The Famous Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the longest, most iconic rivers in the world. It’s 2,320 miles long and has been a critical part of America’s history since the nation’s inception. The Mississippi River also has a unique connection to the Great Lakes, something that is often forgotten. In fact, the Mississippi River is directly linked to the Great Lakes via several canals and rivers. Here, we’ll explore the relationship between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes, why this connection is important, and what it means for the environment and its inhabitants.
The Great Lakes are five large, interconnected lakes located in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. Together, these lakes represent the largest surface freshwater system on Earth. The Great Lakes are important for several reasons, including providing habitat for various species, regulating regional climate and contributing to regional economic activity.
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes dates back to the 1820s. At this time, two canals were constructed on the Illinois River and the Chicago River, linking the lakes with the Mississippi River. These canals were the beginning of a route known as the Illinois Waterway, which runs all the way from Lake Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico.
This connection is essential for many reasons. First, it allows for transportation of goods both to and from the Great Lakes region, furthering the economic activities of the area. Second, it helps regulate the water levels of the lakes, by allowing excess water to flow out and new water to flow in. This helps to prevent flooding and other such issues. Finally, the connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes allows for increased biodiversity and provides habitats for various species of fish and aquatic plants.
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes is also very important for environmental protection. For example, the prevalence of invasive species in the Great Lakes has been a major concern for decades. Since the Great Lakes are linked to the Mississippi River, invasive species can travel from one river system to the other. This represents a serious hazard, as species from the Mississippi River may be better adapted to the warmer climates of the Great Lakes, leading to an increased risk of disruption of local ecosystems.
To combat this issue, several control measures have been taken. For instance, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has installed several barriers, locks and dams to prevent the transfer of invasive species. Additionally, regular monitoring and testing of water samples is done to ensure the water remains free of any potential toxins or pollutants.
Climate Impact of the Mississippi River’s Connection
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes also has a significant impact on the local climate. For instance, due to the turbulence created by the canals and other control measures, there is an increased rate of evaporation, which leads to higher humidity and precipitation. Additionally, warmer water from the Mississippi River can be transported to the Great Lakes through these channels, raising the average temperature of the region.
This has several implications for the environment and the people living in the region. For one, higher temperatures can lead to warmer winters and a longer growing season, allowing for increased crop yields and economic activity. Additionally, increased evaporation can lead to more rain, which can help reduce droughts and alleviate water shortages. On the other hand, higher temperatures can also increase the prevalence of disease-causing organisms, like mosquitoes, which may pose a health risk to inhabitants of the Great Lakes region.
Economic Implications of the Connection
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes is also very important for economic reasons. As mentioned before, the Illinois waterway links these two water systems, enabling increased transportation of goods and people. This has greatly increased the economic activity in the region, as goods such as grains, steel, oil and lumber can be transported between the two regions. Additionally, the constant flow of water helps to maintain the navigability of both rivers, helping to ensure an ongoing flow of commerce.
The presence of the connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes has had far-reaching economic effects on the region. For instance, the construction of the canals provided jobs for thousands of people, allowing them to find work during a difficult economic period. Additionally, the increased river traffic has opened the doors for increased tourism and recreation, creating economic opportunities for businesses in the area. Finally, the region has seen increased investment due to the increased access provided by the connection.
Effect of the Connection on Native People
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes has also had significant consequences for Native American communities living in the region. For one, the connection is seen as a violation of the sovereignty of many of these groups, as it has enabled the expansion of towns and cities in the area, infringing upon their traditional lands. Additionally, the increased economic activity in the region has led to increased pollution, which has had a negative impact on both the environment and the cultures of the native communities.
This has led to increased activism from many of these groups, who have tried to raise awareness about the negative effects of the connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. Additionally, various organizations are working to ensure the sovereignty of these communities is respected and to help mitigate the effects of pollution.
Mitigation Strategies
To ensure that the connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes continues to have a positive impact, various strategies have been put in place. For instance, government and non-governmental organizations are working together to ensure a healthy environment in the Great Lakes region. This includes the implementation of policies and regulations to reduce pollutants and ensure the navigability of the region’s waterways. Additionally, several initiatives have been taken to ensure the region remains free of invasive species, such as the installation of barriers, locks and dams.
The connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes is also being used as an opportunity for conservation. Organizations such as the Great Lakes Commission are working to restore and protect the existing habitats in the area, as well as create new ones. This includes replanting of native vegetation, restoration of fish and wildlife habitats, and various education and outreach initiatives. These efforts, in combination with the other strategies mentioned above, are helping to ensure the connection between the two water systems continues to bring positive impacts to the region.
Conclusion of Benefits
In conclusion, the connection between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes is essential for many reasons. It provides transportation opportunities, regulates water levels, increases biodiversity, and helps to protect against invasive species. It also has significant economic and environmental impacts, as well as implications for Native American communities. Finally, various initiatives have been implemented to ensure the connection between the two water systems continues to bring benefits to the area.
