Introduction
The Mississippi River is an iconic waterway renowned for its winding curves, historic settlements and valuable resources. Spanning more than 3,700 kilometers, the Mississippi River is one of the longest and most important rivers on Earth. One of the big questions surrounding it is, which continent does the Mississippi River flow through? The answer to this often asked question is that the Mississippi River flows through the North American continent, particularly the Midwestern and Eastern United States.
History, Geography, and Ecology
Historically, the Mississippi River played a significant role in both the American economy and culture. Thousands of years ago, the Mississippi River emerged as a trading route for the American Natives. In the 19th century, the river flourished as a transit for steamboats and railway networks that transported many goods to the developing nation. It is an essential water source for a vast number of species, including more than 25 different fish species.
Geographically, the Mississippi River forms its watershed in the Midwest and Eastern United States, draining parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. It then continues its journey downriver through the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana, before it empties into the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the biggest river systems in the United States and the fourth-longest river in the world.
Ecologically, the Mississippi River is responsible for supplying water to millions of people in rural and urban areas along its course. In addition, its floodplains also serve as essential spawning grounds for many species of fish and wildlife. Furthermore, it serves as a vital connection for many animal species to migrate between different parts of the continent.
Economic and Recreational Uses
Economically, the Mississippi River has provided the local communities multiple economical opportunities such as water supply, energy production, recreational activities, tourism and more. In addition, its many tributaries also support vital agricultural and industrial activities. As of 2020, the Mississippi Delta is one of the most vital aquacultural regions due to its variety of native freshwater fish species.
Recreationally, the Mississippi River offers tourists, anglers, and adventurists plenty of activities and sights to explore. Campers can visit a plethora of campsites located both along the shore and on islands, while anglers can take advantage of the river’s abundant fish life. Adventure-goers can explore the Mississippi’s narrow channels in boats or canoers as they look out for wildlife. Tourists can take in the spectacular views of its ever-changing water levels and sunsets.
Ecological Effects
The Mississippi River has been affected by multiple pollutants and toxins, including agricultural runoff and domestic sewage, resulting in a decrease of the healthy water levels in its various reservoirs. In its vulnerable floodplains, toxic wastes have been dumped, introducing numerous pesticides and herbicides into the river’s ecosystem. Scientists have detected toxic heavy metals, such as lead and zinc, linked to industrial activities into the river which has caused chronic health problems in the local fish species.
Furthermore, the river has faced numerous health scares due to contaminants entering its ecosystem. In particular, the 2012 discovery of a massive fish kill in Louisiana found up to 1.5 million dead fish spilling out of the Mississippi River into the Gulf of Mexico. This caused serious alarm to many American citizens and environmental groups who saw this as an ecological disaster.
Recent Initiatives for a Healthy Mississippi River
Fortunately, the local state governments and institutions are making serious efforts to tackle the water pollution problems in the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative is one such effort that focuses on restoring healthy waters to the basin. Scientific research, conservation practices and agricultural programs are continually being applied to the initiative to preserve its natural waters.
The Clean Water Act is another initiative that is attempting to reduce pollutants in the Mississippi River. This act requires that all industrial entities must adhere to strict waste-disposal practices and obtain permits if they are looking to modify any water resources. Furthermore, agricultural regulations are being imposed to ensure the health of the river’s ecosystem.
Impact of the Mississippi River’s Pollution on the Local Communities
The quality of water in the Mississippi River has a profound effect on the health of the communities living along its banks. It has direct implications on the access to clean drinking water and the overall well being of the local people. Pollution has also effected the fish and wildlife resulting in an inadequate food supply for the local people.
The water pollution in the Mississippi River has also affected the local fishing industry which for many people is their main source of income. For local communities, this has resulted in a lack of jobs and an inability to sustain their families. Pollution has taken a toll on local tourism activities due to the dip in water quality, affecting the livelihood of local people reliant on its services.
Aquatic Species of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to a vast variety of aquatic life, making it an essential resource for the local people and wildlife. The river includes many native fish species such as the Channel Catfish, Blue Catfish, and Carp. Additionally, its rich ecosystem is full of other animals such as turtles, amphibians, and reptiles. Furthermore, it contains dozens of species of wading birds such as egrets, heron, and ibises.
Apart from the fish and other animals, the Mississippi River is also host to a wide range of plant species, including cattails, water lilies, and other aquatic plants. In addition, it also provides habitats and food sources to migratory birds and waterfowl, making it a vital part of their life cycle.
The Future of the Mississippi River
The future of the Mississippi River is dependent on how the local and state governments tackle the pressing environmental issues it faces. Climate change and water pollution have compounded the river’s natural ecosystem reducing its potential for future generations. The current efforts are aimed at restoring the river’s health, however, many suggest that much more needs to be done for a long-term solution.
Only time will tell if the initiatives and measures taken are enough to counter the effects of climate change and water pollution. Calculated steps are necessary to ensure that the citizens of the United States and the local wildlife can continue to benefit from the majestic waters of the Mississippi River.
