Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the world as it stretches more than 2,340 miles long. Originating in Minnesota and flowing through 10 US States, it is known for its picturesque valleys, dense forests and its amazing history. It is considered to be one of the most important rivers in North America. But how long is this river?
In order to understand the full span of the Mississippi River, one needs to understand the process in which this river was created. Geologists believe that the Mississippi several million years ago was a series of different tributaries that eventually joined to form one continuous river. As for its length, it is believed that the Mississippi is about 2,340 miles long. This includes the main stem of the Mississippi, as well as other tributaries like the Missouri and Ohio rivers.
Although the exact length of the Mississippi will vary depending on which of its tributaries are included, the official U.S. Geological Survey notes that the main stem of the Mississippi is 2,320 miles long. It is also said that this length also includes the length between its source and mouth, as well as the width of the river itself. The main stem of the Mississippi is considered to be the longest in the world, even without the extra mileage of its tributaries.
Aside from its length, the Mississippi River is renowned for its vast ecosystem, with over 200 species of fish, hundreds of bird species, and reptiles inhabiting its waters. In addition, it’s home to some of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, including Lake Itasca and Lake Pepin, which together make up 15% of all the fresh water in the United States. Additionally, the watersheds of the Mississippi contribute to the livelihoods of 15 million people living along the river, and it is an integral part of the many local economies.
The Mississippi River is also a popular destination for tourists, with many visiting the area to explore its diverse landscapes, quaint towns, and historical sites. It is also a great destination for photography and birdwatching, as there are more than 300 migratory bird species along the river. In addition, there are river boat cruises and kayaking trips for those who want to experience the river firsthand.
The Mississippi River has stood the test of time and is considered one of the most important rivers in North America, and it’s no surprise why. Its 2,340 miles of water flows through 10 US States, providing sustenance and life to the millions of people and species that call it home. While the official length of the Mississippi River may be 2,320 miles, its significance and impact stretches much further than that and it has truly earned the right to be called ‘the Mighty Mississippi’.
Geology of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is believed to have been formed millions of years ago, through the process of tectonic plate movement. The plates moved and shifted, resulting in the series of different tributaries that eventually joined to form one continuous river. This led to the creation of the current 2,340 miles long Mississippi River.
Additionally, the U.S. Geological Survey notes that the main stem of the Mississippi is 2,320 miles long and the river itself is between 2-4 miles wide. This is not including the extra mileage from some of the tributaries, like the Missouri and Ohio. Due to the formation of this giant river, the Mississippi is able to carry many tributaries into the Gulf of Mexico, increasing its span and length.
The Mississippi River has cut its way deep through history, creating an iconic river that helped shape the American landscape, economy, and culture. It is hard to imagine the world without the Mississippi and its amazing story.
Historical Significance of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of life in the United States throughout its history. Its waterways provided sustenance and livelihoods to the millions of people who lived along its length and called it home. In addition, the river was also an important transportation artery in the early days of the United States, as many of the cities along its length still carry the name of French towns, like Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and St. Louis.
The river also played an important role in the Civil War, as it helped the Confederacy lock down key supply lines, leading to a prolonged and bloody conflict. Even today, many of the battles fought along the Mississippi are memorialized in various sites across the river.
In addition, the Mississippi has had a rich artistic and musical history, as famous musicians like Muddy Waters and Jimmy Rogers hailed from the region. The blues can still be heard echoing from the many juke joints located along its banks.
The Mississippi is truly an iconic river that has helped shaped the history of the United States, and its many towns and cities serve as a living reminder of this fact.
Environmental Significance of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to a vast array of species, from aquatic life to migratory birds. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that the Mississippi River basin is home to over 225 fish species and around 300 species of birds.
In addition, the river also plays a vital role in keeping the surrounding watershed healthy, as it helps to filter out pollutants and maintain water temperatures. The watershed also plays an integral role in providing drinking water to millions of people living in the Mississippi River Valley.
The Mississippi is also important for the recreational activities that it supports. Every summer, thousands of people flock to the area to take part in fishing and bird watching trips, as well as kayaking and rafting trips down the river.
The Mississippi River is truly unforgiving and powerful, but at the same time it is crucial to the life and livelihoods of the people and species living along its length.
Impact of Pollution on the Mississippi River
Despite the importance of the Mississippi River, its waters have been contaminated for decades due to untreated sewage and industrial runoff. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, around 6 million metric tons of sewage and industrial chemicals are dumped into the river annually, resulting in water quality problems like algal blooms and oxygen depletion in the water.
The pollution has had a devastating impact on the local ecosystems, with many fish and bird populations being decimated due to the unsanitary and hazardous conditions of the river. Additionally, the pollution has led to the closure of some recreational areas along the river, as scientists have warned that swimming in the contaminated waters can lead to serious health problems.
In recent years, there have been some efforts to help clean up the Mississippi River. Organizations like The Nature Conservancy have launched cleanup initiatives to help restore the river to its natural state and reduce the amount of pollution entering the river. Additionally, local governments have begun to tighten the regulations on pollutants being released into the river, in a bid to reduce the impact of pollution.
Whilst the actions of these organizations and local governments are helping to reduce pollution levels in the Mississippi, there is still much work to be done to protect this vital river.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the world, stretching more than 2,340 miles from its source to its mouth and providing sustenance, livelihoods and recreation to millions of people and species that call it home. It is an iconic river that has left its mark on American history, with its role in the civil war and its prominence in blues music. Additionally, the river has been plagued by decades of pollution, leading to water quality problems and the decimation of many aquatic species.
Despite its problems, the Mississippi is still an important river, with many efforts underway to protect it. To gain the full appreciation of the Mississippi River, it is important to understand the full extent of its length and impact on the American landscape and culture.
