The Mississippi River stretches 2,320 miles from its source in Lake Itasca, Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico, making it the largest and most significant river in the United States. At Alton, IL, the Mississippi River reaches one of its greatest depths, where it is an impressive 231 feet deep. As impressive as this depth may be, the depth of the river changes drastically with each new season.
The depth of the Mississippi River at Alton is largely determined by the amount of water that is released from dams upriver. In particular, the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River operate a series of locks and dams designed to control the flow of the river and maintain a steady depth. The release of water from these dams helps to ensure that the river never rises too high, while also providing an ideal depth for navigation and recreation.
The Mississippi River at Alton is also impacted by regional weather patterns, in particular the degree of precipitation in the area. During periods of heavy rainfall and snow melt, the river can swell to record depths. Conversely, in periods of light rains and snow melt, the river can shrink significantly. As a result, the depth of the river is always in flux and can never truly be pinned down.
When considering how deep the Mississippi is at Alton, it is important to consider the impact that humans have had on the ecology of the river. Dramatic population growth along the length of the river has caused increased demand for freshwater, leading to the construction of locks and dams and other infrastructure for diverting water for human use. This has drastically altered the natural flow of the Mississippi and the depth at which it reaches Alton.
In addition to the impact of human infrastructure, pollution from industrial waste has also affected the depth of the Mississippi at Alton. Pollutants released into the river have caused sediment to accumulate on the river bed, making the river shallower in some areas. In fact, some areas of the Mississippi River have seen their depths decrease by as much as 50 feet due to sediment accumulation.
Finally, it is important to note that the depths of the Mississippi River are constantly monitored by both the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency. These organizations actively monitor both the amount and quality of water released from locks and dams upriver, and measure the depths of the river at various points in order to inform their decision making.
Effects of Climate Change
The effects of climate change on the Mississippi River at Alton have yet to be fully understood. Increased temperatures due to global warming can cause the river to rise to greater depths, making the unstable nature of the river more unpredictable. Additionally, an increase in precipitation from climate change can lead to increased water levels along the full length of the river, leading to increased depths at Alton. However, researchers are still uncertain as to the full extent of the impacts of climate change on the Mississippi River.
Maintenance of the River
The important task of maintaining the Mississippi River falls largely on the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps is tasked with constructing and maintaining locks and dams along the river, as well as monitoring the depth of the river and controlling the flow of water released from dams upriver. The Corps also works on restoring habitats along the river, such as wetlands, in order to ensure that the river remains healthy and has the necessary resources for the thriving animal and plant life that occupies its banks.
Recreational Activities
The Mississippi River is a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. The nature of the river leads to pleasant temperatures and mild currents, making it ideal for swimming and fishing. The depth of the river allows for aquatic activities such as kayaking and canoeing, while its banks are also popular for hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Alton, IL is a particularly popular recreational destination due to its proximity to nearby amenities and its convenient access to the Mississippi River.
Environmental Impact
Despite its importance to the region, managing the waters of the Mississippi has had a significant, detrimental effect on its ecology. Many species of fish, birds, and other animals that depend on the river have seen their populations dwindled due to the damming and diversion of water from the river. As a result, conservationists are increasingly advocating for the protection and restoration of the Mississippi River, in order to ensure that it remains healthy for future generations.
