The Mississippi River’s Direction
The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States and one of the most powerful rivers in the world. Spanning over 2,300 miles, it is the primary drainage system for much of the United States and parts of Mexico and Canada. The river is also considered a vital transportation route for all kinds of people, goods, and resources.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Mississippi River is the direction in which it flows. Although the popular notion is that the river flows south, it actually flows north, moving from Minnesota to New Orleans and beyond. This phenomenon is due to the fact that the largest of the two headwaters of the river, the Missouri, actually flows south.
The Missouri is joined by the Ohio River, near St. Louis, and together they form the Mississippi. Since the Missouri is the largest of the two headwaters, it contributes more water to the Mississippi and as a result, the main flow is northward. Additionally, because of the river’s natural shape, its course is sloped from north to south, causing the main flow of the river to always be northward.
Many experts believe that this flow, the unique course of the river and the powerful force of the water have shaped much of the United States’ history. For example, Native American tribes such as the Sioux, Omaha, and Hocak used the river for transportation, hunting and to trade goods with other tribes. The river also served as an important route for explorations by Euro-American explorers and settlers.
The “backwards flowing” of the Mississippi is often confused with the phenomenon known as tidal bores, which are reverse tidal fluxes caused by the effects of the Moon and Sun on the Earth’s oceans and rivers. While a tidal bore can temporarily cause water to flow against the current, this effect is usually localized to the mouth of the river and is the result of an anomaly in the tides and not the actual flow of the river.
Because of its reverse flow, the Mississippi River is one of the few waterways in the world that does not follow the laws of gravity. The river’s unique characteristics also make it a crucial part of the United States’ physical and cultural identity.
Pollution in the Mississippi River
Although the Mississippi River is one of the most powerful and important rivers in the United States, it is also one of the most polluted. Pollution along the river has been an issue for decades, stemming from chemical runoff from farms, manufacturing processes and urban areas, population growth along its banks, and the increased use of recreational activities such as fishing.
Water pollution has a direct impact on the organisms living in the river and its tributaries, such as fish, amphibians, and mammals. Pollutants such as fertilizers, metals, and other chemicals can be toxic to fish and other aquatic species, and can cause deformities and disease. Pollution can also cause changes in water temperature, oxygen levels, and pH balance which can have profound effects on aquatic life.
The effects of water pollution on human health are also a serious concern. In some areas, drinking water supplies are affected, and gastrointestinal illness has been linked to swimming and contact with polluted water. Additionally, exposure to harmful chemicals can cause skin irritation, breathing difficulties, and other health problems.
The pollution of the Mississippi River has been an ongoing problem, and can be attributed to multiple factors. Many of these factors, such as industrial runoff, population growth, and agricultural practices, are difficult to directly address. Still, environmental agencies and lawmakers across the United States are taking steps to reduce the amount of pollutants being released into the river.
In recent years, efforts have been made to reduce the amount of fertilizer runoff from farms and to prevent sewage from entering the river. Additionally, laws have been put in place to reduce industrial pollution and to enforce stricter standards for wastewater treatment. These efforts have been largely successful, and have helped to make the Mississippi River a safer and healthier waterway.
Economic Value of the Mississippi River
The economic value of the Mississippi River is immeasurable. The river provides essential goods and services, as well as employment, to millions of people within its watershed. For thousands of years, people have depended on the Mississippi River for transportation, food, and resources.
The tourism industry along the Mississippi River brings in billions of dollars each year, and many cities and towns rely on the river for their livelihood. In addition, the river provides a major transportation route to the Midwest and beyond. In some areas, the river is even used to transport grain and other commodities.
The Mississippi River also serves as a crucial source of drinking water for many communities. In addition, the river helps to regulate climate, recharging aquifers and preventing floods. In short, the Mississippi River is a vital part of the United States’ economic prosperity, and serves as an essential resource for countless people throughout the region.
The River’s Cultural Legacy
The Mississippi River has played an integral role in the culture of many cities and towns along its banks. It is a source of inspiration for literature, art, music, and films. For example, Mark Twain’s masterpiece, “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”, was based on the Mississippi River and its influence on the lives of people in the South.
The Mississippi River is also at the center of many folk stories and myths, the most famous of which is the legend of the Mississippi Mermaid. This legendary creature has been the subject of books, songs, films, and television shows, and has become an integral part of the region’s culture.
Additionally, the river has served as the backdrop for numerous films, most notably those of the seminal director, John Ford. Ford’s films often featured the Mississippi River, and his classic westerns have become some of the most iconic representations of American culture.
For all these reasons, the Mississippi River has been a source of exploration, inspiration, commerce, and recreation for generations. From its unique shape and direction to its legendary status, the Mississippi River is an undeniable part of the United States’ cultural identity.
Recreational Activities on the Mississippi River
One of the most popular activities on the Mississippi River is recreational boating and fishing. Fishing is allowed along most of the river, and the abundance of fish makes it a popular spot for anglers. Boating activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and tubing are also popular, and are a great way to explore the stunning scenery and wildlife along the river.
In addition, the Mississippi is home to a variety of wildlife, and is an important habitat for numerous species of birds, fish, and mammals. A wide selection of wildlife refuges and nature preserves have been established along the banks of the river, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore the region’s unique ecosystem.
The Mississippi River is also a popular destination for sightseeing, with many historical sites and attractions located along its banks. Major cities such as Memphis, New Orleans, and St. Louis allow visitors to experience the best that the river has to offer.
From its role in culture and commerce to its recreational activities, the Mississippi River is one of the most important waterways in the world. Its unique reverse flow is an undeniable part of its character, and its effects are far-reaching and timeless.
Summary and Discussion
The Mississippi River is one of the world’s most majestic and powerful waterways. Spanning over 2,300 miles, it is the primary drainage system for much of the United States, Mexico, and Canada and is considered a vital transportation route for people, goods, and resources. Its unique reverse flow is a result of the larger Missouri River contributing more water to the flow and its natural shape.
In addition to its unique shape and flow, the Mississippi River is also a major source of contamination, with pollutants entering the river from multiple sources. The effects of these pollutants on the river’s ecosystem and human health are significant and are of great concern to many environmentalists.
The economic impact of the Mississippi River on the United States is immeasurable. The river provides essential goods and services and is an important source of employment for millions of people within its watershed. Additionally, the river’s cultural legacy is strong, with its influence on American literature and films undeniable.
The Mississippi River is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing. As a result, the river is of great importance to the United States in both economic and cultural terms.
