Introduction
The Mississippi River is a vital asset to many states in the United States of America. More than ten states are in contact with this body of water, and rely on it for many different reasons, from transportation of goods and people to other uses such as water for farming and energy production. Most of these states have a long-standing relationship with the Mississippi River, many of which have been in place for centuries. In this article, we’ll take a look at what states are touching the Mississippi River, some of the benefits they receive from it, and some of the challenges they face.
Impact
The Mississippi River plays an important role in the economy of many of these states, providing transportation and trade opportunities that others don’t have.The river also provides hydropower to many areas, create a habitat for a rich variety of wildlife, and even provides drinking water to many cities that rely on it.
Moreover, it has a positive cultural and historical impact on many of the states lining it. From the common use of steamboats in the 1800s to the implementation of the Mississippi River Trail, the river can be attributed to many aspects of the region’s history and culture.
States
Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, and Louisiana make up the ten states which sit along the Mississippi River. It begins at the Lake Itasca which is located in north Minnesota and flows approximately 2,350 miles across the center of the United States, before ending in the Gulf of Mexico.
Each of these states host many different activities relating to the river, such as boat competitions, fishing, or riverboat rides. Plus, each state has worked to create infrastructure to make it easier for people to use the river as a means of transportation and trade.
Environmental Challenges
In spite of the benefits the Mississippi River brings, there have also been some environmental challenges. In the late 19th century and early 20th century, vast amounts of logging along the riverbank caused major erosion. Furthermore, industries and cities have often polluted its waters, making the river one of the most polluted bodies of water in the United States. Although efforts to curb the pollution have been undertaken, the lack of resources and increased fertilizer runoff from farms in recent years have caused it to remain an ongoing challenge.
Levels of Waters
The flow of the river can vary greatly, with high “flood” waters during the spring when snow melts in the North, and very low levels during summer months. This has led to disruptions of commercial traffic and affects the way different states use the river.
The Army Corps of Engineers’ Mississippi Water Control System helps to manage the 10 locks and dams on the river as well as to provide flood control and navigation. The system attempts to equalize water levels between the states and limit losses due to floods.
Economics
The states that border the Mississippi River heavily depend on it for economic reasons. Many of the states are involved in shipping, manufacturing, and tourism along the river. Trade moves not only across states but even down to other countries from these states. In addition, numerous leisure activities occur along the bank of the river, offering countless opportunities for businesses such as restaurants and hotels.
Legislation
In recent decades various legislation has been passed to improve the quality of the water and to try an reduce the damage caused by humans. The Clean Water Act of 1972, for example, is essential in regulating pollution of the water in each state along the river.
The Water Resources Development Act of 1986 has also been instrumental in managing the level of water flow along the river and in repairing flood zones, amongst other things. This act specifically helps the states to keep up with the EPA’s standards, and provides assistance to those states that need it.
Preservation
The ever increasing population of the states bordering the Mississippi River has created a lot of strain on the traditional ways of life that were connected to the river. Due to this, efforts have been made to preserve the river’s beauty and resources. This includes preserving the habitats along its banks, working to reintroduce native species of fish, and preserving over one thousand miles of natural shoreline from other developments.
Additionally, many of the states have learnt from their mistakes and have come together to work on the preservation and protection of the river. For example, The Upper Mississippi River Basin Association was formed in 1991 and works together with local communities to protect resources, restore habitats, and provide education about the river. This organisation helps to ensure the sustainability of the river for generations to come.
Industries Expertise
The Mississippi River provides many advantages for the states on its banks. Expertise in the areas of shipping, manufacturing, tourism, and the development of science and technology are all necessary areas of knowledge that are constantly evolving on the river.
This has led to state governments investing in research and development initiatives, creating opportunities for local businesses in areas such as engineering and environmental sciences.This inturn leads to further job opportunities, increased investment in infrastructure, and the forging of alliances with other states.
Safety
The transportation of goods and people through the Mississippi River is of paramount importance, and state authorities work hard to ensure that everyone who uses its waters does so safely. In order to do this, states have implemented regulations that put in place procedures for the safe haulage of materials, and manage the speed of vessels along the river.
These regulations are enforced through a variety of coastal patrols and boat inspections that occur regularly. In addition, captains and operators of vessels on the river are required to undergo training to ensure that they are familiar with the regulations and safety processes that must be followed.
Infrastructure
Because the Mississippi River is one of the most important waterways in the United States, it is necessary for each state to maintain their infrastructure along its banks. This involves improving navigation routes, building and maintaining piers and docks, and repairing or creating locks and dams.
The states on the Mississippi River have also worked together to create infrastructure that spans across state borders. This includes the Mississippi River Trail, a biking, hiking, and walking path that goes from Illinois all the way to Louisiana, as well as the “Deep Draft Navigation Channel,” a route from New Orleans to Cairo, Illinois, specifically for commercial shipping.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an important resource for the states along its banks. It provides transportation, trade, and recreation opportunities, as well as being a source of hydropower and a rich habitat for wildlife. Each of the ten states that touch this majestic body of water have worked together to improve infrastructure and safety, while also laid down regulations in order to combat pollution and preserve its beauty. The Mississippi River has been a cornerstone of the region’s history and will continue to be a vital resource for generations to come.
