FILE- In this file photo taken May 10, 2011, jumping Asian Carp feed off the muck filled floodwater off President's Island in Memphis, Tenn. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal via AP)

Posted: Jul. 3, 2017 9:55 am

QUINCY -- Quincy's riverfront will play host to the Eradicarp Fishing Tournament, a first-year event designed not only for competition but to help the environment.

The Aug. 26 tournament is about more than catching fish. It's also about helping get rid of Asian carp, the invasive species that is having an adverse effect on many U.S. waterways.

There are numerous different species of the Asian carp, and most have a damaging effect on other species of fish and their natural habitats.

"It's a win-win situation," said Holly Cain, executive director of the Quincy Convention and Visitors Bureau. "These are the fish that jump out of the water, harm other species of fish and the food supplies for other species of fish."

The species of Asian carp that Cain spoke about is a particular aquatic nuisance. Those carp are notorious for being easily disturbed by boats and other personal watercraft, causing them to jump high into the air. This particular species can leap up to 10 feet into the air and grow to as large as 100 pounds, according to information supplied by the Environmental Protection Agency.

"This should be an interesting event for spectators," Cain said. "This is a new tournament for us, but most importantly we're looking to help our waterways."

The Convention and Visitors Bureau is coordinating the event with the help of Quincy Park District.

The tournament will begin at 6 a.m. and have its headquarters at All America Park. Weigh-in will begin at 6 p.m.

Participation carries a $20 entry fee.

For more information about the tournament and prize money, contact David Miller at 217-248-0261 with Mid-America Productions. Vendors are also being invited to participate in the event.

Other nearby Eradicarp tournaments are scheduled Aug. 5 in Havana and Aug. 12 in Meredosia.