Prairie State Wire

Copi, a consumer food brand for invasive carp, is set to make its return to Conservation World at the 2023 Illinois State Fair from August 10-20. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Copi dishes including nuggets, rangoon, empanadas, and sliders at the Flippin' Fish Shack, managed by Darla Drainer from Grafton. The shack will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), commented on the rebranding effort aimed at changing perceptions about invasive carp: "We know there's a lot of curiosity about Copi, and the Illinois State Fair is a perfect time for people to find out what all the buzz is about," she said. "Anytime IDNR has offered Copi during the fair, people walk away impressed by how light, delicious and versatile it is."

Since its launch in June 2022, the Copi brand has attracted significant attention regionally and internationally. Sales have reportedly doubled for Illinois processors with online sales available nationwide.

Copi fish are known for their mild taste and health benefits such as heart-healthy omega-3s and low mercury levels. Increasing their consumption may help prevent ecological damage in waterways like the Great Lakes.

Conservation World offers more than just food; it provides numerous educational activities and exhibits in a park-like setting. Visitors can purchase hunting and fishing licenses, explore state park guides or talk with IDNR staff on various topics.

Among other attractions are youth archery sessions, fishing clinics for children, fly-fishing lessons on weekends for both youths and adults, Smokey Bear photo opportunities twice daily along with canoe rides at weekends.

The event also features interactive exhibits such as rock-climbing walls or see-through aquariums showcasing popular sport fish found within Illinois waters—organized by IDNR's fisheries staff—and performances including Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show or Chris Camp's whip demonstrations alongside music events hosted at IDNR’s outdoor amphitheater space plus much more related information around conservation efforts available throughout this unique experience filled day trip destination spot!

In addition to Copi cuisine options present this year there will be wood-fired pizza offerings along with barbecue selections complemented nicely through ice cream servings shaved ice drinks old-fashioned root beer choices kettle korn bags pork rinds treats candy delights amongst others all awaiting eager attendees who venture into scenic grounds where nearly every aspect overseen under purview falls neatly organized inside confines set aside specifically designed accommodate needs those seeking engage themselves fully immersed within natural beauty surrounding them seamlessly woven together providing harmonious balance between nature humans alike looking forward eagerly anticipated upcoming festivities soon unfold before eyes ready partake once again cherished annual tradition celebrated beloved community members far wide gather share joyous occasion marked celebration camaraderie friendship forged stronger bonds established lasting memories created cherished forevermore! For further details regarding showtimes schedule updates please visit https://dnr.illinois.gov/conservationworld/schedule.html