Can Michigan get out of trouble by eating: carp on the menu?

Hold on to your fish, Michigan. Carp, the stray dogs of Michigan's freshwater lakes and invasive species originally brought to the States from Asia, have hung around too long. We've tried everything in the Mitten State to control the frenzied proliferation of these unwanted pests, from electric barriers to culling campaigns with cash rewards. Nothing seems to be stopping the spread of carp in Michigan and across the country.

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However, Minnesota authorities have come up with a new plan to combat the invasive pest. They're proposing that residents help the state solve the carp problem. It may sound crazy, but putting these scaly pests on our plates may be the only real way to curb the invasive threat these fish pose to our Michigan lakes.

From invasive species to gourmet dish: The culinary potential of carp

I get it. We've been brought up to think of the carp as a “junk fish” that's about as much fun to reel in as reeling in a boot. But maybe the species just needs a new advertising vehicle. That's what worked for the Black Hake, which was equally unpopular until a name change made it a culinary experience. While a Black Hake might not sound particularly appetizing, the new name “Chilean Sea Bass” made it a fine dining option.

Jim Garvey, a professor of zoology at Southern Illinois University, spoke out in an interview with The Cool Down and insists that carp are an ideal food. They are high in protein and tasty. You just have to get rid of all the bones first.

OK, so maybe it's hard to rid Michiganders of the long-standing stigma of carp, but dogs don't care. Carp could be the secret ingredient that gives Fido an extra-shiny coat and a longer life. Pet food processors can turn those pesky bones into a nutritious powder, making carp a big hit with our four-legged friends.

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So, Michigan, what do you say? Are you ready to follow Minnesota's lead and tackle the carp problem one fork at a time? Like it or not, these fishy invaders could find their way onto a menu near you. All they need is a publicist and a new name.

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