History of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic and historically significant waterways in the United States. It played an important role in the growth of the nation, and its name is associated with the country’s greatness. Originating in Lake Itasca in Minnesota, the river runs 2,320 miles to its final destination in the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through 10 states before reaching its end, and this has long been a topic of fascination.
The Native Americans who originally lived around the Mississippi River knew it like the back of their hands, and they used it as a permanent highway to points all throughout the continent. They fished and hunted in its waters and drew sustenance from its resources. This source of nourishment and transportation eventually allowed the first non-Native Americans settlers to make their way through the frontier.
By the time the Civil War was over, the importance of the Mississippi River had grown even more. It was one of the most important arteries for transportation, military activity, and for the delivery of goods up and down the country. Its importance made it an important target for both sides.
Where does the Mississippi River End?
The Mississippi River ends in the Gulf of Mexico, near the coast of Louisiana. From its starting point in Minnesota, the Mississippi winds its way south through Wisconsin and Iowa, then skims the edge of Illinois before branching eastward into Missouri and Arkansas. After that, it continues down through Tennessee, Mississippi,and then Louisiana, before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.
At its end, the Mississippi passes through a delta region of numerous waterways, where the water meets the Gulf of Mexico. It is here that one of the richest and most productive fisheries in the nation is located. The delta region of the Mississippi stretches nearly 200 miles wide and is home to an incredible number of species, including oysters, shrimp, crabs, and a variety of fish.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi River has played an incredibly important role in the economy of the United States. It has served as a major transportation route for centuries, transporting crops, timber, livestock, and manufacturing goods from one end of the country to the other. During the Civil War, the river was heavily traveled and extremely important to the victory of the North.
Today, the Mississippi River is still a vital part of the U.S. economy. Virtually every major city along the river is a transportation hub, and the waters are a vital source of commerce and tourism. Companies rely on the river to move their goods, and fishers and hunters alike still rely on its resources for sustenance.
Environmental Concerns
Due to its importance, the Mississippi River has also been subject to numerous environmental concerns over the years. Pollution and runoff from cities and industrial sites have posed a threat to the health of the river and its inhabitants, as well as the many communities that depend on its resources.
The U.S. government has put measures in place to protect the Waters of the Mississippi, including the Clean Water Act and the Wetlands Preservation Act. These laws aim to protect the water and its habitat, as well as the people who depend on its resources.
In recent years, the Mississippi River has seen a reduction in toxic chemicals, but there are still issues that need to be addressed. There are ongoing efforts to clean up the river and ensure that it remains healthy and productive.
Mississippi-Gulf of Mexico Connectivity Program
In a further effort to reduce the environmental threats posed to the river, the U.S. government has implemented the Mississippi-Gulf of Mexico Connectivity Program. This program, which is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aims to restore and reconnect the Upper and Lower Mississippi Basins in order to promote healthier aquatic habitats.
The program’s goals include restoring wetland habitat, improving water quality and restoring river habitats, and improving fish and wildlife populations. To do this, the program has implemented numerous restoration projects, such as habitat restoration, invasive species control, and streambank improvements.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic waterways in the United States, and its importance cannot be overstated. From its beginning in Minnesota, it winds its way through 10 states before reaching its end in the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, it has been the source of sustenance and economic prosperity for countless people and communities, but it has also faced numerous environmental threats.
Fortunately, the U.S. government is working to ensure that the Mississippi River remains healthy and productive, implementing numerous initiatives such as the Mississippi-Gulf of Mexico Connectivity Program to ensure its future sustainability. With the help of these initiatives, the Mississippi can continue to provide future generations with sustenance and economic opportunity for many years to come.
