How drought is impacting the Mississippi River, Illinois farmers, and commerce
The bank of the Mississippi River is seen, Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, near Cairo, Ill. Parts of the Mississippi River have been at historic lows after drought conditions have persisted this fall. AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel
The Mississippi River is one of the most important waterways for transporting goods across America. This year, low water levels are limiting barge traffic and thus have become a concern for farmers across the Midwest.
This is not the first year this has been a problem. In fact, last year, water levels were so low it led to new discoveries.
The head of an organization that focuses on transporation issues in relation to the soybean industry as well as a hydrologist join the 21st to discuss how the water levels have affected harvesting as well as the other impacts of flooding and droughts.
GUESTS
Mike Steenhoek
Executive Director, Soy Transportation Coalition
Shawn DeVinny
Hydrologist, North Central River Forecast Center, National Weather Service