The Mississippi River is best known as one of the longest rivers in the United States, stretching 2,320 miles, and providing a source of fresh drinking water for many. But, have you ever stopped to wonder where it begins? Just how wide is the early section of the mighty Mississippi?
The Mississippi River originates in Minnesota, just 926 feet above sea level, at the outlet of Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park. Initially, its girth is quite modest, as it courses through wetlands and marshland, cutting a channel through shallow backwaters. When the river leaves Lake Itasca, it is only 20 to 40 feet wide and approximately one to three feet deep.
“It is actually quite hard to believe that in such a small body of water, the depth and width can vary so much,” says David Marshall, a geographer with the U.S. Geological Survey. “It is an incredible force of nature.”
As it flows toward the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River grows wider and deeper, eventually reaching an average width of around one mile, and a depth of 200 to 300 feet. The widest point is found at Lake Winnibigoshish in Minnesota, where the river spreads out over 7.5 miles.
The transformation of the Mississippi River is largely being shaped by the natural forces at play in its watershed, as well as by humans. As it winds its way South, it receives sediment from upstream tributaries, including clay and other minerals, that help to continuously build up its floodplain and allow for larger vessels to travel upon it.
As the river carries more sediment, it widens and deepens. Thanks to human engineering projects over the centuries, it can now facilitate large vessels and barges, which have connected the Midwest to the coasts. It has also produced huge economic benefits for cities and towns along its course.
In addition to the sediment it receives, the Mississippi River is also impacted by levels of rainfall and snowmelt. When it rains heavily or there is extensive snowmelt, the river swells, and its width and depth are increased significantly. This can also cause flooding in certain areas, due to the river’s powerful force.
The Mississippi River Today
Today, the Mississippi River is a major artery for transportation and commerce. It is also a vital source of drinking water for millions of people in the United States. Boating, fishing, rafting and other recreational activities take place along its banks. In addition, many species of wildlife call the Mississippi River home.
“It is truly an amazing sight to behold,” says Marshall. “You can stand on the banks of the Mississippi and be struck by the sheer power of this remarkable river.”
Millions of people and many different industries, including energy, shipping and tourism, all rely on the Mississippi River. And while it is difficult to predict the future of the river, it is clear that it will remain an integral part of life in the United States for years to come.
The Role of Human Impact on the Mississippi River
As mentioned, humans have had an enormous effect on the Mississippi River, dating back centuries. Numerous dams and levees have been built along the river in order to control the flow, as well as prevent flooding in some areas.
More recently, however, the human impact has been felt in a different way largely because of the high levels of pollution that now flow into the river. This includes the pollution from both urban runoff and agricultural runoff, which includes pesticides and fertilizers. These pollutants can lead to poor water quality and can also have an adverse effect on the health of the river’s plant and animal life.
In recent years, there have been some efforts to improve the water quality of the river, but there is still much work that needs to be done. Some experts are calling for increased public awareness of the water quality issues of the Mississippi, as well as more stringent regulations and enforcement.
Economic Impact of the Mississippi River
In addition to its importance as an important transportation route, the Mississippi River also has a major economic impact in the United States. It has become a hub for businesses, with many industries, from agriculture and timber to shipping, relying heavily on its waters.
The Mississippi River is also renowned for its tourism and recreational activities. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, rafting, camping and birdwatching. The industry that it generates adds billions of dollars to the national economy every year.
Those working in the Mississippi River industry also benefit financially. Fishermen and other industry workers can make a decent living on the river, and it is estimated that close to 10,000 people are employed by businesses that operate along its banks.
However, it is clear that the Mississippi River is a fragile ecosystem and it will take concerted efforts to ensure that its future is protected and that its economic benefits remain in place.
Environmental Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River also has immense environmental value. The river provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species, from birds and fish to mammals. Not only does it act as a nursery for young fish, but it is also a migration corridor for some species.
In addition, the Mississippi River has significant cultural value. For the Native American tribes in the region, the river is seen as sacred, and it holds great spiritual significance for them.
But, there are some threats to the river’s ecology, including water pollution and the destruction of wetlands. These issues must be addressed in order to ensure that the river remains healthy.
The Future of the Mississippi River
When it comes to the future of the Mississippi River, the outlook is somewhat uncertain. A large part of it will depend on how well humans are able to protect and manage this valuable resource. It is up to all of us to ensure that this iconic river remains healthy and continues to benefit all of us.
What is clear is that the Mississippi River is an integral part of the United States and it will continue to play an important role in our lives. From providing economic benefits to supplying us with vital natural resources, the Mississippi River is a source of life and prosperity for millions of people.
Conservation of the Mississippi River
In order to fully protect the Mississippi River, steps must be taken to ensure that its various aspects are preserved and maintained. Fortunately, there are several organizations that are actively working to save and protect the river, including Save The Mississippi, The Nature Conservancy, American Rivers and The Mississippi River Network.
These organizations are actively seeking to conserve the river’s resources and to promote public awareness of its importance. They advocate for better practices and policies, as well as increased funding for science-based research and monitoring.
Ultimately, the future of the Mississippi River is in our hands. With the right tools and policies, we can ensure that its future is protected, and its benefits remain available for generations to come.
