The Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world and it is an important trade artery for many states along its route. Starting from its source at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota, near the town of Bemidji and extending from there, 2,530 miles all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River Basin is home to 31 US states and two Canadian provinces, making it one of the largest rivers in the world. The official start of the Mississippi River is thought to be at Lake Itasca where the river flows freely from the lake.
The Mississippi River has been used by explorers and settlers to travel throughout the United States and beyond. It has been a major transportation route for centuries. Notably, in the 19th century, the Mississippi was an essential transport link used to move people and cargo; it also served as a platform of commerce and trade. Although the original native Americans probably used the river for transport and fishing, the river was discovered by Europeans when they came to America in the 16th century.
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of the U.S. landscape since its establishment in 1803 with the Louisiana Purchase. Numerous historical events such as the Civil War and slavery have taken place on or near the river. In addition to its economic importance, the river has also enhanced U.S. culture in various ways. It has been celebrated in literature, music, and artwork; it is also the namesake for several cities, states, and counties. Throughout history, the Mississippi has also held an important place in many individuals’ life stories.
The Beulah R. Neville Bluff, located at Itasca State Park, is the point at which the Mississippi River officially begins. The entire course of the river, from the headwaters to its vast delta, is considered navigable by the boats and barges that travel the river each year. This is commonly referred to as the river’s navigable “mileage”—the distance from the Mississippi River’s source to its mouth, including all of its tributaries. The navigable mileage of the Mississippi is 2,340 miles.
Due to its high levels of sediment, the Mississippi River has developed a vast floodplain, which primarily consists of forests, marshlands, swamps, and ‘oxbow lakes’, (areas of land that were formerly part of the river but which are now separated from it by the silt that has built up). This helps protect the area against flooding and also serves as a habitat for fish and aquatic wildlife. The river also plays a vital role in the transportation and shipping industries, providing a reliable route of access between the numerous cities and towns located along its banks. Shipping accounts for the majority of the Mississippi River’s economic activity, making it a major factor in the U.S. economy.
Impact of Climate Change on Mississippi River
Climate change is one of the biggest threats facing the Mississippi River today. Rising global temperatures, melting of polar ice caps, and increased weather events have the potential to drastically alter the Mississippi River, the hydrology of the region, and the lives of those who rely on it.
The impacts of climate change on the Mississippi River will likely be felt in numerous ways. Warmer temperatures and rising sea levels, could cause the river’s flow and discharge rates to change, leading to unpredictable floods and droughts. This could have serious implications for the water quality, making it unsafe for drinking or recreational activities.
Additionally, the increased heat could cause more glacial ice to melt, raising the river’s water level and increasing the risk of overtopping the river’s banks, leading to more frequent and severe floods. This could cause loss of life, property damage, and disruption of transportation and trade along the river.
The effects of climate change could also alter wildlife habitat, vegetation, and fish populations, reducing the ability of certain species to survive and reproduce. Finally, it could also lead to an increased spread of disease and insect-borne illnesses because warmer temperatures would allow for pests to thrive and spread disease more quickly and easily.
Potential Solutions for Climate Change
There are several potential solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the Mississippi River.
First, development of infrastructure along the river could help reduce the damaging effects of floods. Flood walls and levees, as well as storm surge barriers, could help reduce the risk of flooding, as well as protect areas from high water levels.
Second, changes in agricultural practices could help reduce soil erosion and runoff of nutrients and phosphorus, which can cause algal blooms and can contaminate drinking water. Changing to no-till farming, reducing the use of chemical pesticides, and implementing cover crops can all play significant roles in protecting the health of the Mississippi River.
Finally, increased awareness and action of individuals and communities along the Mississippi River will be essential in mitigating the damaging effects of climate change. This could include supporting “green” practices, such as reducing energy consumption, using more renewable sources of energy, and implementing more effective waste management practices. Furthermore, it is important to converse wetlands and forests, as these areas can act as natural buffers against climate change impacts.
The Role of Water Management
Water management plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the Mississippi River. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for managing the flow of the river and ensuring that it does not cause flooding. In addition, USACE also works to control the impacts of sediment deposition, pollution, and erosion, which are all factors that can contribute to the degradation of the river’s habitat.
To properly manage the river, USACE implements several strategies including dredging and building dams, levees, and locks. These techniques help direct the flow of the river and prevent certain areas from flooding or being damaged by the river’s high water levels. Furthermore, the USACE continuously monitor the river to ensure that it is within its expected water quality standards.
Water management of the Mississippi River is also handled at a local level. State and local governments, in partnership with USACE, work together to manage the river. This could include controlling water levels, preventing flooding, monitoring water quality, and reducing sedimentation and erosion. This collaborative effort is essential in ensuring that the Mississippi River remains a healthy and vital resource.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an essential resource for people, wildlife, and industries throughout the United States. It is the fourth longest river in the world and its official start is thought to be at Lake Itasca in Minnesota. Throughout history, the river has played a major role in U.S. culture, trade, and industry. Climate change poses a serious threat to the health of the Mississippi River, and it is important that we take steps to protect this important resource. Water management is also essential in maintaining the health of the river and it is important for state and local governments, as well as USACE, to take an active role in monitoring and managing the river.
