1. Possible Trial of Grass Carp in Lake Hopatcong

2. Triploid Grass Eating Carp
A Sterile Form of Grass Carp
Non-Native to US
Timid Fish – Avoids Contact
Bred in Arkansas
Vegetarian – Like Leafy Weeds
Eat Plants From Top Down
Tend to Stay at Food Source
Live Up to 10 Years – Predicted 10% Mortality Per Year
Reach Weights of 25+ Pounds & 36” In Length
Dormant in Winter & Resume Feeding in Spring

3. Status Most States Allow Use With Permits
Widely Used in New York State
Stocked 3 Years Ago at Candlewood Lake, CT
Similar to Lake Hopatcong in Many Aspects
Many Coves
Feeds a River
Heavy Recreational Use – Boating, Fishing & Swimming
Weed Problems
Lakefront Homes – 1,600 (2,200 at Lake Hopatcong)
Multiple Municipalities Share Lakeshore

4. Candlewood Lake, CT
Had Been Stocked In Neighboring Ball Pond for 19 Years With Success
Candlewood Held Informational Sessions to Obtain Community & Angler Support
Obtained CT DEEP Approval
DEEP Determines Number of Carp to Stock Based on Aquatic Plant Survey
Candlewood Stocked 3,850 in ‘15 & 4,450 in ‘17
Use a 15 Per Vegetative Acre Model
Cost $5.75 Per Fish
Not Intended As a Sole Remedy – Another Tool
Program Considered to Be Working – Milfoil Being Eaten

5. Way Forward Looking At Alternative Weed Approaches
Lake Currently Relies on Weed Harvesting & Herbicides
Hydroraking Trial in 2017
Grass Eating Carp Has Promise & Is Worthy of Further Investigation
Could Be Very Effective in Certain Area of Lake Hopatcong
Long-Term Benefits When Compared to Herbicide Treatment
Carp Have Little Contact With Humans or Other Fish
Diligent Monitoring Program Would Be A Part of Any Trial
NJ Currently Restricts Stocking in Waters > 10 Acres
Work With DEP/Fish & Wildlife To Approve A Trial In Lake Hopatcong