Greetings, friend,

Have you visited your local stream or favorite Mississippi River spots recently? If so, what did you notice? Was the water low? Did you see anything else of interest, like animal tracks on the exposed river bank? Send me an email with a story or photo!

It's normal for water levels to be low this time of year, and it is part of the River's natural cycle. However, ongoing drought across much of the basin means even less water in the Mississippi River system, leading to even lower water levels that impact all who rely on the River. Did you know around 20 million people get their drinking water from the Mississippi? This includes our southeastern Louisiana community members who are feeling the effects of saltwater moving upstream, which is connected to the low River flow. (See the Mutual Aid section below for ways you can help).

World Rivers Day Event Recordings Available

Thanks to all who joined us to celebrate World Rivers Day in September. We had record event attendance with people registering from 16 different states! Whether you attended or not, you'll want to check out these recordings:

The Mississippi River 'Flyway' - Help Us Help Birds!  

The Mississippi River Flyway is one of the most important migratory routes for birds in America. Over 325 species of birds use it including 40% of North America's waterfowl. The route along the Mississippi River is critical for birds because it provides a clear path (no mountains) and wetlands for shelter and food. For a “bird's eye” view of the migration happening now, check out this Mississippi River Flyway Cam. With threats to the River and surrounding wetlands, this is an important time to act. Your donation to the Mississippi River Network will help us protect the people, land, water, and wildlife of the Mississippi River. Can we count on you?

Mutual Aid: Support Community Members Impacted by Saltwater Intrusion

Mississippi River Network member, The Water Collaborative of Greater New Orleans, shared this urgent message:

"As many of you are likely aware, southeastern Louisiana is facing a saltwater intrusion crisis in the Mississippi River. The crisis is expected to last for months, impacting the only fresh drinking water source for nearly one million residents. To add insult to injury, many homes in southeastern Louisiana contain lead and copper pipes that will corrode with heavy saltwater intrusion. Local organizations and concerned residents have been working together to bring mutual aid to impacted community members.

I am reaching out today to ask for your help in any way possible. Below is a list of short-term needs. If anyone has connections to entities that could possibly provide the resources needed, please reach out to The Water Collaborative team: Jessica Dandridge (jessica@nolawater.org), Taya Fontenette (taya@nolawater.org), and/or Keree Blanks (keree@nolawater.org).

• Groups are looking for a free bulk-supply of lead and copper testing strips to distribute to community members so they can test their tap water.
• Groups are looking for ways to bring sustainable sources of clean drinking and potable water to impacted residents.

Groups are also concerned about the public health impacts from high salt content and leached heavy metals from pipe corrosion. Folks in Plaquemines Parish are already experiencing detriments such as rashes after showers and toxic lead levels in children. We are looking for ways to provide free health screenings and treatment for impacted residents."

More information: If you'd like to learn more about saltwater intrusion and the situation in New Orleans, this Axios article is a good primer on the topic. For general questions, please contact info@1mississippi.org.