MDC and U.S. Geological Survey continue invasive carp research and removal efforts at Creve Coeur Lake Nov. 1 through March 15

MARYLAND HTS., Mo.— The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is partnering with U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) research fish biologists from the Columbia Environmental Research Center (CERC), and St. Louis County Parks and Recreation on a renewed effort to remove invasive carp from Creve Coeur Lake. 

Invasive carp can negatively impact native fisheries by consuming large amounts of plankton, a food source for native fish and other aquatic organisms. Their feeding habits can disrupt food webs and reduce food available to native fish, potentially affecting fish populations and overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

Nets used to direct and concentrate invasive carp will be placed in Creve Coeur Lake beginning Monday, Nov. 2 and are expected to remain in the water through March 30, 2027.  

For public safety, visitors are asked to respect lake closures and remain at least 50 feet away from all equipment, netting, and floating buoys during operations.

Public watercraft and boat access will be closed to Creve Coeur Lake through the duration of the carp removal effort; however, Creve Coeur Lake Park will remain open during St. Louis County Parks normal operating hours. Boat access to the lake will be closed during operations, and some areas around the boat ramps will be temporarily restricted for safety.  Visitors may also encounter minor detours along nearby walking routes while crews are working in the area. Public boating access is expected to be fully restored by April 1, 2027

For more information about the carp removal effort, contact the MDC St. Louis Regional Office at 636-300-1953. Comments or concerns may be directed to MDC Fisheries Biologist John Schulte at 636-300-1953 ext. 4137, or john.schulte@mdc.mo.gov.