How Deep is Mississippi River in Memphis
The Mississippi River serves as an important source of water and food for many people along its banks. This mighty river is also steeped in history, particularly within the city of Memphis, Tennessee. If you’re wondering how deep is the Mississippi River in Memphis, this article should help you understand the specifics of what lies beneath its surface.
The Mississippi River is over 4,000 miles long and is the second longest river in the United States, behind the Missouri River. It twists and turns its way through 10 states, with the state border of Tennessee and Arkansas being located near its midpoint. The river is furthest south when it reaches Memphis, which is known as the home of the blues and other musical talent.
Memphis sits near the beginning of the “mighty Mississippi” which is near the point of the river’s origination. The Mississippi River flows northward to the Gulf of Mexico, ending near Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The river’s average depth in this region is usually 27 feet, but can range from 25 to 30 feet depending on the season.
The breadth of the river varies quite a bit from the source to the delta in Louisiana. At its widest point, the Mississippi River is 40 miles wide. Most of Memphis’s bars, restaurants and riverboat tours are located near the banks of the river, so the water is an important part of the city’s identity. In addition to the tourist attractions, Memphis often opens the gates of its levees to create flooding to keep the Mississippi River’s depth below 30 feet.
The current of the river is much more of a concern, with dangerous undertows and strong currents to be mindful of at all times. With over 257,000 feet of shoreline, the Mississippi River forms an extensive network of tributaries, which can put the casual swimmer in danger. If a person should get themselves in trouble, the US Coast Guard is nearby to help.
The US Coast Guard works diligently to keep the waters safe, as over 200 million tons of cargos are transported by barge each year. In addition, the 15 dams and locks, which keep the river tamed, also pose a hazard to anyone navigating near them.
The Mississippi River is a visual spectacle in Memphis, especially on summer nights. On the Fourth of July, the city holds an incredible fireworks show over the river, which draws throngs of tourists to marvel at the pyrotechnics. Boats and ferries can also be seen traveling along the wharves, though it is advised to keep a safe distance, as the unpredictable undertow can be hazardous.
Pollution
The Mississippi River is unfortunately not as pristine as it once was, due to both industrial and agricultural runoff. The agriculture industry, mostly in the Midwest, contributes to over 80% of all water pollution in the river. Nutrients created by fertilizer runoff encourage algae to populate, resulting in ‘dead zones’ in the delta region in Louisiana.
The US Department of Agriculture’s Farm Services Agency regulates the amount of fertilizer allowed to be used on regional farms, though the overall effects are still visible. Additionally, it should be noted that the river contains an impressive array of species of fish, which are sometimes harvested by locals to eat.
The construction of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway has altered the course of the river in some areas, though these segments have been blocked off and remain virtually unaffected. This waterway is an alternate route used to transport commodities, typically around the delta region of the river.
The Corps of Engineers periodically opens the levees during flooding season, which can cause significant damage to the region. However, an extensive network of flood-proofing measures has been implemented to help protect some of the more heavily populated areas near the river.
Recreation
The Mississippi River has become popular for recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. But as aforementioned, vigilance is always advised when being near the water. There are numerous opportunities to take a guided tour on a riverboat, with plenty of barbecue restaurants lining the wharves, giving tourists a taste of Memphis.
Day cruises are also a popular activity among visitors, allowing them to take advantage of the stunning views of sunsets and the rolling hills in the background. Canoeing and kayaking are also available for those who wish to explore the river further and take in the natural wildlife. There are outlets for those who prefer a more leisurely ride in pedal boats, which are usually located on the Tennessee side of the river.
Riverfront Development
The Mississippi River has come a long way from its days of being a navigation pathway for traders. The city of Memphis has taken a major interest in preserving the river for generations to come. Since the early 2000s, numerous developments have been made to beautify the riverfront of Memphis, making the area more suitable to its citizens.
The Beale Street Landing project includes the monumental River Walk and public park, while the Big River Crossing provides convenient access to the West Memphis area. Not only that, visitors can enjoy tour boats that leave the harbor frequently, offering visitors a chance to see the Mississippi River as it flows through Memphis. Additionally, the Mud Island park offers a unique experience, with a peninsula and pathways tracing the shape of the river.
Preserving the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is an integral part of Memphis and the city has done its best to keep the river flowing in a healthy state. Conservation efforts in the area are important, as the river serves a vital role for both humans and wildlife. Memphis and the surrounding counties have established numerous parks and sanctuaries to help combat pollution, and encourage the growth of endangered species.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has spearheaded the conservation of many species of fish, including the endangered purple bladderwort, which was on the brink of extinction due to pollution. The agency also puts on fishing expeditions to help protect the fish populations and limit the amount of sport-caught fish.
The Corps of Engineers also contributes to the preservation of the Mississippi River in Memphis. The agency monitors the depth of the river and keeps the levees open during floods. In addition to water safety and conservation measures, the Corps of Engineers also conducts research on how the Mississippi River interacts with its local environment.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is a source of vital resources for the city of Memphis, Tennessee, and its inhabitants. In addition to being a practical use of water, the river is steeped in history, with its scenic views, musical culture and recreational activities making it one of the city’s biggest draws. The depth of the river in Memphis is approximately 27 feet, but can reach up to 30 feet at times. To learn more about the Mississippi River, you can visit its many recreation areas, speak to experts and fishermen, or even take a boat tour to explore its waters.
