Situated in the United States, the Mississippi River has been the largest in the country and the fourth longest in the world. Spanning approximately 3,766 kilometers, the depth, width and depth of the river change all the time; making it difficult to calculate how deep it is at any given moment. However, it is possible to find the average depth of the Mississippi River with a few simple steps.
The average depth of the Mississippi River changes from region to region, due to the effects of seasonal flooding and water runoff from the many tributaries that meet the Mississippi. In addition, the sedimentation and erosion occurring along the river also affects its depth. According to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average depth of the Mississippi River falls between 6 and 8 meters. However, the depth can be as deep as 25 meters in parts, particularly around the lower Mississippi near Louisiana.
The best way to calculate the average depth of the Mississippi River is to use the Depth Finder software. Developed by the NOAA, this program accesses real-time data from the federal agency’s buoy measurement and other databases. The Depth Finder displays results on a continuous graph, and users can select a region of the river to view a detailed map of the depths in that region. This interactive mapping tool also allows for precise navigation of the waterway.
Or, one can use the US Geological Survey’s online resources to determine the general depth of the Mississippi River. Under the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Hydrography Dataset, one can input a location along the river to receive an average depth for that particular spot. It should also be noted that the National Hydrography Datasets does not provide an overall average depth of the entire Mississippi River.
Lastly, if one would like a more in-depth analysis, one can use a mathematical formula. Established by the University of Minnesota, this mathematical formula calculates the average depth of the Mississippi River by taking the sum of area and width of the river and dividing it by the cumulative width of the river. Although this method takes longer to compute than the first two mentioned, it still provides up-to-date statistics and insights into the depth of the Mississippi River.
Locating Sources of Graphical Data
In addition to calculating the average depth of the Mississippi River, one should also look into sources of graphical data. There are many sources of graphical data that can be used to observe the physical characteristics of the river. Data from the USGS, the US Army Corps of Engineers and the University of Minnesota can be used. These sources provide a range of charts, tables and graphs of river depths.
The data from these sources can be used to detect anomalies and changes in the river such as sandbars, shoals and drop-offs. The data also provides insight into nearby tributaries and water runoff from upstream sources. Using this data, one can make more informed decisions with regards to where to start and end riverboat tours, recreational activities and research.
An example of one such source is the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The USACE offers an interactive mapping system of the Mississippi River that allows users to view measurements of water depth and other physical characteristics of the river. The interactive map provides up-to-date images every hour, giving users a live look into the depths of the Mississippi River at any moment.
The USACE also offers various statistical programs to track the average depth of the river, as well as historical data. However, it is important to be aware that these programs can be limited in the extent to which they accurately measure the depths of the Mississippi River. Therefore, one should always compare the results of these programs with those from the sources previously mentioned.
Safety Precautions for Using the Mississippi River
When using the Mississippi River, precautionary measures should always be taken to avoid any danger or harm. Whether one is fishing, boating, swimming or conducting research, ensuring all safety protocols are followed is key. The best way to do this is to research the section of the river one is visiting before entering the water. This can provide useful information on areas of shallow depth and other risks in the perimeter.
In addition, one can use the USACE’s navigation tables, which provide data on the depths of the river at certain fixed points, and mark those points on a map. This helps to gauge the depth of the entire river and ensures that one is always informed of safe depths and hazards. Furthermore, one should ensure they bring all required safety equipment, such as life jackets and first-aid kits. All boats should be always operated by a qualified and experienced navigator.
Additionally, it is important to keep an eye on waterborne debris and debris on land. Floating debris and logs can be hazardous and should be avoided. In addition to debris, keeping an eye out for any wildlife, such as snakes and alligators, is also advised. Following these steps can help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on the Mississippi River.
Related Water Activities on the Mississippi River
During summertime, the Mississippi River provides many recreational opportunities. Boating, fishing and wildlife observation are popular activities along the river. Wildlife observation can especially be enjoyable, as various species of birds, fish, mammals and reptiles reside in the water due to its rich habitat and vegetation. This adds a unique element to any visit to the Mississippi River.
Boating is widely enjoyed on the Mississippi River, but it is important to be aware of the current conditions of the river. During low tides, the waters may become shallow in certain sections and cause boating safety issues. One should always research the area before heading out on the river to avoid dangerous conditions. In addition, one should always check the weather for any potential storms that can significantly alter the water’s depth.
Fishing is another activity regularly enjoyed on the Mississippi River. Anglers can catch various species of fish and other aquatic life, such as bass, catfish and crappie. But as with recreational activities, fish can be affected by changing water levels and temperatures in certain areas of the river. It is thus important to research the depth and temperature of the area one is visiting to ensure the fish are in the right habitat to be caught.
Impact of Human Interference on the Mississippi River
Humans have a great impact on the Mississippi River in many ways. The large scale construction of levees and dams, in particular, has had a massive effect on the river, changing its course and flow. Other factors such as agricultural runoff, sewage outflow and industrial pollution have generated large amounts of sediment, which can have a direct influence on the depth of the river.
The dredging for navigation of the Mississippi River has also had a negative influence on the depth of the river. Dredging replaces sediment with soil from other areas, creating a build-up of sediment in the river, reducing the maximum depth that can be achieved in certain areas. Additionally, dredging disturbs the natural habitats of fish and other aquatic life, reducing their numbers and upsetting the balance of the river.
In addition to these impacts, the rise of invasive species in the Mississippi River has had an effect on the average depth of the river. The Nutria, a species of large semi-aquatic rodent, has been particularly disastrous in parts of the Mississippi River. The species burrows along the riverbanks, destabilizing them and leading to erosion and sandbars in the area.
Lastly, climate change has had a profound influence on the river’s depth, primarily due to its impact on the surrounding environment. During periods of extreme weather, the Mississippi River can swell to drastically change its depth and width. Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation have been instrumental in the addition of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, creating increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and causing further stress to the Mississippi River.
Conclusion
In summary, the Mississippi River is a significant body of water that has many different depths across its length. Whether one is seeking to recreate, fish or conduct research, it is essential to gain an understanding of the average depth of the Mississippi River. The Depth Finder software and the National Hydrography Datasets are the best ways to find an average depth for the river, while researching sources of graphical data, safety protocols and water activities provide further insight. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the effects of human interference and climate change on the river, and the potential impact this can have on its depth.
