The Mississippi river is a source of inspiration, pride, and power for those who live near it. Spanning across 2,320 miles from its source in the north woods of Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi is one of the longest rivers in the world. It has long been an integral part of the United States’ conservation efforts, as it holds immense historical significance and provides numerous economic benefits for the country as a whole.
The total size of the Mississippi riverbed is an impressive 211,000 square miles, which is larger than the state of Texas and creates a border between 10 different states. It is an awe-inspiring example of just how powerful nature can be; the river grows approximately 1 to 1.5 million cubic feet of water every minute during the peak of its season.
A number of experts have tried to calculate how much energy is generated by the Mississippi’s mighty flowing water. According to research by the U.S. Geological Survey, the total amount of energy generated is roughly 3.2 trillion kilowatt-hours annually. The power of the river is often described as a renewable source of energy, as its waters are constantly pushing against the banks of its winding pathways and providing a natural power generation system.
The river basin is fed by 41 tributaries, including the Ohio, Arkansas, and Illinois Rivers. According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Mississippi river basin has more dams and levees than any other river system in the United States – a total of 621, with a large amount of those being in the lower part of the river. In addition, the Corps of Engineers are currently involved in rehabilitation projects to keep the Mississippi River financially practical, such as floodplain restoration and erosion control.
In comparison to its length, the width of the Mississippi River varies significantly with an average width of 1.2 miles. However, at some of its widest points, it measures up to 12 miles from the banks of the river. It is also the deepest river, going up to 200 feet deep.
Navigating the waters of the Mississippi has long been a navigator’s challenge. In the early 1800s, there was a great need for maps to help travelers, as the river had not yet been fully mapped out. There was also a need for navigational guides that could safely help to get boats and barges through the river. Today, there are still a number of navigational guides and maps that are used to help the crews of the boats to safely traverse the river.
The US Coast Guard is responsible for assisting vessels navigating the Mississippi and its tributaries, as well as providing safety regulations, guidance and enforcement of federal navigation regulations. The Coast Guard Boat Force currently has three boats stationed on the river. In addition, water levels, currents and other navigational aids are monitored daily by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
There are a variety of ways to navigate the Mississippi, from chartered tours to piloting your own vessel. Vessels such as towboats and barges also use the river, and navigating them requires special licensing and training. The Mississippi must also be navigated with caution, as its strong currents can pose a safety hazard to those who are unfamiliar with its navigational challenges.
Damage Prevention
With the vast amount of water the Mississippi carries, it is important that it is monitored and kept in check. In order to do this, the US Army Corps of Engineers operates a variety of damage prevention programs, from maintaining required water levels and providing flood protection, to helping to prevent and address other river-related issues.
The Corps of Engineers, along with the Environmental Protection Agency, has also been influential in passing legislation such as the Clean Water Act and providing funding for clean-up operations such as the Mississippi’s infamous oil spill. In addition, the newly formed Mississippi River Commission is tackling ecological and navigation challenges to secure the river’s future.
The Mississippi is a tightly regulated system, and its management is key to the health of the river and the people who rely on it. The Army Corps of Engineers continues to play an integral role in keeping the Mississippi running safely, cleanly, and efficiently.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River is an important economic resource, providing valuable resources and services to a variety of industries. From agriculture and fishing to shipping and transportation, the Mississippi River supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions of dollars to the US economy each year. It is also a major source of drinking water for millions of people.
The river has also been an important source of recreation for those who live near it; the water offers plenty of fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. The river’s economic power has allowed for the growth of nearby towns and cities, as well as the development of boats, tugs and other water transportation vessels.
In addition, the river is an essential part of the national infrastructure. It is used to transport coal and other resources, which provides the US with a variety of materials. In addition, it is also important for transporting agricultural goods, as well as allowing access to new markets.
The Mississippi River truly is one of the United States’ most important economic assets, and its contribution to US industries cannot be overstated.
Environmental Impact
In addition to its economic importance, the Mississippi is a major environmental resource. It is home to a variety of aquatic organisms, including numerous species of fish, reptiles, birds, and amphibians. The river supports a remarkable level of biodiversity, and its wide variety of aquatic life is its key asset.
The river also acts as a natural filter for polluted water, as its waters trap sediment, fertilizers, and other pollutants coming from its tributaries; the sediment serves as a natural plant nutrient for its banks. In addition, the river helps to maintain the health of the surrounding ecosystems, as its waters provide ecosystem services such as water purification and flood control.
Unfortunately, the Mississippi River is not without its challenges. The river provides a habitat for invasive species, and rising river temperatures due to climate change have had a significant impact on the ecosystem. Pollution is also an issue, but government and non-profit organizations are working hard to address this threat and to protect the river’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is more than just a geographical feature; it is a part of American history, culture, and industry. With its immense size and powerful current, it is a reminder of the power of nature and a source of natural energy and economic prosperity. In addition, it is a key environmental asset, providing ecosystem services and sustenance for a variety of wildlife species. By monitoring and protecting the river, we can ensure that the Mississippi remains a source of national pride for years to come.
