What is a Mississippi River Levee?
A Mississippi River levee is an earthen embankment created in order to prevent flooding. The levees are built along the banks of the Mississippi River and its branches, extending up to 502 mi. The Mississippi River levee system was built with the intention of protecting the lives and property of those living near the river from its formidable floods. Counties along the river that benefit from the system include Clarke, Jefferson, Hinds and Madison.
The History of Mississippi River Levee
The history of the Mississippi River levee dates back to the 18th century. In 1718, the first levee was built in what is now Louisiana. This primitive form of levee was an earthen embankment made with natural soil, to protect the local population from flooding caused by the Mississippi River. The levees built in the 18th century soon proved to be inadequate, leading to the construction of stronger ones.
By the mid 19th century, the levees had grown in length and strength, as more and more soil was brought in to make them higher. During the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, the levees failed, and as a result, about 20,000 people were killed and nearly 700,000 were displaced. Following the devastating flood, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started building higher and larger levees.
How long is the Mississippi River Levee?
The Mississippi River levee is approximately 502 miles long. The levees are not a continuous structure, but rather a series of walls, constructed in certain points along the river’s length. The earthen embankments act as a buffer between the river and the communities along its banks. It is estimated that the levee system has prevented $400 million in damages caused by flooding since its inception.
The Effects of Mississippi River Levee on the Ecological System
The construction of the Mississippi River levee has had a significant impact on the river’s ecological system. The levee restricts the flow of floodwater, reducing the ability of the river to create new habitats for wildlife. Floods are an important part of the river’s life cycle, as the overflow of water brings with it sediment, replenishing soils and nutrients in the area, as well as creating new wetlands that provide habitat for animals and birds. The construction of the levee has led to a decrease in the number of wetlands and other habitats for wildlife.
The levee also reduces the amount of water entering the Mississippi Delta, leading to a decrease in water levels. The delta is the second largest in the United States and is an important source of food and habitat for many species. The decrease in water levels has had an effect on the fish populations in the area, as well as birds and other wildlife.
Pros and Cons of Mississippi River Levee
The Mississippi River levee system has a number of advantages and disadvantages. The biggest advantage is that it has helped to protect communities along the river from flooding. The levees have prevented billions of dollars worth of damage since their inception.
However, the construction of the levee also has a number of drawbacks. The restrictions of the flow of water has had a significant impact on the ecological system of the river, leading to a decrease in wetlands and wildlife habitats. Additionally, the levee system has limited the amount of sediment and nutrients entering the river, leading to an overall decrease in water levels in the area.
Maintenance and Intervention of Mississippi River Levee
Due to the environmental impacts of the levees, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for maintaining the levee system. The Corps of Engineers regularly inspects the levees for any damages or breaches, and makes repairs when necessary. The Corps also conducts floodplain management activities, such as providing floodplain maps and encouraging floodplain development, in order to reduce the risk of flooding.
The Corps has taken measures in recent years to reduce the impacts of the levees on the environment. In 2011, they began a program to build artificial wetlands in the Floodway. These wetlands are designed to protect wildlife, reduce flood damage, and restore the natural ecology of the area. The Corps has also set up monitoring systems to measure the effects of the levees on wildlife populations in the area.
Environmental Impact of Mississippi River Levee
The construction of the Mississippi River levee has had an adverse effect on the environment. The restrictions on the flow of floodwaters have had an effect on the river’s ecology, leading to a decrease in the number of wetlands and other habitats for wildlife. Additionally, the levee has reduced the amount of sediment and nutrients entering the river, leading to an overall decrease in water levels in the area.
The Corps of Engineers has taken measures to limit the environmental impact of the levees, such as building artificial wetlands and establishing monitoring systems. However, the environmental impacts of the Mississippi River levee are still a major concern, as the levee continues to reduce the river’s ability to sustain its natural ecosystems.
Affect on Nearby Communities of Mississippi River Levee
The Mississippi River levee has had both positive and negative impacts on nearby communities. On one hand, the levee has helped to protect communities along the river from flooding, preventing billions of dollars worth of damage. On the other hand, the protection offered by the levee has led to large-scale development in floodplain areas, creating vulnerable communities that could still be at risk in the event of a flood.
Additionally, the levee has led to a decrease in water levels in the area, which has had an effect on the agriculture and fisheries industry in the region. The decrease in water levels has led to lower crop yields and reduced fish populations, negatively impacting local communities.
Final Analysis of Mississippi River Levee
The construction of the Mississippi River levee has had both positive and negative impacts on the area. On one hand, the levee has protected nearby communities from the risks of flooding, preventing billions of dollars worth of damage. On the other hand, the levee has had an adverse effect on the ecological system of the river, leading to a decrease in wetlands and wildlife habitats.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has taken measures to reduce the environmental impact of the levees, such as establishing monitoring systems and building artificial wetlands. However, the environmental impacts of the Mississippi River levee are still a major concern, due to its continued effect on the river’s ability to sustain its natural ecosystems.
