Overview
The mighty Mississippi is an American river with a long and distinguished history. Spanning 2,350 miles in length, it is the fourth longest river system in the world and the second longest in the U.S. It is an important component of the American economy and culture, providing ports, transportation, and energy to the citizens of many cities, states, and countries. But when it comes to the direction in which it flows, the Mississippi River is a bit of a conundrum. Does the Mississippi River flow North?
How the Mississippi River Started
The Mississippi River has its origins in Minnesota, where the headwaters start at Lake Itasca. From there, the Mississippi runs southward, first through Minnesota, then Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee.
This journey eventually brings the river to the southernmost point of its course, below the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, at which point it empties into the Gulf of Mexico through the mighty Mississippi Delta.
Northward Course
Despite its southernly origin and course, the Mississippi River has proven itself capable of flowing against its natural current in certain locations. In certain cities, such as St. Louis, Missouri and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the river is moving against the natural current and flowing in a northward direction.
At St. Louis, Missouri, the northward direction of the river is particularly noticeable. Here, the river is actually flowing against its natural current, as the two rivers that converge in the city – the Mississippi and the Missouri – are both flowing opposite each other. At this point, the Mississippi River is at its widest, nearly two miles in some places.
Dam Construction
The northward course of the Mississippi River can largely be attributed to dam construction, specifically the Lock and Dam system that was constructed in the early 20th century. This system, which has 26 locks and dams along a three-mile stretch of the river between St. Louis, Missouri and Cairo, Illinois, was constructed to control the flow of the Mississippi River.
The system serves to control water levels, flooding, and shipping and aids in the navigation of the river by controlling its speed and direction.
The construction of the Lock and Dam system caused a diversion of the normal route of the Mississippi, which otherwise would have flowed south towards the Gulf of Mexico.
This shift in the direction of the river has caused the need for increased navigation. To help prevent the river from overflowing its banks, the Lock and Dam system helps control water levels, allowing for ships to navigate the Mississippi and its tributaries more safely and with greater efficiency.
The navigation of the Mississippi goes back to the original Native Americans who populated the area in the early 1800s, and has become increasingly complex over time. From barges to leisure vessels, navigation on the Mississippi River has become an important part of its culture and its legacy.
Ecosystem Impact
The construction of the Lock and Dam system has also had an impact on the ecosystem of the river. By controlling the water levels, the system has brought more uniformity to the flow of the river. This can negatively impact species native to the river, as it can cause changes in their habitats and spawning grounds.
Additionally, the Lock and Dam system can also cause a decrease in the amount of oxygen in the river, which can make it more difficult for fish and other aquatic species to survive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, does the Mississippi River flow North? The answer is yes, in certain cities, like St. Louis, Missouri and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the river is actually moving against the natural current and flowing in a northward direction. This shift in the direction of the river has been caused by the Lock and Dam system, which was constructed in the early 20th century to control the flow of the Mississippi River. This system has brought more uniformity to the flow of the river, but has also had an impact on the ecosystem, causing changes to species habitats and spawning grounds.
Artificial Channels
In addition to the Lock and Dam system, the northward direction of the Mississippi is also due to artificial channels that have been constructed to control flooding and improve navigation. These channels, including the Illinois and Michigan Canal and the Cairo, Illinois and Toledo, Ohio Canal, have diverted a portion of the northward-moving Mississippi over the last few decades.
The artificial channels are a critical component of the region’s economy, and have played an important role in the development of cities like Cairo, Illinois, Memphis and even St. Louis.
Local Effects
On a local level, the northward flow of the Mississippi has had a tremendous effect on the way of life in the region. Farmers have had to adapt to the changing conditions, and new opportunities have been created for businesses that capitalize on the navigability of the river. New industries have been born and existing businesses have thrived, helping to support the region’s economy.
Tourism has also been impacted by the northward flow of the Mississippi. As the river’s route has changed, more sightseeing options have opened up to the public, bringing a sense of excitement to the local population.
Environmental Responsibilities
In addition to the positive effects of the northward course of the Mississippi, there are also environmental concerns. It is important to be mindful of the impact that the artificial channels, dams and other constructions have on the ecosystem of the river. Care must be taken to protect the river’s water quality, riverbanks and wildlife habitat.
It is also important to consider the long-term impact of these constructions. The artificial channels have had a dramatic effect on the direction of the Mississippi, and a more sustainable approach is necessary to ensure the river’s future.
Adaptation Strategies
In order to protect the Mississippi River, habitat protection and adaptation strategies must be implemented. These strategies should focus on the restoration of native species and the maintenance of good water quality, as well as the construction of wildlife refuges and other measures to improve the health of the river.
It is also important to consider the economic impact of these strategies. The Mississippi is an important component of the regional economy, and any adaptation strategies must take this into account in order to ensure that the preservation of the river does not come at the expense of its economic value.
