The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States with over 2,340 miles of winding waterways. It has been described as a powerful yet dangerous force of nature, with a turbulent history that dates back to Native American tribes and their interactions with colonizers in the 1500s. From the time of first contact until now, the Mississippi River has been feared and revered—its currents and endless expanse through the American Midwest inspiring fear, admiration, and awe.
Current Conditions River Wide
Today, the Mississippi River’s waters are regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. But even with the latest maintenance protocols and updated equipment, the river remains a dangerous force. It still experiences flooding, debris, runoff, and unpredictable conditions that can cause loss of life, destruction of property, and economic disruption.
The temperature of the water can also be quite hazardous. According to a 2016 report from the Missouri Natural Resource Institute, the water temperatures in certain parts of the Mississippi River during the summer months can reach such extreme levels that it is deadly for fish, forcing them to move to different parts of the river. This may also affect other living things that inhabit the river, such as plants and migratory birds.
Another danger is accidents involving boats and recreational watercraft. The Mississippi River is a popular destination for boaters, but the strong currents and hazardous debris can create dangerous conditions, leading to boating accidents. Boaters should always be mindful of the dangers of the river and the potential consequences of their choices.
The History of Mississippi River Danger
The Mississippi River has been hazardous since early Native American times and continues to present danger. In the 1500s, early French fur trappers described the wide, unpopulated and treacherous nature of the Mississippi. Early accounts describe sinking boats and how Native American tribes navigated the river with canoes, careful to avoid the dangers of its powerful currents.
In the 20th century, the Army Corps of Engineers made multiple attempts to tame the Mississippi, but the danger remained, with flooding and destruction in places like St. Louis and Memphis. In 1974, the Army Corps built the last of three flood control dams on the upper Mississippi River, slowing the river’s flow and creating a calmer, more navigable, and controlled waterway.
Dangers of Pollution
The Mississippi River is not just susceptible to natural disaster and accident risk, but also the problem of pollution. Runoff from agricultural land, urban sprawl, and industrial sites has caused devastating levels of contamination to the river. The most severe areas of pollution occur in the northern Midwest and in certain parts of Louisiana.
The effects of this contamination are far reaching, as polluted waters can be consumed by unsuspecting people and can lead to serious illness. Polluted rivers can disrupt marine habitats and the food chains that depend on them, and can prove hazardous for animal species, endangering their livelihoods.
Rethinking Development
As development continues, the health of the Mississippi River continues to be threatened. In response, the federal government and multiple state governments have implemented policies to reduce human impacts and protect the health of the river.
Municipalities have also improved their sewage treatment systems, reducing the pollution load to the river. Federal and state parks have been established along its course, with the purpose of protecting and restoring wetlands and other sensitive habitats. More recently, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has adopted new policies and technologies to improve water quality and reduce the risk of flooding along the river.
Burden of Local Industry
The Mississippi River is a vital part of the U.S. economy and a key source of employment for many industries located along its banks. Unfortunately, some of these industries are a primary source of the river’s pollution.
Mining, energy production, and industrial agriculture are some of the most polluting industries along the Mississippi, and can cause an array of water quality issues. These companies are key to the local economy and many people depend on them for their livelihoods. Although the government is doing its part to regulate and reduce pollution, more action needs to be taken to address the root causes of pollution and reduce the burden on local communities.
Contamination of the Waterway
The water quality of the Mississippi River is directly influenced by the amount of pollutants entering the river. Contaminants such as mercury, PCBs, and agricultural runoff can have devastating impacts on the environment.
The most controversial pollutant to enter the Mississippi River has been high in nitrates. These nitrates come from fertilizer run-off, sewage treatment systems, and other sources, and cause high levels of algae growth. This can lead to low oxygen levels, killing fish and other aquatic animals, and causing long-term damage to the river system.
The Need for Preservation and Protection
The preservation and protection of the Mississippi River is a shared responsibility of the federal, state, and local governments. Their actions must be focused on reducing the environmental impacts of industry, and promoting sustainable economic activity.
Education is also important, as it can lead to a better understanding of the river’s ecology and its importance to the Midwest economy. The natural beauty and power of the Mississippi River can continue to inspire Americans, with solutions to preserving its future.
