
, and ( 3 ) canals, especially the CSSC. The effort will focus on forecasting:

• Probability of establishment

• Potential habitat of species within the Great Lakes

• Potential spread of invaders within the Great Lakes

• Regional economic impact

. These efforts collectively will provide an important look at the risk of Asian carp introduc tion to the Great Lakes
, and will provide direction for monitoring, response
, and mitigation efforts if ever needed.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

34 

## 3.6 Scientific Research and Development
Numerous historical examples demonstrate the dif ficulty of eradicating or controlling populations of nuisance or invasive aquatic species (e.g., sea lamprey, zebra mussels, and common carp). Extirpation is rarely accomplished
, and achieving persistent population control is challenging at best and expens ive, requir ing a long

- term dedicated effort. This reality has oriented the major focus of Framework projects on preventing introductions of Asian carp into the Great Lakes. However, fishery management tools are needed if failures of prevention occur
, and w ould be helpful to further reduce propagule pressure (i.e., lower population densities) of Asian carp in areas closest to Great Lake entry points.
Perhaps the most widely used tool used by fisheries managers to control unwanted populations of fish has bee n the application of piscicides (i.e., toxins poisonous to fish). Currently, four piscicides are registered for use in the United States; two specifically target sea lamprey ( Petromyzon marinus ), and the remaining two are general use toxins that require treatment of the entire water column, thereby unnecessarily killing all species of fish in the treatment area and driving up control costs. Additionally, rotenone, the most widely used piscicide in North America, is currently under additional scrutiny due to human health implications. Therefore, , development of piscicides that specifically target Asian carp would be of great use to fisheries managers and aid in achieving Framework goals. Several ongoing USGS research projects are aimed at developing these fis hery management tools.
Developing a chemical control tool that targets specific species requires identification and development of a targeted toxicant or toxicant delivery system, and assurances that only species intended for control are affected by contro l measures. Ongoing projects in the Framework address each of these requirements.
USGS is working with private industry and other partners on a project titled Technologies Using Oral Delivery Platforms for Species

- Specific Control (2.5.12) to develop and synthesize a new form of fishery management chemical control tool: nanoparticles of specific sizes that encapsulate a toxin to be delivered to fish that consume the particle in open waters where the toxicity is released only to Asian carp. Designing such a molecule (micromatrix) requires a thorough understanding of the digestive physiology, as well the toxicity of the chemical to target and non

target fish species. To date, a particle has been developed that Asian carp readily filter from the water column, the toxic dose of rotenone has been determined, and much has been learned about potential target organs of Asian carp. Developing Targeting Control Systems for Asian Carp Based on Species

- Specific Digestive System Characteristics (2.5.10) conducts paralle l research on the digestive system of native planktivorous fish. Results of this project will synthesize understandings of digestive physiologies of native planktivores and compare those to the digestive physiology of Asian carp. In 2012, researchers hope to complete field tests of a toxin embedded in a micromatrix developed to target Asian carp.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

35 To further protect native fishes and avoid use of rotenone, currently under scrutiny for human health concerns, a project titled Identify Potential Compounds for I nclusion in a Toxicant Screening Program to Identify Potential Selective Toxicants for Control of Asian Carp (2.5.8) involves a search for a chemical specifically toxic to Asian carp. In 2012, researchers plan to begin cell toxicity assays of native fish
, as well as Asian carps
, using candidate chemicals. In the future, chemicals identified in this project could be incorporated into a micromatrix or developed for application in water to specifically control Asian carp.
Other methods of controlling fish pop ulations are

numerous , and the success of the Integrated Sea Lamprey Control Program, coordinated by the GLFC, demonstrates the benefit of incorporating a variety of control tools into a comprehensive management plan. Several USGS research projects in the Framework use aspects of fish behavior to effect control or containment of Asian carp. Use of Seismic Technology to Divert or Eradicate Asian Carp (2.5.6) examines the utility of pulsing sound pressure in the water using water guns to affect distribution of Asian carp. To date, results show that a water gun subjected fish to sound pressure levels over 150 pounds per square inch ( PSI ) 9 meters from the sound source
, and caused significant negative effects in caged fish of several species, including Asian car p. In 2012, research will focus on using water guns to repel and divert Asian carp. In the future, this tool could be used in conjunction with netting to remove fish from targeted areas. The potential impact of deployment of this technology on engineering structures of the CAWS is under examination in Seismic Monitoring for Asian Carp Water Gun Deployment (2.5.19). A similar technology, using sound of very specific frequencies to

a ffect the physiology of Asian carp enough to kill those in targeted areas, is under examination in Deterrence/Destruction of Asian Carp Using Resonant Frequency (Continuous Wave Sonar [2.5.20]).
Another method of affecting distribution of Asian carp is under study in Expand Research on the Identification of Asian Carp Attraction/Repulsion Pheromones (2.5.7). In this project, researchers are investigating whether Asian carp sex pheromones ( chemical substances detected through the fish’s sense of smell and which trigger reproductive interactions) could be exploited to improve contain ment and control of Asian carp. To date, olfactory stimulation by presence of pheromones has been verified
, and behavioral assays confirm an attraction to the pheromone. Field tests are planned for the future. The intent is to develop this tool to concentrate Asian carp into a specific area for removal by another control method.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

36 Any of the above methods used to concentrate Asian carp into a specified area for targeted removal (such as use of pheromones, sonar, or seismic technology) would be improved by dev elopment of traps and nets designed to specifically target Asian carp once fish have been aggregated. Gear improvements are under examination in Develop Alternate Traps and Net Designs to Enhance Asian Carp Capture Rates (2.5.15). This project will bring t ogether experts in various fields to develop and test alterative net and trap designs.



## 3.7 Enforcement Activities

The USFWS has expanded surveillance and enforcement of illegal transportation of federally listed invasive species. W ildlife inspectors have increased their efforts to target and interdict federally listed invasive species at border locations. In addition, the USFWS has acquired an x

- ray van that can be deployed at all international ports of entry. This van will improve effectiveness and effic iency of wildlife inspectors ’ search for invasive species. In addition, the USFWS is working with s tate partners to control the spread of invasive species , including Asian carp, through investigations here in the United States. These efforts will e xpand in 2012 , and are considered law enforcement

- sensitive due to ongoing operations

.


## 3.8 Federal and State AIS Management

The Non

- indigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act (NANPACA) of 1990
, as amended and expanded by the National Invasive Species Ac t (NISA) of 1996
, calls for development of state and regional AIS Management Plans. Through a cost

- share grant program, the USFWS with the concurrence of NOAA has been able to provide assistance to states for creation and implementation of AIS management plans and activities. This has included development of state

- led rapid response actions conducted under new rapid response plans developed by Great Lakes states and approved by the AN S Task Force . In 2009 and 2010, the Great Lakes states invested over $26.7 million toward prevention and control of aquatic invasive species
, of which almost $900,000 was committed to Asian carp control efforts. This section highlights some of the Great Lakes’ state actions planned or underway.

**I llinois:**  Illinois completed extensive monitoring and removal efforts in support of collaborative Asian carp work in the CAWS. These efforts included sampling with traditional fishery gears
, contracted commercial fishermen for targeted removal, sampling for larval Asian carp, support of eDNA monitoring, alternative barrier studies and fishery gear assessments, collaborative work on the Asian Carp MRRP , and outreach to the public and bait shops i n the Chicago area. A continued collaborative Asian carp monitoring and removal effort in the Illinois River and CAWS is expected for FY 2012 and beyond. Additional plans for 2012 include (1) updat ing the S tate’s AIS Management Plan ; (2) conduct ing priority research into potential resource implications and environmental impacts of AIS introductions ; (3) continu ing to develop, assess, and improve AIS information and education programs ; (4) continu ing to facilitate development of collaborative AIS Rapid Response Plan ; (5) develop ing a submersed aquatic vegetation management plan ; and (6) develop ing a pilot program to target and control AIS in near

- shore Lake Michigan habitats.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

37 **Asian Carp Movement in the Upper Wabash River** Work to study the movement of Asian carp has begun in the upper Wabash River. Efforts to implant transmitters into Asian carp proved difficult in the extreme upper Wabash River
, as very few fish were observed or collected. It was not until approximately 80 miles downstream of the fence across Eagle Marsh that substantial numbers of fish were collected fo r impla nting tracking devices. Receivers in the river have detected little interest among the Asian carp to move into the extreme upper Wabash
, and to date
, no fish have been recorded at a receiver in Little River. The fish seem to show no interest in running up Little River toward Eagle Marsh despite the abundance of spring high

- water events
**Asian Carp Spawning Behavior in Indiana** Purdue is studying the spawning limits in the upper Wabash River and the East Fork White River. Asian carp eggs were relatively abundant in late May and early June following a high water event from Lafayette and upstream to Logansport which are approximately 120 and 80 miles

res pectively from the fence at Eagle Marsh. The upstream extent of Asian carp eggs observed

was at Peru which is nearly 60 miles downstream of Eagle Marsh. The low numbers of eggs observed at Peru were early term eggs and would have drifted a substantial dist ance downstream before hatching. Spawning was also evaluated in the East Fork of White River although this river has no bearing on a connection with the Great Lakes watershed. A substantial numbers of eggs were observed in a part of the East Fork White Ri ver that is approximately 25 percent smaller than the uppermost area of the Wabash where a considerable number of eggs were found. All of this information should be beneficial to assist in predicting which streams that feed the Great Lakes might be conduc ive to Asian carp spawning. **Indiana:** Indiana developed contracts for plant control and eradication
, constructed fences at Eagle Marsh to prevent the spread of Asian carp into the Maumee drainage
, worked with the University of Notre Dame to conduct eDNA s ampling in the Wabash

- Maumee Basin and in Northwest Indiana waters that have connections with the CAWS. The state worked with Indiana Sea Grant to create signage for AIS education and public outreach. Additionally, IN DNR is working with Purdue University on a two

- year study to track the movement and spawning behavior of Asian carp in the upper Wabash River. Although still early in the planned two

- year study
, abundan t information has already been gained.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

38 **Michigan:** Michigan began updat ing the Michigan AN S State Management Plan (SMP)
, which includes a statewide strategy for Asian carp prevention and Phragmites control

. Michigan D epartment of N atural R esources (MI DNR) Law Enforcement conducted a statewide inspection of all wholesale fish dealers in an effort to prevent importation of live invasive fish species. Michigan also continued to build staff capacity for the AIS program, and implemented priority activities identified in the SMP with a focus on preventing entry and spread of AIS within the State

.
**Minnesota:** Minnesota plans to develop AIS Rapid Response Plans
, conduct watercraft inspections , and purchase pressure washing equipment to prevent spread of AIS from in fested areas
, increase AIS outreach and enforcement efforts
, conduct AIS management and early detection monitoring actions
, and provide grants for Tribal and local AIS prevention.

**Ohio:** Ohio plans to identify species of greatest concern and manage invasi on pathways for those species , monitor AIS already established in Ohio through existing efforts
, initiate AIS control efforts at selected locations in Ohio
, develop an AIS Rapid Response Plan
, and provide targeted AIS outreach efforts.

**Wisconsin:** Wisconsi n began outreach to targeted areas with bait dealers and anglers
, focusing on best practices and bait hygiene. The S tate has increased AIS monitoring and tracking ; created websites for responsive reporting of findings; hired a Watercraft Inspection Coordin ator in cooperation with University of W isconsin Sea Grant to enhance watercraft inspection and compliance with laws . It has created educational media and signage at boat ramps to continue public outreach and education and provided counties within the Grea t Lakes Basin with funds to implement local AIS prevention, control, and education programs. Similar to the program established in Illinois, Wisconsin will soon begin work with bait dealers, anglers, and boaters to prevent introduction and spread of AIS within the waters of the State ; increase AIS monitoring efforts to include 500 water bodies annually; and enhance watercraft inspection and regulatory compliance. To increase monitoring efforts on Lake Michigan and its Wisconsin tributaries, the State is coordinating with The Nature Conservancy and the University of Notre Dame to begin collecting and analyzing sample s for eDNA presence.
With ongoing Great Lakes Restoration Initiative ( GLRI ) funds
, the Great Lakes states will have fully developed, revis ed, and implemented AIS management plans. Additionally, these plans willFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

39 include rapid response capabilities, mock exercises, and possibly actual rapid response actions. The plans will promote coordinated education and outreach that will prevent introducti on and spread of invasive species through recreational uses such as hunting, fishing, and boating. The se activities will also support implementation of on

- t he

- g round AIS management actions for each of the Great Lakes states.



## 3.9 Asian Carp Efforts Downstream o f the Electric Barrier System
A great deal of effort has focused on the areas downstream of the Electric Barrier System within the Illinois River to reduce the pressure of Asian carp population s near the electric barriers

. Beginning with this Framework, i n addition to the monitoring and commercial fishing endeavors discussed in previous sections, strategy will shift toward a biological control program for Asian carp with in this area. A goal of the ACRCC is to expand a sustainable Asian carp biological contr ol program throughout the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basin s . Given that Asian carp are already well established throughout the Mississippi River Basin , this type of control program will be essential to slow their spread and prevent their establishme nt with in waterway systems where they have not been present . The areas downstream of the electric barrier systems will be at the forefront of this control program as efforts expand. The following examples highlight current and future efforts : **Asian carp r emoval below the electric dispersal barrier system**  **–** This program was started in

2010 , and through 2011 over 420 tons of bighead and silver carp had been removed from the Illinois River. The majority of the fish caught were more than 65 miles south of Lake Michigan and over 30 miles south of the electric barrier system. This program will continue.

**Future research applications**  – The waterway areas below the electric barrier system where Asian carp are well established and plentiful could serve in test s of applications that have been researched and developed as part of the Asian carp control program.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

40 **The USGS “**  **O ral Delivery System” One Potential Component for the Asian Carp**  **Biological Control Program** The USGS is working to develop a species

- specific oral delivery system. As discussed in Section 3.6, this technology possibly could deliver bioactive agents (like a toxin) that are encapsulated within engineered particles sized for Asian carp ingestion and designed to release their bioactive payload only under certain conditions (such as presence of specific enzymes present in the target species). This technology is currently used commercially for salmon to deliver a coloring agent and a vaccine in feeds; the oral delivery system stabilizes the colorant and the vaccine as the se pass through the salmon stomach , and then release them for absorption in the intestine where the enzymes required to break apart the particle are present. Research thus far with bighead carp and silver carp has indicated that the fish are actively eating the particles. Research is also in progress to confirm the particle size at which they most efficiently filter the particle for consumption
, as well as to identif y the enzymes that would trigger the bioactive agent release. USGS and the ACRCC believe this will play an important role in Asian carp biological control efforts.
Once refined, this type of species

- specific delivery system may also play a key role in management of other invasive species. Species such as the zebra and quagga mussels, of great concern in and around the Great Lakes, are also filter feeders similar to Asian carp. As this technology is further refined, these species may be targeted for removal or control.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

41 

## 4.0 **AGENCY COORDINATION AND ROLES AGAINST ASIAN CARP** 
Federal, state, and local agencies with jurisdictional authority and/or vested interest in defending the Great Lakes against the potential establishment of Asian carp came together to form the ACRCC and present a unified front in the ongoing efforts.



## 4.1 ACRCC Coordination
The ACRCC, with support from federal, state, and local agencies and other private stakeholder entities, will implement actions to protect and maintain the integrity and safety of the Great Lakes ecosystem from an Asian carp invasion via all incoming pathways. This Framework will lay out the strategy and present the proposed action items to carry out this go al.

Exhibits 8 and 9 below depict the relationship of the primary agenc ies or governmental groups involved in implementation of the Framework

. The relationship is non

- linear because of the need for harmonized input from each group in all facets of the Fra mework

. The Executive Committee consists of senior managers from key federal agencies. The ACRCC is comprised of agencies with operational and coordinating authority over work relevant to the CAWS and the Great Lakes . The
two workgroups bracketing the ACRC C are tasked with the specific responsibilities laid out in the Framework

.

**Exhibit 8**  **. The ACRCC Organization**FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

42 The third group
, Non

- Federal Technical and Policy Group
, is a stand

- alone entity providing input to the ACRCC workgroups. T he stakeholder groups identified in Exhibit 9 below, led by representatives from their respective communities/agencies /organizations , compose and advise the Non

- Federal Technical and Policy Group

.
**Exhibit 9**  **. Non** 

**- Federal Technical and Policy Group** 

4.1.1 Monitoring and Rapid Response Workgroup This workgroup of the ACRCC is tasked with monitoring and response efforts within the CAWS and at the leading edge of the present Asian carp boundaries. This workgroup is generally composed of fisheries biologists and scientific ex perts from the GLFC, IL DNR, IEPA, IN DNR, USFWS, and USACE. In 2010
, the MRRWG created a MRRP for the CAWS and revised this plan in 2011 with the overall goal of preventing Asian carp from establishing self

- sustaining populations in the CAWS and subsequen tly Lake Michigan. Five strategic objectives are identified in the plan to accomplish the overall goal. These objectives are:

1. Determine the distribution and abundance of any Asian carp in the CAWS, and use this information to inform rapid response removal actions

. 2. Remove any Asian carp in the CAWS to the maximum extent practicable

. 3. Identify, assess, and react to any vulnerability in the current system of barriers to exclude Asian carp from moving into the CAWS

.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

43 4. Determine the leading edge of major Asian car p populations and reproductive success of those populations

. 5. Improve understanding of the likelihood that Asian carp could become established in the Great Lakes

. The MRRWG carries out these objectives through collective efforts by member agencies. The

wo rkgroup oversees eDNA collection, commercial fishing, netting, electrofishing, and other collection operations
, and then interpret s the data obtained to offer informed recommendations to the ACRCC.

4.1.2 Communications and Outreach Workgroup (CWG) The purpose of the CWG is to facilitate internal and external communication on Asian carp control efforts of the ACRCC. Communication audiences include (1) elected officials, (2) the public with special attention to key constituents, (3) media (4) internal ACRCC members, and (5 ) ACRCC Work Groups, Framework Science Coordination groups, and other relevant groups outside the ACRCC.
Communication efforts support the ACRCC as it develops and executes short - and long

- term strategies for preventing Asian carp mo vement above the electric barrier system in the CAWS
, and other monitoring and control activities in other areas of the Great Lakes Basin. T he CWG does not intend to supplant or supersede actions of the ACRCC members.
The CWG has communication representat ives from the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), USFWS, USEPA, USACE, U.S. Coast Guard, USGS, the Great Lakes states, GLFC
, and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. All members of the ACRCC are invited to establish representation on the CWG.

The CWG is currently co

- chaired by a representative of the USFWS and IL DNR. The chair has primary responsibility for the group’s management, organization , and operation **,** but the work is shared among the CWG members. One or both co

- chair positions may be filled by a CWG member from another agency deemed appropriate by the CWG.

The CWG is divided into sub

- committees consisting of appropriate agency communication representatives. Subcommittees include agency representatives from legislative affairs, mediaFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

44 relatio ns, and public/stakeholder outreach. At this time, the CWG has two standing sub

committees : the Key Constituents Sub

- committee and the Media Sub

- committee. Specific efforts of the CWG include, but are not limited to the following:

• Work in collaboration wi th ACRCC members to foster internal communications among ACRCC members

.

• Update and maintain **www.asiancarp.us** web site and other social media to reach the general public

.

• Distribute comments, concerns
, and questions r eceived by external audiences to appropriate response agency

.

• Respond to media requests or filter to appropriate response agency

.

• Coordinate on

- site or telephonic media events, including press announcements
, regarding new Asian carp control efforts

.

• Coord inate public forums/meetings

.

• Provide outreach to municipal leaders, Tribal leaders, and other interested parties

.

• Serve in advisory capacity to the ACRCC on communication needs

.

• Develop other outreach products for public use

.


## 4.2 Agency Roles, Responsibilities, and/or Authorities
This section generally describes the jurisdictions, authorities, and roles of the agencies and governmental units participating in this Framework. This is meant to be an informal description of these agencies with respe ct to the actions discussed in this Framework, and is not meant to restrict or assign responsibilities and authorities belonging to the agencies under their implementing statutes and regulations.

• **City of Chicago** Jurisdiction: Exercises home rule authori ty within municipal limits. Authority: Municipal. Role: Supports the work of other agencies, particularly those actions within the City of Chicago, and performs law enforcement, patrol, and emergency response duties along the lakefront and inland waterways within the City's jurisdiction.

• **Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC)** Jurisdiction: G reat Lakes Fishery Convention Act allowing implementation of a convention of Great Lakes Fisheries between Canada and the United States. Authority: Bilateral treaty. Role: Coordinate, communicate, and conduct fishery resource management actions on the Great Lakes.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

45 • **Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IL DNR)** Jurisdiction: Investigations pertaining to the natural history, entomology, zoology, and botany of the State; the geology and natural resources of the State; the water and atmospheric resources of the State; and the archeological and cultural history of the State of Illinois. Authority: State. Role: Lead agency for work relating to monitoring, sampling, fish removal actions, and rapid response activities within the State.

• **Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA)** Jurisdiction: IEPA’s mission is to safeguard environmental quality, consistent with the social and economic needs of the State, so as to protect health, welfare, property and the quality of life. Authority: State. Role: Ensure that Illinois' rivers, streams
, and lakes support all uses for which they are designated
, including protection of aquatic life, recreation
, and drinking water supplies.

• **Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IN DNR)** Jurisdiction: May investigate, compile, and disseminate information and make recommendations concerning the natural resources of Indiana and the ir conservation; and may cooperate with other governmental entities and public and private institutions in carrying out these powers. Authority: State. Role: Lead agency for work relating to monitoring, sampling, fish removal actions, and rapid respons e activities within the State of Indiana.

• **Office of the Great Lakes (OGL); Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MI DEQ),**  Jurisdiction: Within Michigan’s waters of the Great Lakes, the OGL collaborates with partners to support sustainable use of coastal resources, coordinate restoration of severely degraded areas, manage water quality and quantity, prevent aquatic invasive species, and engage in emerging issues. Authority: State. Role: The Office of the Great Lakes leads policy development and implements programs to protect, restore, and sustain the world’s premier freshwater lakes.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

46 • **Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MI DNR)** Jurisdiction: In the S tate’s waters, the Department is responsible for management and protection of the Great Lakes fishery resources in regards to recreational, commercial, and tribal fisheries interests
, and for the conservation and protection of biodiversity and aquatic habitats. Authority: State. Role: Provide leadership for strategic monitoring assessment, response, and public communication in Michigan as they pertain to Asian carp. Assist other states as requested in these activities.

• **Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR)** Jurisdiction: Mission is to work with citizens to conserve and manage the S tate’s natural resources, to provide recreational opportunities, and to provide for commercial uses of natural resources in a way that creates a sustainable quality of life. Authority: State. Role: Managing, protecting, and regulating the S tate’s fish and wildlife resources.

• **New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NY DEC)** Jurisdiction: Mission is to conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment
, and to prevent, abate
, and control water, land
, and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety
, and welfare of the people of the S tate and their overall economic and social well

- being. Authority: State. Role: Responsible for the conservation and enhancement of Ne w York State's abundant and diverse populations of freshwater fishes while providing the public with quality recreational angling opportunities. Serves as the lead agency for work involving the prevention and control of invasive species in New York's waters. Cooperation and coordination with other jurisdictions in the Great Lakes fisheries arena is routinely pursued through the GLFC.

• **Ohio Department of Natural Resources (OH DNR)** Jurisdiction: Responsible for the protection, development, conservation
, and management of Ohio’s natural resources, including: managing the S tate’s natural resources for sustainable productivity; protecting Ohio’s native plant and animal species; developing industry and tourism opportunities and supporting the present and future economic health of the S tate ; providing recreational opportunities for the public at all levels; and protecting health, safety
, and biodiversity through fair and consistent law enforcement. Authority: State. Role: Lead agency in Ohio for fish research, fish sampling and monitoring, rapid response actions, as well as operation and maintenance of certain canal lands within the S tate

.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

47 • **Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP)** Jurisdiction: Lead agency for enforcement of the Pennsylv ania Clean Streams Law, Pennsylvania Water Quality Standards (25 PA Code Chapter 93) and delegated portions of the federal Clean Water Act. Water Quality Standards consist of Protected Water Uses (including Aquatic Life Uses)
, as well as the Water Quality Criteria necessary to protect them. PA DEP's Coastal Resources Management Program has various policies to prevent the introduction and spread of AIS. Authority: State. Role: Permitting of pesticide applications needed for Asian carp response; monitorin g and surveillance for Asian carp; supporting Asian carp rapid assessment and response; general scientific support as needed.

• **Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PA FBC)** Jurisdiction: Responsib le for all aquatic organisms in the Commonwealth of Pennsylv ania and shares enforcement responsibilities regarding aquatic resource issues with the PA DEP. Authority: State. Role: Primary responsibility for threat assessment and monitoring of all Pennsylvania AIS occurrences, including Asian carp, and has lead responsibility for initiating the S tate ’s AIS rapid response plan when deemed necessary.

• **Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR)** Jurisdiction: Natural resources, conservation, outdoor recreation, and environmental quality in the State of Wiscons in. Authority: State. Role: Cooperate and support any activities which lead to the immediate and complete ecological separation of the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins in the Chicago area. Cooperate and support any activities which evaluate and eliminate other potential ecological pathways between the Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins in Wisconsin.

• **Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)** Jurisdiction: Surface water, municipal wastewater treatment for the metropolitan Chicago area (including almost all of Cook County), control of combined sewer overflows, dry and wet weather operation of the CAWS. Authority: Regional. Role: Supports the work of other agencies and implements designated action items to t he extent allowed by its statutory wastewater and stormwater authority.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

48 • **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)** Jurisdiction: Implementation of technical assistance and management

- oriented research programs that support coastal zone manag ement. Authority: Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. § 1456c) and the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 (P.L.

101

- 636). Role: Funding of research studies and activities. Additionally, t he Great Lakes Environ mental Research Laboratory of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall provide technical assistance to appropriate entities to assist in the research conducted pursuant to this subsection.

• **United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)** Juri sdiction: Planning, construction, and operation of navigation and flood damage reduction projects; hydropower operations; environmental protection and restoration; water conservation, recreation, and disaster assistance. Authority: Federal. Role: Ope ration of the CAWS Lock and Dam System and the Electric Barrier System.

• **United States Coast Guard (USCG)** Jurisdiction: Navigable waterways. Authority: Federal Authority; Port and Waterways Safety Act of 1972 and other legislation. Role: Ensure the saf ety, security, and environmental protection of the Great Lakes and the Western Rivers. The Coast Guard manages waterways through Regulated Navigation Areas, and safety and security zones. Regulates the marine industry and supports the marine transportation system.

• **U nited States**  **Department of Transportation (US DOT)/Maritime Administration (MARAD)**  Authority: Federal Role: Supports the maritime transportation system and coordinates with marine transportation stakeholders.

• **United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)**  Jurisdiction: Coordination of federal Great Lakes policy and activities. Authority: Federal Great Lakes protection and restoration policy and efforts provided in Clean Water Act (CWA) 118, Executive Order 13340 and other legisla tion

. Role: Coordination and funding.

• **United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)** Jurisdiction: Implementation of activities in support and enforcement of the Lacey Act, Endangered Species Act, Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, Great LakesFY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

49 Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, and the Non

- indigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act as amended; and supporting activities to include fish and AIS monitoring, risk assessment, and law enforcement. Authority: Federal. Role: Coordination with federal, state, tribal, and non

- governmental partners on actions to prevent the introduction and establishment of AIS or to mitigate resource impacts from introduced species.

• **United States Geological Survey (USGS)** Jurisdiction: Performance of surveys, investigations and research covering topography, geology, hydrology, biology
, and the mineral and water resources of the United States, its territories
, and possessions. Authority: Federal. Role: Provide leadership, technical expertise, and information needed to develop management tools to better predict ranges and effects of AIS; and to contain, reduce, or eradicate their populations.

• **White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ)** Authority: Federal – CEQ coordinates federal environmental efforts and works closely with agencies and other White House offices in the development of environmental policies and initiatives. Role: CEQ is closely monitoring the development and execution of the Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework.

