Location of Minnesota
Minnesota is situated in the Midwestern United States, and is a border state between the U.S. Northern Plains and the Upper Midwest. It is bordered by North Dakota and South Dakota to the west, Iowa to the south, Wisconsin to the east, and the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario to the north. The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are the state’s largest metropolitan hubs, with the remainder of the metro area including the cities of Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and Bloomington, among others also located in Minnesota.
The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River forms part of the easternmost border of Minnesota. It begins in Wisconsin, cutting across the state line at the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, running all the way down the state’s eastern border. For around 2,500 miles the Mississippi River extends from the northern tip of Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It provides huge economic advantages to the region, and is the fourth largest river system in the world.
Is Minnesota East or West of the Mississippi River?
The answer to this question is both! The Mississippi River forms a natural boundary between Minnesota’s eastern and western regions, so that much of the state’s western region lies to the west of the river, while the entire eastern region lies to the east. The Twin Cities and all of the cities and towns in the eastern part of the state is east of the Mississippi, while other areas in the western region, such as Fargo and Duluth, are situated to the west of the river.
Economic and Cultural Advantages
Being located on both sides of the Mississippi River brings many economic and cultural advantages to Minnesota. The mighty river’s influence has connected the state’s two regions to one another, providing access to the rest of the world and allowing for the flow of goods, services, and people throughout the entire state. This not only provides more opportunities for business and industry, but also creates a greater sense of community as cultures and lifestyles mix and mingle throughout the region.
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area was established in 1988, and is jointly managed by the National Park Service and local, state, and federal government partners. The 72-mile stretch of river between the towns of Hastings and Anoka is the only National Park in Minnesota and provides many recreational opportunities for visitors. Activities such as fishing, kayaking, bird watching, and camping are all available, and the park is also active in local conservation and education programs. The river also serves as an important source of drinking water for many towns and cities downstream.
Traveling Along the Mississippi
For visitors to Minnesota, the Mississippi River offers a great way to travel through the state. The Great River Road, a scenic highway following the course of the river, extends for around 2,500 miles, beginning in Minnesota and passing through the other 10 states that line the river’s course. It is one of the most historic highways in the U.S., passing in and out of small towns, farms, and national parks and providing stunning views throughout the entire journey.
Tourism and Leisure
The Mississippi River is one of Minnesota’s major tourism draws, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. From fishing and boating on the river to exploring historical sites and national parks, there is plenty to see and do on any budget. In the Twin Cities, visitors can take a sightseeing cruise on the river, while those looking for a more rugged outdoor adventure will find plenty of hiking trails and campgrounds along the river’s shores.
Mississippi Pirogue Races
One unique event that takes place in Minnesota each year is the Mississippi Pirogue Races. This traditional event has been held for more than 40 years, as canoe and pirogue teams paddle down the river for miles, competing for prizes and bragging rights. While the event provides great entertainment for the whole family, it also serves as a reminder of the long-standing traditions of the river and those who rely on it for their livelihood.
History of The Mississippi
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of Minnesota’s history since the state was first settled by French explorers in the early 1600s. It was part of the path taken by Lewis and Clark on their expedition to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory, and also served as a major transportation route during the Civil War. Today, the Mississippi still plays an important role in Minnesota’s culture and economy, providing jobs and opportunities to many of the state’s citizens.
Environmental Impact of The Mississippi
The Mississippi River has taken a toll on the environment in Minnesota throughout its history, but environmental organizations are working to restore the river’s health. Various programs are in place to reduce the flow of pollutants entering the river, as well as combat invasive species that threaten the river’s native wildlife. Conservation projects such as wolf reintroduction, wetland preservation, and tree plantings are also helping to restore balance to the river and its ecosystem.
Mississippi River and Economy
The region surrounding the Mississippi River is one of Minnesota’s most prosperous. The river has been a major source of employment for centuries, providing a livelihood for many of the state’s farmers and fishermen, as well as those working in the forestry, tourism, and transportation industries. The river also serves as an important trade route, as barges carrying commodities such as coal, grain, and other goods ply the waters of the Mississippi.
Mississippi River and Native Americans
The Mississippi River has been home to many Native American tribes throughout its history, and many of these tribes still exist today. The river was an important part of many tribes’ cultures and lifestyles, providing food, transportation routes, and even divining the future. The tribes of the region have had a deep respect for the river and its powers, and continue to preserve their native traditions and cultural heritage to this day.
Mississippi River and Recreation
The Mississippi River provides numerous recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. From fishing and camping to bird watching, kayaking, and even rafting, the running waters of the Mississippi offer something for everyone. There are also many state parks, wildlife management areas, and other protected areas located throughout the state, providing lots of opportunities to explore the river and its surrounding environment.
Mississippi River and Wildlife
The Mississippi River is home to a wide variety of wildlife, from fish and birds to reptiles and amphibians. Many of these animals are endangered, and conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore their habitats. The river’s flowing waters also provide a unique habitat for aquatic creatures such as the paddlefish, sturgeon, mussels, and freshwater clams, adding to the rich biodiversity of the area.
Mississippi River and Tourism
Being situated near the Mississippi River has led to a huge rise in tourism for Minnesota in recent years. Visitors to the region can experience the area’s history by visiting the many historical sites and monuments that honor the state’s Native American population. In the major cities and towns, visitors can take in the culture, take a sightseeing cruise on the river, or simply enjoy some of the many art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River plays an integral role in the lives of many Minnesotans, providing them with jobs, recreation, and a connection to their homeland. Whether you’re looking to explore the river’s beauty, experience its cultural significance, or take advantage of its economic opportunities, Minnesota has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re located east or west of the Mighty Mississippi, Minnesota has something in store for you.
