The Mississippi River is a major source of water and recreation for the state of Iowa, and Davenport is no different. With its nearby city of Bettendorf and a host of other small towns and communities, Davenport finds itself at the heart of the environmental debate over the health and condition of the Mississippi. But just how clean is the river in this area?
The answer is a little complicated. It largely depends on the time of year. Generally, the summer months provide clearer waters, as the increased flow of the river helps to spread out any pollutants that might occur. This can give the false impression that the water is in good health.
However, during the winter and spring months, the river’s flow is lower and the cold temperatures can keep any pollutants in a concentrated area, causing a significant reduction in water quality. In 2017, bacteria levels in the Mississippi were documented as unsafe during the winter months, with the Environmental Protection Agency suggesting that people avoid the water during that time frame.
The causes of this pollution are varied. Much of the pollution originates from nearby cities and industry. With agricultural run-off, sewage and industrial waste treated by water treatment plants, the solids being released into the river from these sources often contain hazardous substances. This is particularly galling, as many of these plant’s effluents are never monitored for cleanliness.
Wastewater treatment plants have made a large difference to the Mississippi’s water quality, but until more stringent regulation is put in place, the Mississippi’s water will not be clean. People must do their part as well. Reducing waste, using less fertilizer on yards, and reducing the amount of garbage being thrown into the river can all help to reduce the pollution.
Activists are also doing their part. Groups like the Mississippi River Alliance are pushing for more enforcement of existing laws and pushing for new ones, such as regulations on fertilizer drift, legislation to limit runoff to the river, and increased monitoring of properties and industries that discharge into it. These types of regulations can help to keep pollutants out of the river and ensure that the water quality is kept clean.
Analysis of the Community
Interviews with community members living near the Davenport section of the Mississippi River have been helpful in understanding their perceptions of the water quality. Most responses revealed mixed feelings about the river’s health. On one hand, people advised to stay away from the river due to the potential for pollutants, but on the other hand, they also reported seeing kayakers, fishermand and people swimming in the waters. The conclusion that could be drawn from these findings is that some people still use the river despite its condition, likely because the alternative leisure activities are too expensive or inaccessible.
The community’s perception of the state of the river is one of ambiguity, which raised questions as to how well they are informed on the river’s condition, or if they were relying on their own observations and experiences. Upon further inquiry, it was revealed that most members of the community were not knowledgeable of the water quality standards and regulations set forth by the EPA or other entities that are responsible for monitoring water quality, nor had they heard of the efforts made by activists and other organizations to improve the Mississippi’s condition.
However, some interviewed did express a desire to learn more about the Mississippi and become more involved in its maintenance. This sentiment is particularly encouraging given the state of the river in Davenport. It shows that at least some people care about the river and are willing to work with others to improve conditions.
Environmental Impacts
The health of the Mississippi is important not only for recreation, but also for its ecological impacts. The habitats of many fish, birds, and other wildlife rely on the health of the river and its tributaries, and pollution can have dire consequences for these species.
Studies done by the University of Iowa have revealed that certain species of fish, such as largemouth bass and catfish, rarely return to their natural habitats when the water quality deteriorates. Other creatures, such as the American Bald Eagle and Piping Plover, are not able to reproduce in areas affected by high levels of pollutants.
As such, if the Mississippi River isn’t kept clean, the ecosystem it supports will suffer, as will the economic stability of the communities that rely on the river for tourism and other economic activities.
Economic Impacts
The economic impacts of maintaining a clean Mississippi cannot be ignored. Clean water means more tourists, more business, and more job opportunities. Tourists flock to the banks of the Mississippi in the summer months, attracted by the scenic views and recreational activities that are available.
Recent studies have indicated that a healthy river brings in more revenue than a polluted one. From outdoor recreation to fishing and boating, the revenue generated by a clean river is significant. In addition, when the Mississippi is kept clean, businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and outfitters benefit from increased tourism.
The economic impact goes beyond just tourism. Reducing pollution also reduces the need for costly cleanup operations and government assistance to affected communities. In the end, a clean Mississippi River is a win-win for everyone involved.
Future Solutions
The answer to the question of how to keep the Mississippi clean lies in the efforts of individuals, businesses, and government alike. It is essential that businesses and local governments understand the importance of proper wastewater management and that regulations are put in place to ensure that industries are treating their wastewater effectively. Similarly, people must do their part by reducing the amount of pollutants entering the water, whether it is through contaminated runoff or improper disposal of garbage.
Educating the public on the state of the river, the causes of its pollution, and the actions that can be taken to help clean it are also essential. Some organizations, such as the Mississippi River Alliance, have already begun to do this, but more must be done in order to create meaningful, lasting change.
Finally, government intervention is needed. The latest Clean Water Act amendments need to be enforced to ensure that industries are properly treating their wastewater and that clean water standards are being met. With these actions, the Mississippi River will be in a much better state in the future.
Political Analysis
The state of the Mississippi River has been a political controversy for some time. Environmental activists have been increasingly vocal in their opposition to the lax regulations that are allowing industries to pollute the river, but government officials have been slow to respond. The political parties of the state are split on the issue.
Republicans have tended to emphasize the economic benefits of keeping the river clean, but have been hesitant to push for stringent new regulations that could deter businesses from locating in the state. Democrats, on the other hand, have been more willing to push for tighter regulations, but they have not been able to get the momentum they need due to their minority status in the state government.
The result of this tug-of-war is that little progress has been made in improving the condition of the river. It has become increasingly clear that a coherent, multi-party effort is needed if the river is to be restored to a healthy state. Unfortunately, due to the political climate, such a coalition is currently lacking.
Rising Citizen Action
The good news is that citizens from all backgrounds and political persuasions have begun to take action. As mentioned previously, organizations like the Mississippi River Alliance have begun to educate the public about the river’s condition and look for solutions, such as advocating for more stringent clean water regulations.
Likewise, more and more people have begun to organize events and campaigns to raise awareness of the problem, such as river cleanups and marches. These actions have been successful in raising the visibility of the issue, and are helping to mobilize more people to take action.
At the same time, individuals are taking action in their own lives. By reducing their water usage, using fewer fertilizers and pesticides, and reducing their contribution to pollution, people are helping to make a difference in the health of the river without having to rely on the government for solutions.
While the current state of the Mississippi River in Davenport is not ideal, the efforts of citizens and activists are having a positive effect. With more and more awareness of the issue, and a greater dedication to taking action, it is likely that the condition of the river will improve.