• **International Involvem ent**  Canada has followed the Asian carp issue closely, and has offered its assistance to U.S. efforts to keep the species from establishing a presence in the Great Lakes. In October, the Canadian Minister of Fisheries and Oceans launched a bi

- national initi ative to assess the risk that Asian carp pose to the Great Lakes. The risk assessment will be the first such joint effort

. The bi

- national GLFC will facilitate the project
, which should take about 18 months to complete

. The Canadian government has committe d over $400,000 to the risk assessment effort.FY2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework February 2012

50 

## 5.0 **STAKEHOLDER PARTICIP ATION** 
The effectiveness of the actions summarized in the Framework can be significantly enhanced through effective communication and increased participation by other agencies and stakeholders. To facilitate this, the ACRCC has developed a strategic communication plan that provides opportunities to inform the public and other stakeholders about key Asian carp control activities including implementation of control actions, development of new control technologies
, and progress toward Framework goals.
One of the primary efforts to garner public participation and involvement was the recent institution of regularly scheduled public forums across the Great Lakes Basin. At these meetings, the ACRCC invites stakeholders and user groups to provide input and comments on the Framework. Ongoing stakeholder input is necessary in both individual actions within this Framework and in further development of the Framework itself.

T he revamped ACRCC Asian carp website at **www.asiancarp.us** also provides opportunities for stakeholder involvement. This new website offers extensive information regarding all aspects of the ACRCC actions, and includes links to other important federal, state
, and other relevant actions. Specific communication outreach actions are targeted in the 2012 Framework and are being implemented concurrently with the program s in the Framework
, including:

• Implementation of a Strategic Communication Plan as part of this Framework. The plan outlines communication tools, methods, and protocols that will provide timely and transparent information to multiple target audience groups including elected officials, states, tribes, key constituents, and the media

• Development of opportunities for public comment including the regularly scheduled public forums occurring across the Great Lakes Basin

• Maintenance of the primary online communica tion tool **www.asiancarp.us** to disseminate announcements and provide information on ACRCC activities; a new “How to Help” section is being established on the website

• Release of both interim and final reports, findings
, and studies as information becomes available

• C oordination of on

- s ite or telephonic media events, including press announcements regarding new Asian carp control efforts or other important related actions or findings

• O utreach to municipal leaders, tribal l eaders, and other interested parties

.

# Appendix A **2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Matrix – Funding by Agency** FY 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Matrix - Funding by Agency February 2012

Page 1 of 2 GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base GLRI Base
2.1.1 Enhanced Monitoring Efforts Above and Below the Electric Barrier System $2,257,417 $0

2.1.2 Monitoring (Electrofishing) and Rapid Response Team Support $650,000 $0

2.1.3 Support for Asian Carp Rapid Response in the Great Lakes Basin $700,000 $0

2.2.1 Commercial Fishing for Removal Below Lockport Pool $1,200,000 $0

2.2.2 Illinois River Stock Assessment/Management Alternatives $1,300,000 $0

2.2.3 Investigation of Certification Requirements for Asian Carp Usage $0 $0

2.3.1 By-Pass Barrier Operations $0 $1,000,000

2.3.2 Electric Barriers Operation and Improvement (formerly Expedited Contruction of Barrier IIB) $0 $21,500,000 $75,000 $0

2.3.3 Modified Structures and Operations $0 $65,000

2.3.4 Electric Barrier Effectiveness (formerly Tagged Fish) $1,100,000 $1,000,000

2.3.5 Eagle Marsh Temporary Barrier Fence Maintenance $50,000 $0

2.3.6 Wabash-Maumee ANS Controls Report $0 $0

2.3.7 CSSC Electric Fish Barrier Marine Safety Risk Assessment and Risk Mitigation Measures $150,000 $98,000

2.3.8 Waterway Traffic Management in Support of Asian Carp Control Activities $210,000 $0

2.4.1 Efficacy Study $0 $500,000 2.4.2 GLMRIS Focus Area I: CAWS $0 $3,000,000

2.4.3 Feasibility Assessment of Inter-Basin Transfer of Aquatic Invasive Species Between the Des Plaines River and CAWS $0 $0

2.4.4 Ecological/Biological Risk Assessments $500,000 $0

2.4.5 Forecasting Spread and Bio-economic Impacts of AIS from Multiple Pathways $687,617 $60,000

2.4.6 GLMRIS II: Other Area Pathways $300,000 $0

2.4.7 Wabash-Maumee Hydrologic Support to Prevent Interbasin Transfer of Asian Carp $85,000 $0

2.4.8 Risk Assessment Coordination $0 $0

2.4.9 Assessment of Silver and Bighead Carp Movement and Spawning Activities in the Wabash River Watershed, Indiana $0 $0

2.4.10 Enhanced GLMRIS Stakeholder Engagement $200,000 $0

2.5.1 Investigate Tow Boats and Barges as Potential Vectors $0 $0

2.5.2 Assessment Study of Potential Impacts of Steelhulled Barges on Fish Movement Across Electric Barrier II $500,000 $0

2.5.3 Research on the Impacts of Potential Asian Carp Vectors Being a Source of Fish or eDNA Movement in the CAWS $650,000 $0 $50,000 $0 $200,000 $0

2.5.4 Assessing Risks of Great Lakes Invasion by Understanding Asian Carp and Bluegreen Algae Dynamics $0 $0

2.5.5 Risk Assessment of Asian Carp Establishment in the Great Lakes Based on Available Food Sources $0 $0

2.5.6 Use of Seismic Technology to Divert or Eradicate Invasive Asian Carp $50,000 $500,000 $675,000 GLFC Title Action Item* USFWS-IL DNR USFWS-IN DNR NOAA USACE USCG USEPA USFWS USGSFY 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Matrix - Funding by Agency February 2012

Page 2 of 2 2.5.7 Expand Research on the Identification of Asian Carp Attraction/Repulsion Pheromones $0 $240,000

2.5.8 Identify Potential Compounds for Inclusion in a Toxicant Screening Program $0 $250,000

2.5.10 Developing Targeting Control Systems for Asian Carp Based on Species-Specific Digestive System Characteristics $0 $80,000

2.5.11 Great Lakes' Tributary Assessment for Asian Carp Habitat Suitability $0 $225,000

2.5.12 Technologies Using Oral Delivery Platforms for Species-Specific Control $0 $1,025,117

2.5.15 Develop Alternate Traps and Net Designs to Enhance Asian Carp Capture Rates $600,000 $0

2.5.16 Development of a Rapid and Quantitative GeneticBased Asian Carp Detection Method $0 $0

2.5.17 Chicago Area Waterway System Monitoring Network Evaluation $190,000 $0

2.5.18 Asian Carp Control Methods Coordination $0 $0
2.5.19 Seismic Monitoring for Asian Carp Water Gun Deployment $213,700 $0

2.5.20 Deterrence/Destruction of Asian Carp using Resonant Frequency $0 $0

2.5.21 Other Science Contributing to Asian Carp Control Efforts $100,000 $556,883

2.6.1 eDNA Monitoring of the CAWS $650,000 $0

2.6.2 USFWS Capacity for eDNA Sampling for Early Detection $0 $300,000

2.6.3 eDNA Calibration and Increased Efficiency $1,925,000 $0 $225,000 $0

2.6.4 USFWS Region 3 Fisheries Capacity for eDNA Processing $460,000 $700,000

2.6.5 eDNA Genetic Marker Development $70,000 $0 $100,000 $0 $50,000 $0

2.6.6 Environmental DNA Surveillance - Applied Early Detection $0 $0

2.7.1 Investigation of Northeast Illinois' Bait Shops $30,000 $0

2.7.2 Increased Lacey Act Enforcement of Illegal Transport of Injurious Wildlife $400,000 $0

2.7.3 Community Action Initiatives to Increase Awareness, Surveillance, and Enforcement of Unlawful Live Asian Carp $400,000 $0

2.7.4 Public Outreach through Website Development $50,000 $0

2.7.5 Asian Carp Education and Outreach $98,000 $0 2.7.6 Asian Carp Video Footage $0 $0

2.7.7 Communications, Outreach, and Education Displays for Public Consumption $0 $0

2.7.8 USFWS Early Detection Workshop $30,000 $0 2.8.1 State and Interstate AIS Management Plans $0 $0

2.8.4 USFWS Great Lakes Asian Carp Monitoring Program $150,000 $1,000,000

2.9.1 USEPA Support for Asian Carp Activities $2,232,983 $0 $785,617 $60,000 $5,445,000 $27,065,000 $360,000 $98,000 $2,232,983 $0 $3,090,000 $2,000,000 $1,638,700 $3,052,000 $5,787,417 $0 $50,000 $0 $0 $0

Notes:

* Each Action Item reflects the 2011 Framework number assigned to it. New 2012 action items were numbered following the categorization used in the 2011 framework. Agency Total: GLRI and Base Funding Total FY 2012 Agency Base funding planned $32,275,000

Total Planned FY 2012 Funding: GLRI and Base $51,664,717 Total Fy 2012 GLRI funding requested $19,389,717

# Appendix B **2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework Action Items** 

## Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee



# 2012 Asian Carp **Control Strategy Framework**  **: Appendix B: Action Items**



# February 2012Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

i 

## Table of Contents

2.1 Targeted Monitoring Assessment Activities Above and Below the Electric Barrier System

...... 1

2.1.1 Enhanced Monitoring Above and Below Electric Barriers

................................................ 1

2.1.2 USFWS Monitoring and Rapid Response Team Support in CAWS

................................ . 6
2.1.3 Support for Asian Carp Rapid Response in the Great Lakes Basin

................................... 8 2.2 Commercial Harvesting and Removal Actions below the Electric Barrier System

..................... 9

2.2.1 Contract Fishing for Asian Carp Removal

......................................................................... 9

2.2.2 Illinois River Stock Assessment/Management Alternatives

............................................ 10 2.2.3 Investigation of Certification Requirements for Asian Carp Usage

................................ 16 2.3 Electric Barrier Actions and Waterway Separation Measures

..................................................... 18
2.3.1 By

- Pass Barrier Operations

............................................................................................... 18
2.3.2 Electric Barriers Operation and Improvement (formerly Expedited Construction of Barrier IIB)

......................................................................................................................... 19 2.3.3 Modified Structures and Operations

............................................................................... 20 2.3.4 Electric Barrier Effectiveness (formerly Tagged Fish)

...................................................... 21 2.3.5 Eagle Marsh Temporary Barrier Fence Maintenance

...................................................... 25 2.3.6 Wabash

- Maumee Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Controls Report

............................ 26
2.3.7 Chicago Sanitary & Ship Canal (CSSC) Electric Fish Barrier Marine Safety Risk Assessment a nd Risk Mitigation Measures

..................................................................... 27 2.3.8 Management of Waterway Traffic in Support of Asian Carp Control Activities

........... 29 2.4 CAWS Barrier System and Great Lakes Mississippi River Study Activities

............................... 31 2.4.1 Efficacy Study

.................................................................................................................... 31 2.4.2 GL MRIS Focus Area I: Chicago Area Waterway System

................................................ 32 2.4.3 Feasibility Assessment of Inter

- Basin Transfer of Aquatic Invasive Speci es (AIS) between the Des Plaines River and CAWS

....................................................................... 33 2.4.4 E cological/Biological Risk Assessments

.......................................................................... 34 2.4.5 Forecasting Spread and Bio

- economic Impacts of AIS from Multiple Pathways to Improve Management and Policy in the Great Lakes

..................................................... 35 2.4.7 Wabash/Maumee Hydrologic Support to Prevent Interbasin Transfer of Asian Carp . 39 2.4.8 Risk Assessment Coordination

......................................................................................... 41 2.4.9 An Assessment of Silver and Bighead Carp Movement and Spawning Activities in the Wabash River Watershed, Indiana

.................................................................................. 42 2.4.10 Enhanced GLMRIS Stakeholder Eng agement

................................................................ . 44 2.5 Research and Technology Development

..................................................................................... 45 2.5.1 I nvestigate Tow Boats and Barges as Potential Vectors

.................................................. 45 2.5.2 Assessment Study of Potential Impacts of Steel

- hulled Barges on Fish Movement across Electric Barrier II

................................................................................................... 46
2.5.3 Research on Potential Asian Carp Vectors as a Source of Fish or eDNA Movement in the CAWS

.......................................................................................................................... 47Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

ii 2.5.4 Assessing Risks of Great Lakes Invasion by Understanding Asian Carp and Bluegreen Algae Dynamics

................................................................................................................ 48
2.5. 5 Risk Assessment of Asian Carp Establishment in the Great Lakes Based on Available Food Sources

..................................................................................................................... 49 2.5.6 Use of Seismic Technology to Divert and Eradicate Asian Carp

.................................... 50 2.5.7 Expand Research on the Identification of Asian Carp Attraction/Repulsion Pheromones

....................................................................................................................... 51 2.5.8 Identify Potential Compounds for Inclusion in a Toxicant Screening Program for Control of Asian Carp

....................................................................................................... 53 2.5.10 Developing Targeted Control Systems for Asian Carp Based on Species

- Specific Digestive System Characteristics

..................................................................................... 55 2.5.11 Great Lakes’ Tributar y Assessment for Asian Carp Habitat Suitability

......................... 57 2.5.12 Technologies Using Oral Delivery Platforms for Species

- Specific Control

................... 59 2.5.15 Develop Alternate Traps/Technologies to Enhance Asian Carp Capture Rates

........... 63 2.5.16 Development of a Rapid and Quantitative Genetic

- Based Asian Carp Detection Method

.............................................................................................................................. 66
2.5.17 Chicago Area Waterway System Monitoring Network Evaluation

................................ 68 2.5.18 Asian Carp Control Methods Coordination

.................................................................... 70 2.5.19 Seismic Monitoring for Asian Carp Water Gun Deployment

.......................................... 71 2.5.20 Deterrence/Destruction of Asian Carp Using Resonant Frequency (Continuous Wave Sonar)

................................................................................................ ................................ 72 2.5.21 Other Science Contributing to Asian Carp Efforts

.......................................................... 73 2.6 eDNA Analysis and Refinement

.................................................................................................. 75 2.6.1 eDNA Monitoring of the CAWS

...................................................................................... 75 2.6.2 USFWS Fisheries Program Capacity for eDNA Sampling for Early Detection

.............. 76 2.6.3 eDNA Calibration and Increased Efficie ncy

.................................................................... 78 2.6.4 USFWS Fisheries Program Capacity for eDNA Sample Processing

............................... 80 2.6.5 eDN A Genetic Marker Development

................................................................................ 81 2.6.6 Environmental DNA Surveillance – Applied Early Detection

........................................ 82 2.7 Enforcement and Outreach Activities

......................................................................................... 86
2.7.1 Outreach to Northeast Illinois' Bait Shops

...................................................................... 86
2.7.2 Increased Lacey Act Enforcement of Illegal Transport of Injurious Wildlife

................ 87
2.7.3 Community Action Initiatives to Increase Awareness, Surveillance, and Enforcement of Unlawful Live Asian Carp

............................................................................................ 88
2.7.4 Increased Web Outreach

................................................................................................ . 90 2.7.5 Asian Carp Outreach and Education

................................ ............................................... 91 2.7.6 Asian Carp Video Footage

................................................................................................ 92 2.7.7 Communications, Outreach, and Education Displays for Public Consumption on the Threats of Asian Carp to the Great Lakes Ecosystem and Economy

.............................. 94 2.7.8 Early Detection Workshop

............................................................................................... 95Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

iii 2.8 Funding Opportunities and Agency Preparation for AIS

........................................................... 97 2.8.1 State and Interstate AIS Management Plans

................................................................... 97 2.8.4 USFWS Great Lakes Asian Carp Monitoring Program

................................................... 98
2.9 Other Asian Carp Support Activities

......................................................................................... 100 2.9.1 Other Asian Carp Support Activities

.............................................................................. 100

Note: The template numbers in this document reflect the action item numbers assigned to them in the 2011 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework

. Newly proposed action items submitted for inclusion in the 2012 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework have been catego rized according to the 2011 Framework and were assigned the next number in the series

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

1 

## 2.1 Targeted Monitoring Assessment Activities Above and Below the Electric Barrier System

2.1.1 Enhanced Monitoring Above and Below Electric Barriers **Lead Agency :**  Ill inois Department of Natural Resources (IL DNR )
**Agency Collaboration :**  IL DNR, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ( USACE ) , and U.S. Fish an d Wildlife Service ( USFWS ) worked continually and extensively on the creation of the Monitoring and Rapid Response Plan ( MRRP ) and monitoring efforts and plans

. **Fiscal Year ( FY**  **) 2012 Funding**  **:** $2, 257 ,417 Great Lakes Restoration Initiative ( GLRI ) funds

. **Project Explanation:** Work will include a continuation of extensive monitoring efforts in elevated risk areas to detect the presence of Asian carp and remove them, as necessary. Elevated areas are those previously identified through waterway characterization as preferable Asian carp habitat or where previous environmental deoxyribonucleic acid ( eDNA ) sampling indicated the presence of Asian carp deoxyribonucleic acid ( DNA ) in the area at the time of sample collection.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**

• February - March 2010 : Sampling with traditional electrofishing and netting gear and with use of commercial fishermen was carried out in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) above the Electric Barrier System

. Sampling targeted warm water discharges, backwater ha bitats, established fixed reaches, and other selected areas to maximize chances of encountering Asian carp
, and included reach

- wide electrofishing runs along the entire waterway above the barrier. No Asian carp were collected during these efforts.

o 100 person

- days expended.

o 132 electrofishing runs (effort = 72 hours)

.

o 124 trammel/gill net sets (effort = 10,600 yards of net).

• March – June 2010: A comprehensive MRRP for the CAWS and Upper Illinois River was developed. This plan was designed to systematically determine the distribution and abundance of Asian carp in the waterways, remove any Asian carp in the CAWS, and identify the location of the leading edge and reproduction of those populations.

• May

- June 2010: Completed were one large

- scale rotenone r apid response action on the Little Calumet River and two conventional gear rapid response actions (North Shore Channel and South Branch Chicago River near Bubbly Creek) in response to consecutive positive eDNA results at these locations.

o 721 person

- days ex pended.

o 2.6 miles of river treated with rotenone (173 acres).

o 26 electrofishing runs (effort = 32 hours).Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

2 o 61 trammel/gill net sets (effort = 9,533 yards of net).

o More than 70,000 fish from 44 species and two hybrid groups sampled, none of which

was bighead or silver carp

.

• June 22, 2010 : Commercial fishing crews working as part of the MRRP recovered one b ighead carp at the Northwest corner of Lake Calumet

. This capture confirmed the presence of live Asian carp in the CAWS above the barrier and resulted in 11 days of sampling in Lake Calumet, the Calumet River, and Calumet Harbor

.

• An additional 334 water samples from Lake Calumet (114), Calumet River and Harbor (95), and Indiana ports and harbors (125) were collected during July and August
, and analyzed for Asian carp DNA

. None of the DNA testing indicated the presence of bighead or silver carp DNA in any of the regions surveyed. Electrofishing and commercial netting efforts in both Lake Calumet and the Calumet River were increased. No additional Asian carp w ere found above the electric barrier.

• Fixed site sampling (electrofishing and netting) continued on a twice

- monthly schedule throughout the summer and fall

. These efforts expended 264 person

- days of labor
, and no Asian carp were caught or observed.

o 559 el ectrofishing runs (139.8 hours)

.

o 208 net sets (41,600 yards of net)

.

o O ver 36,000 fish (64 species and four hybrid groups) caught

.

• Three reach electrofishing samplings of the entire 70+ miles of the CAWS upstream of the Electric Barrier System were completed in 2010 to expand sample coverage in the CAWS

. This work was completed by the Illinois Natural History Survey ( INHS ) in collaboration with IL DNR and USACE.

o 69 person

- days of effort

.

o 292 electrofishing runs (73.0 hours)

.

o No Asian carp captured in a combined catch of over 2,700 fish from 33 species and three hybrid groups.

• Intense monitoring events in October and November 2010 in Lockport Pool downstream of the Electric Barrier System utilized conventional gear and hydroacoustic sonar for small and large fish capture
, with no Asian carp collected.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken**

• 2011 MRRP was drafted in cooperation with action agencies and Monitoring and Rapid Res ponse Workgroup ( MRRWG ).

• A gency sampling crews and contract commercial fishermen deployed in support of plan implementation:Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

3 o Five fixed sites upstream of the Dispersal Barrier each sampled with electrofishing gear and trammel/gill nets 18 times between 23 March and 9 December.

 Over 3,700 person

- hours of effort

.

 Over 200 hours of electrofishing completed and 65 miles of nets fished

.

 No bighead or silver carp captured or observed in a combined catch of over 57,000 fish representing over 60 species

.

o Three reach

- long electrofishing samplings of the entire 70+ miles of the CAWS upstream of the Electric Barrier System completed in 2011 to expand sample coverage in the CAWS (300 person

- hours) . This work completed by INHS. No Asian carp captured or seen during reach electrofishing.

o Sixteen fixed sites below the Dispersal Barrier sampled with electrofis hing gear and trammel/gill nets nine times from 29 March through 5 December

.

 Over 1,500 person

- hours of effort

.

 36 hours of electrofishing completed and nearly 47 miles of nets fished

.

 No bighead or silver carp captured in Lockport Pool

. O ne bighead carp observed in Brandon Road Pool but not captured. Total combined catch below the barrier of

over 10,000 fish. No silver carp and 20 bighead carp captured in Dresden Island Pool
, and 251 silver carp and 429 bighead carp taken from Marseilles Pool.

 Patterns in captures of Asian carp among pools in 2011 similar to those observed during 2010 sampling.

o Monitoring for Asian carp eggs and larvae at 16 stations throughout the Illinois and Chicago Area waterways from April through September.

 Over 600 samples collected

o No Asian carp eggs or larvae sampled upstream of Brandon Road Lock and Dam; downstream sample processing ongoing. Fourteen items of gear evaluated to assess effectiveness at capturing adult and juvenile Asian carp. Sampling over a ran ge of Asian carp densities at nine stations located throughout the Illinois and Chicago Area waterways during spring, summer, and fall 2011.

 Preliminary analysis of the data suggests electrofishing effective for sampling adult silver carp
, and large mesh h oop nets and trap nets effective for sampling bighead
carp.

 No bighead or silver carp sampled above Treats Island (near I

- 55 Bridge) in the Dresden Island Pool.

 Few Asian carp juveniles captured in any gear
, and the most upstream capture near Henry, Illino is , about 100 river miles downstream from the Dispersal Barrier.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

4 • Rapid response occurred to three consecutive eDNA

- positive sampling events in August

2011

— slightly larger than a level one response as outlined in the MRRP

.

o 1,066 person

- hours of effort

.

o Ov er 22 hours of electrofishing, 11 miles of trammel/gill net set, and two 880

- yard commercial seine hauls

.

o No bighead or silver carp captured in a combined catch of over 8,600 fish representing 39 species.

o Additional summary information available on www.Asiancarp.us

• In support of barrier maintenance, an Incident Management Team organized by IL DNR oversaw fish clearing operations to support the USACE. I ncreased water velocity, water gun technology, and remote sen sing techniques (side scanning sonar, hydro

- acoustics, and DIDSON cameras) were applied

. The operation successfully cleared the barrier area of fish > 12 inches (deemed the only Asian carp threat at the time within the area)

. S uccess of this event allowe d for barrier maintenance without use of a non

- discriminate fish piscicide (rotenone) to clear the barriers.

• Coordination with MRRWG occurred

.

• An Asian carp database was developed and maintained

.

• B ighead carp within two urban ponds near Chicago ( neither pond connected to other water bodies ) were assessed and removed; d etails are in a report entitled “ Bighead Carp in Illinois Urban Fishing Ponds ” ( December 2011 ) http://asiancarp.us/news/bigheadponds .htm

• eDNA surveillance was supported

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed**

IL DNR in collaboration with USACE and USFWS will c ontinue support of MRRP through enhanced monitoring above and below the Electric Barrier System, as in prior years. Monitoring of these elevated areas will include the following:

• A Barrier efficacy study of in

- situ effects of barrier on small fish

.

• Continua tion and support of c onventional monitoring, evaluation, coordination, and reporting for areas above and below the electric barrier

.

o Electrofishing and netting at MRRP

- designated areas and others requiring evaluation

.

o Rapid response development, barrier maintenance coordination.

o Continu a tion of contracts with commercial fishing crews to extensively sample within CAWS.

o D evelop ment of inc reased protocols for and implementation of detecting small fish (less than 6 inches) in the CAWS and near

- shore Lake Michigan areas (according toAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

5 the Holliman report
, these fish are less prone to repulsion at the electric barrier system when that operate s at 2.0 v olts /inch ) . Modified operation can deter smaller fish, but increased knowledge of these fish will inform managers of the risk for breaching the barrier
, as well as biology of the fish in nearby river segments

— valuable for sustained management.

o Enhanced eDNA data collection (IL DNR will continue to assist in acquisition of th ese data, minimizing travel
, and providing consistency).

o Deployment and support of gear developed under the FY 20 11 Alternate Traps and Net Design P roject within the CAWS to i ncrease detection ability.

o Monitoring and manag ement of commercial gear deployment within the CAWS

.

• Initial development of i ncreased surveillance farther into CAWS and Lake Michigan near

shore waters using commercial and/or conventional fisheries gear alre ady deployed in the CAWS. Additional sampling would enable acquisition of baseline data in these areas, and possibly additional grass carp capture and removal to gather information for ploidy
, environmental history, and growth in novel environments.

• Sam pling in CAWS and Upper Illinois Waterway of l arval, egg, and small young

- of

- year (YOY ) fish (less than approximately 6 inches that are 0 years old). Currently YOY fish exist well below the CAWS, approximately 150 mile s downstream near Chillicothe, Illinois. As the leading edge of the reproductive front, close monitoring is critical to understanding of risk to the CAWS by encroaching reproducing fish. Although no reproduction has been documented above Starved Rock, any change in this could greatly increa se numbers of fish challeng ing the electric barrier s.

• Building upon the actions undertaken in FY 20 11 , continuous evaluation of the monitoring data obtained
, and scientific review of strengths and weaknesses of the M RRP ; ensuing

s ymposium expected in order to identify any improvements or needed information.

• Lead role in develop ing 2012 MRRP based on 2011 results
, as well as coordinati ng and reporting all action under the plans.

• Complete surveys of Chicago urban fishing ponds to ensure that these do not contain Asian carp.
**Expected Milestones**

• Throughout 2012 : Evaluation of threat in CAWS

.

• Throughout 2012 : Continuing high level of surveillance

.

• Throughout 2012 : Contract commercial fishing surveillance in the CAWS and possibly

n ear -s hore Lake M ichigan

.

• Throughout 2012 : Application of new gear as developed

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

6 • Throughout 2012 : Weekly report s of monitoring results to Asiancarp. us , and updates to Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee ( ACRCC ) partners

.

• September 2012 : MRRP findings symposium.
**Outcomes/Output**

• Prevention of Asian carp establishment in CAWS threatening the Great Lakes through an active and adaptive monitoring and management program.

• Summary of sampling and response efforts

.

• Additional tools available to detect and/or remove Asian carp from deep water channels.

• From w orking with USFWS and others , a scientific evaluation of efforts at population level analysis based upon 2 years of intense effort (d raft report to be available in s pring 2012 ).

**Potential Hurdles**

• Unidentified pathways for expansion of Asian carp

.

• Timeline of funding and prevention of timely allocation of resources

.

• Very large system to find very rare fish

.


## 2.1.2 USFWS Monitoring and Rapid Response Team Support in CAWS **Lead Agency :**  USFWS
**Agency C ollaboration:**  IL DNR, USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 650 ,000 GLRI funds.

