Mississippi River is one of the most memorable rivers of the United States, running from the northern border with Canada all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. This powerful waterway has been a lifeline for the American population since long before European settlers arrived in the area, and is still an important factor for transport and communications today. While many are familiar with the Mississippi River and its significance to the country, fewer are aware of the states it passes through along its over 2,300-mile journey.
Missouri and Minnesota are the two states the Mississippi River originates from. Starting in Lander, Minnesota, the headwaters feed two additional tributaries – the St. Croix and the Minnesota rivers – before joining together in the northern part of Wisconsin. From Wisconsin, the Mississippi flows south into Iowa, and then makes its way into Illinois, where it continues flowing south into Missouri. Once it reaches Arkansas, the river begins to twist and turn, entering Louisiana, Mississippi and eventually winding up in the Gulf of Mexico.
The communities which are situated along the banks of the Mississippi River have reaped great benefits from this natural resource. Many of these areas depend on the river for their food supply, for transportation, and for supporting the local economy. In addition, the wetlands and inlets that the river supplies creates a home for a wide variety of wildlife, including otters, herbivores, and multiple species of fish.
Experts have made a concerted effort to understand the development of the Mississippi River and the impact it has on the environment. With help from the U.S. Geological Survey, modern mapping techniques can now provide an accurate picture of how the Mississippi changes its path over time, which has helped to identify a number of ecological issues caused by the river.
The biggest concern that has been raised with the Mississippi River is its increasing rate of sediment deposition. As the river has expanded and created new channels, it has brought its sediment loads with it. Over time, this has caused the elevation of the shoreline to increase, resulting in flooding in areas along the banks. This can have a very negative effect on homes, crops, and even entire ecologies.
Most importantly, environmental experts have worked hard to develop numerous strategies to prevent further damage to the Mississippi River. These programs have included creating new dams, building levees, and implementing other forms of erosion control. Together, these efforts have been successful in dramatically reducing the rate at which sediment is deposited.
Strategies For Conserving Mississippi River
Today, conservation of the Mississippi River has become a top priority. Organizations such as The Nature Conservancy have worked to develop more sustainable fishing practices, while others have advocated for public education and awareness on the importance of the river and its importance to the environment.
The most common way people can contribute to Mississippi River conservation is through advocacy and activism. By speaking out about the importance of the river and encouraging others to do their part to help protect it, individuals can play an important role in preserving this vital waterway.
In addition, one can support the conservation of the Mississippi River by getting involved in local and international conservation efforts. Participating in clean-up efforts and donating to organizations working to preserve the river are great ways to support the effort.
Finally, it’s important to remember that conserving the Mississippi River has both economic and environmental benefits. Not only is the river a vital water source, but it also supports the livelihoods of many communities, including those that rely on fishing, farming, and tourism.
What Is Being Done To Improve The Quality Of The Mississippi River?
In recent years, efforts have been made to reduce the amount of pollution associated with the Mississippi River. From improved sewage treatment plants and agricultural practices to stricter regulations on industries, steps have been taken to ensure that the river remains safe and healthy for years to come.
In addition, several initiatives have been established to promote conservation and protection of the Mississippi River. These include initiatives that promote land conservation, restoring wetlands and riparian habitats, and improving water quality.
Efforts have also been made to increase public awareness of the Mississippi River. Organizations, such as the Mississippi River Trail, have worked to increase public access to the river and to promote the recreational opportunities it offers. In addition, educational campaigns, such as the Mississippi River Education Program, have been developed to teach both children and adults alike about the importance of the river and its conservation.
What States Look To Protect Mississippi River?
The states which border the Mississippi River have been particularly proactive in protecting it. In Minnesota, for example, the Department of Natural Resources has developed a number of conservation initiatives, such as the Great River Road, a continuous and well-marked highway which follows the river for most of its length.
In Arkansas, the Arkansas River Protection Act has been established to reduce pollution from wastewater and agricultural runoff, while the Mississippi Delta Restoration Initiative works to restore and protect the ecosystem at the mouth of the river in Louisiana.
Mississippi, which borders both the river and the Gulf of Mexico, has a number of initiatives in place to promote the conservation of these vital ecosystems, such as the Mississippi Coastal Program, which works to improve water quality and restore essential habitats.
The United States government has also taken steps to ensure that the Mississippi River is sufficiently protected. In the comprehensive Water Resources Development Act of 2020, the federal government declared its dedication to preserving the water quality of the Mississippi River and its tributaries, as well as its commitment to providing necessary resources for states to continue their conservation efforts.
Modernization Of Mississippi River In Recent Years
The Mississippi River has undergone significant changes during the past century. These changes have included the conversion of natural habitats and wetlands into commercial uses, the construction of manmade canals and levees, and the invention of new methods of navigation.
Even in the face of such large-scale modernization, the Mississippi River is still home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. From numerous species of birds to mammals and reptiles, the Mississippi River provides a home for countless creatures, making it a critical habitat for the entire continental United States.
The Mississippi River is also essential to the livelihoods of many human communities. From providing a transportation route to supplying water for drinking and irrigation, the river remains a vital source of sustenance for the people and businesses that depend upon it.
Modernization efforts have been taken to make navigation of the Mississippi River safer and more efficient. Dams and other infrastructure projects have been constructed to make it easier for boats to navigate, while improved navigation systems have increased safety for passengers and cargo onboard.
Over the past 20 years, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers has significantly improved the navigability of the Mississippi River by increasing the width of channels and deepening the bottoms of structures such as locks. Additionally, eminent domain has enabled the removal of several natural obstructions, which has allowed the river to flow more freely.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an important part of the United States’ history and remains a critical resource for human and animal life. It passes through 10 states and its waters provide sustenance for countless individuals and businesses along its banks. Conservation and modernization efforts are being undertaken to ensure the river’s future is one of safety, health and prosperity.
