CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

That's what Illinois environmentalists, researchers and policymakers are saying about Asian carp.

A Wednesday meeting focused on innovative solutions to stop the invasive carp, including by heavily fishing waterways and eating them.

James Garvey is director of the Fisheries and Illinois Aquaculture Center at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He says the Asian carp now are the dominant fish in most major Illinois waterways that can serve as an ideal, high-protein food.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon says immediate actions are needed to save native species and stop Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes.

Already an Illinois Department of Natural Resources program provides Asian carp meals to needy families, and the state is supporting private efforts to harvest and sell the fish in China.