What Does The Mississippi River Look Like?
The majestic Mississippi River is one of the most iconic rivers in the world and has been the basis for numerous books, movies and songs. It is more than just a body of water, it is a symbol of power and grandeur, beauty and life. Yet, what does the Mississippi River actually look like?
It would be almost impossible to describe the entire river in words alone, so let us take a look at some of the mainstream parts of the river. The main stem is the most iconic section of the river, stretching from the Northern Rockies in Montana to the Gulf of Mexico. This section of the river is almost 2,000 miles long and it has one of the most diverse sets of flora and fauna imaginable. The most iconic sight is the Mississippi River Valley, which is one of the most scenic sections of the river with its majestic bluffs and breathtaking scenery.
Next there is the Lower Mississippi, which stretches from Cairo, Illinois to the Gulf of Mexico. This is the most well-known part of the river and includes the famous cities of St. Louis and Memphis, as well as the quaint river towns of Vicksburg and Natchez. This area of the river is full of life, with an abundance of wildlife, from birds and fish to mammals and reptiles. This is also where the majority of commercial traffic on the river takes place. It is home to some of the busiest ports in the United States and is responsible for transporting more than a billion tons of goods each year.
Heading north from Cairo, we find the Upper Mississippi, which stretches from Cairo all the way to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul in Minnesota. The scenery here is much different than that of the Lower Mississippi. This area is much more rugged and remote, with sweeping views of the river, rolling hills and vast forests. This area is also abundant with wildlife, bubbling streams and babbling brooks.
Wildlife Of The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is a haven for wildlife and an important habitat for numerous species of birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. In the upper section of the river, one can find trumpeter swans, bald eagles, snowy owls, and kingfishers. There are also many threatened and endangered species such as the gray wolf, peregrine falcon, and the Louisiana black bear. Moving downstream and into the more heavily populated region of the Middle Mississippi, there are still plenty of wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, wood ducks, red-tailed hawks, osprey, and American bald eagles.
Beneath the surface of the Mississippi River, one can find a variety of fish species, such as catfish, bass, carp, bluegill, walleye, and sturgeon. This variety of fish is important for maintaining the health of the river, as well as providing a source of commercial fishing in the region. The bottom of the river is home to the endangered pallid and shovelnose sturgeon, which are two of the oldest fish species in the world.
The Mississippi River is also home to a number of amphibians and reptiles, such as the common snapping turtle, painted turtles, and bullfrogs. Cottonmouth snakes, water moccasins, and timber rattlesnakes can also be found along the banks of the river.
Historical Significance Of The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is a crucial waterway in North America, linking numerous cities and towns in the central United States. Historians have suggested that the importance of the Mississippi River began long before the time of the Europeans and its first settlers, with many Native American tribes travelling along its banks to trade and hunt. This is one of the reasons why the river has been so important throughout American history, as it was a way for people to travel to distant parts of the country and trade goods.
Throughout the 19th century, the Mississippi River was at the heart of the economy and lifestyle of people living in the area. It was a crucial source of transportation for goods and people, and towns developed along its banks quickly. It also held a special place in the hearts of many, as the great Mark Twain wrote eloquently about his beloved river in his memoirs. In modern times, the river is still an important source of transportation, from the large cargo ships that travel between cities to the smaller pleasure craft that sail along the water.
Environmental Impact Of The Mississippi River
Due to the extensive use of the river by boats, the environment of the Mississippi River has been greatly impacted over time. The heavy boat traffic and pollution from those vessels has led to decreased water quality and the disappearance of many native species. Additionally, many of the streambanks have been dredged and dams constructed in order to control the flow of the river. This has had an adverse effect on certain species of fish and wildlife, such as sturgeon and mussels.
In recent decades, there have been notable efforts to reduce the impact of human activities on the Mississippi River. New regulations have been enacted on commercial vessels and recreational users alike, with more restrictions being placed on boating speed and pollutants discharged into the river. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has also implemented large-scale projects to restore the health of the river by limiting sand and silt from entering the waterway. Conservation groups are also doing their part to help protect the river, with dedicated volunteers working to clean up debris and restore the banks of the river.
Recreational Activities
As one of the most iconic rivers in the United States, the Mississippi River attracts a large number of recreational users. Anglers flock to the river in the hopes of catching some of the large and smallmouth bass, catfish, and other species that inhabit the waters. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities, with the many tributaries and offshoot channels providing hours of exploration and adventure.
The Mississippi River is also home to a large number of developed parks, campgrounds and marinas. Boating, swimming, and fishing are all popular activities at these sites, while also providing access to boat launches and other services. Along many stretches of the river, there are scenic and historic sites to visit, such as the many Civil War battlefields found along the banks of the Mississippi.
The Enduring Beauty Of The Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has a unique and captivating beauty that few bodies of water can compare to. Its various sections are breathtaking, from the rugged bluffs of the Upper Mississippi to the wide open expanses of the Lower Mississippi. This is a river that has inspired countless people throughout history, and its significance as a vital part of the United States is undeniable. It is a symbol of strength and wealth, progress and change, and yet still remains a source of awe and wonder.
Its Impact On The Arts
The Mississippi River has been a recurring theme and motif in all forms of art throughout history, with many authors and musicians finding inspiration in its grandeur. Mark Twain was the most famous of these, but the list includes many more, such as Langston Hughes, Chuck Berry, and Bob Dylan, who all put the river at the heart of their works. The river has inspired countless works of art and the number of iconic songs named after it speaks to the impact it has had on our culture.
How It Has Impacted American Life
For centuries, the Mississippi River has been essential to the wealth and prosperity of the United States. Its reach is vast and its impact is undeniable, as it has been used for transportation, agriculture, industry, and recreation. It has linked ports, helped to settle the land, and provided a much-needed resource for the many people who call its banks home. The significance of the Mississippi River has been felt and appreciated throughout the centuries and will continue to be a vital part of American life.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is a vital and historic part of the United States and its impact has been felt throughout the centuries. From its beauty and wildlife to its importance for trade and transportation, it is clear why the river has become a beloved symbol of our country. Whether you are looking for a way to explore the wilderness or seeking to enjoy its culture and history, the mighty Mississippi is sure to inspire you.
