The Mississippi River has captivated the imagination of many for centuries – not least due to its sheer size and beauty. Now, how many locks are there protecting this mighty river?
Well, it depends upon whom you are asking – the US Army Corps of Engineers reports 57 locks and dams, while the St. Paul District claims there are 64. Furthermore, the Mississippi has numerous weirs and guardlocks. Much of the waters are used to support transportation and commerce, while others also maintain ecological balances.
The majority of the locks on the Mississippi are used to control the volume and flow of the river itself. Primarily, these locks connect chambers between bodies of water with different levels. The locks fill with water from the upper chamber, allowing vessels to pass from the upper chamber to the lower one. From there, the vessels can pass freely to the ocean.
A typical lock on the Mississippi has two gates at either end. These gates are operated by crews who work for the of the US Army Corps of Engineers. In addition, the Corps of Engineers employees also manage the waterway itself, including the navigational aids, buoys, and water depth. The locks also play an important role in flood prevention and helping to protect areas that are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the locks maintain a 271.8-mile navigable waterway to facilitate the transit of commercial vessels. The locks also provide a safe passage in challenging environment like changing weather, swiftly moving currents and changing river levels.
Moreover, the locks have had a positive impact on the economy of the region. Without them, hundreds of miles of the river would be unnavigable, which would significantly limit the transport of goods from the Upper Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico. This, in turn, would have a huge impact on the local economies, as they are highly reliant on the smooth flow of commerce on the Mississippi.
From a wildlife point of view, locks also provide significant benefits. The locks create reservoirs and wetlands around them, which act as natural habitats for many fish, reptiles and amphibians. The locks also provide a safe habitat for several species of migratory birds.
Overall, the locks on the Mississippi are incredibly important, both in terms of protecting the river and its environs, and in facilitating the free flow of commerce. While there is some disagreement on the exact number of locks, there is no doubt that they play an integral role in the functioning of the river.
Environmental Impact of Locks
The multitude of locks on the Mississippi have an inevitable impact on the local environment. Nine of the locks are located in areas of high ecological significance, since they are near breeding and nursing grounds for many species of fish. There are also a number of locks situated in sensitive wetlands, and the presence of these locks have a direct impact on the surrounding ecosystems.
At present, the US Army Corps of Engineers is working on numerous projects to reduce the environmental impacts of the locks. These include relocating locks and dams to ensure that they are not situated in areas that are of high ecological significance, and improving existing locks to ensure that they use less energy and thus cause less disturbance to the environment.
It is also vitally important to ensure that the locks are properly maintained. Over time, silt can build up in and around the locks, which can impede their operation. Without the ability to move vessels conveniently and safely, a wide range of ecological and economic benefits would be threatened.
Furthermore, the locks have social impacts that have to be accounted for as well. Lockkeepers who work for the US Army Corps of Engineers are essential in keeping the locks functioning properly. These lockkeepers often live in isolated communities, and their jobs are of great economic and social importance.
Purpose of the Locks
The Mississippi River has been used for centuries for transport and irrigation, and the locks are essential in helping it to maintain its navigability. Some of the oldest locks on the Mississippi still exist, providing a link between the north and south shores of the river. In addition, the locks facilitate the transport of goods and services on the river.
In many cases, the locks also help to control flooding. Whenever water levels are high, the locks can be closed to prevent a build-up of water, which can cause flooding downstream. This can help to save lives, protect properties and keep the river safe and navigable.
Impact of Weather on Locks
Since the locks are open to the elements, they are often affected by extreme weather events. Storms can cause high winds, which can batter the locks, forcing them to close abruptly. A major storm can also cause flooding, which can damage the locks and impede their operation.
In addition, high temperatures have an impact on the locks. Extreme heat can lead to an increase in evaporation, which can reduce levels of water flowing through the locks. This can mean that vessels have to wait for the locks to refill, resulting in delays.
Maintenance of Locks
The US Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for the maintenance of the locks on the Mississippi. As such, they employ a number of individuals to ensure that the locks remain in good condition. These workers can be found in many areas, such as guarding the locks to ensure they are safe, or tending to the locks themselves.
Regular inspections of the locks are also conducted, to check for damage or wear and tear. In addition, the workers also ensure that the locks are kept free of obstructions and debris, to ensure the safety of vessels passing through.
Economic Impact of the Locks
As mentioned previously, the locks on the Mississippi have a huge economic impact. Without them, much of the river would be inaccessible, and trade along the Mississippi would significantly decrease. This would have a huge economic cost, as millions of dollars’ worth of goods move down the Mississippi annually.
Additionally, the locks also support jobs in the local areas. Crews are employed to operate the locks, while many other individuals also benefit from the increased trade and commerce. In addition, tourism along the Mississippi has also grown significantly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the locks on the Mississippi have played a crucial role in the functioning of the river for centuries. They are essential in keeping it safe and navigable, as well as helping to protect the many communities who depend on the river. Furthermore, the locks also provide a huge economic benefit to the region – not least in terms of employment and tourism. Consequently, it is vitally important that the locks are properly maintained, so that they can continue to help the Mississippi for many years to come.
