The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Rock Island District, in collaboration with the states of Illinois and Michigan, has embarked on the construction phase of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. This $1.15 billion initiative aims to safeguard the Great Lakes from invasive aquatic species, marking a crucial advancement in environmental protection.

Funding and Project Goals

The project has secured $274 million in federal funding, with $226 million from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and an additional $114 million from the states of Illinois and Michigan. These funds will support the first of three construction phases. The primary goal of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project is to prevent invasive carp and other aquatic nuisance species from migrating upstream into the Great Lakes, which is vital for preserving the ecosystem and protecting a $20 billion fishing and boating industry.

Addressing an Infrastructure Need

The Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois, has been identified as a critical point for installing advanced deterrent technologies to block invasive carp. These species, capable of growing up to four feet and 100 pounds, pose a severe threat to native fish populations and the region’s ecosystems by consuming up to 20% of their body weight in plankton daily.

Leadership and Collaboration

Col. Aaron Williams, the Rock Island District Commander, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress, emphasizing the USACE’s commitment to preventing the upstream movement of invasive species into the Great Lakes. Scott Whitney, Project Manager for the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, highlighted the collaborative efforts of scientists and engineers who have been working intensively for over three years to design an effective solution.

Support from State Leaders

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer have both underscored the importance of this project. Governor Pritzker expressed his excitement at seeing the project move forward after many years of planning, while Governor Whitmer highlighted the project’s significance for Michigan’s economy and the protection of local communities and industries.

Next Steps

With the project partnership agreement officially signed, the next steps involve soliciting contracts for various aspects of the project, including fabrication, continued design, cutting-edge deterrents, and bedrock removal. Interested contractors are encouraged to visit the project’s official website for further details and opportunities to contribute to this vital environmental protection effort.

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