The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the world, and is an incredibly significant waterway for the United States. It is an important part of the national economy, powering through 11 states and providing great commercial and recreational value. However, the river is currently facing an unprecedented crisis – the Mississippi River has dropped significantly in recent years, causing havoc for communities living along the banks. In this article we explore just how much the Mississippi River has dropped, and what it means for those affected.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the level of the Mississippi River had dropped to its lowest recorded levels by April 2021. The drop was observed in various sections of the river, with the greatest recorded drops being in the Mississippi River’s Upper Basin – in particular, around the Minnesota–Wisconsin border with flows decreased by more than 40%. Along with this, the historic low levels along the Lower Mississippi River bordered by Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi were affected as well, reaching 12.7 feet above the river at Pointe-à-Bouef, the lowest it had ever been in decades.
In order to understand why this is happening, it is important to look at the underlying causes. The main contributing factor is believed to be the extended drought in the United States, with especially dry conditions in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. According to climate scientists, the region experienced abnormally dry conditions for a long period-of-time, leading to less of the normal amount of melting snow and rainwater which typically replenishes the Mississippi River. This was exacerbated by another factor – the construction of several reservoirs and dams which are used to manage and divert the water resources of the river, leading to decreased water levels in the Mississippi.
The drastic low levels of the river have meant an increase in pressures on commercial shipping, industry and environmental health. Shipping companies have been forced to adjust their trade routes and reduce their cargo size in order to navigate shallow waters. Meanwhile, industries that rely on the river have also been largely impacted, with many local businesses struggling due to decreased tourism in the region. Above all, these low water levels have highlighted the need to manage and conserve the river’s water resources to prevent the crisis from getting worse.
To help this cause, in 2021 the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration put new regulations in place to better regulate water usage in the Mississippi River Basin. These regulations are intended to ensure that all users of the river’s resources, from dams, reservoirs and levees to shipping industries and recreational users, are being responsible and prioritising conservation and sustainability.
The National Weather Service also put out warnings and advisories pertaining to the Mississippi River’s current low levels, flagging areas that have been adversely affected and advising the public to take caution when engaging in recreational activities.
The true consequences of the Mississippi River’s drop are yet to be seen, and further studies will be needed to gauge the full impact. One thing is certain, however – the Mississippi River’s low water levels are a major cause for concern, and more must be done to protect this vital waterway and its resources.
Climate Change and the Mississippi River
Climate change is believed to be a major contributor to the drop in the Mississippi River. As previously mentioned, a significant drought in the Upper Mississippi River Basin caused a lack of normal melting snow, rain and other water resources which help to replenish the river, leading to decreased water levels. A large part of this is attributed to climate change, with higher temperatures and irregular changes in rainfall patterns.
According to climate scientists, the effects of climate change here could become even more severe in the future. In the Mississippi River Basin, there is the potential for higher temperatures and changes in water fluxes which could have a large negative impact on the region’s water resources. In the context of a warming world, these changes could lead to even lower water levels and greater levels of water scarcity in the region.
It is then vital that measures are taken to mitigate this problem in order to protect the Mississippi River and prevent a greater crisis. This includes encouraging the public and industry to be more conscious of their water usage, as well as developing strategies to encourage better water management across the Mississippi River Basin.
Political Consequences of the Mississippi River’s Drop
The Mississippi River’s drop has not just had environmental, economic and social implications, but also political. Many have blamed governing authorities for their handling of the crisis and their lack of foresight. There have been accusations that the US Army Corps of Engineers failed to protect and maintain the river as they should have, while there have also been criticisms of state government’s lack of response and the government’s failure to address the issue quickly.
This has led to discontent amongst the public and frustration towards the government. The lack of adequate response has lead to claims that issues such as drought and water shortages will not be given the attention they need and deserve. Importantly, it has also led to a lack of trust from the public towards both the government and the services that are meant to protect the region’s water resources.
It is clear that in order to restore this trust and re-establish the government’s authority, adequate measures must be taken to ensure the protection and preservation of the Mississippi River. This includes the introduction of new policies and regulations which ensure the river’s resources are managed responsibly. It also includes ensuring that the public and industry can access information relating to the status of the river in order to help in understanding the crisis and its implications.
Environmental Solutions for the Mississippi River
In order to prevent a greater crisis, and in order to protect the Mississippi River’s resources, it is essential that environmental solutions are put in place. This includes developing measures to encourage conservation and sustainability, and using integrated water resources management to more effectively manage the river’s water.
Other solutions that could help to protect the Mississippi River include developing new technologies and tools which could be used to reduce over-consumption and monitor river health. Additionally, the government should also encourage public-private partnerships and raise awareness about the importance of the river and the need for preservation.
Above all, it is crucial for the Mississippi River’s conservation and preservation to be a priority. The steps taken now can help to protect the water resources of the Mississippi River, as well as the communities, industries and habitats that rely on these resources.
Infrastructure Efforts to Preserve the Mississippi River
In order to ensure the preservation and protection of the Mississippi River, it is essential that infrastructure improvements are made. This includes the building of dams, levees and other structures which can help to control water flow and better manage the river’s water resources. Additionally, it also means the repair and maintenance of existing structures, as well as the development of new reservoirs which can be used to store and manage water resources.
In this sense, the government should focus on increasing infrastructure development along the Mississippi River, ensuring the necessary resources are in place to help protect and conserve the river’s water. It is essential that this work is done in close collaboration with town and county governments, allowing the resources of the Mississippi River to be used to their fullest potential.
Furthermore, the government should also invest in research and studies to better understand the Mississippi River and its resources. This will help to ensure that infrastructure improvements are making a positive impact, and that the measures being taken are in line with the needs of the river and the wants of the public.
The Impact of the Mississippi River’s Drop
The drop of the Mississippi River has caused a significant amount of disruption and destruction. Industries such as shipping and tourism have been adversely affected, while the environment and local communities have also felt the ripple effects of this crisis. The situation is further exacerbated by climate change, and is a harsh reminder of the need to protect and conserve the resources of the Mississippi River.
The low water levels of the river have highlighted the need to better manage and conserve the river’s resources, and this is something that must be given the importance and attention it deserves. It is also a reminder that a collective effort is needed – from the government and local communities to the industries and individuals who rely on the resources of the Mississippi. Only by working together can we ensure the protection and preservation of the river and its resources.
