In order to allow farming of the Mississippi River floodplain and prevent flooding, the River has been isolated from the floodplain by levees.
Isolating rivers from their floodplains has been detrimental to aquatic flora and fauna. Furthermore, shoreline and island erosion have resulted in excessive connectivity between some aquatic habitats while sedimentation has limited connectivity in others.
Recreating the physical attributes of the river ecosystem to meet restoration goals is a critical part of ongoing efforts to restore the River.
