Riverside History
The wide Mississippi River acts as the official border between Tennessee and Mississippi. Originally, this border extended from the Cumberland Mountains to the Mississippi River’s source at Lake Itasca. However, In the 1800s, surveyors re-drew the boundary and established the Mississippi River as the full border.
Additionally, many of the state’s largest cities and towns including Memphis, Nashville, and even Chattanooga developed right along the banks of the Mississippi River. As a result, the river has left its presence in every aspect of Tennessee’s history. Even today, the Mississippi River and its tributaries remain one of the most important transportation networks in the state.
Environmental Impact
The average width of the Mississippi River varies from around 1.6 to 10 miles wide in Tennessee alone. This large area is incredibly important for the majority of the state’s bio-diversity. Due to the abundance of water and the services it provides, mammal, amphibian, and plant species thrive in the area.
For decades, the western border of Tennessee has been facing the harsh realities of water pollution and deforestation, and the Mississippi River is no exception. Recent studies have shown a decline in the health of the river, with the decline in fish populations and an increase in sediment and nutrient requirements carrying the bulk of the blame.
In response to this decline, many environmentalists have called for the implementation of stricter regulations that protect the river’s water and wildlife. Additionally, citizens have advocated for the development of renewable energy resources that can reduce the levels of pollutants this river absorbs.
Economic Impact
In addition to its environmental impact, the Mississippi River is crucial to the economy of Tennessee. From a transportation standpoint, the river is used by companies to transport large cargoes up and down the river. It is this waterway that serves as the cornerstone for the state’s trade and commerce industry.
Additionally, the Mississippi River provides power to many of the largest cities in the state. It’s multitudinous waterways and tributaries support a variety of hydroelectric projects. Power plants located along the river provide electricity to over 2.8 million people in the state of Tennessee.
The Mississippi River is also a popular recreational hot spot for locals and tourists alike. Numerous campgrounds, marinas, and riverside restaurants make the area a popular destination for water recreation such as boating and fishing.
Geography
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of the geography and topography of Tennessee. Along the Mississippi River are numerous large bodies of water such as Pickwick Lake, Kentucky Lake, and Reelfoot Lake which provide incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the river supports a wide variety of shoreline scenarios such as sandbanks, levees, and wetlands.
The area is also home to a wide array of wildlife. Numerous bird species, turtles, and even bears can be found in and along the river. Furthermore, the river supports many fish species such as bluegill and catfish.
Current Projects
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is in the process of developing a major highway along the shore of the Mississippi River. This new highway will connect Memphis to the west and make transportation easier for citizens in the area.
Additionally, the US Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of developing a major flood protection system along the river. This project would work to protect the infrastructure in the area during floods by reinforcing levees and sea walls.
Local citizens have also been advocating for more sustainable resources in the area. Groups have pushed for the implementation of pollution-reducing systems and improved water management plans that will ensure the health and safety of the river.
Conclusion
As one of the largest bodies of water in the United States, the Mississippi River plays an essential role in the history, environment, and economy of Tennessee. Its wide banks support an abundance of wildlife, recreation, and transportation networks. Recent efforts by local and state governments have pushed for the development of sustainable resources, pollution-reducing systems, and improved water management plans that will ensure the health and safety of the river.
