WSJM: Walberg troubled by discovery of silver carp DNA in Southwest Michigan

Congressman Tim Walberg is calling on Congress to continue supporting programs that protect the Great Lakes after the discovery of sliver carp DNA in the St. Joseph River. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced last week some of the invasive carp DNA was found in one of 200 water samples collected in the river back in June. Speaking on the U.S. House floor this week, Walberg said that’s troubling news.

“That’s why I continue to support bipartisan efforts that will maintain  healthy Great Lakes ecosystem through securing funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and why I continue to support efforts like the Brandon Road Lock and Dam to fight invasive species”

Walberg said the silver carp has overtaken waterways around the country. The DNR says the discovery of silver carp DNA in the river doesn’t necessarily mean any of the actual carp have made it here. The DNA could have been carried by a boat that passed through a waterway where the invasive carp lives. More tests are being conducted, and Walberg says he’s monitoring the situation.

This article originally appeared on WSJM.com on September 12.