**P roject Explanation:**  This task encompasses long

- t erm monitoring and rapid response activities for Asian carp throughout the CAWS, both above and below the Electric Barrier System

. Th e enhanced sampling with both conventional (rotenone, electrofishing, netting) and novel gear (eDNA, DIDSON) will be used to document Asian carp population dynamics within the canal system and connecting waterways, provide data for modeling potential population movements (range expansion), and determine life stages of Asian carp potentially present

. Rapid response activities may be implemented where specific evidence indicates presence of Asian carp above the electric barriers
, or if a catastrophic event ne cessitates immediate action.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**  **:** Following the 2010 MRRP, IL DNR, USFWS, and USACE increased eDNA sample collection and extensive netting and electroshocking efforts in search of Asian carp above the barriers

. From June through Se ptember 2010, USFWS electrofished twice per month and completed 399 runs for a total of 100 hours

. Through this effort, over 25,000 fish from 46 species and two hybrid s were observed or handled. No Asian carp were observed through electrofishing.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

7 **FY 2011 A ctions Undertaken**  **:** USFWS teams will support Asian carp monitoring and rapid response activities throughout the region as necessary

. All monitoring techniques available may be used at designated areas in accordance with the February 2011 DRAFT “Monitoring and Rapid Response Plan for Asian Carp in the Upper Illinois River and Chicago Area Waterway System” developed by the ACRCC ’s MRRWG

. Service personnel served on this workgroup and helped author this Plan, along with staff from the USACE , IL DNR , U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ( USEPA ) , and U.S. Coast Guard ( USCG )

. The goal of the Plan is to prevent Asian carp from establishing self

- sustaining populations in the Great Lakes, and its objectives are to:

1. Determine the distribution and abundance of any Asian carp in the CAWS, and use this information to inform rapid response removal actions

.

2. Remove any Asian carp in the CAWS to the maximum extent practicable

. 3. Identify, assess, and react to any vulnerability in the current system of barriers tha t are to exclude Asian carp from moving into the CAWS

.
4. Determine the leading edge of major Asian carp populations and reproductive success of those populations

.
5. Improve understanding of the likelihood of Asian carp establish ment in the Great Lakes.

U SFWS will help its partners work to achieve th e goal s and objectives of the Plan

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  A USFWS team(s) will support Asian carp monitoring and rapid response activities throughout the region as necessary, and help implement actions ca lled for under the MRRP.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Development of ACRCC’s MRRP

.

• Support of Incident Command System (ICS) as needed.

• Provision of staff, equipment, supplies, and ICS team members as needed.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Attainment of goals and objectives of the MRRP

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Weather conditions.

• Staff availability.

• Possible negative impacts to commercial vessel traffic movement, recreational uses, and resident aquatic life (other than Asian carp ) from activities associated with this template.

• Possible public resistance to continuing monitoring and rapid response efforts.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

8 

## 2.1. 3 Support for Asian Carp Rapid Response in the Great Lakes Basin **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  Great Lakes States.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $70 0,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Current USFWS capacity for rapid response actions is largely restricted to the CAWS (via Task 2.1.2) or is limited in scope (Task 2.8.4). However, planned or ongoing early work to detect Asian carp will occur throughout the Great Lakes Basin (via Task 2.8.4) and near interbasin connection points specified in the Great Lakes Mississippi River Interbasin Study. Given possible need for multiple
, high

- cost , rapid response actions, additional response capacity is r equired

. Rapid response activities may be implemented where specific evidence indicates presence of Asian carp within the Great Lakes basin or near interbasin connections.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  USFWS participated in two rotenone

- based rapid respon se actions led by the Illinois DNR in the CAWS.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USFWS used funds provided by GLRI to purchase and store
2, 000 gallons of 5% rotenone liquid to retain on hand for Asian carp rapid response. The December 2009 and May 2010 rote none actions led by the Illinois DNR used 2,000 and
2, 200 gallons of rotenone, respectively. The quantity purchased will provide rotenone for a rapid response event similar in scale to those. USFWS is also prepared to purchase other chemicals and materials associated with rotenone use. In addition, USFWS assisted the Illinois DNR in a standard fishery gear

- based rapid response event triggered by positive silver carp eDNA results in Lake Calumet of the CAWS.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  USFWS will support rap id response actions led by states or other jurisdictions around the Great Lakes basin. To supplement these efforts, USFWS will continue to store rotenone and be prepared to purchase other associated chemicals and materials. Additional staff will be trained in ICS.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• February 2012 : A process in place to determine how rotenone and resources provided under this template may be used.

• Throughout FY 2012 : Provision by USFWS of support for any rapid response actions in the Great Lakes basi n or associated with interbasin connection points.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Satisfaction of needs of USFWS partners in addressing rapid response actions around the Great Lakes basin.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Local coordination, staffing, and logistics of rapid response actions.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

9 

## 2.2 Commercial Harvesting and Removal Actions below the Electric Barrier System

2.2.1 Contract Fishing for Asian Carp Removal **Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **FY 2012 Funding :**  $1,200,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** This program was established to reduce the numbers of Asian carp below the Electric Barrier System through controlled and contracted fishing efforts

. Reducing the number of Asian carp below the Electric Barrier System will reduce the opportunity for carp to test the barrier and therefore decrease the possibility of Asian carp moving across the barrier and gaining access to waters upstream of the Barrier

. This program has removed over 60 tons of Asian carp in 2010, and over 300 tons in 2011. This program also allow s for monitor ing population densities of Asian carp over time in the four pools immediately below the Electric Barrier System

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**

Contract c ommercial fish ermen harvested 5,633 Asian carp ( 1 22 , 428 pounds) from Marseilles Pool and 110 (2,358 pou nds) from Dresden Pool during 30 days of fishing

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 
Contracted commercial fishers and I L DNR biologists caught and removed o ver 23 ,000 bighead carp and 17 ,000 silver carp from Starved Rock, Marseilles, and Dresden Island pools of the Illinois River in 61 days of fishing . Combined, over 351.7 tons of Asian carp was removed from the river in

2011. Marked /recapture and remote sensing studies took place to estimate populations. Seasonal fluctuations are noted in population estimate s, as well as catch rates. These will be considered for future efforts, allowing for possibly more fish removal in the future. The catchable leading edge of carp does not appear to have moved farther upstream toward the CAWS and Lake Michigan.

**FY 2012 Actions Proposed**  **:**

T en commercial fishing crews are employed to c ontinue to h arvest and reduce population of Asian carp in the area between the Starved Rock Lock and Dam and the Electric Barrier System, approximately bi

- weekly. Harvested fish will be pick ed up and utilized by private industry under contract to IL DNR

. The harvest will indicate to managers changes in population/harvest rates and fish condition, further informing us of Asian carp population changes, important to the control of these species. Length/weight and catch rates will be reported bi

- weekly and monitored continuously. Scheduling of fishing effort will be targeted when fish are in high access areas, based on prior years ’ experience, allowing for similar effort to remove more fish.
Other monitoring will take advantage of removal efforts to gain valuable insight on movement of Asian carp responding to the density changes due to harvest up and down the waterway, as aAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

10 supplement to fixed site monitoring. Efficacy of reduction efforts w ill be gaged by monitoring by other components and Framework responses

. The removal efforts will support the MRRP and coordinate with results of peer review and recommendations upon conclusion of 2011 analyses

. **Expected Milestones:**

• September 30, 2012 : O verall reduction of biomass of Asian carp in river reaches below the Electric Barrier System
, thus reducing the t hreat of challenges to Electric Barrier System and lower ing the threat to the Great Lakes

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Ability to assess these populations by spring 2012 and adjust efforts to optimize impacts

.

• Population reduction.

• Assessment of efficacy of removal efforts by reference to added telemetry data (other projects) is expected to indicate success of removal efforts on a pool by pool ba sis and thus

success in prohibit ing upstream movement of Asian carp.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Increased immigration from out

- populations

.


## 2.2.2 Illinois River Stock Assessment/Management Alternatives **Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **Agency Collaboration :**  Southern Illinois University, Feeding Illinois
**FY 2012 Funding :**  **$** 1,3 00,000 GL RI funds.
**Project Explanation:** IL DNR will advance its work monitoring and developing insights into the strategies for addressing Asian carp in the Illinois River

. The primary objective is to understand population dynamics of Asian carp that would give insight into ability of directed harvest and other control measures to reduce overall populations within waters connecting to the Great Lakes
, and reduce movement of Asian carp upstream toward th e CAWS

. P opulation

- level effects and capabilities of harvest as a control strategy are outlined in the Management and Control Plan for Bighead, Black, Grass, and Silver Carps in the United States. IL DNR will continue current research and training programs for commercial fisherman
, as FY 20 11 results suggest these will aid development of successful control options

. Successful tools will be handed off to industry as identified. Understanding population dynamics is critical into 2012
, as the Asain carp commercial fishing industry continues to grow and expand. The focus could shift from the Illinois River then as recruitment/stock overfishing is realized.

Humanitarian Uses : E xpanding use of Asian carp for humanitarian purposes can be successful

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

11 • Asian carp humanitarian uses can scale up to the level we need to reduce population numbers.

• The b arrier for entry is low because of demand for low

- cost protein sources.

• We have positive feedback from initial meetings on product development with Fortune
25

- level partners active in this arena.

• Our primary humanitarian partner has an existing distribution system : eight regional food banks serving 102 Illinois Counties with over 2000 retail outlets.

• Partnerships within Illinois have formed
, enabling over 2,200 high

- quality meals to have been served to bolster nutritional programs within the S tate as part of ‘Target Hunger Now!’. This is one of the largest humanitarian efforts undertaken by the State of Illinois ; ultimately
, hopes are that this effort provides prote in

- rich meals, assist s in efforts to eradicate Asian carp, support s local fishing efforts and river industries, and create s jobs.

N ew research areas have been identified :

• Continued monitoring of Asian carp population s throughout the Illinois River, determining how populations affect movement of Asian carp upstream toward the Great Lakes

.

• Ongoing control effort evaluation and information regarding Asian carp populations fished and harvested in the upper Illinois River

.

• Determination of accura cy of cur rent assessments of Asian carp densities and biomass in the upper Illinois River.

• Determination whether upstream movement can be stopped at specific lock and dams in the upper Illinois River.

• Understanding linkage between populations in the lower Illinois River and populations in the upper Illinois River.

• Develop ment of population models for assessing risk of population increase in the upper Illinois Waterway (including tributaries).

**FY 2010 Actions Undertak en**  **:** Monitoring and e valuation e fforts in the Illinois River ( including near the electric barriers in the CAWS ) led to valuable baseline information regarding comparison with current population reduction efforts and evaluat ion of efficacy of methods appli ed to achieve that reduction

. Southern Illinois University presented these results to the ACRCC
, and has generated a report

. Asian carp flesh was collected for comprehensive contaminant analysis and compositional analysis

. These samples have been processed
, and the results are included in the report

. Contaminant analyses suggest:

• C ontaminant c oncentrations varied among individual Asian carp and were generally low.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

12 • Heavy metals such as mercury were generally low in these fish, although a few individuals ( about 10%) had concentrations that mandated limited consumption by sensitive people (e.g., pregnant women).

• Metal concentrations were low er than in most commercially important fish species.

• Organochlorine pesticides (e.g., chlordane) were present in some fish at low concentrations , with the highest proportion population affected in northern river reaches.

• Concentrations of PCBs were below the Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) action level for fish
, and were generally low compared to most commercially a vailable fishes.

• Other contaminant concentrations were low as well.

• IL DNR has results from a 2010 Illinois Environmental Protection Agency ( IL EPA ) fish contaminant analysis that helped induce a letter from the fish advisory board promot ing use of Asian carp for humanitarian aid

. These samples are at INHS labs with processing and results forthcoming.

The Asian carp Marketing Summit convened on September 20

- 21, 2010

. This two

- day meeting of various federal, state governmental agencies, private interests
, and university researchers discussed the ways and means to develop commercial harvesting of Asian carp as a solid resource management method

.
T he Fisheries and Illinois Aquaculture Center (FIAC) led a Certification, Incentive, and Development Program at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale (SIUC)

. The recently held Asian Carp Marketing Summit attended by federal, state, and private stakeholders recognized the importance of supporting commercial fishermen as a key component of the harvesting strategy.

• The first component supports existing and developing high

- value products

. This includes a pilot effort to support removal of Asian carp throughout the Mississippi and Illinois River systems via training, certification, incentive
, and marketing projects targeted at Illinois

- licensed commercial fishermen

.

• The second component, conducted independently of the first component and not eligible for incentives, is a targeted, research

- oriented fishing effort to understand the ecological effectiveness of harvestin g

. The FIAC
, in conjunction with a subset of Illinois

- licensed commercial fishermen
, will conduct limited removal trials to assess the effectiveness of harvesting one million pounds from specific reaches of the Illinois River

. This one

- million

pound goal w ill assist in evaluating this strategy as an appropriate management tool for control of Asian carp. The harvested Asian carp will be converted into fish meal

.

• The third component of this project is directed at gathering relevant marketing information to b etter improve methods of using markets to reduce Asian carp numbers

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

13 • I n 2010 , harvest efforts in the lower Illinois River began successfully, and seem to encourage belief that this activity can reduce upstream movement of Asian carp toward the upper Illin ois River

.
**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken** :

• Post

- processing of baseline hydro

- acoustic surveys has establish ed baseline population estimates of Asian carp from the upper Illinois River to the lower Illinois River

. Ongoing efforts will allow assessment of fishing pressure on standing stocks of Asian carp
, in turn enabl ing prediction of the total effort needed to achieve a lowered population level with in these reaches

.

• R esults of recent analys e s of contaminants within Asian carp flesh allowed the Illinois F ish Consumption Advisory Board to support use of Asian carp from the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers for humanitarian purposes.

• Determination that m ovement of Asian carp from lower reaches to upper reaches of the Illinois River is common and occurs rapidly

.

• Determination that Asian carp appear to have negative impacts on zooplankton and likely native fishes.

• A massive

- scale fish removal began, and is expected to reduce the Asian carp population within the central Illinois River by three million pounds. The effort should reduce the number of Asian carp moving toward the Great Lakes
, as well as allow assess ment and quantification of the efficacy of reduction efforts.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Using best science and understanding the harvest and stock/recruitment variables in the upper Illinois River, IL DNR is further developing dynamic models to forecast and predict effects of harvest , other control efforts, and breadth of Asian carp populations . This will provide science

based direction f or harvest and control strateg ies and regional regulatory oversight to achieve goals for (1) prevent ion of spread toward the CAWS and (2) further reduction of Asian carp populations. The 2012 activities will continue to include conducting monitor ing count s in the upper, central, and lower Illinois River
, and assess ing the effectiveness of harvest to maximize reduction and reduce movement of Asian carp toward the Great Lakes

. A goal is obtaining information about harvest success
, with the ultimate goal of extirpati ng Asian carp from the Illinois River. H owever , because achieving that goal will be difficult and perhaps unlikely with in our open systems , we must balance native species health with feasible reduction efforts in order to achieve maximum ecological benefit to the Illinois River watershed and connecting basins. The IL DNR emphasizes that it does not seek to impose future fishery manage ment to sustaina b le levels in Illinois or elsewhere. This challenge has also been noted in detail by the N ationalAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

14 Management and Control Plan for Bighead, Black, Grass, and Silver Carps in the Unit ed States (2007). As suggested in that Plan, an integrated management approach will seek to minimize danger to the native conditions while maximizing control effort s on Asian carp. IL DNR will also be completing pilot programs, identifying directions for growth
, and bringing industry up to current standards

.

• Counts

. B aseline density and weight estimate s are now available for Asian carp in the Illinois River, and these baselines and continual monitoring will be important . Also, the methods used to estimate the baseline require refinement with additional gear. This will inform man agers regarding need for and speed of alternatives and exit strategies, as well as suggesting direction for such strategies regarding harvest and other control efforts throughout the river

.

• Control estimate

. The amount of harvest and other control efforts necessary to reduce population size and reproductive output of the two Asian carp species is unknown. Information about the populations in the upper and lower Illinois River is being referenced to determine how much mortality is needed and where harvest and other control efforts need to be applied.

• Fishing removal. Removal efforts in the upper Illinois River will be evaluated
, in addition to continued evaluation of removal in the central/lower Illinois River. These efforts are expected to allow key mortality estimates and harvest estimates that will lead to a more accurate est imate of removal necessary to maintain a healthy ecolog y . This removal evaluation will increase the clarity of biological relationships between harvest and population growth.

• Environmental impact

. IL DNR will further study the impact of Asian carp on n ative species in the Illinois River. Changes in native species and their food are being quantified to assess the risk of an Asian carp invasion in the Great Lakes. This dynamic relationship will be monitored annually, up and down the Illinois River and in to the Great Lakes where practicable
, to maximize the accuracy of predictions based on research findings

.

• Movement

. The Asian carp populations in the Illinois River are not isolated
, and ongoing monitoring will evaluate annual differences. A monitoring n etwork extending into the CAWS is fixed

— thus tags are relatively cost

- effective and beneficial for quantifying how movement is influenced by the density of fish in the upper, central, and lower Illinois River.

• Origin. As Asian carp are reduced in the upper Illinois River, the contribution of migrating Asian carp from the Mississippi River must be assessed. Presumably
, control efforts underway throughout the Illinois River will reduce the probability of these n ew Asian carp arriving near the CAWS. Environmental chemical markers unique to rivers of origin will serve in the evaluat ion of this.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

15 **Expected Milestones :** 

• Ongoing 2012 : Continuing work of IL DNR with partnerships outside of the framework project on a n Asian carp humanitarian aid program

.

• October 2012 : Refine ment of techniques used to quantify population density and biomass of Asian carp in the upper Illinois River.

• October 2012 : Draft population estimate for all Illinois River populations of Asian carp

.

• October 2012 : Estimate of mortality of Asian carp as a result of control by harvest. This is critical for evaluating effort s at control

.

• October 2012 : Determin ation of patterns of movement in the upper Illinois River to CAWS as a function of river conditions and control efforts

.

• October 2012 : Evaluat ion of degree of migration into the upper Illinois River from downstream rivers

.

• October 2012 : Quantification of use of upstream locks and dams as potential secondary barriers.

• October 2012 : Arrangement of a population modeling summit to assess models and techniques to characterize Asian carp in the Illinois River and other rivers.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Provi sion of high

- quality protein products to Illinois food banks and other humanitarian aid u ses

.

• Ability to transfer knowledge, management actions, and control technologies obtained from Asian carp activities to national or international levels

.

• Conveyance of information to the ACRCC regarding control efforts to reduce the density of Asian carp approaching the Great Lakes

• Predict ion of effects of harvest and other control efforts on movement of Asian carp populations toward the Great Lakes

.

• Determination of potential impact of Asian carp on nat ive fish and other ecosystem parameters if the carp invade s the Great Lakes.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Physical conditions of the river and possible low sampling efficiency.

• Avoid ance of sustained and managed fishery.

• Minimization of “bi

- catch” of native specie s.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

16 

## 2.2.3 Investigation of Certification Requirements for Asian Carp Usage **Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **Agency Collaboration :**  USAID **FY 2012 Funding :**  State Funded

. **Project Explanation:** Asian carp could be used as a human food source, but certification procedures that would document suitability of Asian carp from the Illinois River and Mississippi River for human consumption have not yet been assessed

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  IL DNR identified requirements necessary for certification. The major requirement is completion of current contaminant studies

. W ith these in hand, efforts to communicate findings and identify pathways for fish into international relief efforts are underway.

**F**

**Y 2011 Actions Undertaken:**

• IL DNR has results from a 2010 IL EPA fish contaminant analysis that induced the fish advisory board to issue a letter promot ing use of Asian carp for humanitarian aid

.

• SIUC has obtained further results of contaminant and compos itional analys e s that further support the earlier findings that these fish are a healthy source of high

- quality protein for human consumption. This information is needed by industry for international trade

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed:**

• Communicate information to national and global organizations with compositional and contaminant information in hand

.

• Affiliate efforts to encourage use of these fish for human consumption with action item

2.2.2 Illinois River Stock Assessment/Management Alternatives

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• C ompletion of c ontaminant analysis and report

.

• Possible issuance of a dditional letter to encourage further listing of Asian carp for global

use.

• Achieving supply and health certifications to promote the good use of this protein for humanitarian uses.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Identify partners and workable pathways to include packaged product in the international aid pipeline.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

17 **Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible ina bility to supply fish in quantities desired

.

• Possible ina bility to support both domestic and international needs

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

18 

## 2.3 Electric Barrier Actions and Waterway Separation Measures

2.3.1 By

- Pass Barrier Operations **Lead Agency :**  USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 1,0 00,000 Base f unding

. **Project Explanation:** USACE applies three different types of fish deterrent measures throughout the CAWS. Each is designed to prevent a distinct migration pathway of Asian carp toward the Great Lakes.

• The Bypass Barrier physically blocks known bypasses around the electric barriers that occur during periods of flooding from the Des Plaines River and the Illinois and Michigan (I&M) Canal
, and halt s possible fish movement through this area. The barriers placed in these locations are intended to stop juvenile and adult Asian carp. Additional and/or more permanent separation measures will be assessed in the Efficacy Study Report.

• The Electric Barriers create a waterborne
, pulsed
, direct current
, electric field in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC) , which exposes f ish penetrating the electric field
to electri cal stimuli that act as a deterrent. As fish swim into the field
, they feel increasingly uncomfortable. When the sensation is too intense, the fish are either immobilized or deterred from progressing farther into the field

. Three barriers (Demo, IIA , an d IIB) have been constructed so that two can operate fully at any given time and the third is available for emergencies or planned maintenance shutdown.

• Bar screens on sluice gates at Thomas J. O’Brien Lock and Dam were installed to impede entry of Asian carp to Lake Michigan. All potential impacts were considered to ensure public health and safety, and the purposes of these structures must be maintained as authorized by law.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  In F Y 20 10, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works approved the report recommendations that would allow design and construction of the bypass barriers and bar screens to proceed. Construction of these , along with electric barrier IIB, began in 2010. W ork in the I&M Canal was completed in June 2010.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Work on the Des Plaines River barrier was completed in October 2010, thereby completing work on the bypass barrier project. The total cost was $7.25 million

— over $6 million un der budget. Subsequently, USACE began maintenance of the bypass barriers with base agency funds. The barriers were inspected periodically to ensure they remained free of debris to minimize damage by animals in the vicinity, and to prevent unintentional b ypasses. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  USACE will maintain the bypass barriers with base agency funds to

ensure these remain free of debris so that flow through the mesh is unimpeded

. Maintenance is also required to minimize damage by animals in the vicinity

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

19 **Expected Milestones :**  None.
**Outcomes/Output :**  The barriers will perform as designed, thereby minimizing the risk of bypass around the electric barriers via the I&M Canal and the Des Plaines River.

**Potential Hurdles:** None.



## 2.3.2 Electric Barriers Operati on and Improvement (formerly Expedited Construction of Barrier IIB) **Lead Agency :**  USACE with support from USGS
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 21, 5 75 ,000 Total funding (USACE $21,500,000 base funds; USGS $75,000 GLRI funds).
**Project Explanation:** The Electric Barriers operate by creating a waterborne
, pulsed
, direct current
, electric field in the CSSC . Fish penetrating the electric field are exposed to electrical stimuli
, which act as a deterrent. As fish swim into the field they feel increasingly uncomfortab le. When the sensation is too intense, the fish are either immobilized or are deterred from progressing farther into the field

. Three barriers (Demo, IIA
, and IIB) have been constructed, but only two are fully operational at any given time. Additionally, Congress authorized USACE to upgrade the demonstration barrier to a public facility in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. Once completed, the permanent barrier will be capable of running at voltage levels high enough to repel smaller fish, simi lar to Barriers IIA and IIB, thereby providing additional protection against upward migration of Asian carp within the CAWS.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  Construction of Barrier IIB began in early FY 2010. Barrier IIA underwent maintenance in December 2 009.
**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USACE completed construction of Barrier IIB and placed it into active operation in April 2011. Barrier IIA was placed in warm standby and underwent maintenance in June 2011. Conceptual design of permanent Barrier I was completed in FY 20 11, including location and basic configuration of the facility

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

20 **FY 2012 Actions :**  USACE will continue operation of the electric barriers. All three barriers are scheduled to undergo maintenance in FY 2012. Upgrades to barrier IIA are scheduled to improve its performance. USGS will support barrier maintenance operations.
Design and construction of the permanent barrier will occur in stages. Detailed design will begin in FY2012, leading to the award of the first construction contract by the end of the fiscal year.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• 1 st Quarter 2012 : Conduct maintenan ce of Barrier IIB

.

• Summer 2012 : Complete permanent barrier I site design
, and award a construction
contract

.

• Summer 2012 : Start Barrier IIA upgrades

.

• Summer 2012 : Conduct maintenance of Demo, IIA and IIB

.
**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.3.3 Modified Structures an d Operations **Lead Agency :**  USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $65,000 B ase funding

. **Project Explanation:** To determine whether modified lock and attendant works (sluice gates and pumping stations) operations could impede entry of Asian carp to Lake Michigan. All potential impacts were considered to ensure public health and safety, and the purposes of these structures must be maintained as authorized by law.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  In 2010, USACE evaluated whether and how to modify the operation of the Chicago and O’Brien locks to deter Asian carp
, and to ensure that Asian carp are not introduced or allowed to migrate into the Great Lakes. In an interim Efficacy Study, USACE

recomme nded installing screens on the sluice gates at the T.J. O’Brien Lock and Dam (other sluice gates in the CAWS are operated by Metropolitan Water Reclamation District [ MWRD ])

. In coordination with USCG, and upon request by agencies involved with fish control and eradication efforts, USACE also decided to intermittent ly close the Chicago and O’Brien locks as needed to support those efforts. A team of experts led by the USFWS determined that temporary/intermittent lock closures are effective in support of fish suppression measures. However, the effectiveness of permanent lock closure will be considered in the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Inter

- Basin Study (GLMRIS).
In July 2010, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works approved the installation o f the screens and accepted the recommended method of operating the locks. USACE delivered screens for two sluice gates at the T.J. O’Brien lock and dam in September 2010.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

21 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Installation of the bar screens at O’Brien Lock and Dam was completed in January 2011.

**FY 2 012 Actions Proposed**  **:** The screens on the gates will be periodically inspected and cleared of debris

. **Expected Milestones :**  None

**Potential Hurdles:** None.



## 2.3.4 Electric Barrier Effectiveness (formerly Tagged Fish) **Lead Agenc y**  **:** USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  USFWS, ILDNR **FY 2012 Funding :**  $2,100,000 Total funding ($100,000 GLRI fund for tagged fish/telemetry; $1,000,000 base agency funds for split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring; $1,000,000 GLRI funds for further barrier research ).
**Project Explanation:** Continued validation and enhanced understanding of electric barrier effectiveness is one of the highest priorities for the immediate strategy to prevent Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes

. Proposed a ctions include tagged fish/telemetry, installation and operation of hydro

- acoustics at the barrier, and pursuit of further research regarding barrier effectiveness.
Telemetry : The telemetry plan includes tagging fish with individually coded ultrasonic transmitters in the Upper Illinois Waterway (IWW) and CAWS

. Telemetry is used to assess effectiveness of the electric barriers by monitoring movement of fish in the immediate vicinity of the barriers in order to determine if the fish can challenge and/or p enetrate the Barrier

. Additionally, telemetry is used to identify the leading edge of the Asian carp population and whether Asian carp can navigate through lock structures in the IWW system

. Surrogate species (i.e. common carp, buffalo spp.) will be tagged at and near the Barrier for monitoring (Lockport Pool); Asian carp will be tagged in the Dresden Island and Brandon Road Pools. The acoustic network proposed is composed of stationary acoustic receivers supplemented by a mobile hydrophone unit.
Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring : A hydro

- acoustic monitoring system would be installed at Barrier IIB to continuously monitor upstream fish movement at the barrier

. Split

- beam technology was first developed in 1996
, and has been used for a wide variety of fisheries applications, including monitoring in

- river escapement of adult salmon, fish stock assessments in lakes, and entrainment studies at hydroelectric projects (Enzenhofer et al. 1998, Mueller and Degan 2004, N estler et al. 1999 )

. Split

- beam sonar uses a transducer that is divided into four quadrants (left/right, up/down)

. The small time delay s between reception s of an echo on each quadrant are used to determine the position, direction
, and size of fish in real time.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

22 Further barrier research : The technical report detailing experiments to determine optimal operating parameters at the electric barriers was recently released , and the report recommended topics for continued research on barrier effectiveness under various conditions

. Some of the projects proposed are as follows:

• Canal wall effects study : The walls of the CSSC are extremely rough and irregular, and could provide shelter from the electrical field
, allow ing fish to pass

. This field study would measure electric field strengths along the canal walls, including at the various notches and cracks, and compare the measurements to similar measurements from the middle of the canal.

