Differing Perceptions of Research Needs and Impacts of Asian Carp on the Great Lakes

As Asian carp approach the Great Lakes, significant research funding is being invested to develop Asian carp management and control options. In addition to this work, plans are being developed to block the spread of these species through aquatic connections, such as the Chicago Area Waterway System. Because of the high implementation costs, public understanding and support for the proposed options is needed in order to successfully deal with this issue in a timely manner. We have assessed the range of research activities, as well as what knowledge gaps exist for Asian Carp in their current range as well as the Great Lakes. We surveyed of Great Lakes coastal residents to assess their perception of the timing and potential impacts and compared that with those of Asian carp researchers and subject matter experts. Comparing these two perspectives provides a framework to conduct effective Asian carp outreach and education in the Great Lakes basin.