Miami River
Geography
The Miami River is a river in the United States state of Florida that drains out of the Everglades and runs through the city of Miami, including Downtown. The 5.5-mile (8.9 km) long river flows from the terminus of the Miami Canal at Miami International Airport to Biscayne Bay. It was originally a natural river inhabited at its mouth by the Tequesta Indians, but it was dredged and is now polluted as a result of 20th-century urban development and industry.
History
The Miami River is believed to have originated as a tidal channel 4,000 years ago. It formed as a result of water from the Everglades flowing into Biscayne Bay, which was a half mile wide shallow lagoon at the time. The Miami River was created in its contemporary form in 1925 by the Miami Canal dredging project, which drained the Everglades for agricultural use. The river has been known by several names. Spanish records from the 16th century refer to it as the "Rio Ratones" (Mouse River), and it was known as the "Sweetwater River" during the English colonial period.
Hydrology
The Miami River is a short river with a long history. It is only about 5.5 miles long, but it is a major waterway in the Miami area. The river begins at the Miami Canal, which is a man-made canal that was built to drain the Everglades for agricultural use. The river then flows eastward through the city of Miami, passing through the downtown area before emptying into Biscayne Bay. The river is tidal and has a very low flow rate, which is typical of rivers in flat coastal areas.
Ecology
The Miami River is home to a variety of wildlife, despite its urban setting. The river and its banks are home to many species of birds, fish, and invertebrates. The river is also an important habitat for manatees, which are often seen in the river, especially in the winter months when the river provides a warm refuge. However, the river's ecosystem is threatened by pollution, urban development, and invasive species.
Economy
The Miami River has played a significant role in the economy of Miami and South Florida. Historically, the river was used by the Tequesta Indians and later by European settlers for transportation and trade. Today, the river is a major shipping route, with over $4 billion in cargo passing through the Port of Miami River each year. The river is also a popular destination for recreational boating.