• Laboratory research to assess the impact of various environmental condit ions on barrier effectiveness and fish behavior : Laboratory tests will be conducted to confirm barrier optimal operating parameters by examining a number of factors including, but not limited to, how variations in canal water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels impact the effectiveness of the barrier. USACE would also conduct tests that expose fish to the electrical field for longer durations of time to determine if the fish become less affected by the field over time

.
**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  Telemetry : From July through November 2010, 105 tags were implanted into adult Asian carp and surrogate species:

• CSSC/Chicago River above Barrier : 20 common carp

.

• Lockport Pool above Barrier : 18 common carp; two freshwater drum

.

• Lockport Pool below Bar rier : 29 common carp

.

• Brandon Road pool : one grass carp; one smallmouth buffalo ; 17 common carp

.

• Dresden Island pool : 17 bighead carp

. The acoustic network was deployed using USACE receivers
, as well as receivers from other agencies (MWRD) and academia (SIUC)

. Receivers are located from Chicago River/Bubbly Creek down to Dresden Island Lock and Dam, and then continue in the middle and lower Illinois River

. Receiver, mobile tracking, and tag data are shared in case tags from other studies are picked up in another acoustic network

. Tag life of the transmitters used for adult fish typically last about 2.5
years. As of April 2011, over 1.2 million detections have been noted, but none indicated that tagged fish have crossed the Barrier

. Inter

- pool movement fr om tagged common carp has been detected (From Lockport Pool downstream to Brandon Road Pool; and from Brandon Road Pool upstream to Lockport Pool), which indicate s movement through Lockport Lock

. Some tagged common carp have also been detected near the Bar rier, then back downstream in the following days, suggesting a potential challenge to the Barrier, but unsuccessful breach.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

23 Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring : None. This project will be initiated in FY 2012

. Further barrier research : None. This proj ect will be initiated in FY 2012

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Telemetry : Stationary receivers were supplemented with addition of four new receivers around Barrier IIB

. These new receivers, deployed in May 2011, have the capacity to be deployed for
5 y ears , and the data can be downloaded from shore, eliminating need for physical retrieval in the electrified zone of water

. Additionally, these receivers use a positioning system which will enable us to determine the exact position of the tagged fish in the water

. This is an improvement over the currently deployed receivers, which give us presence/absence data.

In 2011, 77 tags were implanted into adult and small surrogate species:

• 47 tags into adult surrogate species in Lockport Pool (43 common carp, two mirror carp,

one freshwater drum, one channel catfish)

• 30 tags into small, non

- Asian carp species placed immediately upstream and downstream of Barrier 2B (species include white sucker, green sunfish, pumpkinseed, skipjack herring, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and bullhead).
The total number of tagged fish in the system is 182. This includes the 152 adult fish (Asian carp and surrogate species) and 30 small fish (all non

- Asian carp species).
The small fish ranged in length from 2.1 to 7.5 in ches. They were tagged and released in two batches, in June and October 2011, and distributed evenly above and below Barrier 2B in each batch. Stationary receivers are continuously monitoring movement of the small fish, and the new positioning system will allow us to determine exact movement responses by individual fish. Since these tags are smaller
, they also have a much shorter battery life (~100 days).

As of October 2011, over 2.7 million detections have indicated no tagged fish have crossed the Barrie r in the upstream direction (with an 82% detection rate)

. Inter

- pool movement from tagged common carp has been detected
, indicat ing movement through Lockport and Brandon Road Lock

. Some tagged common carp have also been detected approaching the Barrier, th en back downstream in the following days, suggesting a potential challenge to the Barrier, but unsuccessful breach. A full report on all results will be available in late January 2012.
Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring : None. This project will be ini tiated in FY 2012

. Further barrier research : None. This project will be initiated in FY 2012

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Telemetry : Recommended for 2012 is tagging additional surrogate species to replace tags implanted in 2010 whose battery life has been exceeded or fish that died or moved out of system

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

24 The focus should be at and around the Barrier, utilizing the 5- year life of the receivers deployed at the Barrier system.
Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring :

1. Design of a pilot study for hydro

- acou stic fish monitoring at the CSSC Electric Barrier System

.

2. Install ation of the hydro

- acoustic fish monitoring system.

3. M onitor ing of fish movements with adjustments as necessary. I f fish move upstream through the barrier, river managers are to be alerted

.

F urther barrier research : In 2012, USACE will assemble an expert interagency team to review and develop new research recommendations for barrier effectiveness

. The team will identify, prioritize , and recommend work for further research.
**Expected Milestone s**  **:** Telemetry:

• February 2012 : Full report on telemetry data (2010

- 2011)

.

• May 2012 : Acoustic network enhanced

.

• Summer 2012 : Complete adult fish tagging efforts

• Fall 2012 : Small fish study at Barrier II A or II B.

• Monthly : P eriodic downloads of stationary receiver data ; acoustic network maintenance

.

• Quarterly : M obile tracking of tagged fish in the CAWS

.
NOTE : Specific studies concerning small fish will be developed with input from MRRWG in Jan uary 2012. Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring:

• Jun e 2012 : Complete s ystem design for a pilot study

.

• Sept 2012 : Award of installation contract.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

25 Further barrier research:

• Jan 2012 : Assemble expert panel.

• April 2012 : Develop detailed research plan

.

• June 201 2 : Initiate research studies

.

• 4 th Quarter FY 2013 : Publish report.
**Outcomes/Output :**  Telemetry : Validation of b arrier e ffectiveness for all sizes of fish , including frye and young of
year. Split beam hydro

- acoustic monitoring : After installation of the monitoring system has been completed, data acquisition will be continuous
, 24 h ours /day. Automated data filters will be used to process only information regarding fish movements. Monitoring results will be summarized bi

- weekly
, and an annual report will be provided to the MRRWG, ag ency partners, and any other interested parties.

Further barrier research : R esults of the research will be used to verify the optimal operating parameters of the electric barrier, and will be documented in the Efficacy Interim Report IIB.

**Potential Hurdles**  **:** Telemetry:

• Availability of fish for implantation (especially for small fish study)

.

• Weather impacts on fish mortality rate

.

• Movement of t agged fish out of detection range (open system)

.
Barrier Research :

• Requirement of timely appropriations and funding allocations to achieve stated milestones



## 2.3.5 Eagle Marsh Temporary Barrier Fence Maintenance **Lead Agency :**  Indiana Department of Natural Resources ( IN DNR )
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $50,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** It is unclear whether the permanent solution near Eagle Marsh will be in place by September 30, 2012
, so contingencies are necessary to continue fence maintenance until completion of the permanent solution.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  Completion of Eagle Marsh fence in October 20 10.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

26 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Multi

- weekly inspections along the fence and routine maintenance to keep the fence free of debris.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Funding is in place to maintain the fence until September 30, 2012

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• Multi

- weekly inspections along the fence to confirm that no gaps exceed 2 inches (which would allow adult Asian carp to pass ).

• Regular mowing, burning, and debris removal to prevent blockage of the fence when flooding occurs.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Repair of damage to the fence as necessary.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Intense flooding at the fence that could substantial ly damage the structure.



## 2.3.6 Wabash

- Maumee Aquatic Nuisance Species ( ANS ) Controls Report **Lead Agency :**  USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  N atural R esource C onversation S ervice (NRCS) , USGS, USFWS, Allen County , and the Little River Wetlands Project
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional Fy 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** The aquatic connection that forms across the Eagle Marsh in Fort Wayne, IN was i dentified in the fourth quarter of FY 2010 as the highest risk aquatic pathway within Focus Area 2 of the GLMRIS

. The risk posed by Asian carp in close proximity to the location led the IN DNR , supported by USEPA, NRCS, USGS, USACE, Allen County
, and the Little River Wetlands project, to complete construction of a temporary barrier to Asian carp migration across the marsh on September 28, 2010

. The USACE is conducting a feasibility study to determine what action or set of actions could be taken to attain a long

- term solution that would prevent interbasin transfer of aquatic nuisance species (ANS) across the Eagle Marsh in Fort Wayne, IN

. The a nalysis will include identification of viable structural and non

- structural alternative s to prevent inter basin transfer of all ANS, and a systematic evaluation of the completeness, effectiveness, efficiency
, and acceptability of each viable alternative along with an estimate of the costs to implement each.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  The USACE formed an int eragency team and is nearing completion of an analysis of the range of available options and technologies to prevent interbasin migration of Asian carp and other ANS across the Eagle Marsh

. To initiate plan formulation, a

v alue e ngineering study was implemented in FY 2011 to identify and screen potential ANS controlAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

27 measures

. Finalization of t he Wabash

- Maumee ANS Controls Report is expected during the third quarter of FY 2012

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Utilizing carry

- over funds from FY 2011 , f inalize the Wabash

Maumee ANS Controls report and communicate with stakeholders to attempt to identify a willing and able local sponsor for participation in a federal project, and/or to support other stakeholders interested in implementing the identified viable al ternatives to prevent interbasin transfer of ANS at this location

. **Expected Milestones:**

• May 2012 : Release of Wabash

- Maumee ANS Controls report

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• May 201 2 : Wabash

- Maumee ANS Controls report

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Lack of willing and viable local sponsor



## 2.3.7 Chicago Sanitary & Ship Canal (CSSC) Electric Fish Barrier Marine Safety Risk Assessment and Risk Mitigation Measures **Lead Agency :**  U SCG **Other Agencies Involved :**  USACE, US EPA **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 248 ,000 Total funding ($150,000 GLRI funds/$ 98 ,000 Base funding)

. **Project Explanation:** The Electric Barrier System on the CSSC presents multiple potential hazards to marine safety. Various regulatory actions prescribe operating rules and guidance to promote : (1) navigation safety f or commercial and recreational mariners transiting the CSSC in the vicinity of the barrier
, and (2) safe work practices and operating standards for commercial facility operations that operate or moor vessels in the vicinity of the barrier. The USCG operat ional commander desires a comprehensive review of marine safety risks associated with the fish barrier, adequacy of present risk mitigation strategies, and recommendations for alternatives to these strategies. USCG base funding will come from funding for R esearch Development Test and Evaluation (RDT&E) in order to complete the efforts related to this action item.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  The USCG R& D Center (RDC) reviewed preliminary fish

- barrier safety test results, and began a research project to investigate safety for a rescuer responding to a
person in the water with in the electrified barrier zone.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

28 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  The RDC conducted rescuer safety testing in the electrified barrier zone, participated (as observers) in the February 2011 USACE Barrier Safety Testing, and conducted peer review of the Report on the Safety Testing.
During July 2011, t he RDC conduct ed and will report on a dditional rescuer safety testing independent of the follow

- on USACE safety testing.
The RDC began planning and development for this risk assessment and mitigation project in June

2011. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  RDC will complete project development and begin project work, including development of probability versus consequence framework to determine the appropriate risk assessment tool , data acquisition and analysis to populate risk matrix, analysis of present r egulatory scheme with respect to risk assessment, determin ation of risk mitigation gaps (if any), and recommendations for changes to risk mitigation measures, as applicable.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March 2012 : Integrate preliminary risk mitigation measure s.

• November 2012 : Complete consequence investigation scientific measurements, and data acquisition

.

• March 201 3 : Complete risk analysis and mitigation strategies.

• March 201 3 : Deliver final project report.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• A summary of the marine safety risks associated with the fish barrier, adequacy of present risk mitigation strategies, and recommendations for alternatives to these strategies.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Data availability may be limited, and data acquisition methods have not been determ ined

.

• S takeholders ’ opinions differ as to need for or effectiveness of current risk mitigation

measures

.

• Risk mitigation measures without effective compliance may not yield any overall improvement in marine safety

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

29 

## 2.3.8 Manage ment of Waterway Traffic in Support of Asian Carp Control Activities **Lead Agency :**  U SCG **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 210 ,000 in GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** The USCG manages federally navigable waterways through establishment and enforcement of Regulated Navigatio n Areas (RNA), safety zones
, and security zones. Many waterways in the Chicago Area are designated as federally navigable waterways, including the Illinois River, the Des Plaines River, the CSSC , branches of the Chicago River, and the Calumet

Saganashkee Channel.
When operations associated with the electric fish barrier, rapid response actions, research projects, or any other Asian carp activity impact the flow of traffic on a navigable waterway, the USCG creates a RNA or safety zone and provides notice to the public and mariners to inform them of the planned activities and expected impact on navigation. If a partial or full closure of a navigable waterway is required, the USCG may deploy assets on scene to enforce the closure

. For extended closures, the USCG may also establish a temporary vessel traffic service that tracks delayed vessels and facilitates orderly resumption of traffic after the closure is lifted.
In order to create a RNA or safety zone, the USCG must complete a rulemaking project, includ ing public notice in the Federal Register . To streamline this process, the USCG created a safety zone in 2010 that covers 77 miles of the CAWS and allows the USCG to restrict or stop traffic for Asian carp activities. However, the USCG still strives to provide at least a 30- day notice to waterway users prior to a waterway closure.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :** 

• On May 1, 2010, the USCG put in place a Temporary Interim Rule that established a
77

- mile

- long safety zone from Brandon Road Lock to Lake Michigan in Chicago, IL, including segments of the navigable waters of the Des Plaines River, the CSSC , branches of the Chicago River, and the Calumet

- Saganashkee Channel. The purpose of the safety zone was to provide the USCG Captain of the Port with the ability to take targeted and expeditious action to protect vessels and persons from the hazards associated with any federal and state efforts to control ANS.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• On December 2, 2010 , the USCG put in place a Temporar y Interim Rule which established a RNA on the waters located adjacent to and over the electric fish barrier. The RNA prescribes requirements for vessels passing over the barrier in order to protect them from hazards associated with the barrier. This Temp orary Interim Rule also established a safety zone that restricts vessels from transporting non

- potable water across the barrier with the intention of discharging the water on the other side.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

30 • On July 18, 2011, the USCG put in a place a Final Rule which esta blished a permanent safety zone covering the same 77 miles of waterways covered by the Temporary Interim Rule issued in May 2010.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• The USCG will issue and enforce a series of full waterway closures to support Electric Fish Barri er maintenance and ANS control activities throughout FY 20 12

. The USCG will also renew the Temporary Interim Rule issued in December 2010.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• None. Activities are carried out as needed

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Appropriate control of vessel traffic to protect vessels and persons from the hazards associated with any federal and state efforts to control ANS

.
**Potential Hurdles:**
Waterway closure requests received by the USCG less than 35 days prior to the event do not provide enough time for the USCG to carry out the rulemaking process or provide public notice. Waterway restrictions and closures should be planned ahead and coordinated among agencies whenever possible in order to facilitate the regulatory process and minimize the impact to waterway users.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

31 

## 2.4 CAWS Barrier System and Great Lakes Mississippi River Study Activities

2.4.1 Efficacy Study **Lead Agency :**  USACE

**FY 2012**  **Funding :**  $500,000 Base funding

. **Project Explanation:** The study investigates hazards that could reduce the efficacy of the Electric Barrier System located in Romeoville, Illinois. The project includes an analysis of potential bypasses, optimal operating parameters, deterrent systems, modified structures and operations, fish monitor ing and reduction, and potential for migration via other pathways.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  USACE completed Efficacy Study Interim Reports I (Barrier Bypasses), IIIA (Acoustic

- Bubble

- Strobe Deterrent System) and III (Modified Structures and Operations ), and initiated work on Interim Report II (Optimal Operating Parameters) and the Comprehensive Efficacy Study. Construction of measures to address potential barrier bypasses via overland flooding and/or through existing drainage pathways was completed alo ng the Des Plaines River and I&M Canal under emergency authority granted by Congress in Section 126 of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act of 2010.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USACE released Interim Report IIA (Optimal Operating Parameter s Laboratory Research and Safety Tests) in September 2011 , which recommended increasing the barrier settings to those thought more effective in deterring small fish. Work on the Comprehensive Efficacy Study Report continued, including evaluation of other p otential measures to deter the migration of the Asian carp, other assisted transits/vectors (bait buckets, ballast water, navigation transiting through the CAWS), and measures to control access to Lake Michigan through the Little Calumet and Grand Calumet Rivers. This report also will summarize and update efforts previously described in the above

- referenced interim reports.
USACE also completed Interim Risk Reduction Measures recommended in Interim Reports I and III, as discussed in Section 2.3.1. These measures included the bypass barriers and sluice gate bar screens, respectively.

**FY 2 012 Actions Proposed**  : The Comprehensive Efficacy Study report will be completed and will undergo an independent external peer review . The study report will be released to the public in FY 2012.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• 3rd Quarter 2012 : Independent external peer review and public review of Comprehensive Efficacy Report.

• 4th Quarter 2012 : Complete Comprehensive Efficacy Report.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

32 **Potential Hurdles:**

• Future extension of Section 126 emergency authority for recommended actions/measures.

• Determination of relative risk s and trade

- offs of pursuing identified actions

.


## 2.4.2 GLMRIS Focus Area I : Chicago Area Waterway System **Lead Agency :**  USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  USFWS, USGS, USEPA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ( NOAA ) , USCG, U.S. Department of Transportation ( USDOT )
, U.S. Department of Agriculture ( USDA ) , IL DNR, MWRD **FY 2012 Funding :**  $3, 00 0 ,000 Base funding.
**Project Explanation:** GLMRIS is a congressionally authorized feasibility study directing the USACE to consult with appropriate f ederal
, s tate , local
, and nongovernmental organizations in order to investigate the range of options and technologies available to prevent spread of ANS between t he Great Lakes and the Mississippi River Basins through the CSSC and other aquatic pathways

. The study will identify potential hydraulic connections between the two basins, identif y and explor e existing and potential ANS , and assess ANS control technologies. These control technologies include but are not limited to physical or hydrologic separation.
The study is proceeding in two focus areas. Focus Area I is the CAWS
, and Focus Area II consists of all aquatic pathways outside the CAWS, commonly referred to as the Other Pathways.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  USACE developed a Project Management Plan (PMP) to define the study scope, schedule
, and budget; and initiated the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) scoping process.

**FY 2011 Ac tions Undertaken**  **:** USACE released the PMP in November 2010 ; conducted 12 NEPA scoping meetings throughout the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins and released a report summarizing comments received; prepared an ANS White Paper listing High Risk Alien Species with potential for Inter

- Basin dispersal; and initiated efforts to gather data to establish the baseline study condition.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Complete ANS control technologies report. Complete data acquisition efforts for social and cultur al resources, commercial navigation, commercial passenger navigation, recreation/fishing, commercial fisheries, flood risk management, and water supply/discharge and water quality

. Establish baseline conditions and initiate development of alternatives.

**E xpected Milestones:** 

• November 2012 : Expected completion of data acquisition activities.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

33 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• June 2011: ANS White Paper

.

• July 2011 : NEPA Scoping Meeting Summary Report

.

• September 2011 : Commercial Passenger Navigation Report

.

• December 2011 : ANS Control Technologies Report

.

• December 2011 : Commercial Cargo Summary Report

.

• April 2012 : Commercial Fisheries Report

.

• November 2012 : Recreation/Fishing Summary Report

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Additional public outreach events may require additional funds, and impact schedule

.

• Congressional action may accelerate schedule, impacting scope of activities.



## 2. 4 .3 Feasibility Assessment of Inter

- Basin Transfer of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) between the Des Plaines River and CAWS **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Transfer of AIS or eDNA via surface and subsurface fractures or solution features may be occurring. These additional hydraulic connections between Des Plaines River and CAWS could allow transfer of AIS and/or eDNA and should be addressed.

**FY 2010 Actions U ndertaken**  **:** Completed field work except for well drilling. Completed analysis of available data, characterization of bed sediment on the Des Plaines River, bathymetric and water characterization survey of the CSSC and parts of the Des Plaines River, and a ssess ment of geology in the area of concern ( including several surface geophysical surveys ) . Identified areas where the geology, hydrology, and water quality indicate areas of potential for fractures capable of allowing presence and transfer of Asian carp eggs, fry, or other invasive species. Monitoring wells and additional hydrogeology characterization in these areas are planned. Coordination of efforts with USACE has occurred to avoid duplication of efforts.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Completed a lit erature review and report on the hydrology and geology of the study area that is accessible at http://il.water.usgs.gov/asian_carp/ . Drilled and installed monitoring wells at identified locations to inte rcept fractures in the bedrock. A dye
tracer test in November 2011 characterize d water movement (location, pathways, and rate ) from the D es P laines R iver , through the fractures, and into the CSSC. The tracer will help identify theAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

34 pathway and aid the effort to determine the approximate transport time between the river and the canal.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Efforts will focus on project completion. Complete analysis of the 2011 tracer study is expected
, along with the draft report that will (1 ) summarize all research conducted in conjunction with the project , and (2) offer preliminary conclusions regarding the potential for inter

- basin transfer between the two waterways.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March , 201 2 : Complete analysis of dye tracer study.

• September 2012 : Submit tal of draft project report with preliminary conclusion s for USGS review.

• January 2013 : Publication of f inal project report.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• January 2013 : Report and conclusions regarding the potential for inter

- basin transfer of invasive species between the Des Plaines River and CAWS.

**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.4.4 Ecological/Biological Risk Assessments **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  USGS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $500,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Four species of nonindigenous carp s (bighead carp, silver carp, large

- scale silver carp, and black carp) have been listed as injurious wildlife under the Lacey Act. However, many other species of carp and their relatives exist , whose introductions to the w aters of the United States are possible . Long

- term protection of the Great Lakes and other areas of the United States will require an integrated approach of risk assessment and risk management to prevent establishment and impacts of carps and their relativ es. Risk assessment involves risk screening

— evaluat ion of the history of impacts in the world, climate match es between worldwide established locations of these fish and the Great Lakes, and projections of impacts to various locations such as the Great Lak es and its basin. Risk screening will focus on risk s of establishment of Crucian carp ( Carassius carassius ) , Prussian carp ( Carassius gibelio ) , and related species in the Great Lakes
, and their consequent impacts. This information will be useful for state and federal decision makers in their efforts to develop regulatory and non

- regulatory approaches to managing risk s of introductions and impacts of carp species other than Asian carp

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  NAAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

35 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USF WS worked with NOAA to develop biological/ecological models for Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and Lake Huron in order to help predict potential for establishment and impacts of Asian carp within each water body. Results will ultimately provide managers with information to help protect and rehabilitate Great Lakes fishery resources. In addition, the USFWS collaborated with partner agencies to develop mitigation plans in the event of Asian carp establishment in the Great Lakes.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Screening reports will be completed for Crucian carp , Prussian carp , and some other related species.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• September 30, 201 2 : R isk screening reports completed regarding Crucian carp, Prussian carp, and some other related species.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• September 30, 2011 : Rapid screening will identify risks to the Great Lakes from Crucian carp, Prussian carp, and some other related species. Identified risks will be shared with Great Lakes State s and federal regulatory authorities.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Needed data may be difficult to acquire for certain species.



## 2.4.5 Forecasting Spread and Bio

- economic Impacts of AIS from Multiple Pathways to Improve Management and Policy in the Great Lakes **Lead Agency :**  NOAA Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research
**Agency Collaboration :**  **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 747 , 617 T otal funding ($ 687,617 GLRI funds/ $ 60,000 Base funding ).
**Project Explanation:** Without accurate forecasts of the arrival and bio

- economic impact of

non

- indigenous species, natural resource management cannot cost effectively respond to current invasions or prevent future invasions. This project draws on scientific, economic, risk anal ysis, and management expertise to (1) increase capabilities for forecasting both ecological and economic impact s of current and future species invasions, (2) quantify major uncertainties and ways to reduce uncertainty, and (3) identify actions to improve c ost

- effective management of invasive species in the Great Lakes

. The six major goals of the project, including sources of funding, are:

1. Forecast the probability of establishment . R esearchers will draw on the literature and ongoing studies to identify which non

- indigenous species are likely to be introduced into the Great Lakes via three major pathways : (a) shipping
, (b) organisms in trade (pet,Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

36 horticulture, aquaculture, biological supplies, live food, and live bait industries ), and (c ) canals, especially the Chicago Area Waterway System

. ( GLRI funding )

2. Forecast the potential habitat of species within the Great Lakes . I nvestigators will use multiple ecological niche models, based on new Geographic Information System ( GIS ) layers (produced by the project) of habitat and species distributions within the G reat Lakes

. ( GLRI funding )

3. Forecast the potential spread of invaders within the Great Lakes. I nvestigators will compare natural background dispersal (predicted by current models) to that predicted from activities of oceanic ships, lake ships, and recreational boaters. ( GLRI funding )

4. F orecast ecological impacts . R esearchers will use food web modeling to develop quantitative scenarios of ecological impacts, with uncertainties specified via structured
exper t judgment. ( NOAA funding )

5. Forecast regional economic impact . R esearchers will link the food web models to a Great Lakes regional economic model (a computable general equilibrium model) to account for feedbacks between ecological and economic systems, and quantitatively value ecosystem goods and services affected by invasive species. ( NOAA funding )

6. Use the linked ecological and economic models to evaluate alternative management strategies with cost

- benefit analyses that focus on preventi on of species introd uction, early detection and rapid response (EDRR) efforts, slow

- the

- spread strategies, and integrated control options. ( GLRI and NOAA funding )

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  Because FY 2009 NOAA funds were not awarded until the end of the fiscal year, FY 20 10 (first year of GLRI funding) was effectively the first full year of project activities. Main first

- year activities included : creating annotated lists of potential risk species relevant to pathways identified above, reviewing literature on species with high risk for invasion, updat ing food web models for impact assessments to incorporate uncertainty and stochasticity, and beginning development of a regional economic model.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  During FY 2 011, the project’s external advisory boar d was constituted. The board’s input
, along with relevant scientific information
, are aiding finaliz ation of the list of the project’s target priority species of concern . Work began on developing methodology to forecast suitable habitat and dispersal through key pathways in the Great Lakes

. The Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) food web models are under development for all the Great Lakes

. The computable general equilibrium economic (CGE) mo del is under devel opment to include the interaction between the economy and the food web . Questions for use in the structured expert elicitation have been identified, focusing on the potential biomass, production, and diet of future invasive species. Addi tional actions in synergy with other ongoing projects included develop ing preliminary risk assessment s for the shipping and the CSSC pathway s ; identifying bait fish wholesalers as potential bottlenecks to facilitating surveillance for fish species of high risk in the live trade pathway; identifying plant species of high risk traded by the plant industry and developing a risk assessment tool for the S tate and private sector; and completing the first part ofAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

37 the environmental niche model for Hydrilla which su ggested that the Great Lakes may be at high risk of invasion by this species.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  During FY 2012, completion of most or all model development activities is expected in order to assess dispersal, potential habitat, and ecological an d economic impact s of the selected invasive species on a continuous basis through the end of the project’s award period in FY 2013. In collaboration with relevant management agencies, e mphasis will also shift toward development and evaluation of alternative management responses to circumstances within each of the key Great Lakes pathways.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Deliver y of forecasts of the potential for introduction and establishment of selecte d species by lake ship traffic and some other pathways ( continuous ).

• Published GIS data layers for invasive species in Great Lakes ( continuous ).

• September 2012 : Complete dat a layers of current distribution of selected invasive species in their native and introduced ranges ( continuous )

• September 2012 : Complete habitat suitability maps for s elected invasive species in Great Lakes ( continuous )

• Complete forecast of natural backg round dispersal for selected invasive species in Great Lakes ( continuous ).

• Complete forecast of dispersal of selected invasive species in Great Lakes via key pathways ( continuous ).

• September 2012 : Complete scenarios of effectiveness and costs of alternate management
responses to selected invasive species in Great Lakes ( continuous ).

• Provision of results to external advisory panels that will allow them to develop management recommendations regarding selected invasive spec ies in Great Lakes ( continuous ).

• Communicat ion of results to decision makers via advisory panels ( continuous ).
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Improved ability to prioritize potential invasive species for prevention, early detectio n, and other management efforts.

• Imp roved understanding of invasion risk among managers and policy

- makers responsible for shipping, organisms in trade, and canal pathways

.

