A Historical Overview of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, formed approximately two to three million years ago. Although the exact origin of the river is disputed by geographers and geologists, it is thought to have first carved its path across Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas before eventually becoming a part of the present-day Lower Mississippi. The river spans over 2,320 miles and covers a total area of 410,110 square miles along the journey.
The Mississippi River is an important resource for communities that border its banks in providing irrigation, transportation, and drinking water. Mainly dependent on snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains, the river was first given its name by Ojibwe-speaking Native Americans living along its path in the early 17th century. The name, however, changed its pronunciation depending on the language. In the Ojibwe language, the word “Misi-ziibi” meant “great river.” In French, the pronunciation became “Mississippi,” meaning “big river.”
Today, the Mississippi River serves as a vital source of water and transportation, and is a popular recreational spot for individuals and families. The river winds through several major cities and is easily accessed by local boat launches and harbors along the way. Its lush vegetation, expansive views, and diverse wildlife also attract tourists from around the world.
How Many States Does the Mississippi River Border?
The Mississippi River traverses 10 states in total, snaking through Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The length of the river varies from state to state, from more than 200 miles in Illinois and 650 miles in Missouri to more than 700 miles in both Tennessee and Arkansas.
In total, the Mississippi River forms a border for four states: Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. This border provides a number of tangible benefits to those states’ economies, including trade and transportation, and access to the large freshwater source.
The economic boom that has taken place since the 1800s has been directly linked to the Mississippi River. Shipping along the river has always been an important factor in the economic growth of the region. Today, the Mississippi also supplies much of the electrical energy produced in Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, and other states, via several dams that run along the river’s length.
The Mississippi is also a source of food and recreation for the states it mirrors. Along the banks of the river, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing and hunting, making it a favorite destination for outdoors-lovers. Also, the vastness of the Mississippi River provides an abundance of water and transportation opportunities, allowing manufacturers to ship goods from one end of the United States to the other.
Preserving Mississippi River’s Natural Resources
Preserving the Mississippi River’s natural resources is key for the population of the four states. The Mississippi River is the main natural resource for the south, providing drinking water, recreation, transportation, and hydroelectric power in several states.
To ensure the longevity of the river and its resources, lawmakers have passed several laws and regulations to protect and conserve the Mississippi’s waters. For example, the Clean Water Act of 1972 protects water by regulating contamination from factors such as fertilizers and industrial waste. Similarly, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 grants endangered species, such as the whooping crane and rusty-patched bumblebee, protection in the United States.
The states of Arkansas, Mississippi, Illinois, and Louisiana also have their own laws and regulations in place to ensure that the resources of the Mississippi are safeguarded for future generations. For instance, the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) provides a framework for the management of the Mississippi River and its resources. In addition, the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) states that communities must develop coastal management plans that are specific to the area.
In addition to the federal and state regulations, private organizations and individuals are also taking responsibility for preserving the river’s ecosystems. Various groups have acted on their own initiative to clean up plastic pollution, reduce runoff from agriculture, and support the preservation and protection of wildlife.
Conclusion
In short, the Mississippi River traverses 10 states, with 4 states sharing its border. It is a significant source of water and transportation, a thriving source of recreation, and an important economic resource to the four states it borders. The states have implemented various laws and regulations to ensure the river’s protection, as well as joined forces with organizations and individuals in an effort to maintain its health.
