Does The Mississippi River Flow Through Tennessee?
The mighty Mississippi River is over 2,350 miles long, nearly one third of which forms the western and northwestern boundaries of the State of Tennessee. But does the Mississippi actually originate and flow through the Volunteer State? Experts agree that the answer is yes.
The Mississippi River begins its journey at Lake Itasca in Northern Minnesota where it then flows south and east, passing through 10 states and eventually into the Gulf of Mexico near New Orleans. In Tennessee, the river begins in the Northwest part near Dyersburg and then travels across several cities before passing through the border of Mississippi.
The stretch of the Mississippi within the borders of Tennessee has been divided into two distinct parts, East and West Tennessee. As of 2020, one title company has estimated approximately 545 miles of riverfront property contained in the state. The West Tennessee section of the river begins in Dyersburg, crossing into cities such as Humboldt, Milan, Ripley and Covington. This section then passes the border of Arkansas and continues its way south into the Delta region.
The East Tennessee part of the Mississippi River flows through Obion County, passing the cities of Union City, Troy and a few other communities before eventually entering Kentucky near Hickman. It is during this stretch that the main branch of the river turns from South to East as it begins its way toward the Gulf of Mexico.
Given its importance to the state of Tennessee, the presence of the Mississippi River has had a major impact on the state’s economy and culture. In the past, many industries relied on the presence of the river for transportation and trade. The river has also been the home of historical sites and assisted the movement of the state’s population from cities such as Memphis, Nashville and Chattanooga.
These days, the Mississippi remains a major attraction. Tourists come to view the river in its natural habitat as it travels through Tennessee and into other states. Some areas also offer a unique riverboat experience, allowing visitors to cruise up and down the river and watch its beauty unfold.
Environmental Impact of The Mississippi
The Mississippi River has become a source of environmental concern in recent years. Areas of the river are polluted, primarily due to industrial waste and agricultural runoff. As the river flows through Tennessee, it picks up these pollutants, resulting in a significant environmental impact in the state.
In response, organizations and state agencies have implemented cleanup plans, which have led to some improvement in the water quality of the Mississippi River. In addition, technological advances in waste management have helped reduce the amount of pollutants entering the river. Nevertheless, many experts point out that more work needs to be done in order to keep the river clean and healthy.
Economic Value of the Mississippi
In addition to its environmental impact, the Mississippi River also continues to play an important role in the economy of Tennessee and the rest of the nation. Many industries rely on the river for transport, tourism, farming and fishing.
The river also serves as a source of hydropower, and is used to generate electricity in many areas, providing energy to thousands of people. Additionally, the river provides irrigation water to hundreds of acres of farmland in the state of Tennessee, allowing farmers to produce crops needed by the state’s population.
Given its importance to industry, it is not surprising that economic development along the Mississippi River has flourished in recent years. In particular, the cities of Memphis and Nashville now experience considerable growth, thanks to the presence of the river. There are ports along both sides of the river, providing easy access for businesses seeking to transport goods and services.
Recreational Value of The Mississippi
In addition to its economic value, the Mississippi River also provides invaluable recreational opportunities for the residents of Tennessee. Fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming are popular activities along the river, and many visitors come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and its surroundings.
The state of Tennessee also offers a number of camping sites, hiking trails and picnic areas along the river and its tributaries. Additionally, the presence of the Mississippi River has enabled many towns and cities to promote and develop their own river sport activities such as wakeboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, and tubing.
Preservation of The Mississippi River
Given its history, importance and potential for growth, the Mississippi River has become a point of contention for some. In order to preserve and protect the river, some advocacy groups have formed to speak out for its preservation.
The goal of these organizations is to ensure that the river maintains its value and potential for the benefit of future generations. Additionally, many organizations are pushing for changes in government policies and regulations in order to reduce the amount of pollutants entering the river.
These days, the Mississippi continues to remain a source of beauty and possibilities in Tennessee. If the river is preserved and appropriately regulated, it can continue to thrive, bringing joy and prosperity to the state in the years to come.
Historical Significance of The Mississippi
The Mississippi River has a long and storied history in Tennessee. In the early days of the Republic, the river was a popular transportation route for settlers from the East looking to expand the frontiers of the United States. The river was also key to the state’s success in growing cotton and other crops during the antebellum years.
During the Civil War, the Mississippi River was a major transportation route for both the Union and the Confederacy. Strategically located cities on both sides of the river served as important supply centers for the armies, leading to many battles and skirmishes around the river.
In more recent times, the Mississippi has seen technological advances such as the building of levees and hydroelectric plants. The presence of the river in the state has also allowed tourism to thrive, contributing to the economic health of the state.
Interaction of Humans and The Mississippi
Humans have been interacting with the Mississippi River for thousands of years. Native Americans were the first to use the river as a means of transportation, while subsequent settlers and Europeans were the first to exploit its resources, particularly the timber and fur trade.
Today, humans continue to use the Mississippi River in many different ways. In addition to using it for transportation, fishing and other commercial activities, humans are also using the river for recreation and relaxation. The river serves as an important natural resource, and is protected from human impact in many areas.
The presence of the Mississippi River in Tennessee is undeniable. In addition to providing economic and recreational value, the river also serves as an important reminder of the history and culture of the state. As long as the river is properly managed and preserved, it can continue to bless Tennessee for generations to come.
