Minnesota as part of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the most well-known and longest rivers in the United States, providing water for several states, including Minnesota. It originates in northern Minnesota and flows south through the state, meeting the Minnesota-Wisconsin border near the city of Prescott. Historically, the Mississippi River has been valuable to the people of Minnesota, providing a means of transportation, recreation, fishing, and commerce. Despite its important role, few Minnesotans are aware of the length of the Mississippi River as it passes through their state, or of the many significant sites and points of interest along its banks.
At approximately 700 miles in length, the Mississippi River flows through five states in the United States before entering the Gulf of Mexico. In its journey through Minnesota, the river covers approximately 570 miles. This means that over 80% of the river runs through Minnesota; it is the longest section passing through a single state on the Mississippi River.
As the Mississippi flows south from its source, tributaries join along its path. Tributaries are smaller rivers or streams that join the main river to hold a larger volume of water or connect it to other waterways. Two of the most well-known tributaries of the Mississippi, the Minnesota and the St. Croix, both flow from the north and join the Mississippi in Minnesota. Tributaries such as these provide important connections to other lakes and rivers, and also feed water into the main river.
Navigation is an important component of the Mississippi River’s history, as it has provided a valuable transportation route to and from many towns and cities. Along the stretch of the Mississippi that passes through Minnesota, there are numerous ports, dams, and locks. These are created and maintained to allow ships to pass through the changing water levels, providing an important connection for Minnesotans to the rest of the river system.
One of the most popular points of interest along the Mississippi in Minnesota is the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA). This national park is a 72-mile-long section of the Mississippi, stretching from downtown Minneapolis, through the cities of St. Paul, Hastings, and Red Wing, and then down to join the Minnesota-Wisconsin border at Prescott. There are a number of trails, parks, and sites of interest along this stretch, catering for several different interests and activities. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone to explore.
Wildlife of the Mississipi River
As the longest river in a single state, the Mississippi River provides plenty of space for a wide variety of wildlife to live and thrive. From the tiny creatures living in the water, to the large mammals that use the banks and the wetlands alongside it, the Mississippi supports a great diversity of species. While not all of the creatures are visible to the human eye, they’re all part of the important ecosystem and play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the environment.
Birds are a popular sight along the banks of the Mississippi. In Minnesota, more than 230 species of birds can be found either living permanently along the river banks or using it as a staging post along their migratory routes. Among these species are bald eagles, herons, and pelicans, all of whom are drawn to the river’s abundant supply of fish. Other large mammals include beavers, minks, and bears, which all make use of the Mississippi’s abundant resources.
The Mississippi River is also home to numerous species of fish. While many of these species are simply of recreational interest, certain species are of particular importance. The most notable of these is the pallid sturgeon, a primordial fish that has lived in the Mississippi for hundreds of thousands of years. This fish is particularly vulnerable, and its preservation is under constant review to protect it from threats such as overfishing, pollution, and the building of dams.
Threats to the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is under constant threat from human activities, some of which are illegal. In Minnesota, these include water pollution due to agricultural runoff, construction of dams, and excessive use of fertilizers. These all lead to the deterioration of the river’s health and put the wildlife that lives along its banks at risk.
The Pollution Control Agency (PCA) is responsible for monitoring and regulating human activity around the Mississippi to ensure its water quality remains safe for drinking and swimming. The PCA also monitors levels of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and fecal matter, as well as levels of certain nutrients in the river. Recent reports show that the river’s water quality has improved, with fewer instances of high nitrate levels and lower levels of fecal matter. This shows that the work of the PCA is making a difference in the health of the Mississippi.
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is responsible for the protection and preservation of the Mississippi as it passes through Minnesota. The DNR organizes public events during the summer months, such as fishing and boating trips, to increase people’s appreciation of the river and encourage them to take part in activities that will help preserve the environment. The DNR also works to protect the river from illegal activities, such as the dumping of trash or unwanted materials.
Preservation of the Mississippi River
The preservation of the Mississippi River and its many tributaries is something that all of us can contribute to. Reducing your use of fertilizers on lawns, avoiding activities that cause erosion, and properly disposing of trash in the river are just a few ways to help keep the river clean and safe. Educating yourself on the threats to the river and keeping up to date with organizations like the PCA and DNR can help everyone be better advocates for the environment and do their part to protect the river.
Individuals can also support organizations and initiatives dedicated to preserving the Mississippi. These organizations carry out important research, create systems to monitor the river’s health, and organize events and campaigns to spread awareness of the importance of the river. By donating money or time to these organizations, you can help ensure the future of the Mississippi for generations to come.
Mississippi River’s Role in Minnesota’s Economy
The Mississippi River has a long history of playing an integral role in Minnesota’s economy. It has provided a means of transportation for goods, recreation, and tourism opportunities. Today, the river remains a major economic force in the state, providing billions in gross domestic product (GDP) annually and employing over 400,000 people in industries related to the river.
The tourism industry is especially important to the Mississippi in Minnesota. Tourists come to the state to enjoy its magnificent rivers, lakes, and wetlands, offering local businesses a potential source of revenue. From scenic boat tours to camping, there are plenty of activities to keep people of all ages entertained. The river also provides the perfect habitat for a variety of wildlife, drawing nature-lovers who are eager to observe and photograph them.
Fishing is also a popular activity on the Mississippi, providing both sport and local sustenance. The DNR holds several fishing events each year to promote the importance of fishing as part of Minnesota’s culture and economy. As a result of these efforts, fisheries are beginning to recover, with populations of certain species, like silver carp and shovelnose sturgeon, increasing.
The Mississippi River is also important for shipping. The ports located along its course allow for the transportation of goods from one state to another. This is especially important for the movement of agricultural products, such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, but also for other commodities like coal and minerals.
Conclusion of the Mississippi River in Minnesota
From its source in northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in the south, the mighty Mississippi River has been a part of Minnesota’s history for generations. It has provided a means of transportation, recreation, fishing, and commerce, and it is home to a variety of wildlife. Although there are many threats to the river’s health, the people of Minnesota are working together to protect and preserve it.
No matter whether you’re interested in history, nature, or recreation, there is something to do and explore along the Mississippi in Minnesota. By taking the time to learn about and appreciate the beauty of the river, we can ensure it remains a part of Minnesota for many generations to come.
