Mississippi River Lock and Dam

This is the Mel Price lock and dam at Alton, IL.  The view is from the Missouri side of the River.  The 1200 foot lock chamber is on the right.  This lock and Lock 27 carry all the traffic from the Illinois, Upper Mississippi, and Missouri Rivers. River transportation is extremely important to Midwest agriculture.  Most of the crops for export travel the inland river system.  Agriculture would benefit greatly if there were more 1200 foot locks.  The Mississippi is free flowing from here south. 

Melvin Price Lock and Dam 26