The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States, and one of the biggest drainage basins in the world. It is fed and fueled by numerous other rivers, all of which bring different things to this massive river. Let’s take a look at the main rivers that flow into the Mississippi River, and explore the importance their contributions have.
Arkansas River
The Arkansas River is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River, flowing more than 1,450 miles before reaching its destination. It is the main source of fresh water in the region and provides vital resources such as irrigation water, drinking water, and hydroelectric power to the people in the area. It also has a significant role in the transportation industry along the length of the river, acting as an important access route for freight and commerce. The Arkansas River is no doubt the main supplier of water to the Mississippi River.
Ohio River
The Ohio River is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River, forming a 981-mile long waterway that connects 11 states in the Midwest and South. The Ohio River supplies the largest quantity of sediment and nutrients of all the Mississippi’s tributaries, which is essential for replenishing soil fertility. It also serves as an important highway for goods and services, providing many jobs along its edges, such as coal miners and farmers. In short, the Ohio River plays an essential role in the health of the Mississippi River.
Red River
The Red River is the second-longest tributary of the Mississippi River, running 805 miles from its source in the United States to its mouth in Arkansas. Although it is a relatively small tributary when compared to the other main rivers flowing into the Mississippi, the Red River is still an important part of the river’s overall ecosystem. It carries large quantities of sediments, minerals, and nutrients that fuel the Mississippi. It also provides a suitable environment for various aquatic species, including fish and amphibians, to flourish.
Missouri River
The Missouri River is the longest tributary of the Mississippi River, covering an astonishing 2,341 miles. It is formed from the convergence of three other rivers—the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers—and flows through six states before finally making its way to the Mississippi. The Missouri River is the primary provider of water and sediment to the Mississippi, having an enormous effect on its volume and water levels. Additionally, this tributary supplies food and oxygen to the river’s aquatic life, as well as habitats for many species of birds.
Illinois River
The Illinois River is the fourth-longest tributary of the Mississippi, running 273 miles from Wisconsin to Mississippi. It derives its name from Thomas Jefferson’s term, ‘Illini’, which referred to the native tribes who inhabited the region. The Illinois River is an important source of water for numerous states in the Midwest and contributes to the health of the Mississippi by providing vital nutrients, sediments, and organisms. All of these help keep the river’s ecosystem thriving.
Minnesota River
The Minnesota River is a short tributary of the Mississippi, flowing 337 miles from its source in Minnesota, through South Dakota and Iowa, before emptying into the Mississippi River. As with all tributaries, the Minnesota River contributes to the health of the Mississippi by delivering fresh water, sediment and nutrients, as well as providing a habitat for species of birds and fish. The river also serves as an important route of transportation and commerce, with numerous ports along its banks.
Yazoo River
The Yazoo River is a tributary of the Mississippi River, flowing 210 miles through three states before reaching its destination. This tributary also supports a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, alligators, beavers, and various species of birds, making it an important source of life for the region. Like other tributaries, it provides sediment and nutrients to the Mississippi, and aids in its transportation of goods from town to town.
Big Muddy River
The Big Muddy River is the final tributary of the Mississippi and originates in southwestern Illinois. It flows 240 miles before joining the Mississippi, playing an important role in the river’s fertility. The Big Muddy’s waters slowly filter down through the watershed, enriching the soil and helping to maintain a healthy and diverse environment. The Big Muddy River also serves as a great source of recreation, with plenty of opportunities for fishing and camping.
Impact of Major Tributaries on Mississippi River
These rivers are all incredibly important for the overall health and vitality of the Mississippi River. Without them, the Mississippi would lose its fertility, diversity of species and its important role in transportation and commerce. All of the rivers that contribute to the Mississippi River have the ability to bring life and energy to the already thriving Mississippi. They provide water, nutrients, sediment and habitats that are essential for the Mississippi’s ecosystems.
Economic Impact of Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is not only critical to the health of the environment, it is also an important source of income. In addition to its transportation role, the river supports a large recreational industry, providing activities such as fishing, camping and boating. It also supports an agricultural sector by providing fresh water and nutrients to farmland, and has become a tourism destination with its unique natural beauty. The river’s economic potential is undeniable, and has been estimated to produce around $20 billion every year.
Environmental Impact of Mississippi River
The health of the Mississippi River is of paramount importance, as it has a significant impact on its surrounding environment. This river system supports a wide range of flora and fauna, from species of fish and amphibians to various types of birds and plants. It also provides homes for numerous insects, reptiles and mammals. The river is also an important source of water for the local communities, providing drinking and irrigation water, as well as a source of hydroelectric power.
Conservation Efforts of Mississippi River
The Mississippi River and its tributaries are under constant threat from pollution and overfishing. In order to ensure its continued health, a number of conservation initiatives have been set up to protect the river and its inhabitants. These include the removal of invasive species, restoring damaged habitats and increasing public awareness of the river’s importance. These efforts are essential for keeping the Mississippi River safe, healthy and vibrant for generations to come.
Future Changes to Mississippi River
As the world changes, so too must the Mississippi River. In the future, it is expected that the river will become a major source of renewable energy, as well as a transportation hub. In addition, the river will continue to provide valuable resources to the people of the region, such as fresh water and food, as well as supporting an array of species and habitats. As technology advances, so too will our understanding and management of this important river system.
