What is the Mississippi River Valley
The Mississippi River is a major river of North America, rising in Wisconsin and eventually flowing southwards and emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River Valley runs through ten states in the US, with the river flowing through all of them. This includes Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana. The Mississippi River Valley is significant to US history and continues to play an important role in the development of the country’s transport, industry and agricultural production.
Geological Formation
The Mississippi River Valley is an ancient landform, existing millions of years ago. It has endured dramatic changes over the centuries. The valley is estimated to be four million years old, and has also been host to several ice ages. The elevation from the Gulf of Mexico to Minnesota drops around 700 feet, creating the path for the river to flow. This elevation drop stretches from Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to the Gulf of Mexico, making a river length of 2,320 miles.
Impact of the River on Economy
The Mississippi River Valley has been used as a route of transport since the 1800s, and continues to be a major freight corridor. Rivers are economical and efficient ways to move goods over land; they consume less energy per shipped ton when compared to other modes of transport. The US Army Corps of Engineers works to maintain the waterways. Currently, it is divided into nine divisions based on navigation needs, to ensure that navigation on the river is sustained.
Agriculture is another major form of economic activity in the Valley. Louisiana is the top producer of rice and soybeans. The tributary of the Mississippi, the Atchafalaya River, is the center of the largest wetland in North America, providing a rich habitat for wild species.
Social Issues
Though the Mississippi River Valley has brought immense economic and environmental benefits, there are some negative side effects. Deforestation of the valleys has degraded the environment. The overuse of water has caused water pollution and has harmed the water quality. The excessive levels of nitrate and phosphorous have been known to cause dead zones. Overfishing has drastically affected some of the native species, such as long nosed gar and paddlefish.
The Mississippi River Valley has been a source of political instability due to water rights disputes between the various states. There has been debates regarding the implementation of safety regulations in the different divisions of the river and its tributaries.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi River Valley is a major source of freshwater for much of the American Midwest. Each year, the river brings 10 million tons of sediment to the Gulf of Mexico. This sediment, called silt, is beneficial to the delta and the wetlands, as it helps add nutrients to the soil, creating an ideal environment for marine life. The sediment also helps protect coastal regions from the storm surge.
The silt reached the delta area primarily during floods, however, historically, these floods have been managed so that they don’t damage populated areas along the valley. However, with the increase in human activities, there have been some instances of very large floods, leading to serious destruction.
Natural Resources
The Mississippi River Valley is an important natural resource area, not only in terms of providing water for agricultural and industrial activities, but also in terms of providing energy. The valley is a major source of hydroelectric power, especially the Great Falls near Minneapolis. The river also provides a source of drinking water for millions of people along its path.
The Mississippi River Valley offers various forms of recreation, from boating and fishing to camping and kayaking. There are over 400 species of fish present in the river valley offering a wide range of angling opportunities for sport fishing. The Mississippi is also home to various types of wildlife, from multiple species of birds to beavers and deer.
National Heritage
The Mississippi River Valley is a national treasure and is included in the National Park System. The area spans several states, making it easy to explore and enjoy. The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area stretches along the river, from Minneapolis to Baton Rouge, creating opportunities to engage in activities that preserve and protect the area’s rich heritage.
Other important organizations include the North Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge. which was established to provide protection and maintenance of the Mississippi River Valley as a functioning ecosystem. The Refuge includes wetland, forest and upland habitats, which provide a rich wildlife experience for visitors.
Protection Measures
The US Army Corps of Engineers works to improve navigation on the Mississippi and its tributaries. They also help manage dredging and maintain the damns, to reduce flooding. The government also works to preserve and protect the wetlands in the Valley. The Mississippi River Valley is an important source of aquatic biodiversity.
The US Environmental Protection Agency sets and enforces regulations to protect water quality, air quality and wildlife. They work to minimize pollution from farms, urban areas, industries, and sanitation. They protect wildlife and wildlife habitats and provide funds and technical assistance to states, organizations, and businesses to help prevent or reduce pollution.
Economic Development
The Mississippi River Valley provides an opportunity for economic development. The concentration of large cities and ports along its course offers a potential market for many goods and services. The use of healthy soils and nutrient-rich waters also provides an opportunity to develop sustainable agriculture and organic food production.
The river also provides job opportunities in tourism and recreation. Visitors can come to the Mississippi River Valley to go fishing, sightseeing, and boating. This can create a positive economic impact on the area’s rural communities, as well as a positive environmental effect, as visitors are more likely to respect and appreciate the area’s natural resources.
Cultural Heritage
The Mississippi River Valley has an ancient cultural heritage, the evidence of which can still be seen today. Native Americans have been living along the river since ancient times and have left their mark with mounds, petroglyphs, pictographs and ancient artifacts. The river has also been a source of inspiration for many writers and musicians who have been inspired by its beauty and power.
The region is home to a variety of cultural events, festivals, and performances, many of which focus on the traditional cultures of the area. Tourists can also explore museums, historic forts and parks. Visitors are drawn to the area by its cultural attractions and the opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Tourism and Recreation
The Mississippi River Valley offers a diverse range of outdoor and recreational activities. Boating and canoeing are popular activities, as are fishing and kayaking. There are also ample opportunities for swimming, camping, bird watching, and hiking.
Tourist attractions include the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, the Lower Mississippi River Museum in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and the Delta Music Experience in Clarksdale, Arkansas. There are also many other attractions such as the Elvis Presley Museum in Tupelo, Mississippi, and the National World War II Museum in New Orleans.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River Valley is an important part of the American landscape. Not only does it provide a route for freight and transportation, it is a source of water, energy, and economic development. The area also has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore many historic sites and attractions.
The river valley is also home to a variety of endangered species, aquatic biodiversity, and provides valuable habitat for wildlife. The government works to protect the area and enforce regulations to protect the quality of the water and air. It is a national treasure and a source of pride for the United States.
