What runs for miles and miles but has legs and five eyes (i's)?  The Mississippi River.  When we speak of droughts, we mostly refer to how the lack of rainfall affects crops, livestock and our lawns.  We don't really think about how it might affect river levels and what effect this may have on our lives.  Since my office is located in St. Louis, MO, we are constantly reminded about the low levels on the Mississippi River through the news. 

The Mississippi is the nation's artery of commerce.  More than 500 tons of grain, coal and other goods are moved on this mighty river every year.  More than 400,000 US jobs depend on the flow of river traffic.  Every day the traffic stops, the US economy loses an estimated $300 million.  Approximately, 55-65% of the US corn, soybean and wheat exports exit the country via the Gulf of Mexico.  Shippers, who moved about $7 billion in commodities on the Mississippi in December and January alone, have been monitoring river water levels amid concerns about a potential closure for months. 

The river must be at least 9 feet deep to maintain a channel for barge shipping.  As river levels continue to fall, many restrictions are put in place for barge operators.  Most barges are carrying half to three-quarter loads and some barge operators say they'll halt shipping if they face additional restrictions from reduced water levels.  Experts who watch the Mississippi River say they haven't seen river levels this low since the 1940's.  With the reduction of product allowed on the barges, shipping costs will increase, which will then be passed on to consumers through higher food costs according to Mike Strain, Louisiana Dept. of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner.  Now that winter is ending and spring is on its way, we can hope for April showers to not only bring May flowers, but bring some relief to those whose livelihoods rely on the mighty Mississippi.

Manager, St. Louis

dawn.davenport@allenlund.com