Grass Carp and Neighborly Relations in Lake Erie

From the 1980s to 2000s, sporadic captures of grass carp occurred in Lakes Michigan, Huron, and Erie.  These fish were thought to have originated from either accidental release or immigration from stocked private waters. Recent information including a) evidence of successful reproduction in Ohio tributaries in 2014-2015; b) demonstration of an illegal aquaculture market for live grass carp through seizures and interdictions by Michigan DNR and Ontario MNRF law enforcement officers; and c) increase in reported captures of grass carp by both recreational and commercial fishermen led to the formation of a grass carp workgroup between Ohio and Michigan for Lake Erie. The purpose of the workgroup is to collaborate on research to improve understanding of the current status of the grass carp population, identify information gaps (and associated research needs) related to grass carp, review potential actions and reflect upon policy options for preventing future contributions and associated risks of diploid fish to Lake Erie.  The agencies’ incorporation of current governance processes and solid commitment to collaboration and dialogue is key to identifying appropriate strategies to reduce future risks presented by grass carp in Lake Erie.