The Mississippi River: Mighty and Managed

Catalog description

This course examines how land and river management of the "Mighty Mississippi" have resulted in both infrastructure we depend on and significant environmental damage. This course examines reasons for river management; underserved communities along the river; and controversies with river transportation, flooding, recreation, pollution, and invasive species. Students study this dynamic and highly manipulated part of our "natural" landscape through readings, field trips, guest lectures, and discussion to develop a personal connection to the river and foster an understanding of how changes in one part of a hydrologic system impact those upstream and downstream. Offered Spring - Odd Numbered Years.