Basic Facts
The Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world, measuring 2,320 miles from its source in Lake Itasca in Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. It earned its name from the Native American Ojibwe language, meaning ‘Big River.’ The river is sometimes referred to as the ‘Mighty Mississippi’ or ‘Old Man River.’
The Mississippi River drains 31 U.S. states, two Canadian provinces and is the primary source for drinking water for 18 million people. As the river snakes its way to the Gulf of Mexico, it collects additional water from its tributaries, transforming from a stream to a deep waterway. The deepest point of the Mississippi River is recorded in southern Louisiana, reaching a depth of 200 feet deep.
Expert Perspectives
Professor Lael Whitehead, a professor of Physical Geography at the University of Wisconsin, shared her thoughts about the depth of the Mississippi River: “The tremendous power of the Mississippi River is sustained by the vast amount of liquid that it contains. The waters of the ‘Mighty Mississippi’ are probably deeper in southern Louisiana because the water spreads out more over there, and the gulf waters provide more nutrients.”
Theresa Stallworth, a Geography professor at LSU, suggested that the bio-diversity found in the Mississippi River ecosystem could contribute to its deep depths: “The Mississippi River is a diverse mix of brackish, fresh and estuarine waters. This means that the waters contain a wide range of organisms, including zooplankton, fish, aquatic plants and even terrestrial animals like birds. Studies have shown that increased bio-diversity leads to increased production of phytoplankton, resulting in nutrient-rich waters that contribute to the depth of the Mississippi River.”
Environmental Impact
The depth of the Mississippi River has a massive impact on the environment and on humans living in the area. Changes in the river’s depth affect the way sediment moves along the river bed, impacting the geomorphic structure of the river. Additionally, decreased water levels can lead to droughts, kill aquatic life, and contribute to soil erosion — all of which can have devastating results on the river’s ecosystems.
More than 18 million people across America depend on the Mississippi River for their drinking water. Unfortunately, the run off of both natural and manmade pollutants is harming the quality of life water in the Mississippi River Basin, causing humans to face water-related illnesses like dysentery and cholera, as well as exacerbating environmental concerns.
Impact of Human Activity
Unfortunately, human activity is a contributing factor to the changing depth of the Mississippi River and the quality of its waters. Climate change caused by burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and over irrigation are all disrupting the delicate balance, leading to fluctuating water levels, changes in temperature, increased acidity and a decrease in the amount of oxygen in the water.
One of the biggest contributors to the disruption in the Mississippi River is the US Army Corps of Engineers who developed both the Old River Control Structure and the Bonnet Carre Spillway. The Old River Control Structure was designed to maintain a consistent flow of fresh water between the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers, but it has also lead to fluctuating levels, impacting aquatic life and the quality of the water.
Human Solutions
Fortunately, many people are taking a stand, working hard to restore thewaters of the Mississippi River. Organizations like the Gulf Restoration Network are focusing on restoring the damage created by decades of industrial pollution. Additionally, river governance and water management plans are being developed to better manage the flow of water and to protect the river from future damage.
New technologies are also being developed to improve the quality and function of the Mississippi River. For example, renewable energy — such as hydroelectric dams, geothermal streams and wind turbines — are quickly becoming a more preferred option to power the river, reducing pollution and providing clean and sustainable energy.
Scientists are also developing innovative ways to both monitor andimprove the Mississippi River. For example, using drones, satellites and remote sensing technology is providing an in-depth look at the condition of the river, helping to identify threats, track pollutants and develop better strategies for protection.
Conservation Efforts
In addition to advances in technology, conservation and preservation efforts are being made to restore the Mississippi River. Programs and initiatives like the Mississippi River Delta Restoration Program, Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative and the Mississippi Watershed Management System are helping to restore the waterway and protect the habitats along it.
Additionally, the US Fish and Wildlife Service is working to re-establish the longleaf-pines, one of the region’s most fertile and unique habitats that were lost during the industrialization of the river. Gov. John Bel Edwards is also working to create programs that protect coastal communities and vulnerable species, like the Louisiana black bear.
Conclusion
The depth of the Mississippi River is often overlooked amidst its many other powerful characteristics. At its deepest point, the river cohesively winds its way through the United States, gaining strength, life and nutrient-rich waters. As a result, it creates a safe and diverse ecosystem. Yet, due to human activity, the river is facing threats that can have devastating consequences. Fortunately, many individuals and organizations are taking part in restorative efforts, using science and tech to actively protect and preserve the Mississippi River and its tributaries.