• Improved understanding among managers of which locations and habitats to target for efforts at early detection of and mo nitoring for invasive species

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

38 • Increased basic information regarding benefits and costs of alternative management and policy responses to invasive species

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible limitations in occurrences of species about which data are to be acquired, as well

as costs and limited effectiveness of management alternatives
, could lead to uncertainties about results of implementing recommendations.

• A new invasion or invasions could supersede ongoing analyses, and rapidly change research and management priorities.

2.4.6 GLMRIS Focus Area 2 : Other Pathways **Lead Agency :**  USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  USGS, USFWS, NOAA, NRCS, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ( MN DNR )
, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources ( WI DNR ) , IN DNR, Ohio Department of Natural Resources ( OH DNR )
, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission ( PAFBC )
, Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality ( NEDEC ), Michigan Department of Natural Resources ( MI DNR ) , IL DNR **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 300,000 GLRI funds

. **Project Explanation:** GLMRIS is a congressionally authorized feasibility study directing the USACE to consult with appropriate f ederal
, s tate , local
, and nongovernmental organizations to investigate the range of options and technologies available to prevent spread of ANS between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River Basins through the CSSC and other aquatic pathways

. Focus Area 2 of GLMRIS encompasses all locations where an aquatic pathway exists or may form across the basin divide that se parates precipitation flowing to the Great Lakes from precipitation flowing to the Mississippi River and its tributaries.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  The GLMRIS Other Aquatic Pathways Preliminary Risk Characterization report was finalized and posted for public distribution in November 2010

. The results of the preliminary characterization and the plan to complete it in 2011 were conveyed to the ACRCC and subsequently to the public during a series of 12 NEPA public scoping meetings

. The final risk character ization and a draft of it were under development during the 3 rd and 4 th quarters of FY 2011, with final report approval and public release expected in the first quarter of FY

2012. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Finalize the GLMRIS Focus Area 2 Risk Characterization

. This report is intended to (1) provide a definitive inventory of locations along the basin divide where interbasin flow of surface water is reasonably likely to occur from a storm event up to the magnitude of a 1 percent annual return frequency storm, and (2) establish an ANS Transfer Risk Rating for each location

. The results of the risk characterization will be conveyed to and discussedAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

39 with f ederal, s tate, local
, and non

- governmental organizations and the public for comment, as well as for possible further identif ication of measures that could be most effectively and efficiently implemented at the local level to prevent interbasin transfer of ANS

. Based on the results of the risk characterization, agency collaboration
, and public input, development of ANS Control Reports will begin at each aquatic pathway warranting site

- specific structural and non

- structural measures to prevent interbasin transfer of ANS

. Funding will provide for continued collaboration
among both Focus Area Teams and st ate, local
, and f ederal partners to help prioritize use of limited funding, identify prospective non

- federal project sponsor(s), and initiate an ANS Controls Report on one high

- risk site to identify the full range of structural and non

- structural measures for prevent ing interbasin transfer of ANS at that location

. **Expected Milestones:**

• February 2012 : Complete biological assessments

• May 2012 : Complete Draft Other Pathways Assessment Report

• June 2012 : Complete Draft Other Pathways Assessment Report and hold GLMRIS Focus Area 2 Risk Characterization Public Meeting/Webinar

.

• Summer 2012 : Initiate development of ANS Control Reports at high

- risk location(s).
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• June 2012 : Focus Area 2 Risk Characterization Report

.

o Inventory of Aquat ic Pathways

.

o Relative Risk Rating and Character ization at each aquatic pathway.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Disparate stakeholder participation

.

• Possible d ifficulty in identifying non

- federal sponsors for project implementation

.


## 2.4.7 Wabash/Maumee Hydrologic Support to Prevent Interbasin Transfer of Asian Carp **Lead Agency :**  USGS

- Indiana Water Science Center
**Agency Collaboration :**  USACE (GLMRIS

— Other Pathways), IN DNR **FY 2012 Funding :**  $85,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Pre sence of a dult bighead carp ha s been confirmed with in the Wabash River basin for at least 15 years

. The Wabash River basin intermittently connects with the Maumee Basin (Lake Erie) during flood stage through a former glacial channel at Eagle Marsh in north eastAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

40 Indiana

. This proposed effort would support flow modeling by the USACE to develop feasible plans for separat ing the basins to prevent migration of ANS while maintaining the marsh as viable flood relief for Fort Wayne, Indiana

. Existing stage gage operation is needed to validate periods when Eagle Marsh floods sufficiently for the adult carp barrier fence to operate and to indicate needs of maintenance and cleaning

. Links to these gages are as follows :

• 03323583 EAGLE MARSH EAST NEAR FORT WAYNE, IN

• 0332358 4 EAGLE MARSH WEST NEAR FORT WAYNE, IN

Additional stream

- flow and temperature gages are needed to assist with planned USACE efforts to modify area hydrology in order to better separate the Wabash and Maumee basi n s and prevent migration of ANS such as Asia n carp and the round g oby

. Requested funding would cover : (1) operation of the existing gages at the Eagle Marsh carp fence
, and ( 2) installation of two additional hydro

- acoustic stream flow and temperature gages in the area to operate for 1 year in order to establish flow properties for modeling the effect of proposed basin separation on flooding.
**FY 2011 activity :**  Installed and operated stage only gage at temporary ( 4- year) mesh fence to detect flood stage conditions at Eagle Marsh

. Funding for this operation ended on September 30, 2011

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Continue USGS support of adult carp barrier fence function by operating and maintaining two existing water

- level (stage) gages on east and west sides of fence. ( The water

- level gages indicate when water levels are sufficiently high for fish to reach the fence
, and warn staff to verify presence of adult carp. ) Construct and operate gages at the following locations, and report stream

- flow and temperature data there : (1) Gr aham

- McCullough Ditch near where it empties into Little River and (2) Little River below confluence with Aboite Creek or Junk Ditch near mouth at St. Mary’s River . The continuous stream flow and temperature data would be used to assess and design a permanent barrier system to prevent Asian carp migration at Eagle Marsh.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• P rovisional stream

- flow and temperature information online, 1 year after installation

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Availability of provisional data on USGS NWIS

- Web
, and provision of information to USACE and I L DNR partners for effective use in hydraulic simulation of ANS separation alternatives.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Landowner access for stream

- flow gages

. Will attempt to locate at existing road crossings to use governmen t controlled right

- of

- way.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

41 

## 2.4.8 Risk Assessment Coordination **Lead Agency :**  GLFC **Agency Collaboration :**  ACRCC

- affiliated agencies with interest and ability to assist.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Coordination of risk assessment projects to ensure that they complement each other for maximum benefit is needed to provide the most complete assessment possible of the risk of Asian carp invading the Great Lakes. Several projects that will include risk a ssessments of Asian carp to the Great Lakes are ongoing or proposed. Additional Great Lakes risk assessment projects at agencies and universities have relevance to Asian carp risk assessments for the Great Lakes. Additional research at multiple agencies a nd universities will generate information relevant to risk assessments specified in the Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework (Framework) . An example is the NOAA Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research ( CSCOR ) supporting research at the University of Notre Dame. Moreover , information from ongoing risk assessments will be useful to researchers as they continue their analyses of invasion pathways, dangerous invaders, and possible prevention/control methods. C oordination among these many projects will e nhance the effectiveness of the Framework in its efforts to control Asian Carp

. **FY 2011 Summary :**  To be determined ( TBD ).

**FY 2012 Action :**  The Great Lakes Fishery Commission (commission) will coordinate Asian carp risk assessment projects funded by the F ramework. The commission will serve as liaison between projects funded by federal funds outside of the framework, or those embedded within the framework but not explicitly identified that have relevance to projects listed below. The commission also will coordinate with eDNA and science coordinators to ensure prompt and accurate sharing of information among groups.

Framework projects to be coordinated are :

• 2.4.4 Great Lakes Ecological Models for Risk Assessment, led by USFWS

.

• 2.4.5 Forecasting Spread and Bio

- economic Impacts of AIS from Multiple Pathways, led by NOAA.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• R egular (at least quarterly and mor e frequently if needed) conference calls to assess progress on all Framework risk assessment projects and to minimize overlap of projects.

• T wo face

- to

- face meetings of framework risk assessment project lead personnel to provide detailed progress updates and stimulate discussion about gaps that remain in knowledge about Asian carp risk.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

42 • Commission service as liaison with other federally funded projects with relevance to framework risk assessment projects.

• Commission service as liaison with eDNA and science c oordinators to direct potential use of eDNA and new control technologies to areas of greatest risk.

• Provision of information to the A siancarp.gov website as appropriate.

• Communication of information obtained by risk assessment projects to the AC RCC, the Co mmunications Work Group, and other interested parties as appropriate.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• U nexpected difficulties meeting timeframes of individual coordinated projects.



## 2.4.9 An Assessm ent of Silver and Bighead Carp Movement and Spawning Activities in the Wabash River Watershed, Indiana **Lead Agency :**  IN DNR **Agency Collaboration :**  Purdue University
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** T he potential trajectories and rates of movement by silver and bighead
carps throughout the Wabash River, and especially into the Little River and Eagle Marsh, have not been determined to date . Additional Vemco VR2W passive receivers will be added to the existing network of passive receivers in the upper and middle Wabash River to allow better determination of Asian carp use of smaller tributary rivers (e.g., Eel River and Wildcat Creek). The network will be used to passively track the currently tagged 99 silver and one bighead carp surgically implanted with Vemco V16

- 4L acoustic t ags. An additional 100 acoustic tags will be surgically implant ed in 50 silver and 50 bighead carp (this number may be adjusted in response to the ready availability of specific species ) . Tagged fish will continue to be tracked using a Vemco VR100 manual receiver deployed from a motorboat or canoe, depending on river levels. B ongo net tows will also be employed for Asian carp eggs to determine the upstream extent and duration of Asian carp spawning in the Wabash River and the East Fork White River.

**FY 201 0 Actions Undertaken**  **:** No project activities in FY 2010.
**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  D eveloped and installed a network of 15 total Vemco VR2W passive receivers in the Little River, the upper and middle Wabash River, and the Tippecanoe River. This networ k was used to passively track 99 silver and one bighead carp surgically implanted with Vemco V16

- 4L acoustic tags. Tagged fish were also tracked using a Vemco VR100 manual receiver deployed from a motorboat or canoe. B ongo net tows were also deployed in th e middle and upper Wabash River and in the upper East Fork of the White River to try to determine how far upstream Asian carp were spawning in these rivers. The single tagged bighead carp and 68 of the 99 tagged silver carp were detected at least once afte r tags were implanted and the fishAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

43 released. One of these detections was in the Huntington

- Forks region of the upper Wabash River near the mouth of the Little River
, but no fish were ever detected at a receiver in the lower portion of Little River. Asian carp eggs were detected as far upstream as Wabash, Indiana , in the Wabash River, and two suspected Asian carp eggs were observed near Medora, Indiana on the East Fork of White River. Unfortunately, verification of the eggs observed at Medora was not possible due to rupture after preservation. The eggs obtained at Wabash were at the gastrula stage, and they likely had been drifting in the river for 10

- 12 hours prior to capture in the bongo
nets. This suggests that the actual spawning event for these eggs was considerably farther upstream from the collection point. Regardless, this is the smallest river reach within which Asian carp eggs have been observed to date (D. Chapman, USGS, and personal comm.). In addition, evidence of Asian carp spawning in the Waba sh River under conditions not consistent with those previously reported was document ed . Eggs were detected in the Wabash River near Lafayette, Indiana , as late as the 3 rd week in July, and there was no substantial increase in the hydrograph usually expected prior to spawning by these species.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Five additional Vemco VR2W passive receivers will be added to the existing network of passive receivers in the upper and middle Wabash River to allow better determination of Asian carp use of smaller tributary rivers (e.g., Eel River and Wildcat Creek). The network will be used to passively track the currently tagged 99 silver and one bighead carp surgicall y implanted with Vemco V16

- 4L acoustic tags. An additional 100 acoustic tags will be surgically implant ed in 50 silver and 50 bighead carp (this number may be adjusted in response to the ready availability of specific species. Tagged fish will continue to be tracked using a Vemco VR100 manual receiver deployed from a motorboat or canoe, depending on river levels. B ongo net tows will also be employed for Asian carp eggs to determine the upstream extent and duration of Asian carp spawning in the Wabash River and the East Fork White River.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• July 31, 2012 : Conduct bongo net surveys for Asian carp eggs in Wabash River and East Fork White River

.

• September 30, 2012 : Passively and manually track existing and newly tagged Asian carp

.

• Oct ober 30, 2012 : Submit Phase II project report

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• October 30, 2012 : Phase II project report

.

• December 31, 2012 : Peer

- reviewed papers on project findings

.

• October 30, 2012 : Personal and technical communications with colleagues and stakeholders

.
**Potential Hurdles:**Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

44 • Inclement weather and flood conditions may delay some project activities, although all project activities will still be completed within the contract period

.


## 2.4. **10 Enhanced**  **GLMRIS Stakeholder Engagement Lead Agency**  **:** USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 200,000 GLRI funding.
**Project Explanation:** GLMRIS is a congressionally authorized feasibility study directing the USACE to consult with appropriate f ederal
, s tate, local and nongovernmental organizations to investigate the range of options and technologies available for prevent ing spread of ANS between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River Basins through the CSSC and other aquatic pathways. The study has garnered significant public attention. Over 950 comments were submitted through the GLMRIS Web site, via mail
, and at 12 NEPA public scoping meetings held throughout the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins in late 2010 through early 2011. Interested stakeholders include other federal agencies, Native American tribes, state agencies, local governments
, and

non

- governmental organizations. Although the study team has attempted to be open and transparent with stakeholders regarding the study, study progress
, and interim products, several stakeholders have expressed a desire for a more direct role in the study process. This eff ort will assess the current stakeholder engagement efforts, and develop and implement recommendations to improve the effectiveness of the stakeholder engagement.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Release additional interim products, such as commercial cargo base line assessment, ANS control technologies report , commercial fisheries baseline assessment, Wabash

- Maumee controls report, and assessments of probability of transfer via other aquatic pathways . Co nduct public discussions of reports regarding ANS controls t echnologies and other aquatic pathways

. FY 20 12 GLRI funds would support a baseline assessment of GLMRIS public participation and implementation of selected recommendations offered therein . The baseline assessment would be conducted by the Institute of Wa ter Resources (IWR) Public Participation Center of Expertise. IWR would examine current public engagement plans, interview GLMRIS team members
, and identify areas and methods to expand stakeholder engagement.
**Expected Milestones:**

• March 2012 : Expected c ompletion of assessment of stakeholder engagement

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Recommendations offered to improve effectiveness of stakeholder engagement.

• Recommendations assessed and plan developed to implement recommendations

.
**Potential Hurdles:**Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

45 

## • Additional public outreach events may impact study schedule

. 

## 2.5 Research and Technology Development

2.5.1 Investigate Tow Boats and Barges as Potential Vectors **Lead Agency :**  USCG (Research and Development Center)
**Agency Collaboration :**  Members of the planning workgroup include personnel from USGS, Sea Grant (University of Wisconsin), and USCG District 9. In addition to developing the experimental plan, personnel will also review draft reports.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary. Experiments conducted in 2010 and 2011. Final report to be funded with FY 2010 and 2011 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** E ntrainment and survival experiments conducted in spring 2011 , coupled with the tank survey conducted in 2012
, are expected to prov ide necessary information allowing determin ation of potential for towboats and barges to transport Asian carp across the USACE Electric Barrier System

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  A survey of the volume of water transported by towboats and barges was conducted in late summer 2010. Ballast tanks and voids on 132 barges (empty and loaded) and 14 towboats were visually inspected in August 2010. A total of 969 individual ballast tanks and voids were inspected. Only 5 percent of the tanks contained a measurable amount of water (more than 2 inches). Water temperature and dissolved oxygen ( DO ) concentrations in ballast tanks were within documented ranges of tolerances for Asian carp and o ther carp species. Normal ballasting procedures were described by barge operators.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Entrainment and survival experiments occurred aboard a modified barge in the Illinois River near Peoria, IL during spawning events in June 201 1. Four barge ballast tanks outfitted with 3

- inch valves were flooded to approximately 50 inches depth. At varying time intervals
, the tank contents were pumped out using 3

- inch pumps barge operators normally use to ballast tanks. The water was pumped in to a plankton net
, and the contents were examined for entrained larvae. Caged larvae collected locally were suspended in the ballast tanks for the same time periods and were examined to determine survival rates. Finally, locally captured larvae were caref ully poured in front of the intake hose for 2

- inch and 3

- inch pumps
, and were discharged into a plankton net to determine the potential to survive one pass through the pumps. Two sets of these three experiments were conducted. Results indicated Asian carp larvae could survive in ballast tanks but they would be unlikely to survive a single passage through a ballast
pump. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The first draft of the report on the entrainment and survival experimental results was delivered to the R&D C enter in November 2011

. Following review and revisions, the final report will be delivered in March 2 012.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

46 **Expected Milestones :** 

• Nov ember 2011 : Draft report of experiment results

.

• March 2012 : Final report of experiment results

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• September 201 1 : Survey results and n ormal barge ballasting procedures

.

• March 2012 : Final report covering entrainment potential into barge tanks , s urvival rates in barge tanks, and p ump entrainment and pump effects.

**Po tential Hurdles:** 

• Seasonal ity of spawning and possible in ability to find spawning Asian carp

.


## 2.5.2 Assessment Study of Potential Impacts of Steel

- hulled Barges on Fish Movement across Electric Barrier II **Lead Agency :**  USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $500,000 GLRI funding.
**Project Explanation:** Studies of the Demonstration Barrier (Barrier I), operating at parameters lower than the current operation of Barrier II, indicated that immobilization of fish (due to the electric barrier) swimming alongside barges took about three times long er than if th e fish were swimming through the electric field without any substantial steel hull present. As the steel hull approaches the barrier the steel warps the electric field toward the hull
, thus providing a shielded

area where fish would feel reduced or complet ely eliminated effects from the barrier

. Therefore, steel

- hulled barges may increase the possibility that fish are not affected by the electric barrier. The results of the studies at the Demonstration Barrier were used to design Barriers IIA and IIB so that steel

- hulled effects on the electric field would be eliminated or minimized. However, continued field testing of potential steel

- hull effects over Barriers IIA and IIB is needed because fish could be stunned and swept through the barriers with the barge and revived once again upsteam of the barriers.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Develop scope of work and coordinate for resources

. This testing will begin in FY 2012.

**FY 2 012 Actions Proposed**  : Design and conduct experiments to test the effectiveness of the Electric Barriers IIA and IIB in the presence of steel

- hulled barges and other vessels.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March 2012 : D esign experiment and probes

.

• June 2012: Manufacture materials for experiment

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

47 • September 2012 : Obtain data

.

• June 2013: Publish report

.
**Potential Hurdles:** None

.


## 2.5.3 Research on Potential Asian Carp Vectors as a Source of Fish or eDNA Movement in the CAWS **Lead Agency :**  USACE, USGS, USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  IL DNR, MWRD, USEPA **FY 2012 Funding :**  $90 0,000 GLRI funds (USACE $6 5 0,000; USGS $200,000; USFWS $50,000)

. **Project Explanation:** Anecdotal evidence suggests potential vectors for Asian carp DNA to enter the CAWS without originating from a live, free

- swimming bighead or silver carp

. Potential vectors include introduction of tissue containing Asian carp DNA from :

• Barges (dead fish being transported to new areas; tissue attached to upstream

- bound tugs or barges; trapped fish between lashed barges)

.

• Waterfowl (piscivorous bird excrement)

.

• Combined Sewer Outfalls (specifically in regions of Chicago where Asian carp are sold in markets on the street)

. Investigation of t hese potential sources of DNA is necessary to either justify or invalidate the hypothesis that these could be contributing to positive eDNA sample results

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  This research began in FY 2011

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  The interagency calibration team has developed a subtask to specifically address potential for alternative vectors to contribute to a positive eDNA result

. This research started in 4 th quarter FY 2011. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Study will be completed in FY 2012

. Additionally, eDNA content and viability after consumption, digestion, and passage by piscivorous birds will be studied
, as well as dead fish from barges. A conceptual model begun in FY 2011 will be amended later in 2013 after reception of results from relevant studies cited in Action Items 2.6.3 and 2.6.5.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• April 2012 : Start bird and carcass studies.

• June 2012: Rep eat Storm Sewers Study.

• July 2012 : Obtain results from repeated Storm Sewers Study.

• September 2012 : Complete l ab studies of bird s and carcass es

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

48 • November 2012 : Complete field surveys of bird s and carcass es

.

• Dec 2012 : Complete reports of bird and carcass studies.

• August 2013 : Complete full conceptual model.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Validat ion or invalidation of specific vectors suspected as likely contributing to positive eDNA results in samples

.

• Conceptual model of viable vectors.

**Potential Hurdles**  **:**

• Possible unr eliability of and in adequate participation in surveys ( conducted by lockmasters querying barge pilots regarding carcass transport and disposal)

.

• Logistical challenges to procurement of samples for w aterfowl excrement study

.


## 2.5.4 Assessing Risks of Great Lakes Invasion by Understanding Asian C arp and Bluegreen Algae Dynamics **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  None **FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Bluegreen algae (primarily Microcystis sp. ) blooms resulting from the mussel invasion may provide an excellent food source for bighead carp, enhancing their invasion

. Noxious bluegreen algal blooms, under some circumstances, can be enhanced by interaction with silver and bighead car p, and presence of these carp may enhance toxin production by noxious algae

. This project focuse s on assessing the risk of Asian carp surviv al in the Great Lakes based on Asian carp feeding habits.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  USGS hired the necessary personnel and obtained permits for laboratory work. Work also began to culture the bluegreen algae and construct the tank to house and feed Asian carp.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  During the second year of this project, it expanded to outdoor water enclosures in order to accommodate larger fish than those used during the first year of the project . Water enclosures were purchased and set up to complete this work. L aboratory investigation of small fish continued for both species; some work with s mall silver carp (especially the bioenergetics portion) will conclude in 2012. During t he first set of trials
, completed in January

2011 , bighead and silver carp juveniles were fed a combination of bluegreen algae/green algae

. A second set of trials then c ommenced whereby bighead and silver carp we re fed bluegreen algae
, sequestered by type of carp, and tested for effects of toxin production by algae.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

49 **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Data acquisition for both silver and bighead carp has been completed. Efforts will focus on completing bioenergetics modeling for silver and bighead carp
, as well as finishing the manuscript and publish ing the findings.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March 2012 : Submit manuscript to scientific journal for publication

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Final publication of research findings ( publication date dependent on journal).

**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.5.5 Risk Assessment of Asian Carp Establishment in the Great Lakes Based on Available Food Sources **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  None **FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Asian carp have been observed to diversify their diets beyond preferred pelagic plankton sources and feed on organic matter (“detritus”) under certain conditions and on the basis of availability of food resources. Silver carp are also thought to derive sub stantial nutrition from bacteria, both consumed and cultured in the gut. However, whether these food sources are adequate for growth and survival of Asian carp is unknown . Scientists are testing an established model that indicates Asian carp cannot survive in Lake Michigan based on available food types. Alteration of his model occurs as documentation of new findings on what the carp will eat (e.g.
, types of algae) appears

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  USGS hired the necessary personnel and purchased the

e quipment required to test the model that assumes Asian carp can no t survive in Lake Michigan. Personnel began testing the model on bighead carp. In addition, personnel looked at the behavior of Asian carp in seek ing out and eat ing alternative food. Cladopho ra, one of these alternative food sources, is being grown in culture for testing. Data acquisition began for this project in July 2010.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  O bserv ation in the lab indicated that the juvenile bighead and silver carps can consume mi crocystis algae and Cladophora (alternative food sources) , which are abundantly available in the G reat L akes . The model is being validated and applied to predict fish growth assuming this food source. Scientists completed all behavioral work involving consumption of alternative foods in aquaria and water enclosures. Data acquisition was completed for determining the validity of the bioenergetics model for all ages and sizes of bighead and silver carp.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

50 **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Acquisition of data for both silver and bighead carp has been completed. Efforts will focus on finishing manuscripts and publish ing findings.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• December 2011 : Submit manuscripts on model variation findings and assessment of alternate foods for review and p ublication.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Final publication of research findings ( publication date dependent on journal ).

**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.5.6 Use of Seismic Technology to D ivert and E radicate Asian Carp **Lead Agency :**  USGS, USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  IL DNR , USACE , US FWS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 1,225,000 Total funding ( $550,000 GLRI funds [$500,000 USGS; $50,000 USACE] /$675,000 Base funding)

.
**P roject Explanation:**  Methods now available to control nuisance and non

- n ative invasive fishes are inadequate. S ome methods are expensive, labor intensive, non

- s elective, and/ or length

specific. Proximity of Asian carp to the Great Lakes Basin highlights the need to develop quickly available additional control methods to affect their behavior, thereby impeding their spread into the Great Lakes, or to remove Asian carp through direct mortality. Seismic technology possibly could affect the behavior of nuisance and non

- n ative invasive fishes or eradicate them over a range of age classes ; seismic technology thus is a via ble candidate for participation in integrated suppression efforts.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**  **:** The USGS has now conducted three separate experiments (Snake River cutthroat trout, Northern pike, and b ighead and s ilver carp) evaluating use of water guns as a deterrent. Experiments assess ed the feasibility of water gun deployment for use as a barrier and to determine acute and chronic lethal thresholds in fishes exposed to pulsed sound pressure levels. Studies were conducted in situ because the magnitude of water gun operations preclude s these in a laboratory setting. In these studies
, a water gun prototype (343- cubic

- inch water gun developed by Bolt Technology ) capable of generating 840 pounds per square inch ( PSI ) ( 254 decibels [ db ] at 1 meter ) was used in a ll experiments to maintain consistency. Initial studies demonstrated that the water gun can induc e significant negative physiological effects in fish at sound pressure levels exceeding PSI , 9 meters from the sound source.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Plan s for FY 2011 include hiring a postdoctoral fish ecologist, purchas ing additional water guns, constructi ng an array of these for mobilization
, and conducting additional test s on behavioral modification in carp and lethality in threatened and endangeredAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

51 species. Research in FY 2011 will determine whether pulse pressures emitted from water guns can repel carp as a static barrier
, and will assess whether water guns as a mobile barrier can repel and divert the carp . Using results from these two studies, we w ill then determine the viability of utilizing these pulse pressures within the CSSC and at shipping locks.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The USGS will evaluate use of water guns to control, divert
, and / or eradicate Asian carp. Experiments will utilize metrics of fish movement and determine the feasibility of water guns for barrier applications and increase d capture efficacy. Studies will also evaluate the safety of water gun applications in proximity of hard structures such as canal walls and in locks u sed for barge passage. Additional efforts will be directed at water gun usage during electric barrier maintenance in conjunction with USACE , USCG , and I L DNR

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• July 2012 : Complete Asian carp behavioral experiment

.

• July 2012 : Comple te structural integrity study

.

• September 2012 : Complete water gun barrier maintenance support activities

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• July 2012 : Expected provision of information from b ehavioral experiment concerning effectiveness of water guns for use as a sta tic barrier

.

• September 2012 : Expected w ater gun use during maintenance of electric barriers
, enabl ing USACE to conduct routine operations proximate to the electric barriers

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Inability to procure equipment for operational needs

.

• Possible u nexpected carp behavior that complicate s experimental studies.



