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Michigan House approves resolution urging Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to honor commitment on Brandon Road Project, critical to protecting Great Lakes from Asian carp.
Asian Carp Threat Raises Alarm for Michigan’s Economy
The Michigan House passed a resolution on May 7, introduced by state Rep. Greg VanWoerkom, urging Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to resume progress on the critical Brandon Road Interbasin Project. The move aims to prevent invasive Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes, highlighting serious economic and ecological threats faced by Michigan.
Brandon Road Project Delay Risks $7 Billion Industry
The Brandon Road Interbasin Project is an essential multi-tiered defense system designed to halt the northward migration of invasive carp species into Lake Michigan. Utilizing advanced methods such as electric barriers, underwater acoustics, bubble curtains, and flushing locks, this initiative safeguards Michigan’s lucrative fishing and tourism sectors, valued at approximately $7 billion annually.
In February, Governor Pritzker delayed initiating the project’s first phase, citing uncertainty regarding federal funding availability. This postponement has drawn sharp criticism from Michigan lawmakers.
“Asian carp are not waiting on news of federal funding or basing their movements on what state leaders decide to budget. They are moving closer to the Great Lakes with every passing day,” VanWoerkom stated.
Michigan’s Investment Highlights Commitment
Michigan has already committed more than $73 million to the Brandon Road project, underscoring its importance to the state. President Donald Trump has also expressed robust support, emphasizing the project’s significance to both state and national economies. Trump’s public backing came after concerns intensified over potential impacts on fisheries and tourism should Asian carp reach Lake Michigan.
The Brandon Road Lock and Dam, situated near Joliet, Illinois, serves as a crucial checkpoint within the Chicago Area Waterway System. The project at this chokepoint has received broad support from scientists, engineers, and federal agencies, reflecting years of extensive planning and cooperation between states.
Ecological Disaster at Michigan’s Doorstep
The invasive carp have already been recorded merely 47 miles away from Lake Michigan, significantly heightening urgency. These fish breed rapidly and consume large amounts of plankton and other organisms crucial to the Great Lakes’ food chain, dramatically reducing food availability for native fish populations.
VanWoerkom warned, “If Asian carp reach the Great Lakes, communities across West Michigan reliant on fishing and tourism would face economic devastation. The Brandon Road project is the most effective plan we have to stop this from happening.”
Michigan Resolution Sends Clear Message to Illinois
Rep. VanWoerkom emphasized that further delays due to political indecision or posturing pose an unacceptable risk. The newly approved resolution explicitly urges Governor Pritzker to resume the Brandon Road project’s implementation swiftly.
“There is confidence that it will work to keep this invasive species at bay, but it won’t work if everyone isn’t all-in on starting the project,” VanWoerkom said. “This resolution sends a very clear message to Gov. Pritzker: stop kicking the can on Brandon Road.”
Broader Implications and Continued Vigilance
The resolution signals Michigan’s ongoing vigilance and proactive stance toward protecting vital economic and ecological resources. The collaborative effort between Michigan and Illinois, formalized through an intergovernmental agreement in 2020, remains critical.
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