The Mississippi River is one of the main arteries of the United States, a source of life and sustenance for almost a century. Boasting a length of over 2,350 miles, this river is a defining feature of both the country’s physical and economic landscape. But what, exactly, is in the Mississippi River?
Most of the Mississippi River is made up of fresh water, a long stretch of water reaching from the north to the south of the continent. This water supports a diversity of wildlife, from fish and birds to amphibians and reptiles. The river’s principal tributary rivers flow in from Minnesota, including the Wisconsin, Minnesota and St. Croix rivers. According to the Etomological Society of America, the Mississippi River is home to over 100 species of fish, as well as an array of other aquatic life, such as crayfish, mussels, and snails. The riverbed is also heavily populated with aquatic vegetation such as cattails, sedges, and water lilies.
In addition to the variety of wildlife, the Mississippi River is a crucial source of sustenance for many communities, providing drinking water and irrigated fields for crops. Since its industrial age origin, the river has also served as a vital artery for manufacturing, providing power for factories and transport for goods.
Much of the Mississippi River is used for recreational purposes as well. Boaters, anglers and wildlife watchers flock to its shores, often braving the swells and bends of the river. In addition, the river provides the opportunity for locals to enjoy a wide array of activities along its banks, from fishing and camping to canoeing and hiking.
Though the Mississippi River has long been a major source of sustenance and recreation, its health has become increasingly threatened in recent years. Pollutants, both industrial and agricultural, have caused the riverine ecosystem to become more fragile and potential sources of contamination greater. As a result, the large number of species that live in the Mississippi River are at risk of declining in number, as well as being contaminated by toxic substances.
As a result, experts in the field have called for greater action to improve the health of the Mississippi River. Such actions could include increased regulation of industrial and agricultural runoff, greater funding for conservation and restoration efforts, and improved water management. Only by working together to reduce pollution and protect the river’s wildlife can we ensure that the Mississippi River is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Effects of Climate Change on the Mississippi River
It is no secret that climate change is forcing significant and unprecedented changes upon every aspect of Earth’s ecosystems, and the Mississippi River is no exception. However, how exactly is global warming impacting this vital waterway?
Perhaps of greatest concern is the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Flooding can occur more frequently, or even in areas not previously prone to flooding due to climate change – this might prevent boats from using the river for recreation or transport for extended periods of time. The rising temperatures meanwhile cause an increase in evaporation and a decrease in precipitation from snow and rainfall.
Drought conditions also have a number of negative impacts on the river, exacerbating the issue of runoff containing harmful pollutants. With lower water levels, less water is available for aquatic habitats and many species of fish are unable to thrive. Additionally, reduced water volume often contributes to higher water temperatures, as is becoming especially evident in the Mississippi. Warmer water reduces the availability of oxygen, which is catastrophic for many types of aquatic life.
In some cases, higher temperatures can even cause an increase in harmful, invasive species. As global warming increases the temperature of the water, certain species that can only tolerate warmer temperatures are more likely to proliferate, potentially threatening native species. As the conditions become more and more hospitable, concerns may emerge that Gulf states may see an increase in toxic algae blooms.
Economic Impact of the Mississippi River
The importance of the Mississippi River extends to its economic importance as well. Spanning over forty percent of the United States, the river is a major source of power, transportation, and economic activity. Industries such as fishing, farming, and tourism thrive on the banks of the Mississippi, bringing in the states’ money and providing jobs for the citizens.
The river is a source of transportation for which many industries rely heavily upon, especially in the Midwest. As the largest and deepest navigable river in America, the Mississippi carries an average of 300 barge tows per month, moving crops, gas, and other materials up and down the river. In late 2019, 84% of all agricultural exports were carried on the Mississippi, leaving many states and industries dependant on the health of the river.
On the other hand, aspects such as natural disasters can severely impact the river’s condition, leading to disastrous consequences. In addition to wreaking destruction to the environment and the lives of those living around it, floods can also cause massive losses with respect to the river economy.
One of the worst floods in history occurred in 1997, when the Upper Mississippi River overflowed its banks and flooded an area the size of Connecticut. This terrible event resulted in the loss of over 600,000 acres of land, the destruction of wildlife habitats, and the displacement of 23,000 people. Flooding can also wreak havoc on transportation when channels are closed or re-routed, making it difficult for people to traverse the Mississippi and for businesses to transport goods up and down the river.
Restoration and Conservation Efforts
The key to preserving the Mississippi River is to start making changes to reduce the environmental impact of humans. This means creating better disaster management plans to mitigate the effects of floods and droughts, better wastewater treatments and more efficient agricultural practices. Conservation and restoration efforts by governments and organizations such as the Army Corps of Engineers, the United States Environment Protection Agency, and local non-profit organizations are essential in restoring and maintaining the river’s health.
In addition to efforts like these, everyday citizens can help by reducing their consumption and minimizing their waste. Simple steps such as disposing of garbage properly, avoiding non-biodegradable items, and limited the use of fertilizers and pesticides can go a long way in restoring and preserving the river. Additionally, enforcing the rigorous testing of wastewater, capturing industrial wastewater, and monitoring the amount of nutrients added to the river can help reduce contamination.
Organizations such as American Rivers are actively doing their part to restore and protect the river’s health. One such effort is their part in implementing the river communities initiative, which focuses on improving the way in which we manage and use resources of our rivers and watersheds.
This includes increasing the capacity of Americans to participate in decision-making with respect to the river, strengthening collaboration and coordination between river stakeholders, and encouraging best practices for the governance of rivers and watersheds. With the help of initiatives like this and people’s active commitment, we can ensure that the Mississippi River will remain a healthy, vibrant and sustainable waterway for generations to come.
Impact of Pollution on the Mississippi River
Pollution has long been a key concern for the Mississippi River. Since the second industrial revolution, overwhelming amounts of toxic pollutants have been dumped into the waterway from industrial processes, the burning of fossil fuels, agricultural runoff and sewage. Contamination from pollutants has resulted in environmental degradation, destroys aquatic ecosystems and endangers the species that rely on them.
In response to this threat, the EPA conducted an extensive study of the river in 2019. The study found water pollution levels to be an astounding 800 times greater than safe drinking standards. It was also shown that fish and other aquatic inhabitants of the river were regularly exposed to high levels of pollutants, with one in four fish contaminated.
While significant steps have been taken in order to reduce the levels of pollution, there is still a long way to go. Industries, upstream communities, and agricultural practices all must do their part in ensuring the health of the river. This would also include improved wastewater management, greater regulation of industrial and agricultural runoff, and better enforcement of clean water laws.
In addition to people taking action, organizations are also beginning to take greater steps towards improving the river’s health. The United States Department of Agriculture, for instance, has actively invested in a number of initiatives to reduce the impact of agricultural runoff. A $66 million investment in conservation practices will help to keep pollutants from spreading out of farmers’ fields. Organizations such as The Nature Conservancy have also launched projects to reduce nutrient pollution and increase groundwater recharge.
What the Future Holds for the Mississippi River
As we face the uncertain future of the planet, many point to the Mississippi River as a symbol of hope and resilience. Despite the centuries of human interference, the river’s ecological health is still largely intact. However, the need to take meaningful steps to protect and restore this vital waterway is even greater now than ever before.
Only by taking measures to reduce our ecological footprint and reversing the damage inflicted over the years can we ensure the health of the Mississippi River for generations to come. Every individual also has the power to do their part in restoring the river and reducing the sources of pollution that might cause harm. With collective effort and collaboration, the Mississippi River could remain one of the defining features of the American landscape for many years to come.
