Introduction
The Mississippi River is considered one of the longest and most important rivers in the United States, acting as a lifeline for many communities along its banks and providing navigation for barges carrying everything from agricultural products to manufactured goods. Barges are an important source of transport for many goods, and can often make the difference between a successful business and one that fails. But just how far north do barges travel on the Mississippi River?
History
The navigability of the Mississippi has been important since the days of the early French explorers in North America. When America bought the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803, the newly purchased land contained the river and the right to travel up it. In the mid-1800s, commercial navigation on the Mississippi River was becoming increasingly important and steamboats began travelling its length and breadth, trading goods and providing passage to communities along the banks of the river.
Today, the river is still vital to the economy and to freight transportation. Barges are a common sight, as they accommodate larger amounts of freight than a regular truck and require much less energy to transport them. So, just how far north do barges travel on the Mississippi River?
The answer depends largely on the time of year and the type of barge that is operating. During the summer months, some barges travel as far north as St. Louis, Missouri. During the winter months, however, the frozen areas of Route 66 and the Illinois River near St. Louis prevent travel further north.
Barge Capacity and Routing
When it comes to the capacity of the barges, there are a few different sizes and types. For example, a standard towboat will be able to move up to fifteen barges, but one with larger draft is limited to a smaller number of barges. In addition, the size and weight of the payload also has to be considered when planning a route.
Navigating a barge on the river can pose a number of challenges. Firstly, there is the limited draft of the barges in comparison to the water level. The lower the water level, the more difficult the navigation. Secondly, there are the bends in the river which can make navigating difficult, especially if the barge has limited maneuverability. Finally, there are sandbars, snags, and underwater obstacles that need to be negotiated when navigating the Mississippi River.
Working with Nature
The Mississippi River is an ever-changing landscape and the conditions along its route can change quickly. Weather and seasonal changes can affect the depth of the river and maritime traffic has to be able to adjust accordingly. Fortunately, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains an extensive system of locks and dams along the length of the river which helps to regulate the water levels.
River Technology
Technology has also played a role in helping barge operators navigate the Mississippi. Since 2005, the Army Corps of Engineers has implemented RiverGIS, a computer-based system that provides real-time navigation information. RiverGIS uses predictive navigation tools, sensors and cameras mounted at strategic points to help barge operators make safe and efficient passage on the Mississippi.
Conclusion
Barges have been travelling the length of the Mississippi River for centuries, carrying essential cargo and providing livelihoods for the many people that depend on the river for their income. Today, technology and an efficient infrastructure helps to ensure safe and successful navigation all the way up to St. Louis. By working with nature and the power of technology, much of the success of barge transportation can be attributed to the Mississippi River.
