The mighty Mississippi River is one of the largest rivers in North America. It cuts through 10 US states and is the fourth-longest river in the world, stretching from its source location in northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. For years, the Mississippi River has been central to the beliefs, dreams, and livelihoods of the local communities. It not only allows people to travel, but also provides recreation and leisure activities such as fishing and kayaking.
The Mississippi River is surrounded by a shoreline that stretches out for 2,320 miles. As travelers make their way up the river, they’ll encounter the 10 states the river passes through bordering its banks. A unique characteristic amongst rivers of this caliber is that the Mississippi River possesses continuous shorelines from Miami to the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for uninterrupted sailing along its length.
Interestingly enough, when the river is under flood stage, the shoreline expands as much as 40 miles. This allows people to explore areas of the river they wouldn’t have been able to see before due to the wide breadth of water coverage. It is also at these times that the land is usually exposed, allowing for greater exploration of the landscape.
The vegetation that makes up the shores of the Mississippi River is highly diverse. It spans from the boreal forests in the north to the cypress swamps in the south. Additionally, many other species of oak, walnut trees, and various evergreens occupy the banks. Shale bluffs are also common as well, providing an interesting backdrop as one makes their way down the length of the river.
The Mississippi River also supports several species of wildlife, both in and out of the water. Waterfowl, birds, reptiles, and mammals are amongst the abundant wildlife that live in and around the river. Not only do these animals rely on the Mississippi River for water and food, but they create a diverse ecosystem that is integral for maintaining a thriving environment for years to come.
In addition to its wildlife, the Mississippi River supports both recreational and commercial activity, with many fishing and paddling trips helping support the local economy. Not only is the Mississippi River important to the everyday lives of local communities, but it also plays a crucial role in engineering and navigation.
Dangers of Mississippi River Shoreline
Throughout its existence, the Mississippi River has acted as a water source, roadway, and resource reservoir. With countless reservoirs of water surrounding the river however, there are of course some dangers. Flooding can lead to lost livelihoods, pollution can harm the environment, and those who travel along the shorelines should be vigilant about fast and changing currents.
In addition to the natural threats, man-made obstacles along the shore – such as dams, levees, and locks – can cause accidents. The altering of the river and its surrounding areas by man-made structures can lead to swift and powerful currents, and researchers suggest being mindful of water levels when navigating around these structures.
With the dangers of the river come safety measures. A combination of river hazard mapping, intrusive communication from authorities, and increasing access to local marine forecasts has contributed towards an increase in public safety in regards to the Mississippi River. There are now countless blogs, websites, and forums devoted to the river, designed to analyze its particular characteristics, helping to make extended and safe journey.
Uses of Mississippi River Shoreline
The Mississippi River’s shoreline has been utilized in multiple ways throughout recorded history. From powering flatboat turbines to transporting goods, the river has acted as a conduit between cities and cultures. It is believed that the first voyage to take place on the Mississippi River occurred in 1541 and was led by Hernando De Soto.
Apart from transportation, the river offers an abundance of resources. Merging with the Atchafalaya and the Missouri in the South, the freshwater provides a breeding ground for wildlife aplenty. Not only is the river rich in biodiversity, but the fish that thrive along its banks bring a steady income for anglers and commercial fishermen.
The landscape that also surrounds the mighty Mississippi also plays a major role in the lifestyles of the local people living along the shoreline. From cotton production to natural gas production, the Mississippi shoreline and its string of cities are integral for sustaining a quality of life for the many people living in and around the river.
Social and Cultural Significance
The Mississippi River has long been an important symbol in American history and is held to high esteem by the people who live near its shores. Originating from various Native American folklore, the Mississippi River is a memorial to the heroes and battles that have been fought along its way, such as the Battle of Vicksburg during the Civil War.
The river has also played an important cultural role in the literature and music of the South. Songs sung by blues singers traveling along the many banks of the South helped spread a message of hope and resilience during difficult times. Similarly, countless stories that teach of a spiritual connection between the river and its people call to be remembered.
As travelers go up and down the length of the Mississippi River, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe and admiration. The 2,320 mile-long river provides an abundance of resources, wildlife, and culture that must be treasured and preserved throughout the years, so that the generations of tomorrow may continue to enjoy it’s presence.
Conservation Efforts
In recent years, the Mississippi River has seen an increase in conservation efforts. Local governments and organizations have come together to develop initiatives that aim to help maintain the river’s wildlife and biodiversity. These initiatives highlight the need to take care of the environment and recognize the importance of the river in sustaining the lives of the local communities.
The “Mississippi River Network” is a non-profit organization whose mission is to join forces with those living along the river, in order to expand their message of conservation to a wider audience. Their campaigns promote safety regulations, encouraging people to use the river responsibly, and raise awareness of the river’s impact on the environment.
In addition to the Mississippi River Network, many local organizations take part in educational outreach programs to inform people of the best practices when interacting with the river. From water clean-ups to sponsored boat races, these campaigns help bring the local communities together, fostering a relationship with the environment.
Effects on Local Economies
Due to the long 2,320 mile-stretch of the Mississippi River, it provides a consistent source of wealth to those living along its shores. Spanning from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the river provides countless cities and towns with an abundance of resources, jobs, and enjoyment. Boasting urban environments for commerce, industry and recreation, the communities along the Mississippi River benefit from its towering waterfront.
The river acts as a major artery for trade and transportation, making it a vital resource for the states it connects. It is estimated that over 250 million tons of commodities, including grain, petroleum, and many other goods, are transported along the river annually. This has an expansive impact on the economies in the states it touches.
From maritime industry professionals to small-scale businesses, the river has provided a source of income and livelihoods for many people. This has provided a level of economic stability to the cities near the river as well, strengthening its economic activity over time.
Correlation With Tourism
With the increase in reforms and rulemaking, the Mississippi River has become an increasingly popular destination amongst travelers. From fishing trips to sightseeing journeys, the mighty Mississippi River has something to offer anyone hoping to experience the best of American riverside culture. Many companies provide sailing cruises down the river, enabling travelers to observe the many levees, terraces, and plantations that hug its sides.
In addition to small-scale transport and waterfront tours, the Mississippi River boasts many destination resorts. Golfing, riverboat gambling, ziplining, and many other leisure activities are offered for visitors looking for a place to stay for their journey. This has been integral for helping boost the economies of the local towns and cities, bringing in invaluable income that otherwise wouldn’t have been provided had the river remained in its traditional form.
Whether one chooses to take a short journey or an extended excursion, the many miles of Mississippi Rivershoreline are available to explore. Providing a level of awe and wonderment, the river is a reminder of the capabilities of nature and the beauty it offers when protected. This 2,320 mile-long river is a reminder of the United States’ rich history and a source of pride that many hope to continue along the generations.
