The History
The connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River is an important part of North American history. Once, the Great Lakes and Mississippi River were all part of the same river system that stretched from the St. Lawrence River in the east to the Gulf of Mexico in the south. However, a huge glacial lake formed as the glaciers receded, damming the Great Lakes and cutting off the Great lakes from the Mississippi River. This lake, known as Glacial Lake Agassiz, covered much of the northern portion of the United States, including the Great Lakes and Mississippi river watersheds.
Although the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River are no longer connected, the connection between them still affects both watersheds. As water from the Great Lakes flows into the Mississippi River watershed, it adds nutrients, which affects the water quality of the entire Mississippi River system. This has created a variety of challenges for communities that rely on either river system.
The Research
A variety of scientific research has been conducted to explore the connections between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. One study by the University of Minnesota-Duluth looked at how the flow of water between the two watersheds affects water quality in both the Great Lakes and the Mississippi river. The study found that changes in the flow of water could significantly impact the water quality of both rivers.
In a follow up study by the U.S. Geological Survey, researchers looked at how the amount of nutrients in the Mississippi River could be changed by adding nutrients from Great Lakes watersheds. The research indicated that the additional nutrients could potentially increase the nutrient load of the Mississippi River, leading to increased growth of algae and aquatic plants. However, the researchers also noted that more research is needed to understand the full impacts of the connection between the two watersheds.
The Challenges
The connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River can create a variety of challenges for those living near or relying on either river. Changes in water quality can affect the health of aquatic species, and can cause harm to humans if the water is not suitable for drinking or recreational use. Additionally, the nutrients from the Great Lakes can cause algae blooms in the Mississippi River, depleting oxygen levels and making the water unsuitable for aquatic species.
The connection between the two rivers can also lead to the spread of invasive species. Zebra mussels and Asian carp, two species native to the Great Lakes, have been found in the Mississippi River and some tributary systems. Once these species become established, they can cause significant harm to local ecosystems.
The Solutions
Communities along the two watersheds are working to address the challenges created by the connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. In many cases, local communities have implemented strategies to limit the amount of water flow between the two watersheds, as well as nutrient runoff. Additionally, many communities have implemented strategies to help prevent the spread of invasive species, such as Asian carp.
The Great Lakes Commission, a binational organization aimed at protecting and restoring the Great Lakes, has also played a role in protecting the two watersheds. The commission works to coordinate efforts between the two watersheds to protect the water quality, as well as to reduce the spread of invasive species.
The Impact
The connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River can have a far-reaching impact. Changes in water quality in either river system can affect aquatic species and the people who rely on them. Nutrient runoff can cause algae blooms and the spread of invasive species can displace native species. That’s why it’s so important that communities work together to protect the two watersheds.
By working to limit the amount of water flow and nutrient runoff, as well as controlling the spread of invasive species, communities can protect the health of the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River for generations to come.
The Economics
The connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River also has economic implications. The Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds provide a variety of goods and services to people living in the region. From commercial and recreational fishing to clean drinking water and agricultural products, the connection between the two watersheds can have a major impact on the economies of local communities.
The Great Lakes and the Mississippi River also serve as important transportation routes in the region. Since the two watersheds are no longer connected, goods and services must be transported by boat or train. This can add additional costs to the transportation of goods, a cost that can be quite significant.
The Regulations
In order to protect the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River, governments have implemented a variety of regulations to limit the impact of the connection between the two watersheds. The primary regulations address nutrient runoff, water flow, and the spread of invasive species. For example, the Great Lakes Compact restricts the amount of water that can be taken from the Great Lakes for use in the Mississippi River watershed, and the Lacey Act regulates the introduction of invasive species.
Additionally, government organizations, such as the Great Lakes Commission, have been established to help coordinate efforts between the two watersheds. This organization works to ensure that both watersheds are being managed in a sustainable way, and works to identify issues and develop solutions that can help protect the two watersheds.
The Education
Given the importance of the connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River, it is important that people in the region understand the history and importance of the two watersheds. Local governments, universities, and organizations can play a role in educating people about the importance of the connection between the two watersheds. This can include teaching people about the effects of water flow and nutrient runoff, as well as the spread of invasive species.
Additionally, local organizations can work to secure funding to support research and educational projects related to the connection between the two watersheds. This research can provide valuable insight to communities on the best ways to protect the safety and health of the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.
The Conservation
The connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River creates unique possibilities for conservation efforts. For example, local governments, universities, and organizations can unite their efforts to create projects aimed at restoring both watersheds. These projects can include restoring wetlands, replanting native vegetation, and creating habitat for aquatic species.
Organizations can also work together to create programs that monitor, assess, and respond to water quality threats in both watersheds. This type of monitoring can help identify sources of pollution and other potential threats, and can help to identify areas in need of restoration or conservation efforts.
The Governance
In order to protect the connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River, regional and national governments must take a proactive role in managing the two watersheds. Governments can create regulations to limit water flow and nutrient runoff, as well as identify and control sources of pollution. Additionally, governments can work with the private sector to fund research projects and educational initiatives to promote the health of the two watersheds.
Finally, governments can work with local and national organizations to coordinate conservation efforts between the two watersheds. By working together, these organizations can ensure that both watersheds are being managed in a sustainable way in order to protect the health of both river systems.
