The Mississippi River is one of the world’s largest rivers, dominating the United States landscape and economy. But does the Mississippi River cut through Canada? Though the river doesn’t technically flow through the country, it does border the Great Lakes, with several branches extending close to Canada before draining into the Gulf of Mexico. In this article, we’ll look at the impact of Mississippi River on Canada, analyzing the relationship between the two and exploring ways in which the river may be of benefit to both Canadian and American communities.
Though the river isn’t in Canada, its waters had an enormous impact on the economy of the Great Lakes region in the early 19th Century. Stretching from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River was a critical transportation corridor for the fur trade, lumber, and people. At the time, buffalo and deer hides were exported from Canada to the United States, and floated down the river for sale. Moreover, the river linked all of the Great Lakes together, and allowed products and goods to be shipped to and from Montreal and the other major Canadian cities.
In modern times, the river isn’t so much a highway as it is an ecological connector. According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Mississippi River is home to more than 400 species of fish, as well as mussels, turtles, amphibians, and other wildlife. From its northernmost point to the Gulf of Mexico, it serves as a crucial habitat, providing fish with a spawning ground, food, and shelter. Researchers have noted that the Mississippi River is home to walleye, northern pike, lake whitefish, lake sturgeon, lake trout, and lake herring, all of which are capable of migrating via the Great Lakes.
Additionally, the Mississippi River creates a wetland habitat by overflowing its banks during the spring floods, allowing wildlife and human populations to benefit from its nutrient-rich waters. The USFWS notes that the floodplain and levee system provide valuable shelter and habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife, which results in improved fisheries, healthier populations of birds and other wildlife species, and improved water quality.
Though the river doesn’t technically flow through Canada, it’s had an enormous ecological, economic and cultural impact on the Great Lakes region. It’s been a vital transportation corridor in the past and the home to a diverse array of wildlife today. While the river isn’t a major focus of Canadian-American relations, it does provide a chance for regional collaboration, wherein the two countries can share resources and work together for a better future for the Great Lakes region.
Canadian Collaboration
Given the river’s importance to the region, Canada has a vested interest in preserving its waters and ensuring that it continues to be a rich source of resources. As such, both countries have signed multiple bilateral agreements over the years. In 1994, the United States and Canada issued the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, which established a binational action plan for the protection and enhancement of the water resources in the Great Lakes Basin. It was the first legally binding transboundary agreement of its kind in the world, and it sought to tackle issues such as pollution, point source control, habitat degradation, and water quantity.
The two countries also formed the International Joint Commission (IJC) in 1909, which was intended to provide a forum for the peaceful settlement of any disputes arising out of their shared interests in the Great Lakes and other bodies of water. Since then, the IJC has worked to promote cooperative efforts between the two countries in the development and management of their shared waters. Of particular importance has been their effort to reduce the risk of invasive species like Asian carp that can be transported through the waterways.
Finally, the Mississippi River has been a key factor in the trade and culture between the two countries. According to the US Department of State, the river provides “an important route for trade and tourism, allowing the two countries to be very closely linked.” By promoting trade and travel, the river helps both countries to engage in commerce and increase ties.
In conclusion, though the Mississippi River does not flow through Canada, it has had a massive impact on the region. From its economic and ecological importance to its continued cultural connections, the river serves as a critical link between Canadian and American communities.
Pipeline Projects
Recently, the Mississippi River has become a source of controversy as it relates to the proposed Energy East pipeline, which would transport crude oil from Alberta and Saskatchewan to Canadian ports on the East Coast. The Canadian Energy Pipeline Association notes that the pipeline would unlock billions of dollars of economic activity and would be a boon to the region, creating jobs and economic opportunity.
However, some see the pipeline as a threat to the environment and local communities who live along the river’s banks. There is little doubt that the pipeline will require an extensive construction process, and that it will impact the environment along its route. Moreover, pipelines pose a risk of leaking and spilling, which can put nearby populations, plants, and animals at risk of harm.
