Recently, 179 carp were removed from Big & Little Bear Lakes and Lake Charles. This number is considerably less than the District has seen in recent years. Invasive Carp are notorious for altering natural ecosystems. They uproot and disturb submerged vegetation while searching for insect larvae to eat. This activity reduces water clarity and stirs up bottom phosphorus-containing sediments, which contributes to algae blooms. In addition, invasive carp are fast growing and prolific feeders that are able to outcompete native fish for food. Vernon Hills Park District and Lake County Heath Department are working together by utilizing seining or electroshocking techniques to target invasive carp only. Any other types of fish that are caught are let go immediately and unharmed.