## 2.5.7 Expand Research on the Identification of Asian Carp Attraction/Repulsion Pheromones **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  State agencies, US FWS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $240,00 0 Base funding.
**Project Explanation:** A pheromone is a chemical substance that influenc es certain behaviors in fish and other organisms. Sex pheromones detected through the fish’s sense of smell trigger reproductive interactions

. The Asian carp’s sex pheromones synchronize sexual readiness within the population and induce specific behaviors such as attraction, nest preparation, and spawningAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

52 behaviors

. Production of female sexual pheromones may also be induced through hormonal
treatments. Field studies are required to evaluate the effectiveness of hormonally induced sex pheromone production in caged female carp as an attractant to aid in captur ing wild carp

. Technologies must be identified for observing the response of wild carp to attractive and repellant stimuli in the field

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  Physiological screening assays indicated very high sensitivity of the carp ’s sense of smell for sex hormone metabolites associated with sex pheromones. The metabolites result from chemical processes in the fish’s body.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Behavioral assays began in 2011 to verify behavioral attraction to sex hormone metabolites determined highly stimulatory during physiological assays of the carp olfactory system

. Proof

- of

- concept studies were initiated to determine if production of attractive sex pheromone s could be hormonally induced in female s with the aim of using caged
, treated females as a source of attractive pheromone s to help capture wild carp

. An evaluation began of technologies for observing the response of wild carp to attractive or repellant stimuli in the field

. A feeding stimulus developed as a positive control for field tests was highly attractive.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Following from proof

- of

- concept s tudies initiated in 2011, field tests will be conducted to develop protocols for use of sex attractants as lures in the field

. These studies will document the response of Asian carp to caged female carp that have been hormonally induced to produce attracti ve pheromones to lure male Asian carp for capture and removal

. Alternatively
, use of sex hormone metabolites identified in carp sex pheromones will be applied as
attractant s . This assessment will consider the responsiveness of free

- ranging fish categorized by species, sex, stage of sexual maturation and gonad development. The studies will also attempt to determine the effective range over which fish are responsive and the persistence with which they respond. U tility of the feeding stimulus as a potential lure will be examined.
Accurate documentation of the response of wild fish is critical for developing pheromone lures for carp control. Several underwater imaging technologies to be evaluated includ e side

- scan and D IDSON sonar imagery, pit tag ging of fish for detection, and 3

- D sonic tag telemetry to observe wild fish and confirm their response to these attractive stimuli.
**Expected M**  **ilestones :** 

• October 1

- March 31 2012 : Conduct comparison of technologies for detecting position and movements of fish in the field in response to an attractive or repellent fixed

- point stimulus
, (1) considering range and accuracy of detection
, and (2) handling stress imposed on the fish by th e different approaches

.

• March 31 - September 31 2012 : Conduct replicated studies to assess attraction of free

ranging carp to caged
, hormonally induced
, female carp

. The studies will also include an evaluation of the responsiveness to sex hormone metabolites that appear to make up the pheromone

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

53 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Protocols for hormonal induction of pheromone production in Asian carp

.

• Protocols for conducting behavi oral observation of free

- ranging fish responding to fixed

point stimuli

.

• Draft protocols for use of caged females as pheromone stimulus lures to assist in capture of free

- ranging fish.

• USGS report on feasibility of us ing pheromones to capture and harvest Asian carp

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible insufficient a vailability of reproductive

- stage fish for hormonal induction of sex pheromones

.

• Selection of study site that allows sufficient control of free

- ranging carp to conduct replicated field trials

.


## 2.5 .8 Identify Potential Compounds for Inclusion in a Toxicant Screening Program for Control of Asian Carp **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  Viterbo University, USFWS
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $250,000 Base funding

. **Project Explanation:** A lack of registered piscicides ( chemicals poisonous to fish) severely limits the tools that aquatic resources managers have available to control aquatic invasive fish. I dentification and registration of new piscicides would increase the ability of manager s to deal with aquatic invasive fish. Furthermore, increased scrutiny of rotenone due to human health implications could result in potential loss of this piscicide
, creat ing a gap that would have to be filled. This project will analyze structure s and activ ities of chemicals with known piscicidal capabilities described in a variety of industrial, pesticide
, and pharmaceutical libraries. Chemicals similar in structure or activities to known piscicides will be evaluated for potential use in control ling aquatic invasive fish such as bighead or silver carp.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Initiat ion of a literature review and analysis of structure / activity relationship s (SAR).

• Initiation of a literature review to catalogue chemicals with known piscicidal activity.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Continua tion of the comprehensive literature review to catalogue chemicals with known piscicidal activity. R esults of the literature search are being compiled in a database forAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

54 review to identify common structural features a nd correlate those features with modes of action.

• Integrat ion of results of bighead and silver carp enzymatic and molecular profiles ( including responses to rotenone ) into the SAR analysis. This will allow inclusion in the SAR analysis of active sites for potential chemical receptors ( e.g. , Asian carp appear to have greater phosphatase activity than native planktivores identifying a chemical which becomes active only after cleavage of a phosphate group may have greater toxicity to Asian carp than to native planktivores).

• Continuance of the SAR review of pharmaceutical and pesticide databases to identify candidate fish toxicants. The SAR review will incorporate results of the literature search and information provided from incorporation of the enzymatic and molecular profiles in order to narrow the search criteria.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Continue the comprehensive literature review to catalogue chemicals with known piscicidal activity. R esults of the literature search are being compiled in a database for review to identify common structural features and correlate those features with modes of action.

• Continue the SAR review of pharmaceutical and pesticide databases to identify candidate fish toxicants. The SAR review will incorporate results of the lite rature search and information provided from incorporation of the enzymatic and molecular profiles in order to narrow the search criteria.

• Identify, in collaboration with the USFWS La Crosse Fish Health Center, sources of native fish cell lines suitable for use in cytotoxicity (cell toxicity) assays.

• Develop, in collaboration with the U SFWS La Crosse Fish Health Center, bighead and silver carp cell lines suitable for use in cytotoxicity assays. Because s ilver and bighead carp cell lines are not currently available, development of cell lines of these species likely must

occur before screening can proceed.

• Complete cytotoxicity screening assays with candidate fish toxicants identified in SAR review. Cytotoxicity screening will be completed using cell lines of bighead and silver carp and at least two representative non

- target fish.

• Confirm, using in vivo bioassays with fish, the acute toxicity of chemicals that selectively cause cytotoxicity in Asian carp cell lines. In vivo bioassays will include non

- target native fishes; the number of species included will depend on fish availability.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March 2012 : Complet ion of initial SAR review of pesticide and pharmaceutical libraries

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

55 • March 2012 : Identif ication of sources of required cell lines

.

• July 2012 : Develop ment of bighead and silver carp cell lines, select ion of non

- target fish cell lines, and initiat ion of in vitro cytotoxicity assays

.

• August 2012 : Initiat ion of in vivo screening

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Approximately one dozen candidate fish toxicants identified for further testing

.

• Draft manuscripts of cell line development and toxicant screening.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• D elayed d evelopment of Asian carp cell lines.



## 2.5.10 Developing Target ed Control Systems for Asian Carp Based on Species

Specific Digestive System Characteristics **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  INHS, Purdue University
, and South Dakota State University

. **FY 2012 Funding :**  $80,000 Base funding.
**Project Explanation:** Current toxicants used to contro l AIS are non

‐ selective and applied throughout the entire water column, resulting in equal exposures of native and invasive species to the toxicant. Development of a delivery system that is selectively consumed by or active in an invasive species could red uce non ‐ target species exposure to the toxicant and may enhance selectivity and reduce effects to non

‐ target species. Development of such delivery methodologies will require full understanding of native and invasive species gill and gut enzyme activity and physiology, because a targeted delivery system will likely require selective or non

- selective uptake via oral or gill adhesion delivery routes
, with ultimate delivery in/through the gastrointestinal tract. A complete understanding of the differences between the gastrointestinal system of native planktivores (fish that eat plankton) and that of Asian carp is critical to the development of any targeted delivery system.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :** 

• In August and September 2010, n ative planktivorous fish from the Illinois River were sampled
, and concentrations of 19 digestive enzymes and lysozymes , as well as pH s, were compared among the species.

• Fecal samples from gizzard shad and bigmouth buffalo were collected
, and the bacterial composition for each specie s was identified using modern genetic techniques. A contract with the University of Illinois for genetic sequencing of microfauna was initiated.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

56 • C haracterization of gill morphology of native planktivores began . Initial 3

- dimensional images were generated. This information will provide a better understanding of how planktivorous fishes capture particulate matter
, and ultimately aid in design ing a targeted delivery system for piscicides that minimizes impacts to native fishes.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Continued digestive tract sampling (enzymes and bacterial flora) of native planktivores (gizzard shad and bigmouth buffalo) in the Illinois River in March. Samples will be collected seasonally to assess seasonal plasticity in native planktivore digestive t racts.

• Established collaborations with Purdue University to collect digestive tract samples (enzymes and bacterial flora) of native planktivores from the Wabash River, Indiana . This will help identify possible geographic differences in the digestive tract enzymes or bacterial flora of native planktivore populations.

• Develop ed a contract with University of Illinois for bacterial sequencing
, and submit ted samples to serve in efforts at describing the bacterial fauna of the digestive tracts of gizzard shad and bigmouth buffalo. Characterizing the bacterial fauna will allow us to better understand how Asian carp and the native planktivores differ in the way they process food.

• Synthesize d the differences in digesti ve physiology (enzymatic and symbiotic flora) among planktivorous fishes
, and appl ied those differences to the attempt to develop a targeted piscicide delivery system.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Establish collaborations with South Dakota State University to collect digestive tract samples (enzymes and bacterial flora) of native planktivores from the James River, South Dakota . This will help identify possible geographic differences in the digestive tract enzymes or bacterial flora of native planktivore populations.

• Collect digestive tract samples during winter (October through February). Overwintering feeding habits of Asian carp and native planktivores in nor thern rivers is essentially unknown. Gut content samples collected in March 2011 indicated that silver carp may be feeding at temperatures and times that native planktivores are not. This information will determine the optimal time for applying an oral toxicant that will minimally impact native fish while maxim ally impacting Asian carp

.

• Continue to synthesize the differences in digestive physiology (enzymatic and symbiotic flora) among planktivorous fishes
, and apply those differences to the attempt to deve lop a targeted piscicide delivery system. Publish results of the work regarding enzymes in a
peer

- reviewed article.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

57 **Expected Milestones :** 

• February 2012 : Complete collection of digestive tract samples

.

• March 2012 : Complete analysis of digestive trac t samples

.

• April 2012 : Collect Asian carp and native planktivore digestive tract samples

.

• May 2012 : Complete enzymat ic assays of digestive enzymes

.

• July 2012 : Draft report assessing the digestive tract

.

• August 2012 : Draft report comparing enzymatic differences

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Synthesis of differences in digestive physiology (enzymatic and symbiotic flora) among planktivorous fish and comparison of those in Asian carp (work on Asian carp enzymes is part of Framework project 2.5.12). In corporation of these identified differences into development of a targeted piscicide delivery system that minimizes the impact of an oral toxicant on native planktivores.

• Publication in 2011 and 2012 of m anuscripts describing the digestive enzymes of nati ve planktivores and the temporal and spatial changes in digestive tract activity.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible difficulties collecting digestive tract samples during winter months.

• Possible inaccessibility of sampling sites during winter months.



## 2.5.11 G reat Lakes’ Tributary Assessment for Asian C arp Habitat Suitability **Lead Agency :**  USGS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $225,000 Base funding

. **Project Explanation:** This project focus es on determination of a minimum river length, water velocity, and water temperature characteristics required for spawning and growth of bighead and silver carp
, in order to assess the risk of the se carp creating a breeding population in Great Lakes tributar ies. USGS researchers have determined the densities of the eggs as the se develop
, and how much time the bighead and silver carp require to begin swimming and migrat ing laterally from flowing water into nursery habitat

. This information about egg and larvae transport requirements will be used to create a tool that takes into account the hydraulics of a river (water velocity and dispersion rates) and the water temperature (affects egg and larvae development rate s ) in order to determine if a river is sufficien tly long for (1) bighead and silver carp to spawn and (2) the eggs/larvae to be carried to nursery areas

. Scientists can then efficiently identify Great Lakes tributaries that pose elevated risk for reproduction of bighead and silver carp.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

58 **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken:** 

• Completion of d evelopment series for Asian carp at different temperatures

.

• Study leading to discovery that A sian carp begin to swim vertically before they can swim horizontally
, enabl ing them to remain suspended in the water column at an earli er developmental stage than previously assumed.

• Measurement of e gg diameters and specific gravity at progressive development stages to characterize the se for a transport model

.

• Completion of acquisition of hydraulic data at the Milwaukee River in Wisconsin in August 2010

.
**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Completion of acquisition of hydraulic data at the St. Joseph River in Michigan and Indiana in December 2010

.

• Processing at the Illinois Water Science Center (ILWSC) of t he data obtained at the Milwaukee and St. Joseph Rivers
, in order to determine dispersion coefficients and areas where river conditions may be unfavorable for egg transport.

• Completion of water

- quality d ata acquisition at the St. Joseph River in September 2011

. Completion of water

- quality data acquisition at the Maumee River in Ohio in August 2011.

• Initiation in summer 2011 of f lume experiments at the University of Illinois at Urba na

Champaign to better characterize egg transport

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  FY 2012 funding would focus on development of the tributary assessment tool with the University of Illinois and acquisition of data at an additional tributary. **Expected Milestones :** 

• D evelopment of Asian C arp Tributary Assessment tool by University of Illinois and USGS
, including field verification at a known spawning reach outside the Great Lakes Basin

.

• Acquisition of f ield data at a Lake Erie tributary.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Further h ydraulic and water

- quality data obtained at an additional tributary to be incorporated i n to the tool for assessing suitability of tributaries for Asian carp spawning.

• Preliminary computer assessment tool for evaluating suitability of tributar ies for Asian
carp spawning.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

59 **Potential Hurdles:**

• Acquisition of f ield data depends on weather con ditions (storms could occur during periods of warm weather)

.


## 2.5.12 Technologies Using Oral Delivery Platforms for Species

- Specific Control **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  Advanced BioNutrition Corporation, INHS , Purdue University, University of W isconsin – LaCrosse, University of Illinois Urbana

- Champaign, Viterbo University
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $1,025,117 Base funding.
**Project Explanation:** No current technology can specifically target bighead or silver carp fo r control within aquatic ecosystems. Current piscicid al chemicals are not selective for bighead or silver carp
, and current methods to apply the se in aquatic systems equally expose all animals present. Developing target ed delivery systems with high specificity for bighead and silver carp would increase the ability of management agencies to control or limit Asian carp while minimizing potential impacts to native species. Similarly, developing new chemical tools specifically toxic to bighead or silver carp wo uld lead to more success in management efforts to control Asian carp. Indeed, d eveloping new selective chemical control tools appears essential to successful management of Asian carp.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Acquired analytical instrumentation (Beck man Multi sizer TM 4 particulate counter, a real

time quantitative polymerase chain reaction system , and microplate photometer) to quantify particle size profiles
, and to identify and characterize digestive systems of Asian
carp and native fish.

• Determined b aseline digestive enzyme profiles of Asian carp in order to identify unique differences to exploit for a selective targeted delivery system.

• Evaluated uptake and physiological response of Asian carp and bigmouth buffalo to varying doses of the piscicide, rotenone. These data were critical to determine the rotenone loading of a selective targeted delivery system.

• Established a contract with Advanced BioNutrition Corp. to prepare and deliver a selective targeted delivery system for determin ing particle reten tion and delivery analysis in Asian
carp.

• Completed analysis of approximately 15 particle formulations and sizes of potential selective targeted delivery systems
, and initiated work to increase particle performance characteristics.

• Supported by funding through the USGS Science Support Program (SSP) , initiated work to determine filtering characteristics of native unionid (freshwater mussels) and zebraAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

60 mussels , and initiated comparative analyses of native unionid and zebra mussel digestive enzyme profiles. P reliminary results indicate possibly unique seasonal differences that may be applicable to a selective targeted delivery system utilized to control zebra mussel s

.
**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Initiated work to describe filtering characteristics of bighe ad and silver carp exposed to a selective targeted delivery system and microspheres
, in order to determine their particle retention characteristics.

• Continued digestive tract sampling (enzymes and bacterial flora) of bighead and silver
carp at the Illinois River in March. Samples will be collected seasonally to assess seasonal plasticity in bighead and silver carp digestive tracts.

• Established collaborations with Purdue University to collect digestive tract samples (enzymes and bacterial flora) of bighead and silver carp from the Wabash River, Indiana

. This will help identify any geographic differences in the digestive tract enzymes or bacterial flora of bighead and silver carp populations.

• Developed contract with University of Illinois for bacterial sequen cing , and submit ted samples to describe the bacterial fauna of the digestive tracts of bighead and silver carp. Characterizing the bacterial fauna will allow us to better understand how Asian carp and the native planktivores differ in how they process food

.

• Identified differences in digestive physiology (enzymatic and symbiotic flora) of bighead and silver carp
, and appl ied those differences to development of a targeted piscicide delivery system.

• Supported by funding through the USGS SSP , continue d work to determine the filtering characteristics of native unionid and zebra mussels and comparative analysis of native and unionid and zebra mussel digestive enzyme profiles.

• Initiate d characterization and comparison of the gill raker structure of bighea d and silver
carp with that of native planktivorous fish to better understand particle retention capabilities of bighead and silver carp

.

• Complete d evaluations of bighead and silver carp retention of a selective targeted delivery system.

• Complete d comparis ons of selective targeted delivery system release mechanisms through in vitro assays of varied particle

- release mechanisms exposed to bighead or silver carp digestive tract contents in order to determine the most efficient release mechanisms for delivering targeted particulate load.

• Initiate d work to determine rotenone

- incorporated particle characteristics from particle retention and digestive enzyme profile evaluations.

• Initiate d work to evaluate toxicity of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone in order to determine field exposure rates for control ling bighead and silver carp.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

61 • Assessed differences in digestive physiology between Asian carp and native planktivorous fish to aid selection of a release mechanism for new selective toxicants.

• Initiate d acquisition and outfitting of a bio

- assay trailer for on

- site evaluation of a selective
, targeted
, delivery system of rotenone to bighead and silver carp and non

- target species.

• Initiate d in vivo bioassays of GD

- 174 and analogues with bighead, common
, and silver
carp . Develop ed analytical methods to quantify GD

- 174 and analogues in bioassays.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Identif y potential field trial locations to evaluate a selective targeted delivery system of
rotenone. The evaluation was initially to occur in 2011 but was delayed due to

un availability of the number of fish needed for the studies.

• Submit Experimental Use Permit application to EPA to allow field trials of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone. This also was to occur in 201 1 but was delayed due
to unavailability of the number of fish needed for the studies.

• Establish collaborations with South Dakota State University to collect digestive tract samples (enzymes and bacterial flora) of bighead and silver carp from the James Riv er, South Dakota . This will help identify any geographic differences in the digestive tract enzymes or bacterial flora of bighead and silver carp populations

.

• Complete work to evaluate the toxicity of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone in ord er to determine field exposure rates for control ling bighead and silver carp.

• Initiate work to evaluate inclusion of palatability enhancers ( e.g., algal constituents, amino acids, etc.) to increase consumption of rotenone by bighead and silver carp via a s elective targeted delivery system.

• Develop application techniques for delivering a selective targeted delivery system of
rotenone to bighead and silver carp. This work will include optimization of toxicant loading rates, treatment concentration rates
, and treatment duration to achieve maximum control of Asian carp

.

• Initiate non

- target testing of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone to native fish and mussel species.

• Initiate a contract to develop microspheres for encapsulation and release of pi scicidal compounds. U SGS will work with bio

- medical microsphere development companies to develop and evaluate various formulations of microspheres for use as a potential selective targeted delivery system of chemicals for control ling AIS

.

• Complete compari sons of seasonal and regional gill raker ultrastructure s of Asian carp and native planktivorous fish.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

62 • Complete work with University of Illinois Urbana

- Champaign on bacterial sequencing to describe the bacterial fauna of the digestive tracts of bighead and silver carp.

• Supported by funding through the USGS SSP , determine toxicants for inclusion in potential selective targeted delivery systems
, and determine optimal toxicant loading rates, treatment concentration rates , and treatment duration to achieve maxi mum control of dreissenid mussels.

• Identif y potential field trial locations to evaluate a selective targeted delivery system of
rotenone.

• Submit Experimental Use Permit application to EPA to allow field trials of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone.

• Initiate field trials of a targeted delivery system of rotenone.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March 201 2 : Apply for Experimental Use Permit to conduct field application of Rotenone

incorporated targeted delivery system formulation at limited applicat ion sites.

• February 2012 : Evaluate efficacy of bighead and silver carp to selectively retain and digest a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone.

• 2012 : Use transcriptome sequence information to identify the modes of detoxification of piscicide s (e.g.
, Rotenone) in bighead and silver carp and native planktivores.

• March 2012 : Initiate a contract with a bio

- medical microsphere development company to develop and evaluate various formulations of microspheres for use as a selective targeted delive ry system of chemicals to control AIS

.

• September 2012 : Complete seasonal and regional comparisons of gill raker ultrastructure s of Asian carp and native planktivorous fish.

• August 2012 : Synthesize the differences in digestive physiology (enzymatic and symbiotic flora) of bighead and silver carp with that of gizzard shad and bigmouth buffalo.

• August 2012 : Complete initial evaluations of potential palatability enhancers to aid in retention of rotenone via a selective targeted delivery system.

• August 2012 : Conduct o n- site field evaluations in a mobile bio

- assay trailer of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone to native fish and mussel species.

• September 2012 : Conduct an e xperimental field application of a selective targeted delivery sys tem of rotenone.

• 2013 : Evaluate a selective targeted delivery system of management chemicals for controlling dreissenid mussels.

• Determine the optimal application techniques for delivering a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone to control Asian carp

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

63 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Development of a selective targeted delivery system of rotenone for selective control of bighead and si lver carp.

• Development of a selective targeted delivery system of a mollusicide for selective control of dreissenid mussels.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible delays in development and delivery of test formulations of targeted delivery systems

.

• Possible ina b ility to secure test locations and test animals

.

• Possible difficulties incorporating p alatability of rotenone into a selective targeted delivery system

.

• Differential ingestion and possible un availability of a selective targeted delivery system of
rotenone

.


## 2.5.15 Develop Alternate Traps /Technologies to Enhance Asian Carp Capture Rates
**Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **FY 2012 Funding :**  $6 00,000 GLRI funds

. **Project Explanation:** Current research is evaluating other lethal and sub lethal and barrier technologies that can stop and/or repel fish within the CAWS

. An environmental scale application is warranted to evaluate legitimate alternatives to these chemicals for rapid and / or emergency responses and use in barrier maintenance operations

. A scale application of a wat er gun for barrier defense was successful in 2011. Further development of this can suggest how to deploy it most successfully and develop this as a useful barrier. Although USGS will be developing the tool and impacts on fish (air bladders), IL DNR has a sked the University of Illinois and INHS to develop a sonic telemetry array that can track fish in real time 3

- D and track fish response to water gun carbon dioxide treatment , or to develop other promising physical/chemical tools: for example, in some are as , lock chambers may assist in eliminating upstream threats of Asian carp and other ANS

. In application of these tools, a model of flow may be useful to accurately predict amounts of chemicals needed. Promising results from 2011 suggest remote sensing technologies may also be added to monitor fish without tags in a real

time assessment. Additionally, a working group of net makers, fisheries biologists, Great Lakes and riverine commercial fishers, and hydroacoustic and pheromone experts has developed several tools/ itemsAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

64 of gear to use in the CAWS and Illinois Waterway. Deep panel gill nets, large hoop nets (6 f ee t) are ordered
, and are to be implemented immediately (late 2011

- early 2012) throughout the CAWS where Asian carp do not exist in number, and also throughout the Illinois River for evaluation purposes. Large, semi

- permanent pound nets, purse seines, trawls, and bagged seines have also been recognized. Action to deploy these nets and evaluate s uccess is a priority early in 2012. These items of gear are much larger than some being used, and can be used for extended periods of time, increasing ability to detect fish.
These systems would be built , combined, and refined for optimum performance in the Dresden Island and Brandon Road pools downstream of USACE’s electric barriers, where low densities of carp are known to occur. The best designs and methods would then be deployed upstream of the electric barriers in the CAWS and/or Great Lakes rivers w here eDNA technology indicates possible presence of Asian carp.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  INHS evaluat ed several barrier techniques with responses in laboratory and field (pond) settings

. Water gun trials occurred in fall 2010 as well

. Both show promis e for kill ing and/or repelling fish

. Evaluation of deployment of these tools at a scale environmentally relevant occurred through 2011.

• Literature review of chemical tolerances for largemouth bass, bluegill, silver carp and bighead carp was completed

.

• Laboratory studies quantif ied behavioral responses of largemouth bass, bluegill, silver
carp , and bighead carp to concentrations of DO and carbon. Work with bighead carp is ongoing.

• Laboratory studies quantif ied physiological response s of largemouth bass, bluegill, silver
carp , and bighead carp to low DO and elevated carbon dioxide concentrations at two time s . Work with bighead carp is ongoing.

• Behavioral studies that will quantif y the ability of elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide to induce avoidance behaviors in silver carp, largemouth bass
, and bluegill began
, and are ongoing

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Completed lab and field trials suggest ed that oxygen stripping does not seem a viable alternative ; however carbon dioxide does affect fish in a natural ecosystem. Further
assessment at an ecological level will be necessary to verify efficacy and indicate how this could be deployed.

• A n application in the CAWS was modeled

.

• Experts convened to formulate alternate capture meth ods
, and developed net designs

.

• Purchase and deployment of large, 6-f oo t hoop nets and deep water gill nets were recommended for early 2012.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

65 • Other gear was identified for 2012 development . W ork began to detail implementation of a Great Lakes

- style trap net to fish extended periods of time in the CAWS in order to maximize fishing effort and increase detection of fish.

• Chemical barrier findings to date are as follows :

o Low DO does not show strong promise as a chemical barrier to deter movement of Asian carp. Silver carp are hypoxia tolerant, and even low levels of oxygen induce only minor discomfort and disturbance. F easibility of implementing such a system in a waterway would be low , and minor deviations from anoxia would reduce the efficacy of an oxygen barrier.

o Elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide (approximately 30

- 70 m illigrams per liter [mg/ L] , pH approximating 6.5) have potential as a chemical barrier to deter movem ent of carp. Exposure to elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide elicits significant physiological responses in silver carp, and both species show strong behavioral modifications (coughing, twitching, gasping etc.) when placed in a high carbon dioxide en vironment. Carbon dioxide dissolves easily in water, so achieving this concentration (at least in a controlled laboratory setting) is logistically straightforward.

o Silver carp show a behavioral avoidance response to carbon dioxide concentrations around 70 mg/L , and swim away from water with carbon dioxide at this concentration.

• Preliminary field studies have shown that manipulat ing pH in ponds to levels that would deter carp is relatively straightforward

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Finalize plans

.

• Implem ent barrier plans at an environmentally relevant scale

.

• Implement and fine

- tun e 2011 net design work

. These methods could include any of the following
, as results from 2011 dictate:

• Chemical/thermal barriers including carbon dioxide / oxygen / chlorine /pH/other, lab studies, ecosystem

- sized deployment, lock chamber treatments, heated lock chamber from local industry could lower cost, zone treatment in CAWS

.

• Hydrogun : Water gun and other elimination/deterrent technology

.

• Attractant and/or repellant p he romone s.

• Physical (block) net at key location(s) including r apid response s and k ey locations for short

- term deployment

.

• Super

- shocker

.

• MWRD DO model efforts

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

66 • Sound/bubble/light barriers

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• September 30, 2012 : Demonstrate a working gear, trap net, pheromone trap, or other to herd, haul, and direct fish

— overseen by working group of experts ; compare these to existing technologies.

• September 30, 2012 : Demonstrate an operating deterrent system to repel or kill Asian
carp and other ANS in the CAWS, protecting both the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Additional tools for stopping and eliminating Asian carp from the waterway.

• Add itional barrier s may be more successful in controlling differ ent life stages of carp than barrier currently exhibits.

• Additional tools to be utilized wherever Asian carp exist to increase likelihood of capture.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Cost s of applying new tech nolog ies may exceed cost s of existing methods.

• New technologies may not improve upon sampling efficiencies when deployed.



