The Mississippi River, the fourth longest river in the world, runs 2,320 miles long and marks the border between the United States and Canada. Every year millions of tourists visit the river to partake in its enormous and breathtaking beauty. But, have you ever wondered just how deep the Mighty Mississippi is?
Contrary to the river’s immense size, the average depth of the Mississippi River is not all that deep. On average, the main stem Mississippi River, including 735 miles of tributaries, is only about 12 feet deep. The deepest places of the Mississippi River reach a depth of only 150 feet. The average depth in the wide parts of the river reaches around 20-30 feet, but as the river gets closer to its tributaries it starts to shallow out significantly.
At the place called Lake Itasca, the Mississippi River kicks off from an impressive depth of 45 feet. From the start, it begins to shallow out very quickly, so much so in fact that most parts of the river are around only 6 feet deep. Many areas that flood adjacent to the river are often much deeper than the Mississippi River itself.
How is this possible? Well, the answer lies in the river’s unique makeup. The Mississippi is a meandering river, or one that winds greatly due to its wide, shallow nature. While its meandering nature gives us sights to enjoy, the soft curves of its bed also assist with its overall shallow depth. The other major factor contributing to the shallow depths of the Mississippi River are the sediment deposits. As the current of the river moves, it carries sediment that allows the riverbed near the banks to rise up over time.
The shallowness of the river does not in any shape or form detract from its importance. The Mighty Mississippi River is referred to as the “Third Coast” of the United States and is an important connection between agricultural products, industry, and transportation.
Economics
The Mississippi River remains an integral part of the US economy. Over 530 million tons of goods travel up and down its waters every year, generating over $525 billion for the US economy. Every year, over two million tons of cargo are shipped up and down the Mississippi to help feed, clothe and build our nation. From grain and wood to plastics and coal, the river provides a waterbound highway that allows various goods to be replaced with ease.
In terms of consumer goods, the Mississippi River allows billions of dollars’ worth of goods to be transported to areas across the country. Even goods that may not necessarily be shipped via the river are still heavily influenced by the waterway. For example, according to the National Waterways Foundation, goods shipped “via rail, truck, and air account for more than 90 percent of freight shipments, but 60 percent of that total freight is nonetheless carried on the waterways at some point in the movement process.”
The Mississippi also plays a large role in tourism. People from all around the world travel along the Mississippi River to take in the sights and sounds of the riverside towns. From fishing to riverboat tours, there is something for everyone on the river.
Wildlife
The Mississippi River is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is especially famous for its bird and fish populations. Specifically, bald eagles, pelicans and geese are known to flock to the Mississippi and use the river as a migratory stop while they make their way south.
In terms of fish, the Mississippi River is especially known for its catfish. The most popular and sought after catfish in the river is the flathead catfish. Anglers have been fishing for flathead catfish in the Mississippi for hundreds of years and is a staple in American river fishing.
Some of the other fish that call the Mississippi River home include carp, suckers, sturgeon, and spoonbill. There is also the famed giant catfish, the Mississippi Channel catfish. These catfish are the largest native catfish species in North America, with fish from all parts of the river reaching up to 100lbs in size.
History
The Mississippi River has been a part of the human experience for thousands of years. As far back as 9000 BC, ancient Native Americans were known to have lived in various spots along the river. They used the river as a way of transportation and a source of food. Evidence of their settlements and activities can be found along certain parts of the river, with some burial sites and campsites still being unearthed.
The Mississippi River was also the site of many crucial events in US history. Some of these include the Battle of New Orleans, the historical Steamboat Race of 1870, the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and more. The river has been a part of US culture and identity for centuries, and plays a vital role in how the nation has grown and evolved.
Pollution
Although the Mississippi River has been a critical part of US history and is important to US industry, it is not without its problems. One of the biggest issues is pollution. Over the past few decades, the pollution of the Mississippi River has been a major controversy.
The major source of the pollution is the “industrial-wear” and sewage discharge coming from the various cities located along the river, with agricultural runoff also playing a part. As a result, many species of fish and other aquatic life have been adversely affected by the polluted water, leading to drastic declines in population in certain areas. Additionally, the pollutants have poisoned some drinking water in cities along the river, leading to health issues.
The good news is that public and private organizations have taken steps in recent years to reduce the pollution levels in the river. Additionally, communities are coming together to take small steps in cleaning up the river and raising awareness about the issue.
Conservation
In addition to the efforts to reduce pollution, organizations are also working hard to conserve the wildlife and environment of the Mississippi River. A few of the biggest efforts include the protection of migratory birds, the cleaning of mud flats for wildlife habitat and the rehabilitation of wildlife breeding grounds. Additionally, many of the natural environment of the Mississippi River is being preserved, such as its swamp lands, wetlands and riverbanks.
In addition to the natural environment, some of the cultural heritage of the river is also being conserved. This includes preserving traditional music and artwork made by earlier generations of Native Americans along the river, as well as preserving the stories and artifacts of early American settlers.
The conservation efforts of the Mississippi River have proven effective, as there have been positive changes in the diversity and abundance of wildlife. And while there is still much work to be done in protecting and preserving the river, it is heartening to know that people are taking action and implementing solutions that will benefit the region for generations to come.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an incredible natural wonder that has been around for thousands of years. Despite its shallow depths and extended length, the Mississippi River plays an integral role in US industry, culture, wildlife, and the economy. From providing an important transportation link to aiding with US exports and tourism, the Mighty Mississippi is an important waterway. And though the issue of pollution remains serious, many are taking steps to improve the state of the river and ensure its future health and wellbeing.
