The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has been working to slow the spread of invasive carp since the early 2000s. A renewed effort began in 2011 and a collaboration of state and federal agencies, conservation groups and university researchers developed the Minnesota Invasive Carp Action Plan. This plan aims to prevent or limit the impact these species may have on Minnesota waters.
| Invasive Carp CapturesInvasive carp captures must be reported to the DNR immediately. Take a photo and make arrangements with the DNR to transport the carp to the nearest fisheries office.
To keep invasive carp for personal use, download the Special Permit to Possess Prohibited Invasive Species of Carp. |
Invasive Carp in the United States
Grass, Bighead, Silver and Black carp were brought to the United States in the 1970's as a biological control for plants, algae and snails in aquaculture, wastewater and retention ponds.
During high water events, a few fish escaped from contained systems and became established in the lower and middle Mississippi River. Populations have expanded further to include the Ohio, Missouri and Illinois rivers.
- Grass Carp
- Bighead Carp
- Silver Carp
- Black Carp
Carp in Minnesota
The first invasive carp captured in Minnesota was a grass carp in 1991 (Okamanpeedan Lake) followed by a bighead carp in 1996 (Lake St. Croix) and the first silver carp in 2008 (Mississippi River Pool 8).
No black carp have been captured in Minnesota to date. Most captures have been individual catches and there has been no evidence of reproduction occurring in Minnesota waters.
Early Detection and Monitoring of Susceptible Waters
Carp Sampling Reports
- 2017 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
- 2016 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
- 2015 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
- 2014 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
- 2013 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
- 2012 Minnesota Invasive Carp Sampling Report
Carp Resources
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services eDNA Results
- Minnesota Invasive Carp Capture History
Funded by: Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services and the National Park Service.
Prevention and Deterrence
Resources
Funded by: Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University Mankato, University of Minnesota Duluth, USGS, Clean Water Land & Legacy Amendment, US Army Corps of Engineers and the National Park Service.
Resources
- Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC)
- Asian Carp Response in the Midwest
- Invasive Species Centre
Questions
Nick Frohnauer, Invasive Fish Coordinator, 651-259-5670