Yes, Lake Michigan is connected to the Mississippi River through an artificial connection established by the construction of canals and channels, particularly the Illinois and Michigan Canal and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.
Historical Background
Prior to the construction of these canals, the Chicago Portage, a narrow drainage divide, separated the Des Plaines River (part of the Mississippi drainage) from the West Branch of the Chicago River (which flowed into Lake Michigan). This natural barrier prevented the direct connection of the two systems.
Reversal of the Chicago River
The flow of the Chicago River was reversed in 1900 with the completion of the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. This reversal was done to separate Chicago’s sewage from its drinking water supply and to facilitate shipping commerce from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River.
Illinois Waterway
The Illinois Waterway system, which includes the Illinois River and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, provides a navigable route from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River. The system consists of 336 miles of navigable water and includes eight locks and dams managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Ecological Implications
The artificial connection between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River has significant ecological implications. It allows for the movement of invasive species, such as the round goby and zebra mussel, from the Mississippi basin into the Great Lakes, causing harm to ecosystems and significant financial costs for control measures. Additionally, there is concern about the potential invasion of Asian carp from the Mississippi basin into the Great Lakes, which could have devastating effects on the ecosystem and commercial fishing industries.
Separation Debate
Some scientists argue that the artificial connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River should be severed to prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the ecosystems of both systems. This would involve reestablishing a land divide between the two systems, which would require significant investment and infrastructure changes.
Key Facts
- Lake Michigan is connected to the Mississippi River through an artificial connection established by the construction of canals and channels.
- The flow of the Chicago River was reversed in 1900 to facilitate shipping commerce and separate Chicago’s sewage from its drinking water supply.
- The Illinois Waterway system provides a navigable route from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River, consisting of 336 miles of waterway and eight locks and dams.
- The artificial connection has allowed the movement of invasive species, such as the round goby and zebra mussel, from the Mississippi basin into the Great Lakes, causing ecological and financial harm.
- Some scientists argue that the artificial connection should be severed to prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the ecosystems of both the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.