Nestled in the rolling hills of Cape Girardeau, where the mighty Mississippi River wreaks its influences on the surrounding geography, is a scene that is both picturesque and captivating. As the longest river in North America, stretching 2,320 miles, the Mississippi River commands awe and reverence from all those who behold it. But one of the primary wonders of this mighty river is the question of just how wide it is at Cape Girardeau.
To investigate more deeply, experts suggest that at some points near the banks of Cape Girardeau, the Mississippi River is as wide as seven miles from bank to bank. This is due to the incredible force and power of the water, which ebbs and flows in powerful and unpredictable ways. Its width can also be explained by the geological makeup of the area, which many experts believe accounts for the breadth of the river – up to seven miles wide.
At one of the widest points near Cape Girardeau, the abundance of sediment from upstream has caused the banks of the river to form multiple curves and pockets, which serve to further enlarge its already wide breadth. To contrast, further downriver in its passage through the bigger cities and ports of the US, islands are formed, narrows appear and altogether, the waterway becomes much narrower.
While its width may be a marvel to some, its depth is equally, if not more captivating. Depending on the time of the year and the natural weather patterns, the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau can be quite shallow. In its shallowest points, expert estimates range between 15 and 16 feet deep. In its deeper channels, however, the waterway can reach depths as high as 45 feet.
And yet, despite the incredible breadth and depth of the river, this captivating landscape that is created by the powerful Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau is more fragile and vulnerable than most think. Unsustainable practices from upstream, such as nutrient run-off and other sewage issues, can contribute to an increase in water pollution. This causes an array of problems from erosion to the health of the flora and fauna that inhabit and depend on the Mississippi River for life. These issues are particularly prevalent in places like Cape Girardeau, where the river is narrower and shallower, making it more susceptible to the negative effects of poor water quality.
As a result, stakeholders and local authorities have stepped up to work together and devise better methods to reduce the negative impact of human interference on the river’s wellbeing. Work in the region to promote sustainability and responsible land and water usage is being conducted on many levels, from small and local initiatives to larger, national ones.
To really appreciate the importance of the Mississippi River, one must reenvision it not simply as a vast, impressive monolith of water that needs to be conquered or polluted, but as a priceless and fragrle ecosystem that needs to be protected and respected. Ultimately, this is the key to preserving the breadth and depth of the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau—our collective responsibility to safeguard this powerful and awe-inspiring landmark.
Commercial Activity on The Mississippi
Arguably one of the most important utilizations of the Mississippi River lies in its ability to be used as a valuable economic and transportation hub. While the mighty Mississippi River has inspired awe and appreciation since the dawn of human civilization, the waterway has also served as a major artery for commercial activities.
In the present day, commercial river barges and boats can be found all along the Mississippi, shipping goods, commodities and trading items up and down the with speed and efficiency. Due to its large width, boats and barges can be spotted crossing the entire breadth of the river.
This commercial activity is particularly evident near Cape Girardeau, where the river is filled with unfamiliar faces and vessels – companies and individuals from all over the world conducting business and trade on one of the most powerful and captivating waterways in America.
The navigation of the Mississippi river is heavily reliant on a reliable yet ever-changing network of locks, dams and other obstructions. In Cape Girardeau and the surrounding areas, these constructures ensure the safe passage of all types of vessels and boats, creating a safe and non-disruptive entrance and exit point that welcomes many to the area.
All in all, the Mississippi River as a commercial hub serves to bring a variety of benefits to the region. Aside from the obvious economic stimuli and infrastructure support, there are lots of other more subtle benefits. For example, the Mississippi River has served as a major source of tourism and increased outside interest, which boosts area businesses and opportunities for locals.
Protective Measures
As previously mentioned, the wellbeing of the wider ecosystem and environment of the Mississippi River depends a great deal on the responsible and sustainable use of the waterway. In a bid to protect such a precious landscape, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has developed a number of preventative and protective measures to reduce the impact of commercial vessels and barges.
These measures range from minimum speed regulations to limitations on extraction and consumption of aquatic resources, aimed at ensuring that the local wildlife and delicate balance of the ecosystem is not adversely disrupted.
Moreover, in areas where boating and anchoring are frequent, such as near Cape Girardeau, authorities and stakeholders work together to create special designated areas in which operators are required to observe specific regulations. Such an approach serves to preserve the integrity of the river and its inhabitants for years to come.
In addition, the Mississippi is the direct beneficiary of one of the largest oyster-restoration projects in the nation. This project is carried out by the Army Corps of Engineers in a bid to restore the river’s ecology in areas where the oyster population has been vastly reduced down the years.
The efforts to protect and preserve the Mississippi River have largely made it possible for locals, visitors and stakeholders to administer their activities and operations in the safest, most responsible way. By ensuring these protective and preventive measures are adequately followed, all can have the assurance that the river is healthy, safe and well-monitored.
Potential Alternatives For Safe Transportation
As the height of water levels along the Mississippi changes from season to season, many vessels and transport vehicles can find it difficult to navigate. This can be remedied by using smaller tributaries and offshoots to safely traverse the river, reducing the risk of rock blockages and other water-related issues.
An alternative approach is to devise and build roads that parallel the Mississippi River between Cape Girardeau and other parts of the US. This method is not without its faults, however, as this approach often requires extensive surveying, assessment and project planning.
The third and most notable approach is the railroad – an effective, economical and safe means of transport over the Mississippi. This highly efficient yet cost-effective means of transportation is employed by many across the country. Trains are now some of the most important modes of transportation for commodities, passengers, and goods – providing secure transportation and significant risk reduction for those travelling through the area.
When considering the navigation of the Mississippi River, all possible angles must be examined. While potential issues can be mitigated with more protective and preventive measures, new and alternative methods must be considered in an effort to promote the sustainable use of the river and its tributaries.
Conclusion
Over time, the might of the Mississippi has not been reduced, but rather its presence made all the more captivating. From its majestic breadth of seven miles to its commanding depths of 15 to 45 feet, its immense power and beauty is unique in a landscape. But with power comes great responsibility. It is only through collective and responsible efforts that we can hope to protect this remarkable structure, and ensure its many wonders remain for years to come.
