Introduction
When it comes to the United States’ largest landlocked rivers, the Mississippi River is second only to the Missouri, spanning more than 2,000 miles from its source in Minnesota to its ultimate drain in the Gulf of Mexico. With such a broad area to traverse, the question of how much of the Mississippi River is within Minnesota must be taken into consideration. As it turns out, the answer to this question is quite surprising. Approximately 10% of the Mississippi River’s total length is within the state of Minnesota, making it an important piece of the river’s puzzle. This article aims to provide background information, relevant data, and perspectives from experts, while offering insightful analysis on the topic at hand.
Background Information
The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the United States, stretching more than 2,000 miles from its source in Minnesota to its ultimate destination in the Gulf of Mexico. The river is majorly contained in five U.S. states, namely Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Mississippi. Despite the fact that the river’s source is in the state of Minnesota, the largest portion of the river is actually contained in the state of Iowa, which is the springing ground of approximately 23% of its entire length. Minnesota and Wisconsin share the honor of second largest contributor of the river, each being the source of approximately 11% of its entire length, while Illinois and Mississippi follow suit with respective contributions of 5% each.
Relevant Data
When considering the Mississippi River within the confines of Minnesota, there are a few important facts to keep in mind. The 151 miles of the Mississippi contained within Minnesota are spread across 27 separate tributaries which connect the Minnesota portion of the river to the rest of the river’s system. In terms of its total length, 10% of the Mississippi River’s total length is within the state of Minnesota, making a contribution of more than one-fifth of the entire river’s length. In addition, the confluence of the St.Croix and Mississippi rivers within Minnesota is another noteworthy fact, as it combined the river’s northern and southern branches.
Expert Perspectives
Experts usually offer different views and perspectives when discussing the Mississippi River in Minnesota. Although its contribution of approximately 10 percent to the river’s entire length may seem insignificant, it is still an important part of the river’s importance. Specifically, experts point out that this segment of the Mississippi is critical in connecting northern and southern parts of the river. By connecting the Mississippi’s northern and southern branches, Minnesota effectively strengthens the river as a whole, and bolsters the navigability of the Mississippi River as a whole.
Analysis
When reflecting on the presence of the Mississippi River within Minnesota, it is clear that its contribution is invaluable. Not only does the state of Minnesota represent 10% of the river’s total length, but it also links the northern and southern portions of the river together. This connectivity serves an important role in strengthening the Mississippi River’s navigability, ensuring that it continues to be an important component of transportation for both goods and people.
Impact
The presence of the Mississippi River within Minnesota carries a great deal of importance for several reasons. Firstly, it has played an important role in forming the state’s cultural identity and in driving its economic growth. Both historically and presently, the river serves as a key economic cog in supporting industrial and recreational activities, while providing a platform for transportation of goods and people. Additionally, the Mississippi helps reduce soil erosion, protect wetlands, and provide support for natural wildlife populations.
Environmental Considerations
When discussing the Mississippi River in Minnesota, it is essential to consider the effects of its presence on the state’s environment. Firstly, experts agree that the Mississippi’s presence has a noticeable effect on the river’s water quality, thanks to its natural filtration system. Furthermore, its frequent presence in wetlands and marshlands helps protect the ecological balance of these areas, while further contributing to the river’s natural beauty. Lastly, the presence of the river has allowed for the development of numerous recreational activities, such as water sports and fishing, further enhancing the livelihoods of the people living nearby.
Infrastructure
The presence of the Mississippi River in Minnesota has also led to an increase in the state’s overall infrastructure. Its involvement in transportation has facilitated for large-scale transport and commerce, which has invigorated business operations and increased the state’s economic productivity. Furthermore, the presence of the Mississippi River has enabled easier access to recreation activities, such as fishing and water sports, further boosting the state’s tourism industry.
Economic Impact
The presence of the Mississippi River within Minnesota has played a key role in driving the state’s economic growth. Its presence has enabled large-scale transport and efficient commerce, while also providing a recreational haven for residents and tourists alike. Additionally, the Mississippi River has been integral in providing water to various cities and towns within Minnesota, helping sustain their future growth.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River’s presence in Minnesota is integral for various reasons. For a start, it contributes a total of 10 percent of the Mississippi River’s entire length, and serves as the connector of its northern and southern reaches. Moreover, it has had a major impact on the state’s cultural identity and economic growth, while also offering recreational opportunities for the people living nearby. Lastly, it has also played a key role in sustaining the ecology of the region, while enabling easier access to transportation and commerce.
