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Dead Silver Carp Found On Dam Near Winona

WINONA, Minn. (AP/WCCO) — Experts say the discovery of a dead Asian carp near Winona confirms the invasive fish are using their leaping ability to attempt to overcome barriers.

Dead Silver Carp Found On Dam Near Winona

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said the carcass of a silver carp was found recently on a dam abutment just north of Winona, the furthest upstream a silver carp has been discovered in the Mississippi River.

DNR invasive fish coordinator Nick Frohnauer said the finding suggests the carp was attempting to jump over the dam, not just leaping due to a disturbance.

Silver carp are one of four Asian carp species threatening the Mississippi River system.

Bighead carp have been found in Lake Pepin and the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. But there's no indication bighead or silver carp are reproducing in those waters.

Frohnauer said besides wreaking havoc on the food chain, silver carp impact boating and recreation on rivers.

He added that the fish can grow to 60 pounds, and said there's no cause for alarm considering this is just one fish.

(TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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