## 2.5.16 Development of a R apid and Q uantitative G enetic -B ased Asian C arp D etection M ethod **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  University of Illinois at Urbana

- Champaign for genetic analysis
, and INHS, Purdue University
, and South Dakota State University for assistance in sample collections.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Early det ection is a vital part of managing any invasive species, including Asian carp

. Methods for early detection have relied on the capture of fishes or the presence of DNA (eDNA) from sloughed cells from Asian carp

. We propose to determine the relative abundan ce of Asian carp through quantification of microbial populations unique to the A sian
carp gut microbiota in a manner similar to microbial source tracking . This technique has the potential to detect Asian carp more effectively than traditional nets
, and is therefore an avenue that must be investigated

. Microbial source tracking is based on the concept that microbes from a polluted site can be traced to an animal, thus indicating the origin of fecal contamination

. This approach has been successfully applied t o identify the sources ( e.g., human, cow, swine, water fowl) of fecal contamination in rivers, lakes, and drinking water distribution systems

. Similarly, ifAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

67 key microbial populations can be identified in the fecal matter of A sian carp , the se could be used for development of a genetic

- based method to detect the presence of A sian carp in water bodies. The goal of this project is to develop and validate a genetic

- based method that can complement the current surveill ance methods for Asian carp , an invasive fish species within many water bodies in the U.S.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  F ecal samples were collected from Asian carp , gizzard shad
, and bigmouth buffalo in September 2010
, and stored at

- 80 degrees Celsius ( °C ) pending analysis.

**FY 2 011 Actions Undertaken**  **:**

• Establish ed a collaborative agreement with Univer s ity of Illinois Urbana

- Champaign

.

• Establish ed sampling schedules with Purdue University and South Dakota State University for collection of samples from the Wabash River, IN
, and James River, SD , respectively

. This will help indicate differences among populations.

• Research protocol was completed and is under review by Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center Animal Care and Use Committee.

• Initiate d and continue regular sampling on the Illinois River, IL ; Wabash River, IN ; and James River, South Dakota

. Results will help identify temporal and spatial differences
among enteric bacteria.

• Identified bacteria colonizing the fore, mid
, and hind

- gut of gizzard shad, bigmouth buffalo
, and Asian carp using Next

- Generation sequencing technologies.

• Beg a n processing fecal samples for bacterial identification.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Complete genetic analysis of enteric bacteria from remaining samples.

• Develop quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay (a genetic model) for unique microbes.

• Validate qPCR assay(s) using existing fecal sample collections (blind samples)

.

• Develop Asian carp

- specific qPCR test.

• Test Asian carp

- specific qPCR test w ith blind samples.

• Complete final report

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• September 2012 : Identify how the unique microbial populat ion changes throughout the year.

• September 2012 : Develop qPCR method to detect Asian carp

- specific microbial populations.

• Sept ember 2012 : Complete final report.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

68 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• A molecular technique that provides an alternat iv e to current methods (which rely on detection of sloughed Asian carp cells) , and which may provide greater sensitivity and/or information complementi ng that obtained using current techniques.

**P otential Hurdles:** 

• Weather may delay or preclude field collections, particularly during the winter.

• Bacterial sequencing will be performed by the University of Illinois Genomics Core. Because this is a high

- demand laboratory
, and sample analysis of partial runs is neither
cost - nor time

- effective (partial runs require more processing time per sample than full runs), digestive tract samples will be pooled until a full sample set is obtained. The demand by othe r projects on the Genomics Core remains unknown ; thus the impact of this demand is indeterminate.



## 2.5.17 Chicago Area Waterway System Monitoring Network Evaluation **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  MWRD Greater Chicago
, University of Illinois – Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 190,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Currently, flow monitoring stations on the CAWS are insufficient for evaluation of data from ongoing sampling programs targeting As ian carp detection in the CAWS
, or for evaluation of proposed waterway separation scenarios

. Hydraulic and water quality models of the CAWS are an important tool for data

- based decision

- making

. Development and calibration of these models require flow data from throughout the CAWS

. Phase I of this project will compile historical flow and water

- quality data from the CAWS into a single database that will streamline model development and calibration

. Phase II of this project will evaluate the historical databa se and the current network of gaging stations on the CAWS to identify the critical inputs and gaps in information

. Phase III of the project will fill the data gaps through synoptic field measurements and possible new monitoring locations.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**  **:** Feasibility and value of the model for waterway simulation were demonstrated via use of detailed synoptic flow data from acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) discharge measurements and rhodamine dye distribution data obtained during roten one applications on the CAWS ; this was a preliminary calibration of a 3

- D hydraulic model for a small portion (River Mile 296

- 291) of the waterway.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USGS hosted a C AWS stakeholder’s meeting at the IL DNR office in Chicago to ad dress the critical shortfalls in waterway monitoring

. Mining of historic al CAWS data and compilation of a database began

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

69 A synoptic survey of water temperature for the entire CAWS occurred in Sept ember 2011 to provide a snapshot of continuous water tempe rature and thermal loads to the waterway. Updates (entries of new information) continue to the CAWS database on

- line observatory (USGS

- Chicago Waterway Observatory : http://il.water.usgs.gov/data/cwo/ ).

**2012 Actions Undertaken**  **:** A draft of the network evaluation report was in progress as of November 2, 2011. A new streamflow gaging station with a side

- looking acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) was installed on October 12, 2011 , on the Calumet

- Sag Channel near Rt. 83 near Lemont, IL in order to determine the contribution of flows in the Cal

- Sag Channel. Flow data from this gage will be important for calibrating hydraulic models of the CAWS.
**2012 Actions Proposed :**  Continue mining historic al CAWS flow and water

- quality data
, and compil ing a single database to streamline model development and calibration

. Complete a network evaluation of historic al and current CAWS monitoring stations to identify gaps in the critical information

. Conduct field reconnaissance , and undertake synoptic measurements and other appropriate data acquisition to address data gaps at strategic waterway locations

. Compile a list of recommendations for the CAWS monitoring network.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Oct. 1

- Mar. 31, 201 2 : Continue mining historic al CAWS monitoring data and enter these data onto the existing CAWS database on

- line observatory (USGS

- Chicago Waterway Observatory).

• Jan. 1 - May 31, 2012 : Undertake CAWS monitoring network evaluation and analysis.

• June 1

- Se pt. 30, 2012: A ddress data gaps with field reconnaissance and synoptic data acquisition at strategic locations on the CAWS.

• Sept. 30 2012 : C omplete recommendations for CAWS monitoring network.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Ongoing compilation of flow data from t he CAWS into USGS database and the USGS

Chicago Waterway Observatory for model development and analysis of waterway separation scenarios.

• USGS Report on monitoring network evaluation methods and identif ication of critical gaps in monitoring.

• Synoptic data at strategic CAWS locations.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Timely access to historic al data may prove difficult

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

70 

## 2.5.18 Asian Carp Control Methods Coordination **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Other Agencies Involved :**  All ACRCC Agencies and Framework Project Leaders
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** USGS has been asked by the ACRCC to assume a leadership role in science activities conducted within the Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework

. A USGS Science Coordinator is leading this effort

— working with federal, state
, and other organizations to maximize development of Asian carp management tools and enhance integration among science projects to meet the goals and objectives of the ACRCC

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USGS organized and hosted the Asian Carp Science Meeting in February 2011 to bring together scientists and managers working on Framework projects, increase project awareness , and identify opportunities for integration and collaboration

. Building on this ef

fort, USGS took on a science coordination role leading the ACRCC Framework Integrated Control Focus Area
, and is working in collaboration other Focus Area Coordinators (Risk Assessment, eDNA, and Monitoring) to ensure application of efficient, effective, and strategic science to meet Framework goals.

**FY2012 Actions Proposed**  **:** USGS will continue to engage scientists and researchers
, and affiliate work by th eir Agencies and respective staff s on FY2012 Framework projects. USGS will be leading/conducting a St rengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis with other Focus Area Coordinators that will provide information on Framework science successes,
gaps , and management research needs to help strategically guide direction of future science eff orts. USGS is helping to coordinate another face to face science meeting in collaboration with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and other Focus Area Coordinators that is planned for December in conjunction with the 2011 Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• November 2011 : Complet ion of SWOT analysis of Framework projects in collaboration with other ACRCC Focus Area Coordinators; e valuat ion of results and identif ication of gaps in knowledge or overlap to ensure research i s maximized to meet management needs and attain Framework goals

.

• December 5

- 7, 2011 : Symposium of CEQ and Framework focus area leads at the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference in Des Moines, Iowa

. The plan is to have a 1- day symposium as part of the conference followed by 1 day of closed

- door sessions. During the second day of meetings, the plan is to meet by focus areas in the morning and have MRRWG and USGS scientists meet in the afternoon.

• Complet ion of review of all Framework study designs and plans regarding actions under taken within the projects
, and how the se affiliate with other projects ; report onAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

71 results ; meetings/discussions with agencies and organizations to develop strategic direction

.

• Using the results of the actions above, continue d development of a Map of an Integrated Pest Management Framework with all agencies/organizations involved. This science

based framework would help prioritize and guide Asian carp control efforts
, and would build on and mesh with existing Asian carp control management plans as appropriate

.
**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.5.19 Seismic Monitoring for Asian Carp Water Gun Deployment **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  IL DNR, USACE

**FY 2012 Funding**  **:** $213,700 GLRI fund s. **Project Explanation:** Effects on structures such as the controlling works, electric barrier, etc.
, and on canal walls
, are unknown from deploy ment of one or more water guns (or hydrogun, seismic cannon, sonic cannon, or carp cannon) to modify behavior of Asian carp within the CSSC and the rest of the CAWS

. This plan is to outline data acquisition needed to complete an assessment of the distribution of seismic energy resulting from use of water gun(s) within the CSSC and other parts of the CAWS near O’Brien Lock and Dam, so that engineers can determine potential impacts on the structures and canal walls

. Use of t he water gun(s) ha s been proposed for the time period during which maintenance of the electric barrier occurs, in order to help remove fish from the area between Electric Barriers II A and II B.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  In September 2010, the water gun was deployed in old sand and gravel pits connected to the Illinois River, and was monitored with surface geophysical instrumentation for seismic signals generated on land

. The monitoring showed ground responses to the water gun at magnitudes approximat ing signal strength to a car driving on the dirt road nearby or people walking near the geophones

. However, the conditions at this location with

unco nsolidated sands and gravels differ considerably from the pre dominantly bedrock conditions present in the CSSC, and more of the seismic energy from the water gun would be expected to transfer to the bedrock, as well as reflect back into the CSSC

. Also, con cerns regarding sheet piles and other structures were not assessed.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USGS coordinated with USACE and IL DNR to develop an agreed

- upon Scope of Work. Work focused on acquisition of background data
, and continue s into 2012.

**FY 2012 Actions Proposed**  **:** Acquisition of s eismic data will be completed in two phases

. The first phase will be to assess the “background” seismic signatures of boat and barge traffic along the CSSC and other locations within the CAWS during “normal” operation

. The second phase will beAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

72 acquisition of seismic data during controlled deployment of the water gun(s) within the CSSC upstream of the electric barrier
, and also at a lock and dam to determine potential effects on
structures

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• Acquisition of seismic data with water gun deployment within the CSSC and the O’Brien Lock and Dam (2 months from beginning of acquisition of background data ).

• Late Spring 2012 : Processing and review of background data ( 2 months following acquisition of background data ).

• Early Summer 2012 : Processing and review of seismic data with water gun deployment at the three locations ( 3 months after acquisition of all data ).

• Acquisition of seismic data with water gun deployment at lock and dam structure (2 mo nths from beginning of acquisition of background data, depending on weather).

• Processing and review of background and seismic data with water gun deployment (3 months after acquisition of all data).
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Report summarizing data acquisition methods, background data
, and data obtained with water guns

— 10 months after acquisition of all field data

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Issues regarding p roperty and c anal a ccess could arise ( possibility of impaired coordination between various property owners and the USCG ).



## 2.5.20 Deterrence/Destruction of Asian Carp U sing Resonant Frequency (Continuous Wave Sonar) **Lead Agency :**  USGS **Agency Collaboration :**  U.S. Navy, University of Maryland
**FY 2012 Funding :**  This project has been deferred until additional funding becomes available.
**Project Explanation** It has been shown that underwater ensonification at the resonant frequency of the lung can damage and even kill. This is due to the resonance creating damage within the air

filled cavity. The fish most vulnerable to underwater sound have swim bladders. Carp fit into this category and thus would be expected to be sensitive to underwater sound at the resonant frequency of the swim bladder. This three

- part effort would provide a tool for effective control of carp movement, especially within restricted waterways where the carp could not avoid the sound. This approach also has the advantage that it would specifically target carp because other fishAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

73 would either not be susceptible to this approach or would respond to a different resonant frequenc y. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  In order to test this hypothesis, it is necessary to ( 1) determine the resonant frequency of the Asian carp swim bladder , ( 2) determine the underwater sound intensity required to induce an attempt by the fish to avoid the so und , and (3) increase the sound level to determine the lethal level, expressed as survival time as a function of level. Frequencies for different life history stages will also be recorded, as it will be necessary to stop adult, sub

- adult, and juvenile fis h

. Additional resonant frequencies will be recorded for other non

- target fish
, and possibly for turtles and aquatic invertebrates.
**Expected Milestones :**  To be established when funded.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• These studies will help establish resonate frequencies capable of deterring Asian carp from progressing upstream in the CSSC

.

• Data from these experiments will determine the efficacy of specific frequencies to divert carp. Continuous wave sonar will provid e an additional acoustic deterrent
, and can be used in concert with electrical barriers, water guns, and gas barriers to achieve an integrated carp deterrent system

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible difficulty find ing locations suitable to conduct tests to determine resonant frequencies.

• Depending on resonant frequencies , possible unavailability of data projectors and need to fabricate them

.


## 2.5.2 1 Other Science Contributing to Asian Carp Efforts **Lead Agency :**  USGS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 656 , 883 Total funding ($ 100 ,000 GLRI funds/ $ 556 , 883 Base funding).
**Project Explanation** USGS has been conducting research on Asian carps since they first became abundant in Missouri, Illinois, and Mississippi rivers. Initially
, this research focused on distribution, habitat use, life history, conditions conducive to spawning, and age determination. As more was learned, additional research into the ecological impacts of bighead and silver carps on river ecology began, and continues tod ay. Information gleaned from these studies has directly or indirectly benefited many Framework projects, from monitoring and surveillance to risk assessment and control. This is research that supports Framework efforts and is important for achieving Frame work goals.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

74 **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Funding will support ongoing research on control technologies and ecological studies of riverine populations (including analysis of bighead carp diet to ascertain level of consumption of larval fishes).
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Throughout 2012 : Research results and products relevant to the Framework will be shared in a timely manner.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Research will support Framework efforts and contribute to achieving the Framework goals.

**Potential Hurdles:** None.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

75 

## 2.6 eDNA Analysis and Refinement

2.6.1 eDNA Monitoring of the CAWS **Lead Agency :**  USACE **Agency Collaboration :**  IL DNR, USFWS, USEPA **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 650,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** This task encompasses long

- term activities that revolve around genetic surveillance monitoring in the CAWS upstream of the Lockport Lock and Dam and Des Plaines River, consistent with the Strategy for eDNA M onitoring in the CAWS and Upper Des Plaines River of the April 2011 MRRP . USFWS, IL DNR, and USACE all have activities under eDNA monitoring, linked to response actions such as rapid response and enhanced monitoring

. Samples are collected from the designated sites by USFWS or IL DNR, filtered by USACE, a nd then shipped to USACE

- Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) for processing.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  The ACRCC CAWS Workgroup implemented the MRRP for the entire CAWS and Upper Illinois River system. This was a collaborative effort among IL DNR, USFWS, and USACE. Sampling focused on areas such as the North Shore Channel, Chicago Lock to Bubbly C reek, TJ O’Brien Lock, Des Plaines River, and above and below the Electric Barrier System

. Results were processed with in about 2 weeks and posted t o the Chicago District website : http://www.lrc.usace.army.mil/AsianCarp/eDNA.htm

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  The ACRCC CAWS Workgroup implemented the MRRP for the entire CAWS and Upper Il linois River system, focusing on the following sites for sampling starting in May 2011:

• North Shore Channel from the Wilmette Control Works to the North Branch Chicago River

.

• Chicago Lock to Bubbly Creek, including the Chicago River and South Branch Chica go River

.

• Little Calumet River downstream of O’Brien Lock and Lake Calumet

.
A dditional site s will be used for sampling associated with rapid response actions or to monitor the Upper Des Plaines River, CSSC and Calumet

- Sag Channel confluence, the CSSC ups tream and downstream of the Electric Barrier System , or other locations determined strategically important (e.g., re

- sampling a site with previous positive detections of Asian carp DNA ).
An eDNA snapshot sampling event was also conducted in October 2011 to test the hypothesis that
one or two Asian carp may be contributing to eDNA

- positive samples in the CAWS. The eDNA snapshot, funded separately by GLRI, sampled at six sites (720 samples) over a 3

- day period

. TheAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

76 snapshot results became available in January, and are therefore exempt from the rapid response decision matrix as outlined in the MRRP.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The USACE proposal for eDNA sampling within the CAWS has been s haped by the MRRWG’s recommendation for an eDNA strategy in January 2012. Although the 2012 eDNA sampling strategy will likely aim to achieve the same objectives as the 2011 strategy, opportunity is available to refine and shape the sampling strategy using 2011 data, eDNA snapshot results, and results from the eDNA calibration study in a manner that may lead to more efficient ways of collecting and filtering samples. In 2012, USACE will still plan to coordinate the sampling collection with IL DNR and USFW S assistance, filter the samples at a local USEPA laboratory, and process the samples at the USACE

- ERDC

. USACE and USFWS will continue to work together to transition leadership of eDNA oversight of sampling, filtering
, and processing from USACE to USFWS , a s aligned with progress of the eDNA calibration study in 2013

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• Spring 2012 : Begin ning of 2012 eDNA sampling (TBD by MRRWG).

• Fall 2012 : eDNA sampling complete (TBD by MRRWG).

• Weekly posting of results on USACE website

• January 2013 : transition of eDNA to USFWS.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Continued trend data for positive and negative eDNA results in the CAWS

.

• Refined standardized processes

.

• USFWS leading oversight of eDNA sampling, filtering
, and processing (after transition)

.
**Potential Hurd les**  **:**

• Weather delays and rainfall could impact sample collection, filtering, and processing

.

• Possible shortfall of resources required or desired to conduct sampling

.


## 2.6.2 USFWS Fisheries Program Capacity for eDNA Sampling for Early Detection **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $300,000 B ase funding

. **Project Explanation:** USFWS Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices have the expertise and capability to collect sampl es to be analy zed for eDNA at the La Crosse Fish Health Center. However, no comprehensive, effective, and efficient program is currently conducted in the Great Lakes to detect incipient invasions. Fulfilling t his task will provide USFWS Fish andAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

77 Wildlife Conservation Office facilities with resources and expertise to conduct integrated
, long

t erm early detection activities.

**F**

**Y 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Within the 2011 Framework, the University of Notre Dame will receive support under a 3

- year grant through USFWS to develop and refine eD NA technology for use in a Great Lakes

- wide early detection program. At the same time, USFWS will begin the transition of this technology to its La Crosse Fish Health Center. As identified in the FY 2011 Framework, the USFWS Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices will test and refine capabilities to begin monitoring for eDNA outside the CAWS once the technology transition to USFWS is complete. USFWS will also begin work on development of an eDNA sampling protocol to be incorporated into long

- term monitoring strategy in collaboration with participating agencies.

**F**

**Y 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Monitor for eDNA outside the CAWS utilizing a statistically tenable sampling protocol.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• December 2012 : Fully develop ed capacity for implementing an eDNA sampling program at USFWS Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices.

• January 2013 : Support for establishment of a biologically based
, statistically tenable eDNA sampling protocol for use basin

- wide.

• May 2013 : Implement ation of an eDNA draft sampling protocol for other areas of

concern , with particular focus on southern Lake Michigan, western Lake Erie
, and other potential hotspots.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• USFWS conservation offices conducting eDNA sampling in areas of concern
, with emphasis on southern Lake Michigan, western Lake Erie, and other potential invasion hotspots

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible issues with eDNA calibration outcomes / output

.

• Limitations due to w eather and difficulties access ing sites.

• Delay/difficulty in developing q uality a ssurance (QA) /q uality c ontrol (QC) process regarding sample contamination.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

78 

## 2.6.3 eDNA Calibration and Increased Efficiency **Lead Agency :**  USACE, USGS, USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  USEPA **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 2,15 0,000 GLRI funds (USACE $1, 92 5 ,000 ; USGS $225 ,000 )

. **Project Explanation:** eDNA is a genetic surveillance tool that indicates presence of bighead and silver carp DNA in the environment

. It wa s used as a monitoring tool for the ACRCC ’s MRRWG April 2011 MRRP . USACE, in partnershi p with USFWS, USGS
, and USEPA, is developing a proposal to conduct an eDNA calibration study that will help provide context to a positive eDNA result. Variables investigated will include detection limits and decay rates ; improve ment in current field sampl ing techniques may result from investigati on of optimal sampling methods. Additionally, by determining the number of genotypes expressed in the collected eDNA samples, we can determine the minimum population of bighead or silver carp needed to yield a posi tive eDNA sample from the field

. eDNA calibration is critical to enhance eDNA sampling for monitoring, and to render current sampling designs and protocols more effective

. Interim products will become available to improve management decisions and interpretations of eDNA results

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  This research was to begin in FY 2011

. **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  A series of experiments, executed by the interagency team, are aim ed at determin ing the relationship between (1) the number and distribution of positive Asian carp eDNA detections and (2) the density of Asian carp

. The following are objectives of the work initiated in September 2011:

• Obtain and house silver and bighead carp species of specific sizes, sexes, and sexua l maturity for use in the eDNA calibration studies.

• Develop a higher

- throughput DNA extraction capability, convert the current PCR band

based assay to a TaqMan real

- time qPCR assay, and assess whether different water sampling protocols might improve Asian carp detection probabilities.

• Develop a better understanding of DNA assay sensitivity under no flow conditions. ( Improved assay sensitivity to observe PCR products at lower concentrations will yield eDNA detections at lower concentrations)

• Develop a bette r understanding of DNA assay sensitivity and eDNA degradation under flowing water conditions.

• Develop quantified relationships between different major environmental factors and eDNA degradation under no flow conditions.

• Develop guidance on using calibratio n data to broadly estimate Asian carp abundance under no flow conditions.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

79 • Develop a hydrodynamic eDNA transport and an optional fish movement predictive model to characterize fish occurrence.

• Develop a model to estimate the probability that eDNA sampled in the CAWS entered that water body via one or more possible routes or vectors (optional).

• Project Management : conduct interim reporting to ACRCC

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The objectives listed above are expected to carry into FY 2012, with completion in FY2013. This project will be complete by September 2013. Interim results will be reported as the se become available, and should be used to refine current monitoring protoco ls.
**Expected Milestones:**

• May 20 12 : High

- throughput technique complete.

• July 2012 : R eport describing an optimized water sampling protocol.

• September 2012 : eDNA shedding studies complete.

• Sept ember 2012 : R eport detailing a robust protocol for rapid ex traction and analysis of eDNA samples.

• October 2012 : Part I of report describing a series of descriptive, and in some cases quantitative, relationships between Asian carp biomass, number, and behavior
, and eDNA detection using PCR. Also determin ation of rate and extent of dispersion of Asian carp eDNA in non

- flowing or sluggish water.

• February 201 3 : R eport describing the relationship between environmental factors — water temperature, light exposure, zooplankton and microbial biomass, and pH

— and eDNA degr adation rates, with a focus on no flow (i.e.
, lentic) water systems.

• June 201 3 : Part II of report describing a series of descriptive, and in some cases quantitative, relationships between Asian carp biomass, number, and behavior
, and eDNA detection using PCR. Also determin ation of rate and extent of dispersion of Asian carp eDNA in flowing water compared to those in non

- flowing water.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Implementation of rapid extraction and analysis of eDNA samples and optimized water sampling to allow for eDNA sensitivity and degradation analysis in the calibration study ; savings in cost and time of processing as eDNA leadership transition s to USFWS.

• Guidance on estimating potential population sizes of various Asian carp genotypes based on eDNA sampling results in non

- flowing or sluggish water.

• Standards for interpreting eDNA results based on the sensitivity represented by (1) relationships between Asian carp biomass, number, and behavior
, and eDNA detections ; and (2) rate and extent of dispersion of Asian carp eDNA under conditions of

non

- flowing or sluggish water and flowing water.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

80 • Standards for interpreting eDNA results based on environmental factors that cause varying degrees of eDNA degradation.

• Hydrodynamic eDNA transport model to extrapolate eDNA behavior in the system
, and to identify likely carp population scenarios associated with an array of eDNA monitoring
outcomes / output

.

• Fish movement predictive model to model fish response to water velocity and electricity
, providing a means for estimating fish movement at the barrier and barrier effectiveness/percent passing (optional)

.

• Model to estimate the probability that eDNA sampled in the CAWS entered that water body via one or more possible routes or vectors (option al)

.

• Progress of each task tracked by earned value management and reported at quarterly intervals. Earned value will demonstrate the value of work performed expressed in terms of the budget assigned to that work.

**Potential Hurdles:** None.



## 2.6.4 USFWS Fis heries Program Capacity for eDNA Sample Processing **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  USACE **FY 2012 Funding :**  $ 1,160,000 Total funding ($ 4 60,000 GLRI funds /$700,000 Base funding )
**Project Explanation:** This program will provide additional funding necessary to complete building the capacity to process samples, transition the work of processing eDNA samples from USACE to USFWS , and begin eDNA sample analysis at La Crosse Fish Health Center.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  This template was not in place in 2010

. La Crosse Fish Health Center staff toured the University of Notre Dame lab facilities and received eDNA sample processing procedures and protocols.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USFWS staff engaged with USACE staff at the ERDC lab in Vicksburg, Mississippi

. Sample processing protocols and equipment lists were shared with Service staff, and input was provided to a draft eDNA calibration P roject M anagement P roposal (PMP)

. Follow

- up discussions outlining a draft trans ition timeline were held, and included in the final eDNA Calibration PMP

. USFWS , GSA, and the current La Crosse Fish Health Center building landlord are negotiating a new lease agreement to construct an eDNA laboratory addition, and

are expecting establish ment of terms by fall 2011. A preliminary design is complete
, with a final design expected as lease terms are finalized. Construction began late fall 2011 , and procurement of equipment began in July 2011. P ersonnel actions associated with this project have begun
, with initial recruitment actions were expected in early fall 2011.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

81 **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  When eDNA calibration plans and budgets are established, a final eDNA sample processing transition timeline will be implemented by the USFWS and USACE

. Four newly hired La Crosse eDNA staff will engage USACE s taff as needed to facilitate this transition

. Construction of an eDNA lab at the La Crosse, Wisconsin site will begin or continue. Equipment will be installed and tested

. The Service will work towa rd assuming a lead role for eDNA sample processing. Additional supplies and two additional personnel will be added to allow for processing up to 120 samples per week.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Spring and Summer 2012 : Additional eDNA equipment procurement, i nstallation, and testing : Ongoing

.

• Ongoing in 2012: Construction of eDNA Lab.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• January 2013 : USFWS assumes lead in eDNA sample analysis
, and process es 120 samples per week at La Crosse Fish Health Center

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible uncertainty in eDNA calibration outcomes.

• Weather possibly affect ing construction timelines.



## 2.6.5 eDNA Genetic Marker Development **Lead Agency :**  USACE , USGS, USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  USGS, USFWS **FY 2012 Funding :**  $220,000 GLRI funds (USAC E $ 70 ,000 ; USGS $ 50 ,000 ; USFWS $ 100,000 ).
**Project Explanation:** The goal is to develop high

- fidelity, sensitive genetic markers for detecting the presence of Asian carp DNA in filtered water samples based on RT PCR or qPCR. Specifically, the goal is to develop optimized fluorescent oligonucleotide probes for use in qPCR assays for eDNA of silver carp and bighead carp. Development of new qPCR

- based eDNA markers for Asian carp will allow more direct control over eDNA processing schedules, should provide for greater efficiency of eDNA processing, and may provide for a greater degree of sensitivity to eDNA at low concentrations. This work will serve as a basis for advancing future studies of eDNA calibration.

**FY 2010 Actions Under taken**  **:** Not applicable.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

82 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  A series of experiments, executed by the interagency team, focused on develop ing genetic markers based on quantitative PCR

. The following are objectives of work initiated in September 2011:

• Develop genetic markers that provide an increased ability to estimate the minimum number of Asian carp represented in an eDNA sample pursuant to use of high

- throughput mechanisms for detecting individual variants in pooled samples.

