The Mississippi River helped build the United States. It made possible the giant agricultural expansion of the 19th century. It is still a crucial artery of industry.

Only from above do you get an impression of the scale of man’s impact. Less than 50 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, huge plants flank the banks. There are vast chemical, gas and steel works, all making use of Mississippi water.

The river also drains 40% of the US and the run-off from farmers’ fields has taken it toll. Pesticides, herbicides and general agricultural run-off flows in to the Mississippi.

This perilous cocktail ends up in the Gulf of Mexico and has created a Dead Zone, nearly 5,000 square miles of water, where NOTHING lives.

“This is a huge tract of sea which has been totally de-oxygenated, absolutely nothing can survive,” said Marine Biologist Professor Ivor Van Heerden.

While many farmers are reluctant to change their methods, there are those who want to be part of the solution, not the problem.

Cancer Ally

Downstream another problem. Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans lies a stretch of river some call Cancer Ally.

More than one hundred industrial plants flank mainly poor or minority neighborhoods. Residents say cancer rates in the area are above average.

Companies say their operations ARE clean and safe. They say cancer rates are no higher than the national average when you take into account the way people lead their lives and factor in habits like smoking.

Loud-speakers have also been installed in the street to warn residents of dangerous emissions. Every now and then locals are warned to stay indoors and turn off their air conditioners to avoid noxious fumes. (Source: Aljazeera)

Story Date: September 2, 2010