Peoria trying to land Asian carp processing plant

PEORIA - Officials in the Peoria area say they're trying to attract an Asian carp processing plant to central Illinois.

Peoria County economic development official John Hamman says they want to build the plant so fishermen don't have to take the invasive fish to another location for processing. The Journal Star reports Thursday that the efforts are still in formative stages. But if the plant is built, Hamann says it could bring 30 to 40 new jobs.

Hamann says Peoria, East Peoria, Pekin and Chillicothe have identified potential locations. Investors have traveled to the area from China, Texas and New York.

The carp have infested the Mississippi River and tributaries including the Illinois River, which leads to Lake Michigan. Efforts are underway to keep the carp from reaching the Great Lakes.