The Mississippi River is the second longest in the United States, stretching 2,350 miles through 10 states before it reaches its southernmost point in the Gulf of Mexico. From origin to mouth, it flows for a total of 3,710 miles. It is often called the “Mighty Mississippi,” and it is definitely a monumental and powerful river which generates an impact throughout its long journey. One of these stops is Memphis, Tennessee, a major city along the river about 290 miles from the mouth.
Does the Mississippi River flow through Memphis? The simple answer is yes. As Memphis is situated on the banks of the Mississippi, the river flows through its downtown district. The portion of the river which runs through Memphis also serves as the boundary between Arkansas and Mississippi, as well as Tennessee and Mississippi.
The most famous feature of the Mississippi which runs through Memphis is an isolated island in the middle of the river known as Chickasaw Bluff. It is an important feature of the Memphis skyline, and even served as a defensive position during the Civil War in the 1800s. It is also the starting point of the Mississippi River Trail, a 3,000 mile biking and hiking path which follows the course of the river.
Memphis has a great appreciation and respect for the Mississippi River, and it is celebrated as a major part of the city’s history. “Memphis on the Mississippi” is the city’s motto, and there is a 30-mile stretch of land between the river and Memphis International Airport. Called the “Mighty Mississippi Flyway,” it is a bird sanctuaries which hosts hundreds of species each winter. In fact, birding is a popular activity in the city, with several birdwatching festivals a year.
The Mississippi River offers many opportunities for businesses and activities related to infrastructure, transportation, agricultural production, and recreation. The Port of Memphis, the fourth busiest inland port in the US, is a hub of activity located along the Mississippi River. Logistics companies receive shipments of material to be distributed throughout the city, as well as container shipments from other countries. Barge traffic is abundant, as well, with barges hauling grain, petroleum, chemicals and other commodities from businesses up and down the river.
The Mississippi River is a powerful and majestic force, and it holds important significance for the city of Memphis. From the isolated island of Chickasaw Bluff to the Port of Memphis, the river connects the city to the rest of the world. Memphis would not be the same without its strong link to the Mississippi.
Importance in Memphis’ History
Although the city of Memphis is known for its vibrant music culture and as the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” its roots extend much deeper. Long before recorded music, Memphis was a trading post along the Mississippi. It was founded in the early 19th century and quickly became a prominent economic and commercial hub in the area. Much of that success was due to the river, which connected Memphis to other markets and enabled it to thrive.
The presence of the Mississippi River also played a key role in the Civil War. After the May 1862 Battle of Memphis, during which the Union army seized control of the city, the city had a series of explosive growths for the next several years. After the war, industries such as lumber, cotton, and manufactures took root in the city. All of this growth was due in part to the river.
Today, the Mississippi River continues to be important to the city of Memphis. It serves as an outlet for businesses to export their goods and is also a major source of recreation. In fact, a study conducted in 2017 found that nearly 70 percent of people in the Memphis area visit the riverbanks each year. This statistic is a testament to the significant impact the river has had on this city throughout the years.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River has long provided a valuable resource for commerce, recreation, and transportation. Unfortunately, it also has a substantial environmental impact due to the release of pollutants from upstream sources. This pollution has had devastating effects on the river and its associated ecosystems.
For example, a study from 2017 found that pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment are entering the river and its tributaries at an alarming rate. This pollution has caused degradation of habitat, water quality degradation, and a decrease in aquatic life populations. Fish populations have suffered, as have birds and other wildlife. Furthermore, this pollution has had an effect on the drinking water in the area, as some of the contaminated water finds its way into residential water supplies.
The Mississippi River provides an economic and recreational benefit to the city of Memphis. However, it is also a reminder of the need to consider the environmental impact of our actions. While the river may be “mighty,” it is increasingly vulnerable to pollution and other negative effects. If we are not careful, the river which has shaped so much of the history of Memphis may not be around for much longer.
Preservation Efforts
Despite the unfortunate impact of pollution on the Mississippi River, there are a number of organizations and individuals working to preserve the river and its associated ecosystems. The Nature Conservancy, for example, has been working to protect the river for over 150 years. It has developed projects such as the Great Mississippi River Migratory Bird Corridor to mitigate the environmental damage inflicted by pollutants.
In addition, there are a number of local organizations in the Memphis area which are dedicated to protecting the Mississippi River. These include the Wolf River Conservancy, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the Memphis Rivers Organization. These organizations promote awareness of the river’s importance to the community and attempt to find solutions to the river’s problems.
There is also the Mississippi Flyway sancutary which is managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This important sanctuary is home to many species of birds and other wildlife, and it provides a crucial stopover for birds which migrate along the Mississippi River.
These organizations, as well as individuals and businesses, are working hard to ensure that the Mississippi River remains the “Mighty Mississippi” for generations to come. Their efforts emphasize the importance of this river, not only to Memphis but to the entire country.
Conservation Projects
In addition to preservation and awareness efforts, a number of projects have been developed throughout the region to improve the health of the Mississippi River and its surrounding environment. These projects have included initiatives to restore wetlands, reduce non-point source pollution, and reintroduce native species.
For example, the Memphis Wildlife Management Area is an 8,200 acre area along the banks of the Mississippi. The goal of this project is to improve water quality, restore habitat, and reintroduce native species such as the American burying beetle. It is an important step in ensuring the future of the river and its associated ecosystems.
In addition, the Wolf River Conservancy has created a number of restoration projects along the Wolf River, a major tributary of the Mississippi. These projects are designed to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and increase wildlife habitat. They also seek to popularize the use of the Wolf River for recreation, such as canoeing and kayaking.
The Mississippi River and the surrounding area are becoming increasingly important as a haven for wildlife and a source of recreation. Organizations such as the Wolf River Conservancy and the Nature Conservancy are essential for ensuring the future of this unique resource.
Problems Addressed
The Mississippi River and its associated ecosystems are facing serious challenges due to pollution, development, and a changing climate. If not addressed, these problems could have a devastating impact on the river, its wildlife, and its recreational and economic value.
In response, federal, state, and local agencies are taking a proactive approach to protect and restore the river. The Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee, for example, is a coalition of state, federal and local agencies which is working together to protect and restore the river and its associated ecosystems.
In addition, local businesses and individuals are joining forces to address the challenges the river is facing. One example is the Memphis Water Collaborative, which is a partnership between the city of Memphis and an array of organizations which are focused on ensuring the quality of the city’s drinking water and the health of local ecosystems. This collaborative is working to identify problems and create solutions for an improved water future.
There is no doubt that the Mississippi River and its associated ecosystems are facing serious issues which must be addressed. But with the help of individuals, organizations, and governments, it will remain a powerful, majestic force which continues to shape the city of Memphis.
