Addressing Invasive Carp and Boosting Economic Development through Market-based Solutions

Addressing Invasive Carp and Boosting Economic Development through Market-based Solutions explores how market-driven strategies—particularly through the pet food industry—can help mitigate the environmental and economic damage caused by invasive carp in American rivers. These carp species, introduced in the 1970s, now dominate river ecosystems, outcompeting native species and degrading water quality. Despite their nutritional value, carp are underutilized in the U.S. due to their bony structure and negative public perception. However, the growing demand for sustainable, protein-rich ingredients in pet food presents a promising opportunity to create a viable supply chain that both reduces carp populations and supports local economies.

The report outlines how moderate harvesting of carp could help suppress their density, restore ecosystem services, and improve biodiversity, even if full eradication is unlikely. It also emphasizes the importance of supporting fishers through innovative business models like co-ops and vertical integration to ensure equitable and sustainable supply chains.