Introduction to Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world, stretching over 2,320 miles throughout the US. It is the chief tributary of the largest river system in the US and originates in northern Minnesota. Notably, the river runs through 10 states down to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. In the 19th century, the Mississippi played a decisive role in the destiny of America when the nation was expanding east to west. The Mississippi River has historically and culturally been a vital part of America, and has enabled the transportation of bulk commodities for over two centuries.
Width of Mississippi at Davenport, Iowa
The Mississippi River has always been wide, and the width at Davenport, Iowa is no different. It is among the widest rivers in the US and currently, the width at Davenport, Iowa, is 2,443 meters (8,015 feet). Apart from being wide, the Mississippi River is incredibly deep as well, reaching depths of up to 50 feet (15 meters) in some areas. This is primarily due to the large number of inland rock outcroppings and sand bars that have been dislodged from the banks over time and continued to move down the river, giving it an uneven bottom. As the Mississippi River continues to be used for transportation and commerce, it will continue to grow larger and wider, making its way to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Importance of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River is a critical component of American life and culture. By providing transportation routes and waterways to the commercial and agricultural heartlands, the Mississippi River serves as the country’s economic backbone and plays a substantial role in boosting fortunes. For example, the US Army Corps of Engineers manages the Mississippi basin with the goal of controlling the annual flooding in order to protect the central portion of the US, while also allowing the river’s continued use for navigation. Additionally, the Mississippi River provides the crucial connection that brings industry, tourism and resources to the southern states. People will always be dependent on the Mississippi for its water and transportation resources, as well as for connecting landmasses.
Structure of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has a unique structure that has evolved over time. The Mississippi River is divided into three distinct parts in terms of size and water sources. The upper part is closest to its source and is primarily comprised of freshwater from northern states. The middle section of the Mississippi River is characterized by a variety of lakes, oxbows and swamps which allocate itswaters from the Tippah and Tennessee Rivers. The lower section consists of the Gulf of Mexico where the river drains into its mouth. This portion is chlorinated due to an increased presence of salt in the water. This structure is as a result of sedimentation which occurs over time as the Mississippi collects waters from smaller rivers.
The Mississippi’s Impact on American Lives
The Mississippi River has been the focal point of many American landmarks and regions. From Minnesota to Louisiana, the river has sustained and impacted many lives since the cities and towns bordering the Mississippi first established their presence. The Mississippi has allowed humans and wildlife to gather around its banks and thrive, as long as humanity respects its border. For centuries, the river has also been a key source of entertainment, with many festivals taking place along its length. Countless bars, restaurants and inns populate the banks and provide visitors with a unique experience. The Mississippi River has been the backbone of many towns and cities across the United States, and its impact will continue for many years to come.
Environmental Impacts of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has been heavily impacted by the challenges of a growing nation, such as industrial pollution and runoff from towns, cities and farms. As a result, the river’s biodiversity has been significantly affected. In addition, the presence of excessive amounts of nitrogen and phosphorous in the water has caused serious issues, such as the large hypoxic ‘dead zones’ in the Gulf of Mexico. Scientists are working to identify potential solutions to these environmental challenges, such as restoring wetlands, introducing fish passage, and developing more efficient wastewater treatment systems. Governments, activists and organizations have been working together to reduce the pollution by introducing regulations and awareness programs.
Economic Benefits of the Mississippi River
As the largest river in the United States, the Mississippi River plays a major role in driving economic activity in the nation. From barges carrying commodities along the river to fishing and tourism, the Mississippi River has enabled thousands of businesses to thrive. Shipping traffic along the river has been steadily increasing over the past decade, meaning that many ports and harbors along the banks of the Mississippi are now bustling with activity. Additionally, the abundant wildlife around the river brings in trophy hunters each year, creating economic activity for local economies. All in all, the many economies the Mississippi directly benefits accounts for the gross domestic product of 10 states.
Looking Ahead to the Future of the Mississippi
It is clear that the potential of the Mississippi River will continue to be explored in the near future. As more and more innovative solutions become available, such as flood control, renewable energy and land protection systems, the impact of the Mississippi River on the environment and the economy will deepen. With this in mind, it is important for organizations, corporations and governments to stay ahead of the curve and actively protect the river for future generations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mississippi River is a vast, powerful and important part of the American landscape. It is the fourth longest river in the world, stretching over 2,320 miles throughout the US. It is crucial for transportation and commerce, and its importance to the success of the US is well known. The width at Davenport of Iowa is 2,443 meters (8,015 feet), while its depth can reach 50 feet (15 meters) in some areas. The Mississippi has also played a major role in the American way of life, and it has been a key source of entertainment as well. However, its maximum potential is yet to be explored and understood, and it will remain an anchor for the nation to thrive in the future.
