Where does one of the most recognizable rivers on the planet begin and how wide does it get? The Mississippi River is well known for its iconic sights, such as Mark Twain’s house in Hannibal, MO, the green pastures of the Northwoods, and towering vessels sailing along the river. But how wide does the Mississippi really get?
Standing at 2,320 miles long, the Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world, second only to the Nile, the Amazon, and the Yangtze rivers. It is the only river to be called the “Father of Waters”, as it has provided sustenance, recreation, and transportation for centuries. Originating near Itasca, MN, the river begins its journey to the Gulf of Mexico. As the river snakes its way through the country, it connects with several tributaries and expands in its width.
The width of the Mississippi varies greatly as it winds through various landscapes. From one source, the river has a known width range from 15 – 35 miles, depending on the season and weather. Few places, if any, get larger than 35 miles wide in the 1,000+ miles stretch between Lake Itasca and New Orleans.
At its widest points, the river can expand over 6 miles. This is because seven of the rivers tributaries, such as the Ohio and Missouri Rivers, become part of the Mississippi River itself. This process of rivers meeting and blending together is referred to as a confluence, and is responsible for the size and power of the Mississippi River.
The effects of the Mississippi’s wide expanse are far reaching and have been seen throughout its many years of existence. Not only was the river given a place in mythology and literature, but it also provided a transportation route and a barrier. Immigrants to the United States crossed it on the Trail of Tears, settlers used it to access new lands, and scientists have studied its extreme in width.
The current of the Mississippi River has also created an intriguing phenomenon. As currents flow, linear patterns of sediment, weeds, eddies, and oxbows become visible and create an ecosystem that is both awe-inspiring and complex. Through satellite imaging, one can even observe how wide and far the river reaches.
Today, the widest gauge on stretch of the Mississippi River is near Algiers Point, less than five miles from downtown New Orleans. Here the river is approximately 6 miles wide at its widest point. This wide expanse of the Mississippi has created a unique microclimate, sustaining a variety of life in a way it could not anywhere else.
Role of Wildlife in the Mississippi River
The width of the Mississippi River has a major impact on the wildlife that call it home. From long-horned river snails and snapping turtles, to swallows and beavers, the river provides a unique habitat for many species. As the water is teeming with food, the birds and reptiles of the river stir amidst the ripples. This area of the river is also home to some of the most endangered species of birds, fish, mussels, and turtles in the world.
The wide expanse of the Mississippi River also has an effect on its nearby inhabitants. With its abundance of food, the local wildlife are able to thrive in their natural habitats. In addition, the larger width of the river provides more access to the ocean, which in turn leads to a more diverse ecosystem.
A wide river also allows for more opportunities for recreation. Kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft have provided visitors with a unique experience to enjoy and observe the wildlife that lives along the river. The large size also allows people to traverse the river without fear of being swamped or swept away.
The wider part of the river also serves to protect against floods. In the event of a major flooding event, the large expanse of water can occur gradually, saving those on either side of the river.
With so much to offer, it’s easy to see why the Mississippi River has become such a beloved river throughout the world.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of the Mississippi River has been seemingly unquantifiable for centuries. It has provided transportation for goods and services since Native Americans first stepped foot on the land and has consistently been a major player of economic output in North America.
Historically, the vastness of the river provided access and a passage between Europe and the Americas. In today’s world, the river is heavily trafficked with towboats and barges carrying a wide variety of goods. These towboats, more than 200 daily, account for nearly two-thirds of the goods and services transported via the Mississippi.
The roadways along the Mississippi are now crowded with industries and businesses, providing economic stability to many towns and communities. Plant owners and their workers are financially sustained by the goods produced and transported along the Mississippi. In doing so, the river has also prompted economic growth throughout the region.
In some places, the river has also been used to create jobs. For instance, in Memphis and New Orleans, tourists visit the cities to get a glimpse of the beautiful panorama of the Mississippi. The considerable size of the river also means that there is potential for hydroelectric projects, which can create job opportunities.
In conclusion, the Mississippi River has been integral to the economy, industry, transportation, and recreation of the people living in the area. From its origins in Minnesota, to its long winding journey to the Gulf of Mexico, the river has undeniably left its mark on North America. It’s undeniable that the width of the Mississippi River has been a critical factor in its success and has allowed for countless opportunities.
Environmental Challenges of the Mississippi River
In spite of its many benefits, the Mississippi River experiences its fair share of environmental challenges. As one of the longest and widest rivers in the world, the waterways of the Mississippi connect multiple countries. This makes it one of the most heavily polluted rivers in the world.
The major environmental concerns for this river include chemical runoff, nutrient overloads, garbage disposal, and sedimentation. The chemical runoff comes from both agricultural fields and industrial sites upstream, which is then swept downstream and into the ocean. Too many nutrients in the water lead to algal blooms, or when algae grows rapidly, which can have devastating effects on animals and the overall health of the river.
Garbage disposal is another major problem with the Mississippi River that affects both humans and wildlife in the area. Improper disposal of plastic bags, containers, and debris have led to animals ingesting the garbage or becoming tangled in it. Breakdown of garbage can release dangerous chemicals into the water, putting both the animals and humans at risk.
In addition, sedimentation of the Mississippi River is an environmental concern. Sedimentation occurs when the river is shallow and flows too slowly. This can cause a build up of sediment that can be toxic to the environment and animals, and can lead to loss of aquatic life and flooding.
Overall, the Mississippi River can be an incredibly powerful and beautiful ecosystem when properly cared for. By keeping an eye out for signs of pollution and keeping the river clean, we can ensure that the environmental challenges that face this incredible river do not overwhelm its resources.
Human Impact on the Mississippi River
Humans have been connected to the Mississippi River since its creation, sometimes in beneficial ways and other times in destructive ways. For centuries, Native Americans lived and thrived near the river, using its resources to build a sustainable lifestyle. But as immigrants began to arrive in North America, humans began to change the landscape of the river.
Today, the Mississippi River is home to many human-made structures such as cities and dams. While these structures have been beneficial in providing areas for commerce and transportation, they have also had negative impacts on the river. For example, construction of dams has resulted in waterlogging, which is when water builds up behind a dam and washes away the natural habitats of animals that depend on the river.
Additionally, cities built neighboring the Mississippi River have caused a decrease in water quality due to the population growth and industrialization of the area. This has had a direct effect on the river, with less oxygen in the water due to sewage and industrial runoff.
On the brighter side, there have also been efforts to restore the original landscape and habitats of the river. Organizations such as the Mississippi River Delta Restoration Project and the National Park Service have been working to restore the original vibrant ecosystems of the river. These projects have had great success in restoring wetlands, re-creating landscapes, and revitalizing habitats.
Overall, the human impact on the Mississippi River has been drastic, both positive and negative. With further effort, the river can be returned to its original ecological state, with vibrant habitats and abundant wildlife coexisting with human civilization.
