The problem I am researching is river flow in the Mississippi River. River flow is the amount of water moving through the river. Some of the factors that change the amount of water in the river are changes in rain and snowfall, how we use water and control runoff are just some of the factors that cause river flow. It is important to see how much water is in the river because of water's ability to erode soil and carry pollutants. River flow plays a role is water quality and the health of the aquatic habitat. River conditions can change based on flow conditions. High and low flows can have positive and negative results.

HIGH FLOW
Positive:
*dilute some of the pollutant
Negative:
*more erosion
*flooding
*habitats destroyed
*can carry more pollutants

LOW FLOW
Positive:
*can carry less pollutants
*less flooding
Negative:
*can increase algae levels(algae affects aquatic life and recreation)

The way we use the land increases the flow. Hard surfaces like roads and sidewalks add to the increase. To help reduce river flow, water should infiltrate the ground. You can install rain gardens, rain barrels, pervious pavers and green roofs.

Rain barrels help keep river flow low.

Keeps contaminants from going in the river.

Picking up poop helps keep bacteria down and not harm the river.