Overview
St. Louis sits in a unique spot on the Mississippi River, as it is located near the confluence of two major tributaries of the Mississippi – the Missouri and the Illinois Rivers. The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States and is a significant navigational waterway, stretching an incredible 2,320 miles from its source in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to its delta in Louisiana. At St. Louis, the Mississippi River is approximately 1.2 miles wide, with the widest point reaching 4.3 miles wide. In this article, we will explore the depths of the Mississippi River at St. Louis, the importance of its width, and how its size affects the region.
Importance of the Mississippi River at St. Louis
The Mississippi River at St. Louis is a crucial gateway for commerce, with almost two-thirds of the nation’s agricultural exports passing through it. Additionally, businesses along the stretch of the Mississippi depend heavily on the timely delivery of goods and raw materials via the river. At St. Louis, the Mississippi is a prime example of public-private infrastructure working in harmony, as a host of state and federal measures and investments have been made to ensure its waters remain navigable, clear, and safe from pollutants.
Effects on the Local Ecosystem
The width and size of the Mississippi River affects the larger ecosystem in and around St. Louis. By connecting and transferring nutrients between basins, the Mississippi River helps to sustain a diverse array of animal and plant life. The floodplains and wetlands around the Mississippi also provide a unique habitat for many species, including birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Despite man’s best efforts, things are not always perfect, and the size of the Mississippi River can lead to localized flooding, causing an influx of sediment, water and pollutants into the river system.
A Crucial Junction Unfortunately Marred by Human Activity
St. Louis is an economic hub, with many major businesses and industries based at the junction of the Mississippi and its major tributaries, the Missouri and Illinois rivers. Despite this, pollutants and garbage were a major problem for all three water systems for many years. This has led to some significant challenges for the fish, wildlife and aquatic vegetation inhabiting the Mississippi River system, as well as the humans that rely on it for their livelihoods.
The Human Factor
Although human activity has undeniably played a role in damaging the Mississippi River at St. Louis, it is also human activity that is making a positive difference today. Local governmental and non-governmental organizations have been working diligently to reduce pollution and restore habitats, ultimately improving the water quality of the river. With increased public awareness and educational initiatives, more and more people are making conscious decisions to reduce their negative impact on the Mississippi.
An Important Economic Link
In addition to being an important source of water, the Mississippi River provides a critical link in the nation’s economy. It acts as a major transportation corridor, carrying freight and cargo up and down its length. This drive to capitalize on the river’s natural resources has resulted in increased development and a boost in localeconomic activity.
Revitalization and Cleanup Efforts
Organizations such as the Water Environment Federation and the National Park Service have launched a number of clean-up initiatives to restore life to the Mississippi River at St. Louis, as well as its tributaries. In addition, the EPA has enforced tougher regulations on wastewater discharges, industrial pollution, and other sources of contamination that could potentially leech into the Mississippi.
The Need for Continued Protection
The Mississippi River is a vital component of the U.S. economy, so both local and national governments are stepping up their efforts to protect it from further pollution and damage. However, more must be done. Public agency funding, environmental protection programs, and public awareness initiatives need to be more robust and continual if we are going to ensure the Mississippi River remains an economic resource for future generations.
The Significance of the Mississippi River at St. Louis
The importance of the Mississippi River at St. Louis has shifted over the years. Initially, the river attracted industry and commercial companies seeking out the vast economic opportunities it provided. Later, these same companies discovered the devastating environmental repercussions of their activities. Today, more stringent measures and protections have been enacted to ensure the waters remain navigable and that the local wildlife is protected from potential pollutants.
Opportunities for Recreation
The area around the Mississippi in St. Louis offers a wide variety of recreational activities, from fishing and boating to hiking and camping. This makes it a popular destination for tourist and locals alike. Whether you take a leisurely trip down the river or stay close to shore to explore the nearby beaches, parks, and trails, the area offers something for everyone.
The Mississippi’s Role in the Global Economy
The Mississippi River and its tributaries have served as a major conduit for international trade and economic growth. It serves as a literal bridge between the United States and other countries, as well as between Canada and Mexico. Because of its strategic location, the river has historically been a source of power, influence, and prosperity.
The Long-term Outlook
Despite the ecological damage and pollution that has plagued the Mississippi River at St. Louis, efforts to restore the ecosystem and protect it from further harm have been ongoing and successful. With improved pollution control and conservation programs, the river has already begun to improve, and with it, so has the region. It is important for both governments and citizens to continue to work together to protect and extend the safe, clean waters of this great river.
