The Mississippi River is an iconic waterway, stretching over 2,500 miles. Known as the second longest river in the United States, it passes through 10 states on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Does the Mississippi River go through Iowa? The answer is yes, the mighty Mississippi flows through the southeastern corner of Iowa.
At its closest approach the Mississippi River enters Iowa at approximately mile marker 754 near Muscatine, and then snakes its way along 351 miles of the state’s perimeter before exiting near Hamburg. As it passes through the state, it acts as an important transportation corridor. Additionally, it helps provide power and water to cities in Iowa. The river is also host to an array of wildlife and diverse habitats, making it a popular destination for adventurers, anglers, and bird-watchers alike.
Straddling two mighty rivers, Iowa is no stranger to floods. The Hawkeye state has seen its fair share of disasters, including the Great Flood of 1993. Often noted as the worst and most costly natural disaster in America, the floods devastated towns, farms, and homes from North Dakota all the way to Louisiana. When natural disasters happen, they disproportionately affect rural communities in the riverine areas. For example, the 1993 disaster impacted over 15,000 homes in Iowa as well as hundreds of businesses and millions of acres of farmland.
Despite both the utility and risks associated with the Mississippi, Iowa has seen great successes in managing the river’s resources. For instance, the state has seen great improvements in the quality of its waters, thanks to efforts such as wetland restoration and habitat protection. This improvement was highlighted in 1989 when the town of Keosauqua was using the river as its source of drinking water. As of today, the river is regularly monitored for water safety and quality.
Understanding how to optimize the Mississippi for agricultural and recreational purposes is a big part of managing it. For example, the University of Iowa is examining the Mississippi from a holistic perspective in order to better quantify how it affects the region economically, socially and environmentally. Their research focuses on the Upper Mississippi basin region, which spans from Cairo, Illinois to North Dakota.
Experts are also finding innovative ways to reduce the impacts of flooding. Dams are one such example. By building dams, states can control the amount of water entering the rivers and streams. This can help reduce the amount of erosion and flooding, while maintaining a smoother flow of water. In addition, the structures are beneficial aesthetically, providing beautiful views and wildlife habitats. Similarly, Iowa has also invested in an aggressive wetlands inventory, mapping and protection program to help prevent floods.
The state of Iowa is committed to balancing the competing interests associated with the Mississippi River. By managing its natural resources sensibly and investing in informed decisions, Iowa can ensure that the Mississippi River continues to support its residents and provide recreational opportunities for everyone.
Historical Significance
While the original source of the Mississippi River begins in Minnesota, the river has come to symbolize an integral part of American culture and history. From the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the Freedom Riders Movement, the Mississippi has been part of some of the nation’s most defining moments. It is also a source of fascination and discovery, a place of pilgrimage, a spiritualizing landscape that has drawn creative communities and artists.
The Mississippi has also served as an important boundary between northern and southern states throughout the years. While it historically marked the division between free and slave states, the river continues to be a powerful symbol for civil rights. Particularly for black Americans, it is a living reminder of the journey towards freedom and justice. Its importance is highlighted by famous references in music, such as the lyrics of Blues musician Robert Johnson.
Today, the river remains an important landmark, forming the eastern border of the state of Iowa. Its historical significance is further emphasized by the Unites States Geological Survey, who manages the nation’s rivers, enabling research, navigation and conservation of these precious resources.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi river serves many essential functions, among them being that of a natural waterway flowing all the way to the gulf of Mexico. This waterway provides important ecosystem services, including connecting habitats, transporting nutrients and serving as a source of drinking water. It additionally serves as a gateway for recreation, providing camping, fishing and many other activities. The Mississippi River is both beautiful and powerful, but it can also cause erosion, deforestation and pollution.
The river’s ability to accelerate the transport of pollutants and disrupt the natural water cycle is best evidenced by the presence of chemical runoff from agricultural activities. For example, large quantities of Nitrogen and Phosphorus from the Mississippi’s main tributaries, including the Missouri and Ohio Rivers, are transported in the main stream, causing a decrease in water quality. In order to prevent further degradation, researchers are working to understand the environmental dynamics of the region, tracking aquatic debris and measuring the biosorption of nutrients.
Furthermore, the expansion of infrastructure along the river has enabled increased navigability, but has also caused physical and chemical impacts. For instance, the construction of dams along the Mississippi has triggered the displacement of aquatic species, which can in turn affect food chains. Similarly, invasive species, such as the Asian Carp, have caused a disruption in the balance of local ecosystems, leading to further deterioration of aquatic life.
To mitigate these impacts, the Mississippi River’s stakeholders must come together to find a holistic solution. Combining the educational efforts of the University of Iowa and state programs, with the conservation and protection of wildlife and water quality management, will ensure that the Mississippi retains its status as an iconic river, while protecting its inhabitants and resources.
Development of Communities
For centuries, communities across the Mississippi River region have strived to develop their societies to improve the quality of life for their citizens. By definition, the Mississippi basin is among the most heavily populated regions of the United States with strong transportation links, including freight and passenger railroads, barges, and watercraft. As cities and towns continue to develop, the landscape of the region is changing. With the surge in urbanization and population growth has come an increase in communication, trade, and the arrival of the contemporary economy.
Proponents of economic development argue that developing regions helps communities become more competitive and efficient. These efforts often result in a stronger local economy and job market, leading to improvements in housing, transportation, and healthcare. Additionally, infrastructural developments contribute to the overall impression of the region, and can positively shape peoples’ expectations of living, working and visiting the area.
The Mississippi River has been at the center of economic activity in the United States for many years. From Chester Alan Arthur’s railroad expansion in the early 1880s to the building of the Interstate Highway System and the steamboat era, all these efforts have been aimed at improving the communities along the way. While there is much work to be done to continue developing these communities, it is comforting to know that the Mississippi River continues to play an integral role in fostering the development of these towns.
Recreational Activities
The Mississippi River is not only a vital source of transportation and commerce, but also serves as a popular destination for recreational activities. From fishing to wildlife viewing and bird-watching, the area surrounding the Mississippi River abounds with opportunities.
The Mississippi River basin is home to dozens of species, including black bears, river otters and bald eagles, making it a great place to observe wildlife and learn about the local ecology. Additionally, the river offers great fishing opportunities for those looking for Walleye, Largemouth or smallmouth bass, and other species of fish. The plethora of choices for recreational activities makes the river an attractive destination for all types of visitors, be it adrenaline seekers looking for adventure or those seeking a more relaxed and tranquil getaway.
In addition, there are several parks and historic sites along the Mississippi River, providing people with a plethora of recreational opportunities. For example, McNeil’s Riverview Park in Iowa provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi and offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking and bird-watching. Additionally, it is the perfect place to relax and watch the sunset.
National Wildlife Refuges, such as the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, also offer great recreational opportunities. In addition, the refuge helps protect and preserve the area’s unique fauna and flora. This ensures that the area will remain an attractive destination for those looking to spend quality time in the great outdoors.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River runs through the southeastern corner of Iowa, and its influence stretches much further than the state’s physical borders. From providing essential sources of drinking water to serving as an important transportation corridor, the river is an iconic part of American culture.
In order to preserve its utility and beauty, states must come together to implement preventive measures and manage its natural resources sensibly. Through the restoration of habitats and wetlands, the establishment of physical boundaries such as dams, and the protection of water quality, the public and private sectors are working together to ensure that the Mississippi River remains a sustainable source of life for years to come.
