The Mississippi River is a majestic, integral part of North American geography and many of us know that it starts in Minnesota and flows south to the Gulf of Mexico. But did you know that it also passes through multiple states along its journey? In total, 10 states in the US are traversed by the Mississippi river; Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.
The Mississippi River is the 4th longest river in the world, measured from its source to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. It is considered to be the most important river of the US in terms of economy, and hence, is a symbol of power and greatness. Thus, it should come as no surprise that the Mississippi River passes through so many states.
The study of the history and sedimentary deposits of the Mississippi River is important in understanding how natural changes result in shifts of landforms, how it affects agriculture and the soil. According to Ben Fitzhugh and his team of experts at the University of Washington, the Mississippi River is the main depositor of sediments in the eastern U.S. and its deposits influence CO2 levels and other aspects of the climate. This means that the Mississippi River is vital in sustaining the balance of life in the US.
But the river is also important in understanding the lifespan and dynamics of rivers, and how they can change over time. In some regions, tributary basins of smaller rivers have become disconnected from the main channel of the Mississippi River. As a result, large riverine wetlands have formed. With over 500 species of birds and mammals, and a diversity of specific habitats, the river is a complex, changing environment.
Not only is the Mississippi River an integral part of the US geographical landscape, but it is also a symbol of hope and life. Its many state crossings are a reminder that it carries with it stories and life, of how it can adapt and thrive, and how even in the midst of great change, it can still continue to flow. Thus, it is no wonder that the Mississippi River is one of the most crucial, revered and revered rivers that the US is home to.
Historical Significance
The Mississippi River is an integral part of the US history, being used as an important channel for trade and migration for centuries. During the 19th century, the river was the primary source of transportation and communication for westward expansion of the US into the new territory of Louisiana. Native American tribes and French settlers relied on the river for travel and trade, and its importance increased during the American civil war due to its navigable path that allowed soldiers to travel by boat.
Even though mechanical steamboats were developed to travel on the river in the 19th century, the shifting sands and eddies of the Mississippi and its tributaries still caused frequent changes in the riverbed and banks and posed a navigational challenge. Even today, the river is an important part of American culture, with its many tributaries and state crossings, the Mississippi River has become a symbol of unity and hope
Protecting the Animals
The Mississippi River’s strong water currents are not only beneficial for transportation but for the organisms that live in and around the river. The endangered pallid sturgeon relies on the Mississippi for transportation and as a spawning ground and the Louisiana black bear, who only lives in the swamps and marshes along the river, is threatened due to the changes in the water level and access to its food sources.
In recent years, efforts have been made to protect and restore the fishery of the Mississippi River in order to preserve the delicate balance of the river’s ecosystem. For example, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has established several areas along the Mississippi River, such as the Black Bayou and White River National Wildlife Refuges, as well as the Old River Conservation Area and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, where activities like fishing and crabbing are prohibited.
These steps have been taken in order to protect the fish that call the river their home, such as the shovelnose sturgeon, alligator gar, gizzard shad, and the paddlefish, all of which are listed as threatened or endangered species. One of the most notable efforts happens though the efforts of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, who have been monitoring and enforcing no-take, no-trespassing laws to protect these endangered species.
A Positive Presence
The Mississippi River is a source of wonder, admiration and respect of the natural world. It is an integral part of US geography and a reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature. Its state crossings serve as a reminder of how life can continue to exist even in the midst of great change.
The knowledge of the river’s impact on the natural environment enlightens us to the importance of finding ways to protect our precious deep waters and the animals that rely on them to survive. From providing habitats, to providing recreation, to bringing communities closer together, the Mississippi River is essential in many aspects of life in America.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River also serves as an important source of fresh water, but its impact on the environment is far from perfect. Due to the changes in the river’s flow, its water can be contaminated with fertilizer runoff, sewage, industrial wastewater and other pollutants. This causes algae blooms, water quality deterioration and fish kills. As a result, many of the fish species, mussels and other wildlife in the river are in decline.
Efforts have been made by the US government and other organizations in trying to reduce the impact of the river on the environment. For example, the US Environmental Protection Agency has established the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association which aims to coordinate efforts in protecting the river from decay and pollution. The Mississippi River is also the subject of many studies from environmental research institutions, in order to better understand the effects of climate change on the ecosystem.
Recreation
On the other hand, the majestic Mississippi River also serves as an oasis for recreation. From fishing, to bird watching, to canoeing, the river is a perfect getaway spot to enjoy nature. There are numerous recreational areas along the 10 states the river will traverse, such as the Mississippi River State Park in Arkansas, which offers campsites, bike trails, fishing and swimming areas and plenty of wildlife to observe.
In Wisconsin, Minneapolis and Saint Paul border the Mississippi River and offer many recreational activities for its visitors. Bike paths, plazas, campgrounds and other amenities are available for people to enjoy the majestic river views. Visitors can also rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards to explore more of the area.
Preserving the Legacy
The Mississippi River is a part of American culture and has been the backdrop of many great stories and events. Its state crossings serve as a reminder of how much life the river has carried with it over the years. It is a symbol of how life can continue to exist even in the midst of great change and how it can adapt to thrive.
As such, efforts must be taken to protect and preserve the beautiful ecosystem that the Mississippi River offers. Doing so will not only benefit the animals that inhabit the river, but the US as a whole. By seeking ways to reduce pollution, conserve energy and protect the home of so much fish, birds and mammals, we can ensure that this great river will remain a symbol of unity and hope into the future.
