Destruction of the Environment
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, and is so vast that it is difficult to imagine that it can have an impact on the environment. However, the use of the river for irrigation has resulted in significant destruction of the environment both near and upstream of the river. The destruction of the environment includes the destruction of wetlands, loss of habitat, waterway pollution, and destruction of riverside vegetation.
Irrigation Practices
The primary use of the Mississippi River for irrigation is to provide water to agricultural lands. This practice has been a major contributor to the destruction of the environment, as it has led to the destruction of wetlands, loss of habitat, and destruction of riverside vegetation. The irrigation of agricultural lands has also been linked to the introduction of chemicals, including fertilizers and pesticides, into the Mississippi River, which have led to an increase in waterway pollution.
Impact on Wildlife
The destruction of the environment due to irrigation has also had an impact on wildlife. As the destruction of wetlands has taken place, habitat for fish and other aquatic species has been lost, resulting in a decrease in the number of aquatic species. Additionally, the destruction of riverside vegetation has led to the loss of habitat for birds and other wildlife that rely on the vegetation for food and shelter.
Human Impact
In addition to the environmental destruction that has been caused by irrigation, there have also been human impacts. The use of the Mississippi River for irrigation has been linked to a decrease in recreational activities in the river, as the pollution has made the water unsafe for swimming, fishing, and boating. The destruction of the environment has also resulted in a decrease in property values in areas near the river, as well as a decrease in tourism in these areas.
Lack of Regulation
The destruction of the environment due to the use of the Mississippi River for irrigation has been driven largely by the lack of regulation over this practice. Currently, there is no federal or state law that regulates the use of the river for irrigation, and this lack of regulation has resulted in the destruction of the environment. It is important that the appropriate laws and regulations be implemented in order to protect the environment and prevent further destruction.
Alternatives to Irrigation
One way to reduce the destruction caused by irrigation is to explore alternatives to irrigation. For example, water conserving technologies could be used to reduce the amount of water that is needed for irrigation, or renewable energy technologies could be used to power irrigation systems. Additionally, better management of water resources, such as rainwater collection and groundwater recharge, could be used to reduce the need for irrigation.
Role of Citizen Conservation
It is also important that citizens take an active role in the conservation of the environment along the Mississippi River. Programs such as volunteer monitoring and educational outreach can be utilized to educate citizens about the importance of the environment along the river, and to encourage people to take part in a variety of conservation efforts. Additionally, citizens can work with local organizations to organize cleanups and other activities that help to preserve the environment along the river.
Advocacy and Legislation
Finally, it is important that proponents of environmental preservation advocate for legislation and policies that will protect the environment. This might involve advocating for the passage of state or federal laws that regulate the use of the Mississippi River for irrigation, or it could involve advocating for the development and implementation of water conserving technologies. Additionally, advocacy could involve working with local and state governments, as well as private entities, to promote the conservation of the environment along the river.
