The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States and ranks as the fourth longest river in the world. It has a length of 2,340 miles and passes through ten states before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. It is said that the river has been the backbone of history and it is no wonder given its size and length.
The Mississippi River is about three-quarters of a mile wide and its depth varies according to season and location. For instance, near Lake Itasca, Minnesota, which is the source of the Mississippi River, the water is only a few feet deep. But, in some of the deeper portions, the river is as deep as 200 feet.
The Mississippi River has been a major transport route since the 1700s. This was due to its wide, deep, and navigable waters. As such, various types of vessels, including naval vessels, were used to carry commodities and supplies between different states and ports.
The Mississippi also serves an important role in terms of irrigation and obtaining water during dry periods. The river is abundant in water resources, allowing cities and agricultural sites to be irrigated with ease. In addition to providing water, the river also offers many recreational activities from boating, fishing, and water skiing to camping, swimming, and kayaking on its calm waters.
The Mississippi River is also known for its diverse wildlife and vegetation. This includes species like the bald eagle, blue heron, and the endangered pallid sturgeon. Additionally, the river is home to various other species of animals, fish, and plants. It also acts as a migration path for certain species of animals, making it important from an ecological standpoint.
When talking about the Mississippi River, people often wonder how long it is. Its total length is 2,340 miles, making it the fourth longest river in the world. It originates in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, and stretches to the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through 10 states, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Along the way, it collects tributaries like the Missouri, Ohio, Arkansas, and White rivers.
The Mississippi River is also a significant source of hydroelectric power in the United States. Several dams were constructed along the way, such as the Red Rock Dam and the Dardanelle Lock and Dam, both located in Arkansas. These projects have helped make the river an important source of power for many communities.
Interesting facts about Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is an incredible body of water. People have been recording facts about it for centuries and more continue to be found. Here are some interesting facts about the Mississippi River you may have not heard:
- The river basin covers an area of more than one million square miles. It is the third largest river basin in the world.
- The Mississippi River has 31 dams on it, which provide electricity to millions of people across America.
- The River Delta is the world’s fourth largest delta and contains some of the world’s most productive fisheries.
- The river plays home to more than 100 species of fish.
- The Mississippi River provides drinking water for more than 18 million people.
The water quality of the Mississippi River
Water quality is a major concern for the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Despite safeguards and environmental efforts, many chemicals and pollutants continue to be present in the water. Bacteria, algae blooms, heavy metals, and agricultural runoff contribute to a wide range of water quality issues.
Efforts by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aim to restore the river’s water quality by improving water treatment, controlling non-point source pollution, and eliminating contaminated sediment. Additionally, the EPA has implemented several policies to reduce agricultural runoff and other forms of pollution in the Mississippi River.
The EPA has designated the river’s water quality standards as five main classification categories: primary contact recreation, potable water supply, aquatic life, irrigation, and navigation. These standards are regularly monitored and tested, and any necessary improvements in water quality are made.
Economical Impacts of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River plays a vital role in the local and regional economy. Shipping and transportation are a major part of the Mississippi economy. Most goods transported from the North American continent to the Gulf of Mexico pass through the Mississippi River, providing economic benefits to local businesses and communities.
The river has also shaped the development of agriculture, becoming one of the most vital sources of irrigation in the area. The river also serves as a natural source of freshwater to many communities, providing essential drinking water to many towns and cities.
To support these activities, a rich infrastructure has developed around the Mississippi River, with ports and docking facilities, industries, and services throughout the River basin.
The Role of the USACE in the Mississippi River
The mission of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is to ensure the Mississippi River is a safe, usable waterway for commerce and recreation. The USACE has a long history of involvement in managing the river and its tributaries to ensure safe navigation and other uses.
The USACE works to maintain channel depths, develop and improve flood control structures, plan and implement navigation and dredging efforts, and implement initiatives to improve water quality. In addition, the Corps also supports numerous habitat restoration initiatives for fish, wildlife, and plants.
Furthermore, the USACE also investigates and helps protect against environmental threats, such as flooding and hazardous substances spills in order to maintain healthy ecosystems. These efforts help protect public health, safety, and quality of life along the river.
Environmental Factors impacting Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the longest and most important rivers in the United States. It is also subject to a variety of environmental impacts and man-made activities that can negatively impact its health. These include habitat destruction due to navigation and construction projects, water pollution from industries and agricultural runoff, and overfishing that can lead to an imbalance in the food chain.
In order to mitigate these impacts, the US EPA has implemented various regulations to protect the river’s water quality. Additionally, the USACE is involved in many habitat restoration efforts and has made efforts to improve navigation safety and infrastructure.
In order to ensure the health of the Mississippi for future generations, it is important to continue to monitor its water quality and health, as well as maintain other efforts to protect and restore the river’s ecosystem. The Mississippi River is an important part of American and global history, and it is up to all of us to ensure its future health.
