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State Representative Greg Alexander has expressed support for a House Resolution focused on preventing the spread of Asian carp, an invasive species threatening Michigan's natural resources. Concurrently, President Donald Trump is taking action at the federal level to address this issue.

President Trump is expected to sign a memorandum directing his administration to prevent Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes. This follows a previous commitment made by the president in April. The presence of these fish has been recorded as close as 47 miles from Lake Michigan.

“We are incredibly thankful for President Trump’s consistent attention to this urgent issue facing our state,” said Alexander, whose 98th House District borders Lake Huron. “Asian carp in the Great Lakes would decimate our fishing and tourism industries that provide jobs and support communities. Unfortunately, getting a remedy across the finish line has been like reeling in a lunker – it’s taken some time. The problem is we don’t have a lot of time. President Trump understands the economic and environmental stakes of the carp potentially being in our lakes, and we’ll keep pushing for solutions here in Michigan.”

Alexander supported House Resolution 77 this week, which calls on Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to proceed with the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. Pritzker had delayed construction earlier this year due to concerns about federal funding availability.

In 2020, Michigan and Illinois agreed to jointly support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the design phase of the Brandon Road project. This plan involves using various technologies such as electric barriers, underwater sound systems, bubble curtains, and flushing locks to prevent Asian carp from advancing toward Lake Michigan while maintaining commercial navigation.

Asian carp are known for their rapid reproduction and consumption of large quantities of organisms at the food chain's base, outcompeting native fish populations. The Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois serves as a key point in halting their progression through the Chicago Area Waterway System.

“It’s time for Illinois and Gov. Pritzker to honor their commitments to starting this project,” Alexander said. “Our Michigan House, the governor and President Trump are all on the same page. We can’t afford political posturing or political games. It’s time to deliver to save our Great Lakes from catastrophe.”