Two of the largest tributaries that feed into the Mississippi are the Missouri River and the Ohio River. Together these two tributaries account for more than half of the river’s water flow. The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States and arises in Montana before making its way to join the Mississippi in Iowa. Notable tributaries that branch off the Missouri River include the Yellowstone, Platte and Snake Rivers. The Ohio River, on the other hand, originates in Pennsylvania and flows through several states before joining the Mississippi in Illinois. This river’s many tributaries include the Allegheny River and the Wabash River.
The contribution of these two tributaries to the Mississippi has a major impact on the river’s flow rate. The Missouri River contributes the most, with a rate of about 12 million cubic feet per second. The Ohio River adds about 5 million cubic feet per second, bringing the cumulative rate of water flowing through the Mississippi to about 12.5 million cubic feet per second.
The average discharge rate for the Mississippi River as a whole is about 9.5 million cubic feet per second.This rate is subject to drastic changes, especially during flood season when the discharge rates can be more than three times the average, reaching 28 million cubic feet per second or higher.
Multiple organizations monitor the water level and discharge rate of the Mississippi River and its tributaries to anticipate and prepare for floods. The Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) is one of the most renowned organizations in the area. The ACE was created in the 19th century with the mission of protecting communities that live close to the river. The organization enjoys a long history of reviving, protecting, and managing the population and ecosystems of the area.
Floods are a common feature of the Mississippi River. The combination of heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt and high water levels of the Missouri and Ohio Rivers creates a powerful force that has been responsible for some of the most destructive floods in US history.
However, the floods are not all bad; in fact, they are necessary from an ecological standpoint. The mud and debris deposited by the floods play an important role in supplying nutrients to plants and animals. Furthermore, the rivers naturally cleanse themselves whenever floods occur, as the high water washes away any toxins or pollutants.
Environmental impact of the rivers
The environmental impact of the Missouri River and Ohio River are inextricably linked with their contribution to the Mississippi River. Both rivers are major transmitters of nutrients and plankton, promoting the growth of vegetation downstream. The floodplains of the rivers also act as important buffers between the rivers and the surrounding land. They retain and store water in order to protect communities further away from any potential flooding.
On the other hand, the two rivers pose risks to humans and wildlife. The presence of industrial and agricultural activities along the banks of the rivers pollutes the water and can be toxic to humans and animals alike. Scientists have also reported worrying levels of toxic contaminants such as lead, mercury, and PCBs along the two rivers. This contamination not only affects humans, but also affects the fish population of the Mississippi, as the chemicals make their way downstream.
Benefits from the rivers
The Missouri River and Ohio River have been valuable resources to humans for centuries. For example, the Missouri River has been an important shipping route, first for the Native Americans and later for the Europeans. In the 18th century, trade on the river was so important that several forts were built along the river for protection.
Furthermore, the banks of the two rivers have been used for agriculture since ancient times. The two rivers are still a main source of irrigation for farmland in their respective basins. Additionally, a significant amount of power is generated on both rivers through a number of hydroelectric dams.
Recreational possibilities
The Missouri and Ohio Rivers are popular destinations for recreational activities. Fishing and boating are just two of the activities that bring people to the rivers every day. People also take advantage of the rivers to kayak, raft, and canoe. The rivers attract visitors from all around; even the National Park Service administers multiple recreational sites along the rivers.
Conservation efforts and protection
Conservation efforts and regulations have been enacted to protect the Missouri and Ohio Rivers. In 1988, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) established the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge to ensure the health and well-being of the rivers and the wildlife that inhabit them. This refuge was the first of its kind, and it manages more than 250,000 acres of rivers and wetlands, in addition to controlling commercial fishing, wetlands and more.
Additionally, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Watershed (MRGO) in 2000. This program is a partnership between 39 states aiming to reduce non-point source pollution and promote best practices.
Social and Cultural Significance
The Missouri and Ohio Rivers have been an integral part of American culture and history for centuries. The Lewis and Clark expedition in 1804 was the first, grand scale exploration of the area. The expedition helped the US government to better understand the terrain, geography and climate of the area, and it succeeded in expanding the boundaries of the US.
The significance of the rivers goes beyond the scope of American culture, as they have long been associated with myths, legends, and oral stories shared by generations of Native Americans. The rivers are symbols of power, strength and courage, and continue to attract people from all faiths and backgrounds.
Ecological Diversity
The Missouri and Ohio Rivers are home to a wide range of aquatic plants, fish and wildlife. The variety of habitats created by these two rivers and their associated tributaries makes them essential for the dissemination of species and their maintenance of ecological balance. There are hundreds of species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds that call these rivers home. The area is also important for species such as bald eagles, beavers, muskrats and river otters.
The diversity of plants and animals that inhabit the banks of the two rivers increases with the seasons and stages of flooding. Winter introduces a variety of aquatic species, such as herons, geese, ducks and swans, while summer sees the arrival of frogs, newts and salamanders. Additionally, various endangered species of fish have been introduced in an effort to increase biodiversity.
Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture has been practiced in the area of the Missouri and Ohio Rivers for centuries and is still a mainstay activity. The natural nutrients and flow of the two rivers create ideal conditions for plant growth and create essential habitats for a variety of species. The rivers also offer farmers a reliable source of irrigation and assistance with pest control.
The combination of small farms and large agricultural operations can be seen along the banks of the two rivers. These farms produce a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains, and are essential in the protection of the environment. They also create jobs and foster small business in the areas. Additionally, sustainable agriculture practices help to reduce nutrient overload and harmful runoff, which can be damaging to ecosystems.
