Swirling into its delta on the coast of Louisiana, the Mississipi river is the gigantic waterway of America. From its beginnings in Minnesota, the Mississippi cuts a path as it flows south, sweeping up water from 31 US states and two Canadian provinces. Brought to life by Huckleberry Finn, the Mississippi is an icon of American culture and an important source of freshwater and sustenance.
The Delta region, formed where the Mississippi meets the Gulf of Mexico, is a crucial resource. Estimations suggest the Mississippi Delta stores 25% of all the sediment discharge in the US and supports numerous wildlife species. It is also a key traditional and recreational fishing ground, used by the local Couchacho tribe as well as a variety of commercial fishers. The Delta is a key component of the Mississippi and is one of the most productive ecosystems in North America.
The Mississippi is believed to have been formed over 2.6 billion years ago and has evolved into one of the most important rivers on the planet. It boasts 10.5 million acres of wetlands, the largest freshwater stream system in the US, the world’s largest estuary for birds, and serves as an important source of drinking water for nearly 18 million of people. The river is also home to a vast array of molluscs, fishes, and birds, making it one of the nation’s most diverse habitats.
In the past, access to the Mississippi was essential for plantation owners in the Deep South. Its waters meant that, during the antebellum years over half of total US exports were transported on the river, with goods including tobacco, cotton, sugar, and rice. The river remains an important commercial waterway, and today conveys an average of 400 million tons of cargo annually.
The Mississippi is both a symbol and an agent of change. Civil rights activists, who in the 1950s organized the Freedom Rides to end segregation, often followed the same path as the river. The Freedom Riders tested a Supreme Court decision that ruled that states were required to enforce the integration of public transportation. Through their journey, they spread the message of equality and saw tremendous success as proponents of the civil rights movement.
Along the Mississippi and its branches, significant work has been done to protect its environment. Through conservation efforts, the Army Corps of Engineers have been working to prevent erosion, and support sediment and nutrient management. Similarly, the US Environmental Protection Agency has created regulations to ensure water quality standards are enforced. In this way, both locals and visitors alike can appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the Mighty Mississippi both now and in the future.
The Wetlands
As it stretches south, the Mississippi meanders through a sea of wetlands. Covering more than 10.5 million acres, the Mississippi Delta is home to one of the nation’s most productive wetland ecosystems. Along the freshwater streams, vast forests of cypress, tupelo and nuttall oak trees grow. This is also the foundation for the Delta’s greatest industry: fishing.
The Mississippi delta hosts more than 70 of the United States’ rare and threatened species, offers a spawning and nursery habitat for more than 40 species of fish, and hosts vast populations of bald eagles. It is one of the most significant waterbird wintering and migration concentration areas in the United States. A combination of both local, state and national conservation efforts have worked to protect the integrity of the wetlands and its wildlife.
Human interaction with this watery landscape has an even greater history, however. Floodplains along the Mississippi Delta give way to sugarcane and rice fields. These were the cash crops of the south, which gave the region its economic stability and prosperity. Delta wetlands were also used for recreation and even transportation by the local Natchez tribe. So its relevance in American history is undeniable.
From the beaches of its delta to the wetlands of its backwaters, the Mississippi is a source of wonder and must be enjoyed with respect. Changes in water quality and climate are particularly worrisome, and threaten the livelihoods of wetland species as well as the commercial and recreational fisheries. But no need to despair, as with proper planning and public awareness, the Magnolia State surely will remain in its glorious beauty for years to come.
The People
Whether you travel along its shoreline or stay perched on the banks of the river, the excitement of mingling with the locals paints an unforgettable picture of life on the Mississippi. From Memphis to Jackson and every city in between, the locals of the Mississippi will inspire wonder and captivate you with its vast history.
Across the river, communities such as the Natchez Indians occupy its shores and draw a unique culture that melds with the swaying trees and sandy beaches. The vibrant music of the blues and jazz players stemming from the collection of churches floods the air and blends with the cries of fishermen and hunters. This is the spirit of the Mississippi, and helps make the region an exciting and unique place to explore.
