Swimming in the Mississippi River is a potentially dangerous activity and can have consequences that can include serious injury or even death. Knowing the water quality, potential hazards and legal implications of swimming in this major body of water should be considered before taking the plunge.
The Mississippi River is a major river system in the United States and is the second longest river in the nation. Within its 2000-mile span are numerous ports, locks and dams, so visibility of the water’s surface can change from day to day. This can make gauging the water’s quality and danger level difficult.
States and cities along the banks of the Mississippi interact with it in various ways, whether for fishing and recreation or for industrial or commercial use. Agriculture in the region has a major impact on the water quality of the river as well. Pollutants ranging from agricultural runoff and chemicals from industrial plants, to sewage overflow and litter from all sources, can result in unsafe water conditions.
Infectious bacteria can cause swimmer’s itch, a skin rash that is highly contagious, and other diseases are also a risk in the river. Toxic leaks, harboring unknown substances and potential pollutants, can also increase the risk of illness or injury. Researchers warn that dangerous, extreme weather conditions and waterspouts should also be taken into consideration as a cause for concern, when thinking about swimming in the Mississippi.
It is also important to remember that swimming in the Mississippi River can be against the law. In some parts of the US, the federal government and state enforcement agencies, have identified certain parts of the river’s waterway as prohibited areas. Those water areas are even going as far as to restrict the simple act of floating down the river. Potential fines and criminal charges associated with swimming in prohibited areas can be harsh and should be taken into consideration.
Whether someone is looking for a place to cool off, or just trying to enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River, they should always keep safety and laws in mind, before they take a swim. The risk of physical harm or legal action may not be worth the reward.
Water Quality
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified and released information regarding the water quality of the Mississippi River. Results and data from multiple tests and studies has determined that the state of Mississippi River water quality and safety has dramatically improved over the last two decades. Due to the implementation of various regulations and ordinances, the EPA has found that the water has become much cleaner and clearer.
Numerous tests have found that the levels of many chemical pollutants that are of concern for human health and aquatic life, have improved greatly. This is promising news for any potential swimmers, as these pollutants, if present, can cause serious injury and illness. Further, bacteria such as E. coli and coliform-max levels have also been reported to have declined by around 94% over the last two decades, according to the EPA.
It should also be noted that while some parts of Mississippi River have seen an overall improvement in safety, certain areas have not. Specific stretches of the river as well as certain ports and locks can be more dangerous than others. Areas with a lack of chemical data or potential grey areas should be avoided altogether by potential swimmers.
Special Precautions
When considering a swim in the Mississippi, it is important to consult local authorities to determine the safety of the water in specific areas. The EPA website can be a valuable source of information regarding water quality, as well as state and local government sites can provide safety guidelines and tips.
Those looking to take a swim should also equip themselves with the necessary precautions, such as a well-fitting swimsuit, a thick-soled pair of sandals for walking in the river and a well-stocked first aid kit. Use a certified, buoyant life vest, to help reduce the risk of drowning, and a whistle to call for help. Swimmers should also avoid going out alone and bring both a cell phone and a personal locator beacon.
Proper physical conditioning is also important when considering taking a swim in the Mississippi River. Swimmers should start out slow, build up strength and stamina and then move on to deeper waters. Taking special precautions such as never swimming upstream of dams or wear a weighted vest that can help buoyancy, can also help reduce potential risks.
Legal Considerations
In some parts of the US, swimming in the Mississippi River is forbidden or heavily restricted. Certain locks, dams and river sections are off-limits to swimmers, thus swimming there is considered illegal. Breaking the law could result in criminal charges or fines.
There are, however, some specific areas where swimming in the Mississippi River is legal, or where permission may be granted by state or local authorities. Always check with local authorities regarding permission to swim and verify whether legal restrictions apply.
Organizations such as the Mississippi River Pool Association have also been set up in certain parts of the country to help manage the river, provide safety standards, and determine requirements for swimmers, such as in regards to licensing, certification and more. A swimmer should obtain information provided by these local organizations to determine what is necessary to and any restrictions that need to be followed.
Animals and Marine Life
While swimming in the Mississippi River, it is important to be aware of the existence of certain wildlife and marine life. Alligators and venomous water snakes are two primary water-dwelling animals that inhabit parts of the Mississippi. Other animals such as otters, beavers, nutria, and different species of fishes live in the swamplands of the river and could come in contact with swimmers.
Humans are not the only ones affected by water pollution, the plants and animals living in and around the Mississippi River are affected as well. The presence of toxic and non-toxic pollutants such as pesticides and fertilizers, can have devastating effects on the fish and other aquatic life in the river.
Being aware of these animals and the potential risk of water contamination from various pollutants, is important. Knowing how to identify dangerous creatures and how to avoid contact with them should be part of a swimmer’s preparation for a trip in the river.
Weather Hazards
The daily weather conditions of the Mississippi River can change rapidly and cause potential hazards for swimmers. Extreme changes in the weather can cause rapid currents, strong tides and can make visibility in the water very poor, posing additional risks.
Rainfall can also have a major effect on the water quality, leading to an increased level of pollutants and in certain areas, sewage overflow into the river. Flooding can also impact the river and its banks, making it difficult to access certain areas and should be taken into consideration, before swimming in the Mississippi.
Additionally, waterspouts can form in certain parts of the river, resulting in strong currents and powerful winds, strong enough to drag a swimmer away. Lightning strikes can also be another danger to swimmers. Therefore, it is important to be prepared and aware of the potential weather hazards of the area, prior to taking a swim in the Mississippi River.
Convenience and Comfort
In addition to safety and legal aspects, swimmers should take comfort and convenience into consideration, before planning a swim in the Mississippi River. Taking along a set of basic supplies such as a first-aid kit, sunblock, food and water can greatly add to their comfort and enjoyment.
Current regulations and guidelines for swimmers should also be considered. Some certified river-safe swim vests are necessary for those swimming in certain stretches of the river, so bringing along the right equipment is a must. In certain areas, swimmer’s recognition cards, which contain information regarding swimming conditions and regulations, can be a useful tool as well.
Having the right support and safety equipment can make for a much easier trip and help ensure a safe and pleasurable swim in the Mississippi River. Swimmers should also make sure to fully research the area and understand the risks before taking the plunge.
Health Risks
The water quality of certain stretches of the Mississippi River may not be suitable for swimming, as certain pollutants such as raw sewage and industrial chemicals can be present and cause a number of health risks. These can include eye and skin irritations, infections, respiratory illnesses and more.
When swimming in the river, swimmers should know the potential risks and make sure to wear properly fitting goggles and swimsuits that cover the mouth, nose, eyes and any other exposed areas of the skin. Gulf Coast Safety Training offers safety courses in certain areas of the river, which teach certified swimming methods that can help reduce the risk of physical harm while swimming in potentially dangerous waters.
In any case, the risk of physical harm in the Mississippi River should not be taken lightly, as the consequences can be severe. Knowing the quality of the water, the potential hazards and the legal implications of swimming in this major body of water should be given serious thought before taking the plunge.
