The Mississippi River is the keystone of the United States. Flowing through an impressive 10 states—Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana—it transports business, people, and natural resources in and out of its various ports, cities, and villages. It was also referred to as the “Great River” by the Native Americans due to its size, length, and power. Its currents twist and turn through 10 states and it cuts a 2500-mile path to the Gulf of Mexico.
The starting point of the Mississippi River is Lake Itasca in north-central Minnesota. From there, it is a seemingly endless ribbon of water, connecting the vast watersheds and rivers across the country. Eventually, it reaches New Orleans, Louisiana, where the waters of the river empty into the Gulf of Mexico.
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, and the fourth-longest in the world. It starts out slow, but as it narrows, it moves faster and more powerfully. The river is so vast that it crosses not only state borders, but also geological borders.
Between the first city that the Mississippi touches and its end point, the river flows through a total of 33 major cities:
- Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota
- LaCrosse, Wisconsin
- Dubuque and Davenport, Iowa
- Quincy, Grafton, and Alton, Illinois
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Paducah and Louisville, Kentucky
- Nashville and Memphis, Tennessee
- Helena and West Memphis, Arkansas
- Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi
- Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana
The Mississippi River provides essential water sources for the number of cities it passes through. In many of these cities, the river also acts as an economic lifeline, providing transportation for goods and services, and a platform for recreation, tourism and leisure. For example, the Mississippi River is a major source of water for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. It is also an important source of water for irrigation, hydroelectric power production, navigation, and the overall quality of life for the people in the region.
This iconic river is deeply connected with the culture, identity and unique history of the cities that it crosses. Throughout its course, it has influenced the lifestyle of these cities and their people. The Mississippi River has seen millions of dollars of investment poured into its revitalization over the years, and as a result, many of the cities it passes through remain vibrant and alive.
Mississippi River’s influence on local cultures
Local cultures in cities along the Mississippi River have been heavily influenced by the importance of the river, which serves as a focal point for many of the residents. Mississippi River towns often have strong cultural identities and a strong sense of place. Many cities take pride in their iconic riverfronts, which often feature popular parks, public spaces, and monuments.
The river also plays an important role in the local economy. With its many ports, the Mississippi is a major hub for commercial and passenger transportation, creating jobs and trade in many of the towns it passes through.
The Mississippi River also plays an important role in the culture, history and art of many of the towns and cities along its course. For example, the city of Memphis, Tennessee is closely connected to the iconic river, and is often referred to as the “Home of the Blues.” Louisiana’s city of New Orleans is famous for its Mardi Gras and other festivals, which often take place either on the banks of the Mississippi or overlooking it.
Floating on the river’s currents
The mighty Mississippi carries countless boats every day, some large, some small. Take a leisurely tour on the historic Mark Twain Riverboat, to take in the city skyline or watch the sun set. Or, if you’re looking for a bit of adventure, you can even go white water rafting or do a little fishing.
Take a journey along the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge, once an important part of the Underground Railroad that brought hundreds of freedom seekers north to safety. Watch for bald eagles and other wildlife, and pause to enjoy the beauty of this natural habitat.
Relaxed and romantic cruises are available from many of the cities along the Mississippi, with many cruises running along the Ohio and Missouri rivers, as well. The Mississippi is also known for its fishing and boating opportunities, with a number of docks lining the banks.
Avenues for water sports
The Mississippi is also a great gateway for water sports such as jet skiing and water skiing. Along the path of the Mississippi River, there are many resorts, public parks, and beaches, which are perfect spots for a relaxing day of swimming and water sports.
The Mississippi River offers many great opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon on a paddleboat or an adrenaline-pumping day of water skiing, the Mississippi will definitely provide you with the perfect activity.
Environmental impact
The Mississippi River is a major source of pollution and the runoff from farms, urban areas, and other sources has caused a significant amount of damage to the wildlife and ecology of the river. The US Environmental Protection Agency has taken initiatives to protect the river, and many local governments have passed ordinances to help limit the pollution of the river.
The most significant pollutant of the Mississippi River is sediment, which is responsible for eroding the riverbanks and reducing the water’s clarity. Pesticides, fertilizers, and other pollutants are also found in the river, as well as industrial waste from the oil refining and steel industries. The US EPA is working hard to reduce these pollutants and protect the river.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River has been an important part of American life for centuries, and it continues to be today. From its source in northern Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana, this iconic river is cultural, ecological, and economic touchstone for many of the cities and towns it passes through. The Mississippi River offers a variety of recreational and commercial opportunities, and is an important source of water for the cities along its course. It also serves as a source of pollution and erosion, and efforts are being taken to protect it.