The people of the Mississippi have a deep connection to the river. From keeping traditions alive to providing vital wildlife and recreational use, the Mississippi River has been essential for manufacturing, fishing and other economic activities. The intense focus on conservation also indicates that its people understand that water resources need to be managed properly, so that future generations can benefit from its stunning natural beauty.
People living in the river’s environment actively protect the vital resources it provides. Grassroots organizations and agencies like the Audubon Society work diligently to educate, involve and inform people about the power and importance of the Mississippi River.
The spirit of Mississippi, in its people and its landscape, is an American treasure worth exploring. Whether it’s floating down the Mississippi on a river boat or simply lingering near the mighty river and its people, the experience of being on the Mississippi will provide you with an appreciation of the endless potential of the human spirit.
The Celebrations
The Mississippi River is renowned for the many events held along its banks. Whether they’re cultural or religious, locals and tourists alike join in the festivities. One of the most beloved and memorable events is the ‘Riverfest’. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people come from all states along the Mississippi and from all over the world to partake in the festivities.
The music that fills the night, the variety of food, the fireworks that set the sky aflame, and the heart-stopping excitement of the performers contribute to the energy and tone of the celebration. Of course, the unmistakable backdrop of the mighty Mississippi River sets the perfect mood for the festivities.
From crazy costumes to dance-filled parades, from small arts crafts booths to giant float shows, Riverfest has it all. It’s no wonder why such a popular event draws people from all over the world. Riverfest is a testament to the vitality of the Mississippi, providing entertainment and fu to visitors of all ages.
The event is truly unique and offers something for everyone. It gives the locals a chance to revel in their deep-rooted connections to the river and for travelers to get a taste of its traditions and culture. Events like this are an excellent way to get acquainted with the Mississippi River and its people.
The Impact
The Mississippi river has a profound impact on the US economy, even in the modern era. It provides water for households, agricultures and industrial operations. It provides a perfect habitat for plants, animals and aquatic life. The Mississippi is a unique transportation route and a highway for goods between the Midwest and states in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Mississippi also serves as an important trading route between America and global countries. Its ports and docks promote transportation and shipping of goods while promoting international trade. The same ports give farmers a place to ship their produce to states and countries around the world.
The Mississippi is also a primary source of food for Americans. Its waters allow for the growth of various industries such as the fishing, seafood and boating industries. Its delta and its lands allow for farming to thrive. Its waters nourish and sustain the lands, making it one of the most essential natural resources in the United States.
The Mississippi river also plays an important role in the climate. Its waters absorb heavy rains and reduce floods and droughts. Its immense size has allowed it to remain relatively cool and stable during periods of drastic climatic change. Its warm, slow moving waters absorb heat, creating a perfect environment for native wildlife.
The Mississippi river is, quite simply, a fundamental resource needed for the United States. The river brings water, sustenance, entertainment, and recreation to millions of Americans and its impact will continue to be felt years and decades to come.
The Future
The future of the Mississippi River looks promising and many private and public institutions are working together to create effective conservation and stewardship initiatives. As population and industrialization increase, the challenges to the river and its environment become greater as well. It is essential to ensure that the river does not become a dumping ground for industrial waste, nor a source of destruction for the environment.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has developed a plan called the Mississippi River and Tributaries project, which aims to keep the river bank safe from erosion and to control floods. The Environmental Protection Agency, in conjunction with various private institutions, have also developed programs to handle water pollution and soil contamination.
The Mississippi is also a destination for all kinds of tourism activities. Its scenic beauty and vast, winding waterways make it a popular spot for outdoor recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and bird watching. The people of the Mississsippi Valley have come together to create unique experiences and sustainable businesses.
The future of the Mississippi River lies in the hands of its people. It is the responsibility of everyone to keep the river clean, safe and protected. By maintaining the river and its ecosystem, its potential as an important resource will continue to be realized and preserved for generations to come.
