In a letter to Meriwether Lewis dated June 20, 1803, Thomas Jefferson stated "The object of your mission is to explore the Missouri river, & such principal stream of it, as, by it's course & communication with the waters of the Pacific Ocean, whether the Columbia, Oregon, Colorado or and other river may offer the most direct & practicable water communication across this continent, for the purposes of commerce." Throughout human history, rivers have been an essential component in the successful development of a society's trade, commerce, wealth, and knowledge. These water highways created the opportunities to connect with other people, exchange goods and cultural artifacts, and expand boundaries. To succeed in their journey, the Corps of Discovery traversed many rivers, including the powerful Missouri and Mississippi. Today's videoconference comes from the new National Great Rivers Museum located in Alton, Illinois, near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Interacting with experts from the museum and the Corps of Engineers, students have the chance to learn about the power and flow of the Mississippi River then and now.
Contents of the Broadcast:
1. Opening to 4:53--Introduction, welcome, orientation to the day's topic, introduction of guest expert Carol Ryan (Director of the National Great Rivers Museum), and overview of the Corps of Engineers' role with rivers
2. 4:53 to 24:27--This section focuses on the "natural power" of rivers with information on how rivers are formed, how their channels change, creation of ox-bow lakes, and formation of deltas. Additional topics include specific information about the Mississippi River including its origins, length and route, its support of wildlife, and the impact of pollution on the river. Images are included to visualize the topics discussed and many student questions are included.
3. 24:27 to 44:11-This segment details the "economic power" of the river. Topics include the economic impact of the river on transportation and commerce, the use of locks and dams to facilitate river traffic today, how those locks and dams are constructed, and their effects on wildlife. Photos and video footage is included on the Melvin Price Lock and Dam located at the National Great Rivers Museum in Alton, Illinois. Video shows how the dam operates today, how it was constructed and how boats navigate through the locks. Student questions are also included.
4. 44:11 to 59:42-We turn our attention to the "emotional power" of the river. Scott Mandrell of the Discovery Expedition joins us as we view footage of the Discovery Expedition's replica keelboat going through the lock during the webcast. Student questions are also included.
5. 59:42 to End--Closing comments, thanks to all involved, and goodbye.
