The Upper Mississippi River is a section of the Mississippi River located in the upper Midwest United States. It stretches from the headwaters near the Minnesota–Ontario border and flows south for 955 miles, through 10 states — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana — before coming to a confluence with the Ohio River near Cairo, Illinois. The Upper Mississippi is a key artery for transporting goods, providing drinking water and recreation, and aiding the health of numerous animals and people.
The Upper Mississippi has been an integral part of activities and human history in the area since it was first discovered thousands of years ago. From the American Indians to the early settlers of the American Midwest, people have taken advantage of the fertile banks of the Upper Mississippi and used it as a water route for fishing, trading, and transportation.
The high levels of water quality in the Upper Mississippi have long been appreciated by the many American Indians who have used it as sustenance and recreation grounds. It was an important source of food and the basis of their culture and livelihoods for centuries. Additionally, the Upper Mississippi has played an integral role in the development of the Midwest. It was valuable for travel and transportation, and it was where most of the early settlement along its banks occurred.
The geography of the Upper Mississippi is unique. Its course ranges from narrow stretches of marshy wetlands, its banks lined with towering hardwood trees; to wild, jagged boulder-lined rapids where water flows freely and fast; to the wide, lazy bends of its lower reaches. Along the way, the river winds through the lush prairies, woodlands, and wetlands that make up the upper Midwest.
Today, the Upper Mississippi is still an important source of water to the region, with numerous drinking water wells located along its banks and tributaries. It is also important for navigation, providing an essential link between major population and business centers. The river continues to sustain the livelihoods and recreational activities of the people who live along its banks, including anglers, duck hunters, and boaters. The Upper Mississippi is home to numerous species of wildlife, and is a focal point of wildlife management efforts.
The Upper Mississippi is an essential resource to various communities and industries in the Midwest. Its usefulness for navigation, recreation, drinking water and wildlife is undeniable. It has been an integral part of the culture of the upper Midwest for centuries. The river will continue to be an important part of the region’s future and its connection to the past will remain strong.
Environmental Impact of the Upper Mississippi
The Upper Mississippi River is subject to a variety of environmental threats. Urban and agricultural runoff are the primary threats to the health of the river. Pollutants from urban sources, such as sewage, petroleum and other industrial pollutants, as well as agricultural pollutants, can impact the water quality of the river and its tributaries. Additionally, the amount of sediment being deposited in the river can cause serious problems for the health of the aquatic ecosystem.
In recent years, residents of the Upper Mississippi region have taken actions to improve the health of the river by reducing their contributions to pollution. Many cities have implemented programs to reduce their sewage and runoff, and farmers have adapted their practices to reduce phosphorus levels in the water. These efforts, in addition to increased federal enforcement of water standards, have led to improved water quality in recent years, but the river is still under threat from a number of human activities.
One of the most pressing environmental issues facing the Upper Mississippi is the presence of invasive species. Aquatic invasive species are non-native plants and animals that, when introduced into a water system, can cause environmental damage and threaten the health of aquatic ecosystems. The most invasive species in the Upper Mississippi are the zebra mussel, the Asian carp and the silver carp.
The zebra mussels feed on plankton, the bottom-feeders that are essential for a healthy aquatic system. The Asian and silver carp, on the other hand, can outcompete native species for food resources, and they can jump out of the water when disturbed by boats, a serious hazard to boaters. These and other invasive species have led to significant changes in the ecology and biodiversity of the Upper Mississippi, and have caused considerable economic impacts.
Management and Conservation of the Upper Mississippi
Managing and conserving the Upper Mississippi River is a priority for the state and federal agencies responsible for regulating the waterway. These agencies are responsible for ensuring that the water quality and the health of the aquatic life in the river is maintained. They are also tasked with maintaining the economic and recreational value of river by providing adequate regulation of boating, fishing and other recreational activities.
Over the years, multiple efforts have been made to ensure the health of the Upper Mississippi. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency and the states along the river all have regulations in place to help preserve the waterway. In addition, a wide variety of conservation groups have come together to form the Mississippi River Basin Alliance to help protect the river’s resources.
The alliance has established a series of goals and objectives with the aim of preserving the unique natural and recreational resources of the Upper Mississippi. These include reducing pollutants, fighting invasive species, promoting sustainable fishing and hunting practices, and protecting the wetlands and other natural habitats along the river.
In addition, the alliance has implemented a number of conservation initiatives, including protecting the river’s unique wildlife, improving water quality and restoring degraded habitats along the river. The alliance has also created a series of public outreach and education programs to help raise public awareness about the importance of the Upper Mississippi and the environmental issues it faces.
Economic Impact of the Upper Mississippi
The Upper Mississippi is of critical importance to the economy of the Midwest. The river is the main artery for transportation, providing the link between numerous economic centers and providing crucial access to global markets. It is also important to recreational activities, providing a number of leisure opportunities, including fishing, boating, bird-watching and hunting.
In addition, the Upper Mississippi is an important source of energy. The river is home to a number of hydroelectric plants, which provide energy to numerous cities throughout the Midwest. Additionally, its waters are used for cooling power plants and other industrial facilities.
The river also provides a number of jobs. Commercial and recreational boating, fishing, ferry operations, and other activities along the Upper Mississippi support thousands of jobs each year. In addition, the agricultural industry employs many people along the river. The river also contributes to tourism, as numerous cities along the Upper Mississippi draw in visitors for their unique history and cultural attractions.
Recreational Use of the Upper Mississippi
The Upper Mississippi is an incredibly popular destination for recreational activities. The combination of the river’s natural beauty, its location, and the diversity of activities it offers make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The various activities that take place on the river include fishing, water sports, hunting, bird-watching, and camping.
Fishing is a popular activity on the Upper Mississippi. Anglers can find a variety of species, such as bass, crappies, catfish, and walleye. Boating is another popular activity on the river, and there are numerous boat accessibility points along its banks. There are also numerous marinas and boat ramps along the river, providing convenient launching points for those wanting to explore it.
The river is also a popular spot for recreational hunters. The area is home to a wide variety of game, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and waterfowl. Bird-watchers will also find the Upper Mississippi to be a unique destination, as the river is home to more than 250 species of birds, including Bald Eagles and endangered whooping cranes.
The Upper Mississippi also offers camping opportunities for those wanting to explore its banks. Numerous campsites can be found along the river, providing a peaceful refuge in the midst of the Midwest. Additionally, several national and state parks can be found along the river, offering great hiking, paddling, and interpretive programs.
Conclusion
The Upper Mississippi River has long been an integral part of the culture, history, and economic development of the upper Midwest. It is an important source of drinking water, transportation, and recreation, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. In recent years, conservation efforts have been made to ensure that the river remains healthy and protected, and numerous initiatives have been implemented to help educate the public about its importance.
