The Mississippi River is the largest and longest in the United States and the fourth longest in the world. It flows through the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana, and is part of a vast network of tributaries and drains about 40% of the continental United States. Along with serving as a crucial economic corridor for commerce and trade, the river itself provides an abundance of recreational opportunities, from fishing and hunting to rafting and sightseeing.
A recent survey of the area found fish populations were in decline in about half of the states the Mississippi runs through, and the overall health of the river was in decline. Studies show that rising temperatures, sedimentation, runoff from farms, and waste from factories are degrading the water quality of the river. The US Geological Survey indicates in those states where fish populations were found to be declining, the number of species decreased by an average of 29%; this was attributed to increased sedimentation and water temperature. The decline in water quality is having a cascading negative effect on other species that rely on the Mississippi River, such as birds and small mammals.
These findings call into question the current methods of management and policy use in the area. Dr. Michael Smith, PhD., Director of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, believes that the approach has not adequately taken into consideration potential harmonious interactions between different species living in the river. Smith suggests that rather than simply trying to identify problems, policy makers should look at ways of managing the river that emphasize the value of interconnectedness among the various aquatic and land animal life-forms.
Moreover, Dr. Smith firmly believes that by allowing for a shift in focus from simply regulating the river to restoring it, we could see a substantial improvement in the overall health of the Mississippi. To this end, Smith proposes a comprehensive, ecosystem-level approach to restoring the river, which would involve removing pollutants from the river’s channel, restoring nutrient cycles, protecting the riparian landscape, reintroducing native species, and conserving habitat.
Paul Thompson, President of the National Wildlife Federation’s Great Waters Program, echoes Dr. Smith’s ideas. Thompson believes that the most effective way to clean up the river is to remove dams and levees, which have been built over the years to control the flow of the water. He believes this would improve water quality and boost fish populations, as well as reducing flood risk associated with the Mississippi.
Others suggest taking a more direct approach to cleaning up the water quality. For example, establishing more stringent regulations on agricultural runoff, which is considered to be one of the largest sources of harmful materials in the river. Additionally, it is suggested that further regulation is needed to reduce phosphorous and chemical inputs from manufacturing and industrial sources in areas near the river.
The Effects of Climate Change on The Mississippi River
Climate change poses a major threat to the Mississippi, as rising water temperatures lead to increased evaporation and reduced oxygen levels. This could have disastrous effects on the aquatic life that depends on the river for habitat. Furthermore, one of the most significant effects of climate change is the increase in extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.
The river is no stranger to flooding, particularly in the Midwest and lower Mississippi Delta region. Heavy rainfall and increased snowmelt can cause the river to overflow its banks, creating serious problems for those living near the river. In addition, prolonged periods of drought can lead to decreased water levels, which can have a negative impact on the ecosystem and cause problems for the industries that rely on the river for water.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that over the past 30 years, extreme weather events have become more frequent and intense. A major worry for those relying on the Mississippi for both economic and recreational purposes is that as the climate continues to change, the river’s water levels will fluctuate to a much greater extent, with more frequent and longer lasting droughts and floods.
Ultimately, to ensure the sustainable health of the Mississippi, policy makers need to take action to reduce the effects of climate change while also addressing the other sources of pollution and sediment extraction directly affecting the river’s ecosystem.
The Role of People in Restoring The Mississippi River
The preservation and restoration of the Mississippi depends on the people who live near and rely upon it for economic and recreational purposes. While government policies and regulations are important, it is the individual actions taken by people living near the Mississippi that will make the biggest difference.
Residents of the watershed can take part by doing small things, such as limiting their use of fertilizers and pesticides on their lawns, planting trees for shade and habitat for wildlife, and reducing stormwater runoff. On a larger scale, individuals and communities can work together to support river-friendly initiatives like increasing riparian buffer strips, limiting sediment and nutrient runoff, and restoring habitat.
Many of the counties along the Mississippi have implemented such initiatives, but more needs to be done. Organizations like the Mississippi River Network, which supports “River Restoration Science”, are working to educate people about the importance of preserving and restoring the river. By increasing public awareness, they hope to spur more people to action and further strengthen the links between community and conservation.
Current Restoration Projects Along The Mississippi River
In addition to traditional approaches such as conservation practices, some organizations are exploring innovative solutions for restoring the Mississippi. The US Geological Survey and US Fish and Wildlife Services have partnered together in an effort to raise the water level in the Kaskaskia River, a tributary of the Mississippi. This initiative is based on an artificial wetland, which helps to slow down the water’s flow and reduce the sedimentation buildup in the Kaskaskia. The restoration project has already seen a dramatic improvement in the river’s water quality and wildlife.
As part of the Clean Water Act, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also created the Clean Water Action Partners Program. Through this program, the EPA provides funding to local communities and volunteers to identify and address the biggest water-related challenges in their area. This includes projects such as restoring wetlands, cleaning up contaminated sites, and conserving water and energy.
The US Army Corps of Engineers has also taken steps to restore the Mississippi River by closing navigation locks and dams, which can help to avoid river flooding and promote the natural passage of fish. The Corps is also working with local communities to create buffer zones and greenways for wildlife, which can reduce the impacts of pollutants on the river.
The Relevance of the Lower Mississippi River Delta Region
The Lower Mississippi River Delta Region is an area of significant ecological importance, home to over 400 species of plants and animals. It is also an area of great cultural importance, with many historical landmarks, archaeological sites, and cultural resources.
Despite its importance, the region has faced a number of challenges in the past. In particular, erosion and sedimentation have caused significant damage to the delta, leading to the loss of vital wetlands and natural habitats. As a result, many of the species which rely on the Delta for survival are now threatened.
To combat this problem, a number of local organizations are leading the charge to protect the Delta and restore its ecosystems. These efforts include land acquisition, restoration of wetlands and marshes, reforestation, and the implementation of best management practices to reduce the effects of sedimentation.
These efforts are bringing people together from diverse backgrounds and demonstrating the power of collaboration. People from all walks of life are helping to protect the Delta, from local fishermen and farmers, to scientists and government agencies.
The Economic Benefits of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River plays an important role in the economic development of the region. The region’s agricultural, shipping and recreational industries all rely on the river for their success.
The growth of cities like New Orleans, St. Louis, and Memphis are all linked to the river. Shipping activity on the river supports thousands of jobs, while recreational activities like fishing, hunting, and boating bring millions of tourists to the area every year.
The Mississippi is also an important source of hydroelectric power, providing energy to homes and businesses throughout the region. Additionally, the river provides a natural transportation route, allowing goods and people to travel easily throughout the region.
The environmental and economic benefits of the Mississippi River are undeniable, which is why it is so important that we take steps to protect it and restore its ecosystems.
The Future of the Mississippi River
The future of the Mississippi River is dependent on the choices we make today. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the river, it is essential that we take steps to reduce pollutants, restore habitats and ecosystems, and implement best management practices.
It is encouraging to see the progress that has already been made, and the impact that even individuals can have on the river. As more people become aware of the importance of preserving and restoring the Mississippi, it will become easier to make meaningful progress.
The future of the Mississippi River lies in all of our hands, and it is up to us to ensure that it continues to provide economic, environmental, and recreational benefits to the area for many years to come.
