Background Information
The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States and one of the widest, deepest and most powerful in the world. It is a powerful source of drinking water, electricity, transportation and recreation. In addition to its numerous other uses, the Mississippi River is also unequaled in its role as a habitat for numerous species of fish, plants, birds and animals. Along its muddy banks, the Mississippi provides rich lands for agriculture and wildlife management.
This mighty river is a significant part of American culture, having been immortalized in literature, song and American folklore. The rich history of the Mississippi River is visible in its many majestic river towns and historic sites.
Relevant Data
The average depth of the Mississippi River varies greatly, depending on its location. The river has an average depth of 40 feet (12 meters) at its source in Lake Itasca, Minnesota. As it flows south, the river becomes ever deeper, with an average depth of 60-80 feet (18-24 meters) between Cairo, Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri, where it then reaches further depths of 90-125 feet (27-38 meters).
The deepest part of the Mississippi River is located in the “Grand Canyon of the Mississippi River” near Alton, Illinois. Here, the river can reach depths of up to 200 feet (61 meters). The mouth of the Mississippi is much shallower, averaging only 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) deep.
Perspectives from Experts
Despite the Mississippi’s impressive depths, the riverbed is actually surprisingly shallow in some places, especially near its mouth. Dr. Stephen M. Travnicek, an associate professor at The Ohio State University and expert in river systems, explains that, “The waters around the mouth of the Mississippi are so shallow that if the levees were not in place, the shallows would block vessel traffic.”
These shallow waters also can cause navigational concerns for ships. According to Thomas D. Brown, a professor of civil engineering at the University of Minnesota and Mississippi River expert, “The Mississippi’s shallows can present navigational challenges for ships due to the varying depths throughout the river and the sandbars that form near the mouth.”
Own Insights and Analysis
The vast differences in the depths of the Mississippi River was a key factor in the development of the river transportation system. Without access to the deeper, interior sections of the river, ships would have much more difficulty navigating the river.
The shallower waters also present a unique challenge to waterfront communities, as the varying depths of the river can create unpredictable conditions for mariners. As Brown explains, “The channel must be constantly dredged to maintain a channel depth, and the silt, along with wind and waves, causes further shifting of the channel.”
River Management
The need to manage and maintain the Mississippi River has led to the development of navigation channels, locks, gates and dams. In the United States, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for the management, operation and maintenance of the main stem of the Mississippi River. The corps coordinates with state and local agencies to construct, operate, and maintain the locks, dams and levees along the river.
The primary purpose of the levees is to contain and protect the land around the river from flooding during major storm events. However, the levees also serve a number of other beneficial purposes, such as stabilizing the river banks, providing recreational areas and aiding in navigation by preventing water movements that can increase water depths.
Environmental Implications
The Mississippi River is a vital part of the region’s ecology and its many man-made structures can affect the ecology of the river. The deepening of the river, especially near its headwaters, can disrupt the natural flow of the river and can restrict the movement of aquatic species. The construction of locks and dams for navigation can also create physical and chemical barriers for fish and other aquatic organisms, interrupting their natural migratory pathways.
In addition, the use of dredging to maintain the navigation channel can disrupt the local fish and wildlife populations, as the activity can stir up toxins and sediment that can cause environmental damage. As a result, the Army Corps of Engineers is required to mitigate any environmental impacts of their work.
Long-term Effects
The Mississippi River is a dynamic system, and its many uses also lead to many different long-term effects. The dredging used for navigation has the potential to permanently alter the composition of the river sediment and its natural flow. The damming of the river can also disrupt the habitat of fish and other aquatic species, leading to a decline in populations.
Furthermore, the river is susceptible to land use changes from both upstream and downstream locations, which can affect the river’s water levels. These changing water levels can lead to an increase in flooding and erosion, and also can cause changes in the water quality, as run-off from upstream locations can carry pollutants into the river.
Economic Considerations
The river is an integral part of the regional economy and its connection to other cities and towns is its most valuable resource. The Mississippi is an important source of goods and services to businesses and industries, and it is also the region’s main source of potable water. In addition, the Mississippi is an important source of hydropower and is responsible for providing electricity to millions of people.
The Mississippi River also has a major effect on the region’s tourism industry, as it provides millions of people with unique recreational opportunities. From river cruises to kayaking, fishing and swimming, the Mississippi is a major draw for visitors from all over the world.
Long-term Planning
Though the Mississippi River is in a continual state of flux, it still needs long-term planning and management. To address this need, the Army Corps of Engineers, state and local governments are beginning to look to the future and envision how to best manage the river for future generations.
Proposals to manage the river and its resources include efforts to manage the river’s water levels, improve navigation, preserve and protect the natural environment, maintain the health of the aquatic species, and ensure the economic stability of the surrounding areas.
Climate Change
Climate change poses a new challenge to the management of the Mississippi River. Rising temperatures and a changing climate are expected to have a major effect on the river, with the potential to significantly impact the river’s levels, flow, and sedimentation. In particular, the world’s warming temperatures are expected to cause an increase in floods and could also lead to changes in the Mississippi’s water quality.
In response to these challenges, efforts are being made to restore the river’s ecosystems that have been impacted by human activities. For example, efforts are underway to introduce measures for erosion and sediment control, to restore wetlands, and to reduce agricultural runoff.
Inspection and Monitoring Programs
To ensure that the Mississippi River is managed in a sustainable and responsible manner, inspection and monitoring programs are essential. Regular assessments of the river’s ecosystems and water quality are an essential part of evaluating the river’s health and helping to detect any changes or negative impacts.
In addition, efforts must be made to increase public awareness and education of the Mississippi River and its importance. For example, educating the public on responsible water use and conservation can help to protect the river and its valuable resources, ensuring that the Mississippi can continue to provide an essential source of goods, services and recreation for future generations.
