Ohio River
The Ohio River is a 981-mile long river that passes through six states – Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois – before its confluence with the Mississippi River at what is popularly called the ‘Confluence’. It is the largest tributary of the Mississippi with an average discharge rate of 208,000 cu ft/s. It is one of the most important rivers in the midwestern United States for both transportation and commerce as well as for recreation.
The Ohio River originates from the north in Pittsburgh, PA, and flows south through Wheeling, WV, then through metropolitan suburbs such as Marietta, OH, Cincinnati, OH, Louisville, KY, and Evansville, IN, before finally joining the Mississippi River at Cairo, IL. Along its path, it intersects several major rivers, such as the Monongahela River and the Allegheny River, both of which are considered major tributaries of the Ohio River. The Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers actually join to form the Ohio River, commonly referred to as the ‘Forks of the Ohio’.
The Ohio River is known as an excellent fishing spot, with abundant stocks of muskellunge, northern pike, striped bass, catfish, carp, crappie, and smallmouth bass. It is also a great place for boating, canoeing, and kayaking, providing scenic views and good swimming spots. The Ohio River’s confluence with the Mississippi is so powerful it is known as the ‘Cradle of American Waterways’, and many of the nation’s rivers still flow together on their way to the Northwest Territory.
As the Ohio River flows south to its confluence with the Mississippi River, it gathers a large amount of sediment and silt from the hundreds of rivers and creeks that line its banks. This added sediment and silt can dramatically effect the navigability of the rivers. To make sure that boaters and anglers can still enjoy the river, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has established a number of locks and dams along the river that can be used to control the flow of water and silt. These locks and dams are also important for maintaining the navigability of the Ohio River so that it can continue to be a major transportation route for goods and people.
Significance
The Ohio River is an important part of American history, having been the site of several battles during the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Over the centuries, it has also been an important route for trade, transportation, and commerce. In the 19th century, the Ohio River served as a vital link between the eastern and western portions of the United States, connecting the bustling port cities at its north to the agricultural communities at its south.
Today, the Ohio River is still an important part of our economy and culture. It is used for a variety of purposes, including electricity generation, shipping and transportation, recreation, and water supply. The river is also home to a large number of commercial fishing operations, varying from small, family-owned operations to large commercial ones. The river also serves as a major source of drinking water.
The Ohio River is the 13th longest river in the United States and its watershed accounts for approximately 17.8% of the total land area of the U.S. It is one of the most diverse and productive eco-systems in the world, and its waters sustain a variety of fish, birds, and amphibians. Additionally, many endangered species, including bald eagles and mussels, make it a home.
Ohio River Meeting the Mississippi River
The Ohio River’s confluence with the Mississippi River was first documented in 1673, when French explorer Louis Joliet and Jesuit father Jacques Marquette traveled down the Mississippi River to its junction with the Ohio River. Their journey marked the beginning of the French colonization of what is now the Midwest United States.
Today, the confluence of the Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers is known as the ‘Confluence’, and is located just north of Cairo, Illinois. This is where the Ohio River empties into the Mississippi and forms the most powerful river in North America. The Ohio is the largest tributary of the Mississippi, with an average discharge rate of 208,000 cu ft/sec. This immense power of the combined currents are what makes this spot so attractive for recreational boaters and anglers, who can take advantage of the unique riverboat tours, fishing opportunities, and spectacular views of the meeting of the two rivers.
The Ohio and Mississippi Rivers are two of the most important U.S. waterways, and they have been essential transportation routes since the dawn of the country’s history. Their confluence near Cairo, Illinois serves as a reminder of the immense natural power of the American landscape, and the incredible importance of these two rivers throughout the years.
Impact on Everyday Lives
The Ohio River has been a major part of everyday life since the 1800s, and its impact is still felt today. Most of the area surrounding the river is highly industrialized, with chemical plants and power plants scattered throughout the region. Recreational activities, such as boating and fishing, are also very popular in the area. The Ohio River also serves as an important source of drinking water for many communities, and provides an important economic boost to the region through the transportation of goods.
The Ohio River also serves to connect communities together, providing a way for people to travel between states, cities, and towns. It serves as a major artery for tourists and local adventurers alike, providing access to camping, hiking, and sightseeing. The combination of natural beauty and cultural richness is a major draw for travelers, and the Ohio River provides a chance for visitors to explore the history and culture of the Midwest in a unique way.
The Ohio River is an invaluable resource for the states in its path, providing a transportation link between them. It is also important for its contribution toward the energy and recreation of the region, as well as its economic development. The Ohio River is a crucial part of the nation’s geography and culture, and its meeting with the Mississippi only highlights the importance of these two rivers in the history and development of the United States.
Preservation Efforts
The Ohio River is an important part of the country’s natural and cultural heritage, and its beauty and significance have been recognized by conservationists and environmental groups alike. In recent years, there have been a number of initiatives aimed at preserving and protecting the river. The Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANCO) is an international organization charged with protecting and preserving the ecological strength of the Ohio River and its watershed. The commission is composed of representatives from eight states and the administration of Canada and works to ensure the river is a safe and healthy environment for all creatures, both on land and in the water.
In addition to ORSANCO, there are many local organizations and efforts in each state focused on preserving the river. Everything from river clean-up initiatives to community-made efforts in conserving the river’s health are being taken to protect this incredible resource. Additionally, the federal government has responded to the conservation calls in the form of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Restoration Acts, which work to fund and promote the conservation of not only the Ohio River, but waterways throughout the country.
The Ohio River is a vital part of American history and culture, and the importance of preserving and protecting it for future generations cannot be overstated. With the help of many individuals and organizations, the river can continue to provide all of us with the wildlife, beauty, and resources it has to offer.
Conclusion
The Ohio River has been an essential part of the U.S. economy since the dawn of the country’s history, and its confluence with the Mississippi River serves as a reminder of the immense power of nature. Its importance to transportation and commerce, as well as its role as a source of water, electricity, and recreation make it an invaluable resource. Its scenic beauty and cultural richness draw in travelers from all over the world, and its preservation efforts seek to make sure its beauty and resources remain for future generations. The Ohio River is a testament to both the power and the fragility of the American landscape, and its meeting with the Mississippi is truly a sight to behold.