Given these concerns, it’s increasingly important for both countries to collaborate on the development of the Energy East pipeline. The IJC should be consulted in order to ensure that the pipeline is constructed in a manner that won’t adversely affect the environment or the communities living near the river’s banks.
In addition, both countries should work together to ensure that the pipeline’s safety and integrity are maintained throughout its life cycle. This includes regular inspections and maintenance, as well as the implementation of effective leak detection and prevention measures. The two countries should also develop comprehensive environmental plans for the pipeline that address potential impacts and lay out steps for remediation if any damage does occur.
Though the Energy East pipeline is a major undertaking, it should receive the utmost attention and care to ensure that it is constructed with consideration for the environment, wildlife, and the surrounding communities. Working together, Canada and the United States can ensure that the pipeline is complemented by a responsible plan of action that respects the Mississippi River and its ecosystem.
Water Quality
Over the years, the waters of the Mississippi have experienced a decline in water quality, mostly due to agricultural run-off and industrial pollution. This type of pollution is of particular concern, as it can affect the habitats of fish and other aquatic life, as well as the drinking water of communities living near the river.
In response, the United States, Canada, and the states within the river’s drainage basin have implemented various measures to protect the river’s ecosystem. These include the creation of wetland buffer zones, adopted nutrient management practices, and the monitoring and cleanup of hazardous sites along the river. Moreover, both countries have taken steps to improve the water quality of the river, such as the installation of advanced wastewater treatment systems and the adoption of proactive monitoring and assessment protocols.
However, there is still more work to be done. Water pollution remains a problem along the Mississippi River, and both countries must work together to ensure that it is adequately addressed. This includes implementing effective management efforts such as reducing runoff and waste, promoting the use of green energy, and using more sustainable practices on farms and ranches.
In addition, the two countries should assist in the cleanup of areas of the river that have been impacted by pollution. This includes removing toxic chemicals and restoring habitats to their natural state. In the end, it is essential that both Canada and the United States work together to ensure the continued health of the Mississippi River and its surrounding ecosystems.
Liesure Activities
The Mississippi River also provides a number of recreational opportunities for the surrounding communities. Fishing is particularly popular along the river, with many professional and amateur anglers taking advantage of the plentiful system of lakes and streams. The river is also a safe place for canoeists and kayakers, with many of its waters offering small waves and plentiful opportunities for exploration.
The river is also a major hub for bird-watching, as it is home to dozens of species of waterfowl. The rich floodplains provide essential space for nesting and nesting materials, making the Mississippi River an attractive home for many species of birds. The Mississippi River also serves as an important migratory route for birds that travel along the Mississippi Flyway.
For those who are more interested in history, the river is dotted with small towns and historical landmarks. From the Civil War battlefields of Vicksburg and Gettysburg to the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, there’s plenty to explore on the Mississippi River. In addition, the river serves as the backdrop for a number of cultural festivals and events, such as the Delta Blues Festival, Mardi Gras, and the Great River Raft Race.
In short, the Mississippi River is an outdoor lover’s paradise. From fishing and boating to bird-watching and exploring historical sites, it provides an incredible array of activities for everyone to enjoy.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River remains an important economic engine for the United States and Canada. Though the river’s importance has shifted in recent years, it still plays a vital role in regional trade and transport. From the transportation of goods and commodities to the shipping of crude oil and natural gas, the river remains a major economic artery.
The economic activity associated with the river supports a range of industries, including agriculture, fisheries, shipping, manufacturing, and tourism. On the Canadian side, the river helps to provide food and fuel to local communities, and the ports located on the banks of the river provide a convenient and cost-effective means of transportation.
Moreover, businesses have been drawn to the Mississippi River due to the availability of cheap labor and an abundance of resources. Over just the past few years, businesses have invested billions of dollars in the region and created thousands of new jobs. The river remains an attractive location for industrial investment, as it provides easy access to major markets and markets.
In short, the Mississippi River is an important symbol of the economic partnership between Canada and the United States. Its vast network of rivers, creeks, and lakes has played a key role in the economic development of the region, and it remains a driving force behind the economic prosperity of the area.
