Definition of a Tributary of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the largest drainage system in North America and the fourth largest in the world. A tributary of the Mississippi is a river or stream that flows into the Mississippi River, adding to its volume and its flow. Tributaries provide important feeding grounds for a variety of animals, birds, and fish. The benefits of tributaries to both the environment and the economy of a region are immense.
Main Sources of the Mississippi River Tributaries
The tributaries of the Mississippi River come from all over the continent. The Missouri and the Ohio Rivers are two of the largest and most important tributaries of the Mississippi. The Missouri is the longest tributary of the Mississippi and drains an area of more than 500,000 square miles in the Great Plains region of the United States. On the other hand, the Ohio River originates in Pennsylvania, but is considered part of the Mississippi River system because it is so large and powerful. Other tributaries of the Mississippi River include the Alabama River, the Arkansas River, and the Red River.
Wildlife and Ecosystems supported by Mississippi River Tributaries
The various tributaries of the Mississippi River provide food and habitats for an immense variety of species. From small invertebrates and aquatic species like fish and crayfish, to mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and many other state-protected species, the Mississippi tributaries are home to some of the most diverse habitats on earth.
The ecosystem depends on the free-flowing nature of the rivers, allowing for migration of fish and aquatic species. The tributaries are also important for maintaining habitats for birds, as they provide important nesting and roosting sites.
Economic Impact of the Mississippi River Tributaries
The tributaries of the Mississippi River are also of great importance to the economy of the United States. The Mississippi is the world’s second-largest river system, and is a major transportation hub in North America. The Mississippi River and its tributaries provide an essential link between the Midwest and the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for the transport of agriculture and other goods to the rest of the world.
The Mississippi River tributaries also provide a large source of jobs, providing employment in fishing, boating, tourism and other activities related to the rivers. Moreover, the rivers are an important source of hydroelectric power, with more than 30 hydroelectric power stations located along the main stem of the Mississippi and its tributaries.
Threats to the Mississippi River Tributaries
Though the Mississippi River tributaries are an incredibly important and useful part of the environment and economy of the United States, they are also facing a multitude of threats. The most common of these is pollution, which comes from both agricultural runoff and industrial waste. The pollutants can lead to the death and degradation of aquatic species and habitats, as well as the contamination of drinking water sources.
The introduction of invasive species and the construction of dams is another big threat to the health of the Mississippi and its tributaries. Invasive species, such as Asian Carp, can displace native species and disrupt the natural balance of the river. Dams can also have repercussions on aquatic ecosystems, by altering the flow of the tributaries and disrupting the migration of fish species.
Conservation Efforts of the Mississippi River Tributaries
Given the importance of the Mississippi River tributaries, conservation efforts have been set up in order to protect and preserve the health of the rivers, and the organisms which depend on them. Many organizations, both public and private, have set up conservation efforts in the form of education, research and policy implementation.
The 2018 ‘Save Our River’ project was a huge joint effort, led by the Mississippi River Restoration organization, which aimed to encourage people to take care of the rivers and reduce the pollutants and invasive species.
Projects to Enhance the Mississippi River Tributaries
In addition to conservation efforts, there are also a number of projects dedicated to increasing the health and quality of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. These include restoration projects, such as the restoration of wetlands and river banks, and the reintroduction of native fish species.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also manages a number of flood control projects to reduce the impact of floods and prevent damage to infrastructure and property.
Environmental Impacts of the Mississippi River Tributaries
The Mississippi River tributaries have an immense effect on the environment of the United States, from the quality of drinking water sources to the habitats and migration of fish and wildlife. The rivers are also crucial for sustaining diverse ecosystems, as they provide essential breeding and resting grounds for a variety of species.
The health of the Mississippi and its tributaries is also essential to prevent flooding, as the rivers carry large amounts of sediment and runoff away from densely populated areas. This sediment can be captured and used to replenish soils in the area and reduce the risk of flooding.
Effects of Global Warming on the Mississippi River Tributaries
Global warming has had an effect on the Mississippi tributaries, breaking down the natural barriers between the river and the land, leading to increased flooding and changes to habitats. The rivers are also becoming more shallow, increasing the risk of drought, decreasing the availability of forage for fish and other aquatic species, and leading to more frequent ‘dead zones’ with zero oxygen levels.
Moreover, rising temperatures are causing the Mississippi tributaries to become more acidic, reducing their ability to absorb pollutants and damaging the habitats of aquatic species.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River tributaries are an important part of the environment, economy, and cultural history of the United States. Though there are many threats to the health of the tributaries, there have also been many projects and conservation efforts set up to protect them. The effects of global warming on the Mississippi tributaries are likely to become even more severe in the future, making it essential to understand and protect these rivers now.