• Independent ly validat e a ccuracy and robustness of new protocols and markers.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The objectives listed above are expected to carry into FY 2012 , with completion by April 2012

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• June 2012 : Acquisition of field samples complete.

• Mar ch 2013: External laboratory confirmation testing using new markers complete.

• March 201 3 : Part I of a report describing a set of highly polymorphic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers that provide some degree of inference as to minimum numbers of indivi dual Asian carp within a pooled eDNA sample.

• August 201 3 : Part II of a report describing a set of highly polymorphic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers that provide some degree of inference as to minimum numbers of individual Asian carp within a pooled eDN A sample.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• New qPCR markers for bighead and silver carp.

• Greater efficiency of eDNA processing.

• Greater degree of sensitivity to eDNA at low concentrations.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible issues arising from t est ing new markers at different interagency labs.



## 2.6.6 Environmental DNA Surveillance – Applied Early Detection **Lead Agency :**  University of Notre Dame/USFWS
**Agency Collaboration :**  Great Lakes States
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.

**P roject Explanatio**  **n :**  Using Asian carp as an initial case study, and in partnership with state and federal agencies, a demonstration surveillance program will be implemented with in high

- ri skAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

83 areas of multiple tributaries to multiple Great Lakes. In subsequent years, surveillance efforts will extend to additional species and invasion hotspots (e.g.
, ports, ballast water discharge areas) associated with other invasion pathways (e.g.
, maritime shipping, trade in live organisms). The most important outcome will be early d etection of incipient invasions, which will guide rapid management responses to reduce establishment and spread of Asian carp and other invasive species in the Great Lakes.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  The project proposal was developed and approved.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken**  **:** Priority rivers were identified with partners and Asian carp experts. S ampling of six rivers was initiated in locations identified as capable of supporting reproductively viable Asian carp populations. Ponds, lakes, harbors, and lagoons in the Chicago

area at which Asian carp reportedly had been captured were also sampled. The water samples from these locations were tested for bighead and silver carp eDNA (30,000 PCR reactions). Additional molecular markers were or are being deve loped for grass carp, back carp, goldfish, and snakehead. A meeting addressing surveillance of Asian carp included representatives of USGWS, Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, USGS, and other organizations. Assessment of and consultation regardin g Asian carp spawning habitat in Great Lakes tributaries also occurred

. **FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• Sampling of four rivers identified as capable of supporting reproductively viable populations of Asian carp

.

• Process water sampl ing and test s for bighead and silver carp (20,000 PCR reactions)

.

• Test sampl ing for black carp and grass carp (5,000 PCR reactions)

.

• Development and testing of markers for four additional target species

.

• Detection threshold mesocosm studies for four additional target s pecies

.

• Sampl ing of 40 of the remaining water bodies throughout Chicago

.

• Process ing of 1,200 samples and test ing for presence of goldfish and other targeted species

.

• Development of an eDNA protocols manual to facilitate transitioning of technology to other agencies

— to include detail s of water collection procedures, QA / QC protocols, laboratory techniques, and staff training

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

84 **Expected Milestones :**  See Project Timeline and Milestones Table below. Note that the end of each year of the project will coincide with the end of fiscal years 2011, 2012, and 2013



### .

**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Demonstrat ion of the effectiveness of eDNA surveillance by evaluating the presence, absence, and extent of Asian carps in 14 rivers likely capable of supporting reproductively viable populations in the Great Lakes.

• Develop ment of molecular markers for other invasive species and screen ing of the ir eDNA in samples previously collected and at additional high

- risk sites (e.g.
, ports, ballast water discharge sites)
, as resources allow.

• A ssess m ent of the threat of accidental and deliberate release of Asian carp and other species (e.g.
, northern snakehead) from the trade pathway, using Chicago area lakes, ponds, and lagoons as an initial test case.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

85 • In collaboration with partners, transfer of eDNA technology and surveillance program to willing agencies for early detection of species to prevent and slow the spread of biological invasions in the Great Lakes.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible issues of s ampling logistics (e.g.
, access, weather)

.

• Pos sible uncertainties in g enetic marker development outcomes

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

86 

## 2.7 Enforcement and Outreach Activities

2.7.1 Outreach to Northeast Illinois' Bait Shops **Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **Agency Collaboration :**  University of Notre Dame **FY 2012 Funding :**  **$** 30,000 GLRI funds

. **Project Explanation:** Investigation of potential pathway of ANS through bait industry

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  IL DNR sampled at 52 Chicago

- area bait shops in nine Illinois counties

. The sampling s occurred in February and March 2010 and during summer 2010

. Visual inspections were completed
, and water samples were collected for eDNA analysis.

• Visitation of bait shops during winter 2010

.

• Visitation of bait shops during summer 2010.

• Detection of n o visual evidence of Asian carp in bait shops

.

• Report from Notre Dame 2011 show ing no positive DNA results from any of the
52 Chicago

- area bait shops in the nine counties.

• Responses to q uestionnaire indicat ing that no bait shops collect bait from the wild
, and that most purchase bait from one of thre e regional minnow suppliers.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Building upon 2010 studies, the priority for 2011 was to investigate the few Illinois bait wholesalers multiple times throughout the year

. Additional sensitivity to other ANS such as goldfish, gras s carp, and black carp was emphasized as well.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :** 

• A relatively affordable study of an industry that can bypass the majority of efforts against Asian carp, and can screen for multiple species with a single water grab

.

• Provide e duc ation opportunities while at the bait shop and wholesaler.

• With 2010 and 2011 results in mind, 2012 will minimally look within the Chicago bait trade, and possibly extend beyond the borders to wholesalers outside of state boundaries.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• Summer 2012 : Initiate follow

- up study to confirm results, broaden surveillance, and take region

- wide approach, possibly looking at wholesalers instead of end suppliers.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

87 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• W holesalers into Great Lakes states will be identified as Asian carp

- free or as posing some level of risk.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible incompatibilities of seasonal bait trade with test dates

.

• Possible lack of c ooperation by out

- of

- state wholesalers.

• Unkno wn level of illegal bait suppliers.

• Possible difficulty of detection in rotating bait stocks.



## 2.7.2 Increased Lacey Act Enforcement of Illegal Transport of Injurious Wildlife **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  State agencies

. **FY 2012 Funding :**  $400,000 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Although transfer of AIS is currently illegal, stricter enforcement is necessary to mitigate the risk of transfer.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  The U SFWS , Office of Law Enforcement expanded surveillance and enforcement of illegal transportation of federally listed invasive species

. Service wildlife inspectors increased their efforts to target and interdict federally listed invasive species at border locations

. In addition, the Service has acquired a van that can be utilized to remotely scan containers , and vehicles and can be deployed at all international ports of entry

. This van will allow Service wildlife inspectors to be more effective an d efficient in their search for invasive species.
In addition, the Off ice of Law Enforcement is working with s tate partners to control the spread of invasive species (including Asian carp) through investigations here in the United States

. Specific information is considered law enforcement sensitive.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertake n**  **:** Actions identified above continued in 2011

. Specifics are considered law enforcement sensitive.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  Investigative and inspection work will expand in 2012

. Specifics are considered law enforcement sensitive

. **Expected Milest ones**  **:** NoneAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

88 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Prosecutions of i ndividuals involved in illegally importing or transporting federally listed injurious species in interstate commerce.

**Potential Hurdles:** None.



## 2.7.3 Community Action Initiatives to Increase Awareness, Surveillance, and Enforcement of Unlawful Live Asian Carp **Lead Agency :**  IL DNR **Agency Collaboration :**  City of Chicago Department of the Environment
**FY 2012 Funding :**  **$** 4 00 ,000 GLRI fun ds.
**Project Explanation:** While both bighead and silver carp are list ed under the Lacey Act as illegal to transport alive, many local communities and/or markets continue to buy and sell live Asian carp for consumption and/or release into the wild according to ethnic customs or traditions. IL DNR has increased officer prese nce , friendly enforcement activities , and communications related to Asian carp in a manner similar to the bait shops visits (Action Item 2.7.1) , as well as communicating with local management and regulatory entities such as the City of Chicago, Department of the Environment

. This has proved successful in promoting open dialogue between store owners, the public, and enforcement officials. As well as creating active communication between the entities, c ommunity involvement would focus on fish processors, mar kets /grocers , and other retail food establishments where live Asian carp are or were likely to have been. We will also strive to break down any cultural and language barriers to achieve highest success. These activities will focus on grocers known for pre ferring live fish for release or food preparation , and

on other high

- risk locations

. **FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :** 

• Discussions with City of Chicago
, Department of the Environment to coordinate regulations

• Coordination with Conservation Police Officers ( CPO ) to coordinate enforcement efforts in Chicago area restaurants and market places.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Random sampling throughout the year coordinated through IL DNR CPOs focus ing on informing people and enforc ing the Lacey Act. Objects of att ention in this regard were :

• Restaurants and markets in the greater Chicago area.

• Live fish haulers moving through Illinois.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

89 **FY 2012 Actions Proposed:**

IL DNR staff and CPOs working with city inspectors will conduct education and outreach activities, as we ll as on

- site enforcement if necessary through informal site visits at fish processors, fish markets, and retail food establishments. In addition, import and export audits and inspections will ensure compliance with both the federal Lacey Act and Illinois Injurious Species Rule. CPOs will also be tasked with ensuring adherence to other laws and regulations by commercial fisherman

. Interpretive materials will be developed for distribution to increase awareness of enforcement
, and additional outreach materia ls will be important for non

- English speaking business owners and consumers

.
In 2012 , IL DNR will continue efforts started in 2011 at working throughout the greater Chicago Area , and will expand the program to statewide site visits and surveillance. Additional areas where live Asian carp may be moving within the State intentionally or unintentionally will be identified. To expand these efforts, IL DNR will coordinate efforts with the City o f Chicago and USFWS.

Because unintentional contamination has been suspected in other ANS , fish transportation and importation for food or stocking will also be investigated. Increased officer presence, education, and communication will enhance our understanding of this. The following activities will occur :

• At least four investigat ions of live fish in markets per year, regionally.

• Coordinated outreach and education for best management practices and regulations.

• Develop ment of techniques to share information across language/cultural barriers.

• Increased surveillance of live fish haulers

.

• Develop ment of recommendations for policy or regulatory changes to address any identified gaps in control/management of Asian carp and of other ANS.
**Expected Mile stones**  **:**

• Develop outreach and interpretive materials to increase awareness among businesses and

consumers.

• Increase enforcement and establish expectations regarding live fish sales in Illinois.

• Increase coordination with City of Chicago and USFWS regarding these issues.
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Increased awareness among and education of businesses and consumers by December

2012.

**Potential Hurdles:**Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

90 • Possible d ifficult ies in inspect ing non

- registered locations or black market dealers

.


## 2.7.4 Increased Web Outr each **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  Web content will be supplied by all members of the ACRCC
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $50,000 GLRI funds

. **Project Explanation:** The ability to provide information in a timely and accessible format is a critical component in the ACRCC’s stakeholder participation efforts

. The ongoing maintenance and continued expansion of AsianCarp. us as both a window into the ACRCC actions and reliable source of information on Asian carp requires addition a l resourcing support

.
**FY 2 010 Actions Undertaken**  **:** From its inception in 2009, the URL AsianCarp.org was built and managed by USFWS to update the public and media on ACRCC actions

. In 2010 , use of the URL by the ACRCC continued, and the URL housed general information on Asian carp and updates on ACRCC actions under the Framework such as rapid response activities and results of ongoing monitoring and sampling

. The ACRCC Communication Work Group also began to add web

delivered products to the website, such as downloadable fact sheets and ACRCC documents

. The website routinely drew 4,000 to 5,000 hits a month from all around the United States and the world, quickly becoming one of the primary outreach tools of the ACRCC.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  T he ACRCC decided that it would be more appropriate to house the ACRCC’s website on a government server

. USFWS served as the lead agency i n rebuilding the website
, and put in the formal request to use the URL www. AsianCarp. us . Rebuilding the website entailed transfer of all current AsianCar p.org information onto a new server while concurrently restructuring the format of the website to provide information in a more user

- friendly manner to attract a wider audience

. The new website laid the groundwork for expanded use of new media and multimed ia in the ACRCC’s outreach activities.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  A s the site administrator
, USFWS will continue to provide staff support to maintain and enhance the website

. To further increase awareness about the website and ACRCC actions, US FWS will expand into new media (e.g.
, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube) and paid information delivery systems (e.g.
, Vocus, Information Distribution Systems) to distribute information to a still greater audience.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• February 2012 : Creation of official ACRCC Twitter account.

• March 2012 : Creation of official ACRCC YouTube account.

• June 2012: Evaluat ion of target audiences and use of the site by the public through review of Google analytics.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

91 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• F ostering public understanding regarding the role of the ACRCC and the actions it undertakes.

• Identification of information gaps to better target outreach and communication activities.

**Potential Hurdles:** None



## 2.7.5 Asian Carp Outreach and Education **Lead Agency :**  NOAA through the Sea Grant Gr eat Lakes Network
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $98,000 GLRI funds (approximately equal to $14,000 per state program).
**Project Explanation:** The Great Lakes Sea Grant Network (GLSGN) includes the seven Sea Grant programs from the S tates of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ind iana

- Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania
, and New York

. These programs are geographica l ly position ed to provide local outreach and education on Asian carp
, and to address regional response and control issues at various public forums in their individual states. These state programs will work with and advise the ACRCC and provide advice in order to ( 1) develop additional educational materials, (2) develop productive partnerships
, and (3) conduct education and outreach within their individual states

. In ord er to perform this function
, the programs require funding for material development, staff time
, and travel expenses

. Having Sea Grant perform these needed services and functions locally , with in each state
, is more efficient, effective
, and economical

. GLSGN has the organizational experience and a plan for the timely and successful achievement of this campaign's goals and objectives
, including concrete, measureable activities

. Collaboration will involve quarterly meetings and conference calls to ensure t hat project objectives are met. A regional communication and education plan will be developed. Partners will play important roles by assisting with coordination, providing advice and expertise, leveraging resources, and assisting in implementation. NOAA wi ll contact the lead investigators on related GLRI

- funded or other sponsored projects to identify points of synergy in order to leverage resources, expertise
, and reach of the projects to meet mutual goals.
**FY 2012 Actions Proposed :**  The GLSGN will respond to opportunities and requests for education and outreach on Asian carp and regional control efforts within each of the eight Great Lakes states

. Target a udiences may include anglers, charter captains, teachers and students, the general public, elected of ficials, resource managers, decision makers, marina operators, boaters, port directors, coastal county commissioners and mayors, and many partner or collaborating organizations including T he Nature Conservancy , DNRs, USEPA, USGS, GLFC , the International Jo int Commission, and others.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

92 **Expected Milestones :** 

• I n cooperation with ACRCC and its Communication Working Group, identification of: (1) a list of already developed Asian carp outreach materials , (2) gap analysis
, and (3) additional materials to be deve loped.

• Participat ion in development of materials.

• As needed and requested, participation of Sea Grant Education and Outreach and Extension staff in conduct ing and contributing to local/state outreach regarding Asian
carp

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Specific materials to be developed and specific activities regarding education and outreach

on Asian carp to be determined on an as

- needed basis in cooperation with stakeholders

.

• Expansion of existing GLRI AIS efforts.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible limitations of knowledge of Asian carp distribution and establishment.

• Possible lack of education materials.

• Misinformation

.

• Possible conflicts regarding ecosystem services (e.g., Asian carp marketing vs. management/control)

.


## 2.7. 6 Asian C arp V ideo F ootage **Lead Agency :**  GLFC with Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment ( MI DNRE )
**Agency Collaboration :**  ACRCC

- affiliated agencies with interest and ability to assist.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** Success of e fforts to keep the invasive Asian carp out of the Great Lakes depends on stakeholder awareness of what an Asian carp look s like
, and understanding of possible effects of an invasion on the Great Lakes ecologically, social ly, and economically. Outreach from the ACRCC and its partner organizations has increased understanding of why the Great Lakes are important and what actions are necessary to maintain healthy lake ecosystems. T he commission, in partnership with the Stat e of Michigan and other ACRCC partner organizations, seek s to create outreach materials in the form of video footage for public consumption. To aid in the education effort, this video project has two major components :

1. Developing an Asian Carp Identification DVDAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

93 The earliest detection of Asian carp in currently non

- inhabited waters is likely to come from a stakeholder. While Michigan has issued a brochure and maintains an online reporting system for reporting possible observations of Asian carp, it can be difficult for the lay person to distinguish between an Asian carp and other species, particularly for juvenile fish. The goal of this effort is to develop and distribute a professional quality video and public service announcement (shorter version publ ic service announcement [PSA] ) that shows people (general public, stakeholders, agency biologists, law enforcement officers, commercial fishers) how to identify juvenile and adult Asian carp, and how to distinguish these from other species, including bait species. Developing a video that provides both a visual and an audio explanation will increase people ’s engagement with seeking and correctly identifying Asian carp. The final product could be placed on the Asian carp website and other agency websites ; DVDs could be cheaply produced and widely distributed.

2. Producing B- roll M edia F ootage for N ews and S ocial M edia Most, if not all, ACRCC partner agencies have received requests from news agencies and other

sources for high

- resolution, broadcast

- quality video footage of Asian carp. However, available footage of this is rare. This proposal calls for creation of b

- roll footage to be produced in a manner that is easily distributed via social media sites ( e.g., Facebook, YouTube, etc. ), as well as via tradition al news organizations (news and documentary organizations) to ensure that the message of the ACRCC is distributed widely regionally and nationally.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Michigan has developed a brochure to help anglers identify differences between juvenile Asian carp and commonly used bait species. Michigan will work with the commission and a hired video crew to develop and edit the footage
, and will consult with the Communications Subcommittee as needed. Production of Asian carp video footage is expected to occur during summer and fall 2011. I dentification of needed footage will begin with a brainstorming session of members of the Communications Work group, to identify and reach consensus on the types of footage that would be most useful to di stribute. The commission, in consultation with the State of Michigan, will contract production of the video footage to a video production company. The commission will help coordinate the film crew’s interactions with officials who will assist in providin g access to Asian carp (e.g., the INHS ’s Havana, IL field station; USFWS field offices; etc.). Need for production of some footage at an aquarium is also anticipated. Editing of the footage and development of the PSA will continue into fall 2011.

**FY 20 12 Actions Proposed**  **:** Generate and distribute video footage to social media outlets and to traditional news media organizations for public education and information.
**Expected Milestones :** 

• March, 2012 : T he video and PSA are posted and distributed

.

• March, 2012 : Film footage becomes freely available to the public, media organizations, and social media sites.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

94 **Outcomes/Output :** 

• S takeholder s are increasingly aware of and able to identif y Asian carp.

• L aw enforcement actions become more effective
, as o fficers can readily identify Asian
carp

.

• Stakeholders
, basinwide
, are enabled to help detect the presence of Asian carp.

• Management agencies , basinwide
, have a valuable tool to communicate with stakeholders and reduc e reporting of “false positives .”

• Local, regional, and national news outlets have high

- quality, high

- resolution, broadcast

quality video footage to present with stories about Asian carp and invasive species

.

• Stakeholders are able to access high

- quality footage of Asian carp on popular social media sites, including Asiancarp.gov

.

• Overall education regarding Asian carp and the harm they cause throughout the Great Lakes (and other waters) is readily available in multiple format s.

**Potential Hurdles:**

• Poor natural conditions for production of video footage.



## 2.7. 7 Communications, O utreach, and E ducation D isplays for P ublic C onsumption on the T hreats of Asian C arp to the Great Lakes E cosystem and E conomy **Lead Agency :**  GLFC **Agency Collaboration :**  ACRCC partner agencies and relevant outside agencies and organizations working on similar issues

. **FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** I n partnership with ACRCC partner agencies, organiza tions are seeking to create educational and outreach materials in the form of informational, tabletop, outreach displays for public education

.
T

wo Asian carp displays currently housed at the GLFC are easily shipped throughout the basin

. Demand over the pa st 6 months has exceeded the commission’s ability to supply the displays to all those requesting them

. Production of three more displays is proposed for agencies of the ACRCC , to be housed at those agencies conducting outreach, including the USFWS, USEPA, and USACE

. The displays will be used by the ACRCC partners at a variety of events throughout the Great Lakes and widely viewed by the public who attend

. **FY 2010 Actions Under taken**  **:** Two tabletop informational displays were created

. The two displays are housed at the GLFC for use around the basin

. A number of silver and bighead AsianAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

95 carp models were created

. The model s of carp are spread among numerous federal and state agenci es and non

- governmental organizations for use at events around the basin to highlight the carp issue

. The displays were used extensively in a few locations, but the number of displays was too small to satisfy the demand.

**FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  Outre ach activities have occurred around the basin directed at informing the public about Asian carp

. Activities are continually conducted by organizations formally associated with the ACRCC and by numerous organizations around the basin ( e.g., Ontario Federati on of Anglers and Hunters [OFAH] , Great Lakes United, and numerous State Sea Grant offices)

. Most organizations also have performed i nformal Asian carp outreach continually where public concern about Asian carp is evident

.
**FY 201 2**  **Actions Proposed :**  Print ing of three additional display panel sets and purchase of the frames and carrying cases for each

. Displays will be identical to those housed by the commission
, which conveys a consistent and recognizable message to all recognized entities ( e.g., GLFC, US FWS, USEPA, OFAH, G reat L akes U nited , Sea Grant, etc

. ) that conduct public outreach and education about Great Lakes health and invasive species.
**Expected Milestones :**  None
**Outcomes/Output :** 

• Three Asian carp 5’x5’ tabletop portable displays for use by ACRCC agencies and organizations for public outreach around the Great Lakes B asin

.

• Ship ment of displays to appropriate agencies

.
**Potential Hurdles:**

• Lack of coordination and unwise scheduling of the displays could result in inefficient usage at events around the region.



## 2.7.8 Early Detection Workshop **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  All ACRCC partner agencies **FY 2012 Funding :**  $30 ,000 GLRI **Project Explanation:** To standardize a comprehensive and integrated sampling approach across the Great Lakes Basin , a n interagency workshop will focus on producing a manual to standardize sampling procedures. This manual will be used to clarify who will perform sampling, where this sampling wil l occur , and how to integrate the complementary sampling effort of the various stakeholder agencies.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  N/AAsian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

96 **FY 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USFWS developed a provisional plan for sampling eDNA and traditional gear.

**FY 2012 Actions Proposed**  **:** USWFS will host an interagency workshop involving all ACRCC partners to develop a manual of standardized sampling procedures. The manual will clarify which agencies will perform sampling, where the sampling will occur , and how to integrate the

c omplementary sampling effort s of the ACRCC agencies.

**Milestones:**

• Produce a manual and pilot program to standardize sampling procedures

.

• B egin implementation of the program by mid

- 2012

.

• Evaluate and ad o pt the program during winter season 2012

- 2013

.

**Outcome s/Output**  **:**

• Stronger , more efficient program of policies and procedures moving forward into 2013

.

**Hurdles:**

• None expected

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

97 

## 2.8 Funding Opportunities and Agency Preparation for AIS

2.8.1 State and Interstate AIS Management Plans **Lead Agency :**  USFWS
**Agency Collaboration:**  States **FY 2012 Funding :**  No additional FY 2012 funds necessary.
**Project Explanation:** This project will provide ongoing resources for development and continued progress of state programs specific to AIS Management Plans.

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken**  **:** 2010 funding supported s tate and i nterstate p est m anagement p lans and Asian carp activities within eight Great Lakes states.

**F**

**Y 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  USFWS continued to provide funds allocated through the GLRI in 2011 to Great Lakes s tat es and others in order to enhance activities that prevent introduction of AIS into the Great Lakes. This included development of state

- led rapid response actions conducted under new rapid response plans developed by Great Lakes states and approved by the AN S Task Force. Similar funds provided for Tribal plans were allocated through alternate funding

sources

.
**F**

**Y 2012 Actions Proposed :**  USFWS will continue to provide funds allocated through the GLRI in 201 2 to Great Lakes States and others in order to enhance activities that prevent introduction of AIS into the Great Lakes. As in 2011, funding for Tribes will be allocated through alternate funding

sources

. **Expected Milestones :** 

• September 2012 : USFWS will provide funding to the eight Great Lakes States to implement their state aquatic invasive species management plans

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Great Lakes states will have fully developed, revised, and implemented ANS management plans.

**Potential Hurd les**  **:**

• S tates may have difficulty providing the 25 percent cost

- s hare requirement (non

- f ederal funds) as a requirement for receiving annual funding allocation for support of activities identified in approved s tate AIS m anagement p lans

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

98 

## 2.8.4 USFWS Great Lakes Asian Carp Monitoring Program **Lead Agency :**  USFWS **Agency Collaboration :**  USGS and/or academic institutions.
**FY 2012 Funding :**  $1, 150 ,000 Total funding ($150,000 GLRI fund s /$ 1,000,000 Base funding)
**Project Explanation:** Continue development and implementation of an early detection surveillance program for bighead and silver carp in and near the Great Lakes. This program would complement the eDNA sampling and analysis programs implemented by academia and USFWS. Sampling wo uld primarily target areas of high concern in the Great Lakes (e.g., southern Lake Michigan, western Lake Erie).

**FY 2010 Actions Undertaken :**  NA

**F**

**Y 2011 Actions Undertaken :**  FWS worked with partners to develop and implement a sampling plan, including collaboration with s tate , Tribal, non

- governmental organizations , and Canadian/Provincial agencies and organizations. The USFWS undertook a provisional sampling
program at initial sampling locations that included standard operating procedures using nets,

sona r, and other “traditional” gear. FWS also convened a workshop to develop sampling program criteria and strategy to be implemented basin

- wide.

**F**

**Y 2012 Actions Proposed :**  USFWS will work with partners to continue developing and refining standard sampling pr otocol in the Great Lakes
, and will continue implementing the protocol. USFWS staff/teams will be prepared, and may be mobilized, to respond to any Asian carp detected (using either traditional gear or eDNA) in the Great Lakes. In addition, USFWS will work with USGS or academic institutions to investigate spawning requirements for bighead and silver
carp. **Expected Milestones :** 

• November 2012 : Finalized/updated sampling protocol

.

• Spring 2012 : Sampling protocol implemented

.

• Spring 2012 : Deployment plans finalized (contingent on need)

. **Outcomes/Output :** 

• Ongoing early detection, rapid assessment, risk assessment, rapid response program for the Great Lakes

.

• Information that will build upon existing knowledge of spawning /recruitment requirements for bighead and silver carp

.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

99 **Potential Hurdles:**

• Possible issues regarding s ampling site logistics ( e.g., access and working in Canada)

.

• Possible difficulty obtaining t imely eDNA results.

• Inefficiency of traditional sampling gear, particularly in large
, voluminous water bodies.Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee | February 2012

100 

## 2.9 Other Asian Carp Support Activities

2.9 .1 Other Asian Carp Support Activities **Lead Agency :**  USEPA **FY 2012 Funding :**  $2, 232,983 GLRI funds.
**Project Explanation:** Support for Great Lakes National Program Office, CEQ, and federal agency activities. The threat of Asian carp introduction into the Great Lakes directly affects the Great Lakes ecosystem, the eight Great Lakes states, and the economics of several associated industries. A variety of actions and activities are cont ained in this Framework item. These include funding to support barrier defense, which includes separating newly discovered potential pathways of migration and fish suppression activities during maintenance of the electric barriers; contractor support to the agencies in developing reports, tracking activities, and providing field support as necessary; provision of response agencies’ travel costs for relocation of personnel and equipment during response events; continued support of the Asian carp director and deputy to enhance collaborations among the federal, state, local, and tribal agency partners, as well as with other industry and private stakeholders; and provision to senior executives and the ACRCC of continued communication and outreach support activit ies.

**FY 2012 Action :**  Funding will be used for Asian carp efforts to include the following:

• Federal Executive Committee and ACRCC support

.

• Contractor support

.

• Multi

- agency barrier defense activities

.

• Rapid response support

.

• CEQ personnel support

. **Expected Milestones :**  None

**Potential Hurdles:** None.