The mighty Mississippi River has played an integral role in American history, spanning the entire continent and connectingsome of the largest and most influential cities in the United States. But how long is this mighty river? Measuring in at 2,350 miles, the Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world, making it an essential body of water for commercial and recreational craft, and a vital part of the nation’s infrastructure and transportation network.
The Origin of the River
The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota, at its source at Lake Itasca. From there, it winds its way through ten states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Minnesota before emptying into the great expanse of the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, the Mississippi is joined by a number of other rivers, including the Gila, Arkansas, Missouri, and Ohio.
The Historical Impact
The Mississippi has had a long and storied history in America, beginning as an important waterway for Native Americans who used it for fishing and transportation. Later, it served as an important avenue for European settlers to develop trade networks, and it has been an integral part of American history ever since. It has also served as an inspiration for countless writers, with famous works such as “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court” being famous examples.
The Hydrology of the River
The Mississippi River has an immense hydraulic power, with an estimated average flow rate of 423,000 cubic feet of water per second. This amounts to a total of 1.25 trillion gallons of water that are discharged into the gulf every day. The Mississippi is also responsible for flooding the surrounding states, with the most extreme cases occurring in 1927 and 1993.
The Economic Impact
The Mississippi River is an economic powerhouse, being used for commerce, transportation and tourism. Over 60 million tons of cargo are transported down the river each year, with the largest exports being bulk grains, coal, and petroleum products. Beside commercial industries, the Mississippi also serves as a popular tourist destination, with the iconic Mississippi River cruises among the most popular attractions.
The Environmental Impact
The mighty Mississippi River does not exist without its issue. Over the past 100 years massive environmental damage has been done to the river, largely through human activity and pollution. One of the most significant threats to the health of the Mississippi is the continuing presence of toxic pollutants from industry, agriculture, and home use.
What Must be Done
The Mississippi River is an essential part of the national infrastructure and holds a special place in America’s cultural heritage. In recent years, there have been efforts to clean up the river and restore its ecosystem, however much needs to be done to preserve its health in the future. Governments and non-governmental organizations must work together to establish new conservation policies and regulations, as well as work with local communities to reduce their impact on the river.
The Current State of the River
Despite the vast damage incurred in the past, the health of the Mississippi is slowly improving. There has been success in the established efforts to reduce pollution, as well as new technologies being used to reduce the amount of sedimentation and runoff. With protection and proper management, the Mississippi River can become one of the most important environmental and economic resources in the United States.
Activities on the River
The Mississippi river is one of the most popular recreational areas in the United States, with over 2 million visitors enjoying the various activities that it offers. Popular activities include boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along its banks. The river also offers some of the best scenic views in the US, with the banks of the Mississippi home to a host of wildlife and animal life, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
The Legacy of the River
Much like the Nile and the Amazon, the Mississippi River is a testament to the sheer power of nature, and a symbol of America’s unique culture and history. Its importance to the nation’s past, present and future cannot be overstated, and the river continues to remain an integral part of life for many Americans today. With proper conservation and management, the mighty Mississippi will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
