History of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in North America and has been the lifeblood of the US for centuries. The river has played an important role in the economic, cultural, and political development of the United States. It is believed to have been inhabited by Native Americans as far back as 10,000 years ago and was first documented by French explorers as early as 1682.
Since then, it has played a key role in transportation, agriculture, recreation and commerce. According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the towns and cities located along the Mississippi continue to rely heavily on the river’s resources and the Mississippi Delta still ranks among the top 10 agricultural production areas in the United States.
Aside from its diverse economic contributions, the Mississippi River is also a popular tourist destination. There are countless recreational activities that can be enjoyed on or near the river, such as paddling, kayaking, fishing, boating and camping.
Where Does the Mississippi River Start?
The Mississippi River begins in Lake Itasca, located in the headwaters of the Mississippi River in north-central Minnesota. It is roughly 120 miles long and an average of about 120 feet in width. From there, it flows south down to the Gulf of Mexico, a journey of about 2,320 miles.
The lake’s name comes from the Latin words ‘veritas caput’, which translates to ‘true head’, a reference to the fact that it serves as the source of the Mississippi River. It was given its name by French-Canadian explorer Pierre Gaultier de Varennes in 1832.
The Mississippi River is fed by numerous streams, creeks and rivers while its waters are dispersed into many marshes, wetlands and oxbow lakes along its way to the Gulf of Mexico.
How Does the Mississippi River Affect the Environment?
The Mississippi River has a profound impact on the environment and its natural resources. Its waters are critical for migratory birds and aquatic species, and several species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates depend on it for their habitat. It provides much-needed refuge for species such as the American alligator, bald eagle, gulf sturgeon, American shad and pink mucket mussel.
The Mississippi River also acts as a critical nutrient cycle for the environment. Nutrients from the upper tributaries are transferred to the middle and lower tributaries and to the Gulf of Mexico, where they are deposited as sediment and help to create fertile land. Moreover, the river is an important source of potable water for many communities.
What is the Current State of the Mississippi River?
The current state of the Mississippi River is concerning. Human activities like agriculture, urbanization and industrialization have had a negative impact on the river’s ecosystem. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, runoff from agricultural fields, the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and the clearing of land for development has led to water pollution.
The excessive fertilizer and sediment from the upper tributaries of the Mississippi River eventually make their way to the Gulf of Mexico, where they significantly contribute to the formation of large ‘dead zones’- areas where the oxygen level of the water is too low for aquatic life. Additionally, invasive species such as the Asian carp, zebra mussel and Chinese mitten crab have had a detrimental effect on the Mississippi’s native species.
Conservation Efforts to Protect the Mississippi River
Fortunately, numerous efforts to preserve the Mississippi River and its surrounding ecosystem have been set in place. Organizations like the Mississippi River Network, The Nature Conservancy and the Mississippi Valley Conservancy are actively advocating for the protection and conservation of the river and its animal and plant species.
They are working to protect, restore and manage the river’s habitats and watersheds, as well as providing education about the river’s history and environmental importance. Additionally, the US Environmental Protection Agency is monitoring and improving water quality across the watershed. There are also several state and local initiatives that are focused on conserving the river and its resources.
Is the Mississippi River Safe to Swim In?
Swimming in the Mississippi River is generally safe, however, certain cautions should be taken into consideration. The water may be polluted with contaminants such as bacteria and chemicals, so always check with local authorities before swimming in the river. Additionally, individuals should be mindful of strong currents and changing weather conditions.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, visitors should always wear a life jacket and abide by local boating regulations. It is also essential to use common sense and remain alert while in the water. Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards.
How has Climate Change Impacted the Mississippi River?
Climate change has had a significant impact on the Mississippi River. Warmer temperatures and prolonged periods of drought have lowered the river’s water levels, and the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps has increased the amount of runoff from the tributaries. This has caused flooding and compromised the river’s ecosystems.
The rising temperatures have also led to an increase in the river’s average water temperature, which has had a detrimental effect on the native fish and aquatic species. Climate change has also made it impractical to regulate the water flow of the river and maintain its ecological balance.
What Effects Have Humans had on the Mississippi River?
Humans have had an extensive influence on the Mississippi River over the centuries. Many of the river’s tributaries have been plotted, dammed, dredged and logged to meet the demands of agriculture and transportation. To reduce flooding, the river has been lined with levees and channelized to control its flow.
Moreover, the river’s floodplains, wetlands and marshes have been drained for development and modified to create reservoirs and oxbow lakes. This destruction of natural habitats has led to drastic declines in the populations of species such as bald eagles, American alligators and freshwater mussels.
What is Being Done to Restore the Mississippi River Today?
In recent years, there has been increasing awareness of the importance of restoring the Mississippi River and its habitat. Organizations like the Mississippi River Network are leading the way in promoting the restoration and protection of the river and its wildlife. Many state and local governments have implemented legislation to ensure the protection of the river and its watersheds.
Additionally, there are many volunteer opportunities available for those interested in helping to restore the river and its resources. Initiatives such as tree planting, water quality testing and river clean-ups are becoming increasingly popular.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an economically, culturally, and politically vital resource for America, and it is essential that we work to preserve and protect it. From its source in Lake Itasca to its outlet in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River has had a profound influence on the environment and its inhabitants. By taking action to conserve and restore the river, we can ensure its protection for generations to come.
