Mississippi River & its Bustling Activities
The Mississippi River is one of the most popular spots for travelers, adventurers, and local denizens alike. Of the many tributaries, rivers, and estuaries, the Mississippi is the second largest river in the U.S., running for 2,340 miles in total. It originates in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, and ends with the Gulf of Mexico. Those who get to explore the river will get to witness a wide variety of activities and adventures, making it one of the most thrilling spots in America.
Fun Pursuits & Memorable Events
The Mississippi River has a captivating array of activities and events that attract tourists, both local and international. They can either embark on a riverboat cruise and experience a glimpse of the river’s bygone days, or explore exciting sections of river navigation such as the “emerald pool” of Arkansas. For those who would like to take part in the activities, there is the annual Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, and the Quad Cities River Bandits baseball team for novices and pros alike. For wildlife seekers, the Upper Mississippi Wildlife Refuge and Natural area provides the best spot for bird watching.
Fishing & Conservation
The Mississippi River also holds numerous fishing hot spots for avid anglers. Species such as carp, catfish, and smallmouth bass leaves anglers of all levels hooked and satisfied. There are also local-organized activities such as catfish tournaments and carp derbies meant to help conserve the river’s fish population.
Moreover, locals often organize festivities alongside the riverbank that involve fishing underneath the stars and celebration of regional wildlife and wildlife conservation. The riverbank is also a great spot for a picnic and other family-friendly activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and boating.
Visit the National Parks & Monuments
The Mississippi River also has a wide array of flora and fauna, as well as historical sites and national parks. The environmentally-protected area, such as the Great River Road from Minnesota to Louisiana, is home to a diverse array of species such as birds, mussels, and fish. Tourists can go on a self-guided tour along the protected riverside for a glimpse of the traditional American experience.
Furthermore, there is the iconic National Monument and Historic Trail, the 35-mile-long pathway between Louisiana and Mississippi, the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which commemorates the Trail of Tears, an event that marks an important moment in the history of both regions. This site title is a reminder of the painful but significant experience of the persecuted Native Americans.
Events & Tourism
The Mississippi River also plays host to numerous events throughout the year, ranging from culture-rich festivals to full-fledged music events, art exhibitions, and food fiestas. The riverbank is also filled with numerous stalls containing souvenirs and local handicrafts for those looking for the perfect gift for family and friends back home.
Finally, the river is also home to a few lovely restaurants and eateries that offer sumptuous meals, from barbeque to local specialties. It also provides an excellent shopping experience, with its ample selection of retail centers and stores. Many of these establishments are perched on the banks of the Mississippi, offering a unique view of the riverside scenes.
Mississippi River’s Tourism Industry
The available activities and events along the Mississippi River has been a major contributor to the tourism industry in the area. In 2019 alone, the river was home to more than 23 million recreation and tourism visits, with boat ramps and Lock and Dam structures being the most popular features. Series of dams were set up in the region to provide water leisure activities for close to 3 million of these guests, and plenty of other opportunities for locals and tourists alike to have a good time. Nevertheless, the increased number of river visitors has caused some controversy as to whether the tourist activities benefit the riverside communities as well as the natural environment.
In an effort to address this issue, local and state governments have been implementing stricter rules and regulations meant to guide visitors and promote responsible visitation. Such initiatives include enforcing the proper use of biodegradable materials and proper camping, as well as restricting access to sensitive areas to reduce human-caused disturbances. State and local park agencies are also collaborating with the National Park Service to put in place better public access and operational facilities of National Park sites.
Impact of Mississippi River over the Years
The Mississippi River has a long and rich history, both in the United States and around the world. Over the years, the river has been used as a trading path, transportation route, fishing ground and refuge, among a multitude of other uses. The mighty river has been an indispensable resource for both Native American tribes and the post-settlement population of the United States. It has served as a primary source of water for Midwestern towns and cities, enabled the transportation of crops and agricultural products, and powered many industries, from lumber and paper mills to agricultural production and energy.
The Mississippi is also renowned for its honor of traditional cultures, arts, and music. From historical riverboat cities such as Hannibal, Missouri, to music scenes such as Memphis, Tennessee, the Mississippi River has been an integral part of American culture for centuries. Thanks to its dynamic structure and opportunities for recreation and tourism, the Mississippi River not only endures, but also evolves into a symbol of national heritage.
Economic Impact & Preservation of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River’s lengthy terrain and prime location has been a blessing to industries that rely on aquatic resources, such as fishing and irrigation. It has also provided business opportunities through its abundant cargo traffic, providing jobs and boosting local economies. It is estimated that the Mississippi River brings in around a trillion dollars to the U.S. annually and has contributed significantly to the United States’ position as a world leader in commerce.
As valuable as the river’s resources are, its preservation is essential for future generations. To this end, the US Government has made efforts to conserve the area by developing its national parks, enforcing environmental legislation, and launching campaigns for tourist education. Furthermore, Congress has provided financial support to the riverside communities and organizations to mitigate the risk of pollution and overharvesting.
River Dredging & Restoration
The US Army Corps of Engineers has also been carrying out different river management and restoration works on the Mississippi River since the early 19th century. River dredging is one of the key practices used to keep materials such as silt, sand, and gravel from clogging the riverbed as they flow downstream. It also helps reduce river bed erosion and protects the biodiversity of aquatic life. Other practices, such as nutrient management, public engagement and education, vegetation management, and wildlife habitat restoration, are also performed for maintaining the proper functionality and environmental health of the region.
Sediment removal techniques are also used to restore wetlands and aquatic species, with the goal of maintaining the essential functions of the river. In addition, local organizations have been involved in cooperative initiatives and events in the area, such as Earth Day activities, teacher workshops, and community cleanups.
Conclusion: Mississippi River is a Economically Thriving Waterway
Overall, the Mississippi River is an economically thriving waterway with a wide array of recreational, cultural, and ecologic activities. Its extensive network of tributaries and watersheds also helps preserve the environment and provides local communities with sustainable sources of livelihoods. Although there are a few challenges, such as preventing water pollution, overall the river is a thriving hub of activities and recreational opportunities.
