Introduction
The Mississippi River is among the largest rivers in the United States and is one of the defining features of the American landscape. Stretching from the northern Great Lakes region all the way to the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi is a key point of reference when discussing the geography of the nation’s mid-section. As such, it may be useful to explore the states that lie to the west of the Mississippi River. The states found in this region vary considerably in terms of their geography, climate, and culture, offering visitors and residents alike a diverse experience.
Geography of the Region
The states of this region span from the Midwest to the Pacific Ocean. Encompassed in this span is expanses of grassland and farmland as well as deserts and mountain ranges. The states located west of the Mississippi River are widely diverse. Covering some of the continent’s most agriculturally productive land, these states also contain vast stretches of stark, mineral-rich desert that can be both beautiful and forbidding. Culturally and politically, the region is home to a mix of modern cities, laid-back rural towns, and the occasional Native American reservation, providing each state with it’s unique personality.
Major States
States that are west of the Mississippi River include Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Idaho, and Washington. Each state has its own distinct character, embodying the regional archetypes typically associated with the West. For example, Minnesota and Wisconsin are known for their lush forests and cold winters, while Iowa’s rolling hills and diverse agriculture have made the state a center of the Midwest’s farm belt. Montana and Wyoming bear witness to the Rockies, while their neighbor to the south, Colorado, is renowned for its abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas make up the notorious “Dust Bowl” region, while Arkansas is known for its scenic Ozark Mountains.
Cultural Aspects
Each of the states has its own distinct culture, though some regional traits are common across the region. The Great Plains of the Midwest is home to the Cowboy culture, a mix of rural pioneers and Native Americans that has come to symbolize the Western lifestyle. This lifestyle is evident in the architecture, cuisine, and art of many of the region’s states, including Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Cities such as Denver, Denver, Austin and Oklahoma City are the most populous regions of the region and are the centers of commerce. Lastly, the southern states of Texas and Louisiana are home to a hybrid of Southern, Southwestern, and Creole cultures, providing visitors and residents alike with an amazing variety of experiences.
Economic Outlook
The economic outlook of the states west of the Mississippi River generally reflects the diversity of the region. As with the rest of the nation, the Western states were hit hard by the most recent economic recession, with some areas faring better than others. In general, the more expansive states – such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Colorado – are performing better then their smaller counterparts, primarily due to their larger cities and larger populations. The states also have a wide range of industries, from traditional agriculture to emerging technology fields, making them attractive destinations for businesses looking to relocate or expand.
Recreational Opportunities
Aside from strong economic opportunities, the region offers myriad recreational activities for visitors and residents alike. From picturesque mountain views to cowboy culture, the region boasts a variety of health and environmental attractions, particularly when compared to other American locales. All of the western states have ample opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and other forms of outdoor recreation. Further, some of America’s most outstanding parks and national forests, such as Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, are located in the region. Finally, the vibrant cities of the region provide a number of urban-based recreational activities, such as world-class art museums, luxury shopping districts, and diverse cultural attractions.
Environmental Concerns
Though the region offers a variety of recreational and economic opportunities, it is not without its own environmental issues. In particular, the arid regions of the Southwest have seen significant air pollution due to both the dust created by drought-stricken soil and the growing air traffic associated with sprawling cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas. Additionally, oils spills and other pollutants threaten the water supplies of many of the region’s states. Though these issues present unique dangers to the region’s environment, they can also be addressed through better conservation practices, stronger regulations, and more environmentally aware citizens.
Political Issues
The states west of the Mississippi River have seen a variety of political issues cycle through their regions. Perhaps the biggest issue facing the region right now is the question of immigration, with a number of the southwestern states having seen the debate take center stage in recent years. Additionally, the region has seen its share of debates around guns, the death penalty, and abortion, with opinion divided among the various states. Lastly, the region is also home to a rapidly changing population, with an increasing number of Americans of Hispanic or Latino origin making their home in many of the states.
Conclusion
The states west of the Mississippi River offer visitors and residents alike a number of diverse experiences. From remote mountain towns to bustling cities and plains to deserts, the region contains a variety of places and lifestyles. The region also has its fair share of economic, environmental, and political issues to consider. Thus, it is important to understand the various issues at play before traveling to the area, as well as the types of opportunities that the region has to offer.
