What Causes Mississippi River Levels to Rise?
The Mississippi River, the fourth longest river in the United States, is a vital part of the country’s economic, recreational and environmental health. It spans more than 2,300 miles and drains more than 31 states and two Canadian provinces. It is a difficult waterway to navigate and water can cover its banks quickly due to many factors.
A major culprit behind Mississippi river levels rising is when snowfall and rainfall is high. When the weather leads to an increase in precipitation and then this is combined with the volume of melted snowmelt coming down from the north, it can cause levels to rise quickly. Additionally, when heavy rains and floods occur further downstream, levels can rise as the floodwaters travel to its final destination – the Gulf of Mexico. When there is a large amount of snowmelt off the Rocky Mountains this can be particularly problematic.
Another cause of a rise in water can be attributed to human activities, particularly when these activities increase the amount of runoff and sediment entering the river. This can be a result of deforestation, farming, repairs to levees and even construction of new roads and bridges. Increased dams on the river may also contribute to rising water levels.
What Happens When the Mississippi River Gets too High?
When the Mississippi River’s waters rise too high it can create serious flooding concerns as well as damage to wildlife and habitats. Flooding can damage property and homes, with the potential for bridges and roads to be damaged as a result. High levels of the river can also cause the water to be more crowded, which can be dangerous for both recreational boaters and commercial vessels.
Erosion can occur when the river boils over its banks. This is problematic for a variety of reasons – a heightened river level can hurt local businesses and U.S. economic health as flooding affects crops and commercial ship traffic. Areas near levees and flood barriers can also be affected, as the floodwaters can run off and damage these areas.
Does the Mississippi River Ever Get too Full for Cruise Ships?
The answer to this question is yes – the Mississippi River can become too full for cruise ships. Cruise ships require the river to be at a safe water level, which is usually between 12 and 15 feet. When the water level rises and gets too high, the river can become unnavigable and dangerous to traverse.
Commercial ships that carry cargo between cities must also consider the water levels when navigating the river. If the river is too high and the river currents are too strong, the ships need to take a different route.
When the river is high, it also affects the small craft that people use for recreational purposes. Boats may become trapped in high waters and those hoping to traverse the river by watercraft such as canoes or kayaks, have to watch out for strong currents and unexpected debris.
Strategies for managing River Levels
Research and technology provide helpful solutions to managing water level concerns on the Mississippi River. By understanding the cause and effects of various climate factors, managing the flow of the river has become easier. Additionally, levees systems have protected a variety of towns from flooding. Communities have also built underground pumps to keep the river from flooding into their streets.
Research into climate modeling is becoming more effective, allowing engineers to predict the weather patterns and how they can affect the river. Scientists are also increasing the amount of research done concerning the Mississippi Delta. Long-term land-use projects in the region are allowing for an increase in habitat productivity and restoration.
Conclusion
The waters of the Mississippi River are vital to the United States and its economy, recreation and environment. High levels of the river can be problematic, but with recent strategies to manage the water levels, the river can be enjoyed by all. Proactive efforts should be taken to prevent the river from becoming too full for cruise ships and to reduce flooding concerns.
Opposing Perspectives
Opponents of river-management strategies could argue that these strategies can be costly. Constructing levees, building underground pumps and other methods to manage the river can be expensive and cost taxpayers more money. Furthermore, opponents may also ask whether these strategies are effective, as efforts to control water levels may prove futile due to variations in weather and other climate factors.
Alternatives
Alternative strategies for managing the river include better forecasting and early warning systems. Access to information regarding water levels and critical alerts can enable those living near the river to be better prepared and take precautionary measures when needed. Additionally, communities should always be aware of their evasive action plans to respond to floods.
Negative Impacts
If the river were to become too full for cruise ships, it would have a devastating effect on the local economy and the economy of towns and cities throughout the region. Not only would tourism be affected, but freight traffic, shipping lanes and recreational vessels would also be impacted. Additionally, if flooding occurs, personal property and business may suffer damage.
Effects on Wildlife and Habitat
Rising water levels can have a detrimental effect on wildlife and habitats. Increased water levels can reduce the amount of available vegetation, particularly in areas close to the riverbanks, and this can be devastating for local animals that rely on this vegetation. Erosion can also cause harm to the environment, as soil is shifted and deposited elsewhere. This can reduce the availability of food and shelter for antelope, deer and other animals.
