The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the world, extending for more than 2,500 miles. Starting near Minneapolis, Minnesota, the river passes through little communities until reaching the Gulf of Mexico. But how far north does the Mississippi River really run?
The river has branches extending as far north as Lake Itasca, located in northern Minnesota. This lake is where the Mississippi River is traditionally recognized as originating and is the headwaters of the 2,552 mile long river. Although this is the source of the river, the highest point of the Mississippi River is actually located on a tributary stream near the northwest tip of Clearwater County, Minnesota. This spot is located at an elevation of 1,475 feet, making it the highest part of the river in the entire state.
The Mighty Mississippi starts its journey to the gulf of mexico, passing through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana, before it empties out into the gulf. Along its stretch, it meets up with the Missouri and Ohio Rivers. Because of its course, the Mississippi has greatly shaped the land that the river passes through, leaving unique features like the Oxbow Lakes, Thebes Gap, and Chain of Rocks in its wake.
The length of the Mississippi River has been changed by humans in various ways. Historically, settlers had tried to control flooding by altering where the river beds were located. This involved diverting the river’s flow and changing the channels, creating rivulets and reducing the total length of the river. However, with the application of modern technology and engineering, the Mississippi can now be controlled much more safely and with greater effects, including controlling floods and preventing overflow of the river banks.
According to experts, the Mississippi’s “backwater” system has been crucial to economics and transportation of goods. For example, in its lowermost portions, the Mississippi has provided significant economic opportunity as well as a continuous means of transportation for inland goods. In some states, such as Louisiana, this system is referred to as the “Interstate Waterways.” Overall, the Mississippi provides a very functional way to move goods and materials from place to place without having to rely on other modes of transportation.
In addition to the practical benefits, the Mississippi has also held a greater cultural and historical significance for many Americans. Various tribes and Native American cultures had their own relationship with the Mississippi and its landscape. However, since Europeans settlers had arrived and started making an impact, the river has evolved and changed drastically for over 300 years, making it a symbol of progress, as well as a reminder of history.
Environmental Effects
The environmental effects of the Mississippi River are numerous. Over the years, due to the contamination caused by industrial waste, runoff and the presence of various chemicals, the river is not as clean as it once was. In some parts, the water quality is considered poor, with certain areas even receiving the label of a “dead zone”. This occurs when the water is so polluted with chemicals that it can’t support aquatic life. The most frequent impacts of the Mississippi River on the environment include:
- Water contamination from industrial and agricultural waste.
- The contamination of riverbeds from chemical fertilizers.
- Flooding of land due to the river’s changing course.
- Destruction of native wildlife habitats due to changes in waterflow and sediment transport.
The Mississippi River has been the source of much conversation in recent years. The many concerns that have been raised over the river’s health and the the economic and cultural consequences have caught the attention of many experts. To prevent the river from further deteriorating and provide greater protection to its resources, many states have developed comprehensive plans to better manage the Mississippi and its adjacent lands.
Jobs and Tourism
In addition to its environmental value, the Mississippi River has been vital to the area for job opportunities, such as shipping, transportation, and fishing. These opportunities have created a great impact on many of the towns and cities along its route, providing them with much needed employment. The river has also been a prime candidate for tourists looking to take in the river’s scenery. From cruises and river boat tours, to parks and scenic overlooks, there has been no shortage of ways to experience the Mississippi over the years:
- Cruise ships, river boats and other river transport.
- Hiking and biking trails.
- Various scenic and historic locations, such as points of interest, monuments, and battlefields.
- Water sports such as kayaking, tubing, and river rafting.
The Mississippi River is a major vacation destination in the United States, drawing millions of visitors a year, whether they are looking for a relaxing cruise along the river or an adventurous rafting trip. Along its route, there are many places for tourists to explore and enjoy, such as popular cities and towns like Davenport, Iowa and St. Louis, Missouri.
Preservation Efforts
In recent decades, citizens of the Mississippi River Basin states have come together to advocate for more preservation, protection, and better management of the river. By taking collective action, organizations are striving to ensure the continued health of the river, including the development of restoration projects, habitat protection, and increased public access and use of the river. Various projects have been developed, such as the installation of fish passages, levee stabilization and the improvement of water filtration systems.
In order to keep the river running and clean, it is also important to reduce the amount of pollution entering the water. This can be done through methods such as reducing runoff from mining sites, limiting the amount of fertilizer used on agricultural land and reducing the use of pesticides and herbicides near the river. Overall, it is important to keep in mind that preserving the Mississippi River is a long-term effort and requires cooperation and dedication from all involved.
Conclusion
From its origin in Minnesota to its endpoint in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River is a vast and powerful resource. It plays a vital role in the economy of its region and is greatly appreciated by those who take the time to experience its beauty. Though the river has seen its ups and downs, the efforts of citizens and organizations to preserve and protect it have been numerous and should continue in order to ensure its continued health.
