The Mississippi River is a mighty force, with a length of 2,320 miles, making it one of the most significant bodies of water in the US and the fourth longest in the world. Out of the total length, ten states border or touch the river in some way – including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The Mississippi River is essential for these states and has a profound effect their cultural and social life, as well as their economies.
In Minnesota, the river stretches from its source at Lake Itasca to its merger with the Saint Croix River 90 miles upstream from the Gulf of Mexico. Moving on from Minnesota, fishing, ice fishing and boating are potential activities on the river in Wisconsin. With its many navigable waterways, Iowa is another example of state whose economy and culture rely on the Mississippi River. Illinois is another state where the iconic river is home to big cities such as Chicago, and countless other smaller river towns. Stretching the whole length of the state boundary with the “Father of Waters”, Missouri agrees with the words of Mark Twain – “The face of the water in time, became a wonderful book.”
Of course, the river is heavily entrenched in the cultural and economic life of other states, too. For example, in Arkansas, the river’s importance is highlighted by the presence of the Mississippi River Trail and its opportunities for hunting, fishing, and biking. Furthermore, the 27 locks and dams on the river offer immediate access to markets and employment in Memphis, Tennessee. As one of four states located entirely within the drainage basin, Kentucky is the home of the famous and navigable Cumberland River, and of course, the Mississippi River
The influence of the river continues to be seen in states such as Louisiana, with all its docks and ports, which, together with the Gulf of Mexico and other waterways, provide great transportation and trading opportunities. Finally, in Mississippi, the scenic Pascagoula River, a tributary of the Mississippi, provides a private and natural passage to the gulf on its northern coast. Having such a major presence, the Mississippi River shapes and enriches the culture, economy, and environment of each of these ten states in its own unique way.
Economy
The Mississippi River has had an immeasurable influence on the region’s economy. Over the last two centuries, the river has linked the economies of the Northern, Central and Southern United States. It is responsible for connecting a variety of businesses and industries with numerous markets and ports. By powering energy facilities, the river produces one-third of the national energy, with transportation and agriculture accounting for two-thirds of all businesses related to the riverbank.
The river also provides businesses with the right infrastructure to export their goods throughout the nation and to international markets. Its network of pathways, locks, and canals allow freight to move quickly and easily, allowing businesses to conduct their affairs, send goods to and from international ports, and assist small local businesses.Moreover, the Mississippi is heavily utilized in the national transportation, with countless ships and barges utilizing the river to effectively and efficiently transport goods to the ports and markets of the Gulf of Mexico.
Culture
The Mississippi River has a longstanding and powerful influence on the culture of the United States. It has served as the region’s cultural backbone for hundreds of years and is home to an unparalleled cultural and literary history. The river is known for its scenic beauty and is the birthplace of some of the country’s most iconic and beloved musical styles, such as blues and gospel. Many iconic American works of literature, like Huckleberry Finn, have also been born out of the river.
The Mississippi River is a source of here-and-now experience, too. It continues to foster distinctive traditions and cultures, such as the numerous annual festivals, like the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Around the river, events revolving around music, history, and art occur year round, each pulling in thousands of visitors from different countries and nationalities. The river continues to be an integral part of the culture of the United States and provides a wonderful source of entertainment and enjoyment.
Environment
The Mississippi has also had a tremendous influence on the environment. Numerous species of fish, birds, mammals, and other animals are found throughout the region. The river is a destination for migratory birds and has some of the finest bird watching locations in the world. Over the years, the environment has been affected by human activity and the river has been used to dump pollutants. This has caused degradation of the environment in many areas.
In recent years, there have been initiatives to clean up the river, with some states taking the lead in cleaning up their waterways and implementing pro-environmental policies. In addition, the Paris Agreement of 2016 saw countries commit to reducing emissions and preserving natural resources, thereby helping to restore the environment along the entire length of the river.
Conservation
Due to its immense value and size, the Mississippi River requires vigorous conservation efforts. Rivers, like oceans, are essential for life on earth, and the Mississippi has been an integral part of our country’s American life for centuries. Conservation is a top priority for states that border the Mississippi River, with many organizations and initiatives dedicated to protecting this iconic waterway.
In an effort to help conserve the rivers, many states are engaged in frequent water quality testing and monitoring. Additionally, communities continue to come together to release species of fish and plants into the waterways in order to foster life within the river’s ecosystem. Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency has also provided much-needed resources and initiatives to help protect the river.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is a vital part of ten US states, helping to shape their culture, economy, and environment. It is a force to be reckoned with, and it is essential that we continue to engage in cohesive conservation efforts in order to ensure its sustainability and protect the surrounding ecosystems. The ten states bordering the Mississippi River benefit from the unparalleled opportunities and vital foundations that the Mighty Mississippi offers, and therefore have a responsibility to ensure its preservation for generations to come.
