The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States, stretching for more than 2,000 miles from the northern tip of Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. This majestic river has served as the center of US history, from the Lewis & Clark expeditions to the civil rights movement. But what many don’t realize is that the Mississippi River is supported by 32 U.S. states that contribute to its larger watershed. To understand the unique connection between states and the river, let’s take a closer look at each one.
Minnesota
The Mississippi begins in Lake Itasca, the headwaters of Minnesota and the world’s most powerful river source. Though it doesn’t contribute to large swaths of the river, it is an important link nonetheless. Lake Itasca holds a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans, who flock to its shores for recreation and spiritual rejuvenation.
The vast watershed of Minnesota comprises over 100,000 miles, fed by numerous creeks and rivers, like the Mississippi itself. This contributes up to 51 percent of the state’s water supply, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. It is clear that this single river is responsible for sustaining many lives.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is the closest state to Minnesota and has been part of the Mississippi’s journey since its inception. Here, the river travels through large swaths of farmland, which are responsible for much of the state’s economic revenue. Agriculture-related activities account for over $1 billion of the state’s GDP each year.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reports that the river’s water quality has improved significantly in the last few decades. This is due in part to the work of the Clean Water Action Council and the Mississippi River Network, which collaborate to address issues such as industrial waste runoff, agricultural pollutants, and outdated sewage systems.
Illinois
The Mississippi flows through the state of Illinois, providing a vital economic link between the Great Lakes and the Gulf of Mexico. This connection is particularly beneficial for the state’s shipping and transportation industry, which relies on the steady current of the river to send goods up and down its length.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reports that the state has invested in cleanup and restoration efforts along the river. This has helped to improve the river’s water quality drastically in the last decade, aiding fish and other aquatic species in the process.
Indiana
Indiana has a close relationship with the Mississippi, with the river forming the northern boundary of the state. This connection has been beneficial for industry and agriculture, as Indiana’s farmers benefit from the river’s fertile soil and abundant fresh water.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has also enacted a number of restrictions to ensure the river’s continued health. These include prohibitions on the discharge of pollutants, as well as stringent regulations on agricultural runoff that could contaminate the river.
Iowa
Next on our journey down the Mississippi is Iowa, which borders both the river and Lake Michigan. As with its neighboring states, the river has been essential to the local economy, historically providing power to early mills and factories. Today, it serves as an important source of irrigation and recreation.
However, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources also warns of challenges to maintaining the river’s health. Issues such as industrial waste discharge and agricultural runoff continue to be of particular concern, as they have the potential to cause negative health and environmental impacts.
Missouri
Missouri is the most prominent state along the length of the Mississippi, as the river forms almost its entire western border. This close proximity has provided the state with an abundance of resources, both in terms of commerce and nature.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has placed an emphasis on restoring the river’s ecological health. This includes efforts to improve water quality, reduce erosion, and enhance habitat along the river’s banks. This has been especially important to the state’s wildlife, which depend on the river for their survival.
Arkansas
Our final state in the tour of the Mississippi is Arkansas, where the river passes through a number of important cities, such as Memphis and New Orleans. Historically, this state has relied heavily on the river for its transportation needs, from the transport of goods to the movement of people.
The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission has been actively involved in protecting the river from environmental hazards. It requires that activities such as commercial vessel traffic be carefully monitored and regulated in order to prevent damage to the river.
Conclusion
From the state of Minnesota in the north, to Arkansas in the south, the Mississippi River is a crucial source of sustenance and recreation in the United States. Of these 32 states, each contributes in unique ways to the maintenance and longevity of the river. Whether it be through agricultural or industrial activity, or the preservation of its ecologic health, each helps to ensure that the river remains a powerful force in our nation’s history and future.
