Historical Significance
The Mississippi and Missouri Rivers are two of the most significant rivers in the United States. Historically, the Missouri River was first explored by the Lewis and Clark Expedition who, in 1804, followed its course for the first time.
The Mississippi River, however, has been in use for a much longer period of time. Native Americans and French explorers first used the river for transportation as early as the 1500s, and it is even referenced in the King James Bible.
Today, both the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers are integral to the United States economy. They provide hydropower, transport goods, and offer drinking water to millions of people across the nation. In terms of length, however, which river is truly bigger?
Geographical Lengths
As part of their journey, Lewis and Clark began tracking the difference between the two rivers, with the Mississippi River at 2,530 miles and the Missouri River at 2,341 miles. However, that is not the end of the story.
In an effort to better understand the length of the rivers, geographers have used GPS technology and aerial imagery over the past two decades. Their findings suggest that the Missouri River is longest, at 2,478 miles, while the Mississippi River is second, at 2,320 miles.
Interestingly, the difference in length is largely because the Missouri River is composed of four distinct branches, whereas the Mississippi River is just one long course. As such, the Missouri River starts from multiple sources, creating a longer waterway.
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of both rivers is significant. The Missouri River is home to several endangered species, such as the pallid sturgeon, and provides vital habitats for migratory birds. Additionally, it helps to regulate water levels in the Lower Basin and is connected to the water cycle.
In contrast, the Mississippi River supplies water to millions of people, supports numerous ecosystems, and supports fish and wildlife. The river also plays an important role in managing floods.
Both rivers are heavily protected by federal laws and agencies that oversee their use and development. Unfortunately, both rivers are also suffering from human activities such as pollution, coastal development, and river-dredging.
Economic Significance
In terms of economic significance, both rivers are essential to the United States. The Missouri River is a major shipping route for commercial vessels and the source of drinking water for States within the Great Plains. Additionally, it is an integral part of the agricultural industry.
Similarly, the Mississippi River supports businesses and communities in the Midwest and Texas. Its large waterway provides transportation for commercial vessels, and many cities rely on the river for their water supply.
Both rivers contribute to the US economy in a myriad of ways, but the majority of their economic impact comes in the form of recreation and tourism. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and other water activities draw tourists to their respective banks each year.
Conclusion
Despite the significant differences between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, both are critical to the United States economy, environment, and history. The Missouri River is longer overall, with a length of 2,478 miles, while the Mississippi River comes in second with 2,320 miles. While the rivers are both important to the nation, they are just as significant to each other, since their combined length and importance are vital in order to keep the US economy running.
The Missouri and Mississippi rivers have been essential for transportation since the beginning of US exploration. The Missouri River is, overall, easier to navigate and often preferred for larger commercial vessels. It is because of this that the Missouri is the primary route for shipping and transportation.
The Mississippi River is a bit more difficult to navigate due to its winding course and shallower depths. It is also prone to seasonal flooding, which can make navigation more difficult. However, the river is still an important route and can support larger vessels in certain areas.
Overall, both rivers are navigable and important for shipping and transportation, though the Missouri River is often preferred for larger vessels due to its navigateability.
Recreational Activities
The Missouri and Mississippi rivers offer a wide range of recreational activities for locals and tourists alike. These activities are not limited to fishing and boating, but also include bird watching, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Tourism is especially popular along the Mississippi River, as the large waterway and its scenic wildlife provide an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Communal areas along the rivers are also popular, as they provide access to water activities and picnicking spots. Aside from the occasional natural disasters, such as flooding, these areas are usually safe and enjoyable.
Both rivers offer an amazing experience to the recreational user; however, the Mississippi River is generally more popular due to its larger waterway and more scenic wildlife.
Problems Faced by the Rivers
The Missouri and Mississippi rivers are both facing major environmental issues due to human activities. This includes oil and gas extraction, overfishing, wastewater discharge, and agricultural runoff. These activities have taken a massive toll on the rivers, particularly in terms of water quality and wildlife. Additionally, navigation is becoming increasingly difficult due to blockages caused by industry.
In response to such problems, several conservation efforts have been implemented. These include tighter regulations on industrial activities, habitat restoration programs, and environmental education for the public. While these efforts are noble, much more needs to be done to help protect the two rivers.
The Missouri and Mississippi rivers are facing a catastrophic decline due to human activities that damage the water quality and block navigation. Conservation efforts are being taken to address the problem, but much more needs to be done in order to ensure the health and sustainability of the two rivers.
