Background Information
The Mississippi River is the second longest river in North America, running 2,320 miles from its source in Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It is made up of several distinct segments, including the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi and Mississippi Delta. This iconic waterway has been at the heart of American history since its discovery in 1541 by Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and has been nicknamed the Father of Waters. The Mississippi River is significant in shaping the political, economic and geographic landscape of a significant part of the United States.
Relevant Data
The Mississippi’s length is often a subject of debate. Most geographers agree that, as measured from its most common starting point — Lake Itasca — the Mississippi River stretches for 2,320 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. This puts it at the number two spot in the rankings of longest rivers in North America behind the Missouri River, which is longer at 2,341 miles. In total, the Mississippi-Missouri system is the fourth longest river in the world after the Amazon, the Nile, and the Yangtze.
Experts’ Perspective
“The Mississippi River has been called the defining feature of the Midwest and the heart of the country, and yet its magnitude remains largely unknown,” says Patrick Lawrence, a professor at the University of Minnesota. “This river is so much more than a navigable waterway. It’s an ecological resource, a source of recreation, and an economic engine that draws people, businesses, and diverse cultures together.”
John Baker, a certified professional geographer, echoes that sentiment: “The Mississippi River is the lifeblood of the entire Midwest. It binds us all together, economically, culturally and environmentally. Without it, the Midwest’s cities would not be anything like they are today.”
Insights & Analysis
The Mississippi River plays an important role in transporting goods and people throughout the region. It is also a source of jobs and tourism, particularly in the region surrounding the river. There is no denying the river’s tremendous impact on the economy and the environment, from providing fish and wildlife habitat to providing drinking water and irrigation for farms downstream. But there needs to be an appreciation of the river’s historical significance, too.
America is a country built on the idea of movement and exploration, and the Mississippi River has been integral to that history. From the Mississippi’s importance during the fur-trading era to its inclusion in Mark Twain’s classic ‘Huckleberry Finn’, this river has been the backdrop to many of our nation’s defining moments. We need to show more respect and appreciation for the mighty Mississippi and its important place in American history and culture – and commit to protecting it for future generations.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River’s health is intricately linked to the health of the people and communities that depend on it. The Mississippi is an integral part of the environment in the Midwest and beyond. Its waters are used for commercial transportation and recreation, and it serves as a vital source of drinking and irrigation water for many communities in the region.
On the human side, the Mississippi has been a major source of income for businesses along its path — from casinos to towboats and tour boats, to other river-related businesses. The river also provides essential habitat for plants and animals, including several threatened and endangered species. Unfortunately, due to persistent pollution from industry and runoff from agricultural activities, the health of the Mississippi is at risk.
In the last few years, environmental groups have called for greater protections and increased efforts to clean up the river. A number of initiatives have emerged, including water-quality monitoring programs, pollution-reduction plans, and a push to reduce toxic runoff. It will take concerted effort on the part of government, businesses, and citizens to save the Mississippi River and ensure its future.
Recreational Use
The Mississippi has also become a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking. Thanks to its dramatic scenery, historical sites, and wildlife, the river has become a premier destination for outdoor activities.
The recreation opportunities along the Mississippi draw thousands of outdoor enthusiasts to its waters each year, providing a boost to local businesses that cater to these visitors. At the same time, the popularity of recreational activities on the Mississippi has raised concerns about its sustainability. Boats create noise and leave behind trash and other pollutants, which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. It’s important to practice responsible recreation when visiting the river and not to take more than is given.
Floods and Erosion
The Mississippi River has always been subject to flooding. Over the years, humans have developed various methods to protect the river from flooding, from building levees and dams to rerouting the river’s course. Despite these efforts, the river still faces potential disasters each year, as the surrounding areas become more developed.
The riverside communities are also at risk due to erosion. As the river’s course changes from year to year, it can cause land and property to vanish. To combat these issues, local governments have implemented strict laws to limit development along the river, and have implemented measures to protect the natural resources of the Mississippi River.
Navigation on the Mississippi can be dangerous at times. Along the Upper Mississippi, backwaters, small lakes and submerged debris can be hazardous to navigation. River levels also vary dramatically, making safe navigation on the river difficult.
For those interested in exploring the Mississippi on their own, it is important to be familiar with the river’s peculiarities and to pay attention to the changing conditions. Taking a guided tour or a boat tour is often the safest and most enjoyable way to explore the area.
Climate Change
The Mississippi River is a powerful reminder of the impact of climate change. With global temperatures rising, the river is becoming increasingly unpredictable and dangerous. In low-lying areas, the Mississippi is prone to flooding, which can cause significant damage to homes and businesses along its banks.
At the same time, drought conditions in the upper part of the river can lead to long-term impacts on the local ecosystem and the communities that rely on the river. To protect the future of the Mississippi, it is essential to recognize the immediate effects of climate change, and to work to reduce emissions, protect natural resources and preserve the river’s health.
Stewardship & Conservation
The Mississippi River’s future depends on the collective efforts of everyone who depends on it. From governments to industry to local residents, everyone can do their part to protect the river and ensure its health for future generations.
When it comes to stewardship, the most important thing is to be aware of the river’s fragile condition, and to take personal responsibility for protecting it. This includes following personal boating and fishing regulations, not dumping paint or debris into the river, and properly disposing of hazardous materials. It also means avoiding activities that could increase erosion, such as building along the riverbank without permits.
In addition, citizens and businesses can support organizations that are actively working to protect the river and its ecosystems through conservation efforts. These include campaigns to reduce wastewater pollution and tackle climate change, as well as programs to conserve and restore wetlands, waterfowl populations and other sensitive habitats.
Lastly, local governments, businesses and citizens should come together to ensure the health of the Mississippi River both now and in the future. As a major economic force in the Midwest, the Mississippi provides opportunities for prosperity and growth — but we must come together to ensure that it is protected and enjoyed by all.
