The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to construct an underwater barrier to protect freshwater supplies.
Low Water Levels Lead to Saltwater Intrusion
The Mississippi River, a crucial waterway for both commerce and drinking water, is currently experiencing low water levels. As a result, seawater from the Gulf of Mexico has begun creeping up the riverbed, threatening freshwater supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has responded to this urgent situation with a plan to halt the intrusion.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Response to Saltwater Intrusion
Construction of an Underwater Sill
In response to the advancing saltwater, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced plans to construct an underwater sill across the Mississippi River channel. This barrier is designed to prevent the further migration of saltwater, safeguarding freshwater intakes along the river.
According to Matt Roe, a spokesman for the Corps, “The conditions have reached the point where the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is set to construct an underwater sill to prevent further saltwater migration from the Gulf of Mexico.”
Strategic Location and Methodology
The underwater sill will be constructed near Myrtle Grove, Louisiana, using sediment dredged from a designated area. This strategic location was chosen to effectively block the upstream movement of the saltwater wedge, ensuring that the freshwater sources along the river remain uncontaminated.
Timeline and Future Considerations
Two-Week Construction Timeline
The construction of the underwater sill is expected to take approximately two weeks. During this period, the Corps will work diligently to ensure the barrier is in place before the saltwater advances further upstream.
Natural Erosion of the Sill
Once the river’s flow rate increases to a level capable of preventing the salt wedge from progressing, the sill will naturally erode. This design allows the river to return to its natural state without requiring additional interventions.
Protecting Freshwater Resources Along the Mississippi River
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ proactive approach to constructing the underwater sill is crucial for protecting freshwater resources along the Mississippi River. As seawater continues to threaten these vital water sources, the Corps’ swift response aims to mitigate the risk and ensure the continued availability of freshwater for the communities and industries that rely on the river.