VOICED: Drought shrinks Mississippi -- and barge business

The Mississippi River is experiencing its worst drought in 50 years, causing water levels to drop significantly. This has led to challenges for shippers, as they face equipment damage and reduced barge capacity. The economic impact is severe, with potential losses for growers and shippers, leading to possible price hikes for consumers. Efforts are underway to manage the river's flow and depth through dredging and channel improvements, but the drought is expected to persist until November.

What is one of the main challenges faced by shippers due to the drought on the Mississippi River?

• Increased water levels

• Damaged equipment

• Faster river currents

• More frequent storms

How does the current drought compare to past events in the region?

• It is similar to the 2011 flood

• It is the first drought in the region

• It is the worst drought since 1988

• It is less severe than the 1988 drought

What percentage of US grain exports are affected by the Mississippi River's low water levels?

• 30%

• 80%

• 50%

• 60%

What measures are engineers taking to manage the Mississippi River's flow during the drought?

• Constructing new ports

• Increasing water release from dams

• Dredging and design changes

• Building bridges

When do forecasters predict the drought might end?

• By December

• By November

• By October

• By January