Location of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, stretching approximately 2,320 miles, from its source in Minnesota to its end at the Gulf of Mexico. Originating in the northern area of Itasca State Park located in Clearwater County, Minnesota, it courses southward through Wisconsin and Iowa, traversing the state of Illinois, Missouri and finally terminating in Louisiana.
Location of Monticello, Arkansas
Monticello is the county seat of Drew County, located in the southeastern part of Arkansas. The city lies along the banks of the Ouachita River, between the Arkansas River and the Mississippi River. Just a few miles to the east stands the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, a 68,929-acre preserve established in 1983 and meant to help mitigate the effects of waterfowl slaughter in the Mississippi Flyway.
Distance between Monticello, Arkansas and the Mississippi River
The distance between Monticello, Arkansas and the Mississippi River is approximately 9.1 miles as measured by car. This can take 17 minutes to an hour to travel depending on traffic. The route that is usually taken to reach the Mississippi is to travel southward on US 425, onto US 278, and finally terminating at the bridge that crosses the Mississippi River.
Expert Perspectives
Geographers and other experts cite the Mississippi River’s position in the midwestern part of the United States as the source of much of the country’s economic productivity. This area is the most highly productive agricultural area of the United States, with the proximity to both the Arkansas River and the Mississippi providing an ideal growing climate for crops such as soybeans, cotton, and corn. Having Monticello, Arkansas situated within such close proximity to the River will allow farmers from the surrounding areas to take advantage of the area’s more favorable growing conditions.
Ongoing Research and Development
Continued research and development of the area continues to be ongoing and Monticello, Arkansas lies within a prime region for such advancement. Scientists have been studying the effects of the Mississippi on the region for years and have found that the effects of the continual flood on the surrounding area is one of the primary aspects of the area’s agricultural success. Division chiefs at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are currently exploring how to best control the river’s water levels, allowing farmers to use the resource more responsibly.
Economic and Social Impacts
The immediate economic impacts of the Mississippi’s proximity to Monticello, Arkansas are clear. Farms and businesses depend on the economic opportunity created by having such an expansive and dependable river resource to cultivate. The river continues to be a major source of shipping and transportation, allowing farmers to access larger markets where they can sell their products and services. However, the immense importance of the Mississippi River to the region cannot be overstated and its presence has been linked to a boost in tourism, with a steady influx of visitors looking to witness the beauty of the river up close.
Conservation and Preservation Efforts
The Mississippi has been the subject of conservation and preservation efforts for a number of years and the state of Arkansas has taken on the task of ensuring the River remains a stable and safe resource. The state has enacted legislation requiring all industries that use the river to use it responsibly. In addition, a number of organizations, such as Ducks Unlimited, work regularly to preserve and protect wetland habitats near the River.
The Mississippi River: Unstoppable Force
The Mississippi River has been at the center of current and historical U.S. life for centuries. While many events have shaped and affected its course, the river still serves as an incredibly powerful force, both for transportation and for the wildlife and vegetation found near it. Its proximity to Monticello, Arkansas has allowed residents to take advantage of the area’s more favorable growing conditions, and its ongoing conservation efforts have helped ensure its continued existence in a safe manner. Moreover, its close proximity to the city has benefited the economy, aiding in the transport of goods and services and enhancing the tourism industry in the area. The Mississippi is truly a prime example of the power and resiliency of nature.
