“Fishing is a multi-billion dollar industry in Kentucky, pumping an estimated $1.2 billion into the Western Kentucky economy alone. Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley are popular fishing areas that are being threatened by the existence and the spread of Asian Carp, and we must protect them. Not only are these invasive fish a danger for the local economy, but they are also a safety hazard for anglers and boaters,” said Senator McConnell. “There are a number of important priorities that come before the Senate, but as Senate Majority Leader, I am able to bring a national focus right here to Western Kentucky to protect our vital interests. I also want to highlight the leadership of Lyon County Judge/Executive Wade White and Marshall County Judge/Executive Kevin Neal. Together we are continuing to work to protect Kentucky’s waters.”
“Senator McConnell has done it again by working to pass a commonsense approach to combat Asian Carp,” said Judge Wade White, Lyon County Judge Executive. “This legislation will require federal agencies to clearly lay out how they plan to reduce Asian Carp and to collaborate with other stakeholders in Western Kentucky. This bill also directs resources where they are needed most: to remove Asian Carp! Thank you Senator McConnell for your leadership on this legislation. I truly believe we will win this War On Carp!”
“Residents in Marshall County are thankful to see this legislation pass the Senate, especially the provision that directs federal agencies to focus their efforts to fight Asian Carp in Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lakes,” said Judge Kevin Neal, Marshall County Judge Executive. “Our community has been greatly impacted by the War on Carp for years and this is the type of legislation that will help continue our efforts. We are encouraged by Sen. McConnell’s leadership on this serious issue.”
The Natural Resources Management Act will now go over to the House of Representatives for consideration.
