Mississippi River Levels Replenished Ahead of Fall Harvest
The Mississippi River is expected to have sufficient levels going into the fall harvest season due to active weather throughout the summer, according to Trent Ford, Illinois State Climatologist. This is a welcome change from previous years when dry falls contributed to low river levels that restricted barge traffic and reduced grain exports.
Unlike in recent years, this year's river levels are not approaching problematic levels, allowing for smooth transportation of goods. The Missouri, Illinois, and Ohio River basins have received sufficient rainfall, replenishing the river's water supply.
About half of all U.S. corn, soybean, and wheat exports move through the Mississippi River each year. Ford notes that even if the region experiences dry conditions in the coming weeks or months, the current levels should still be adequate to support barge traffic.