Introduction
The mighty Mississippi is the largest river in the United States and it is a cultural, historical and ecological artery for the entire country. It meanders over 2,000 miles, from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, and is held in reverence by many Americans. It is not just a majestic waterway but also a super-highway of travel, communications, economic trading and a popular tourist attraction. The river is full of surprises and provides great rewards to all who venture along its mighty path. So, which states does the Mississippi river flow through?
Environmental Impact
It is impossible to ignore the environmental impact of the Mississippi. The water has a significant impact on the landscape and its inhabitants, particularly on wildlife. With its immense pressure, the mighty river can reshape its channel, flood large areas of land, erode steep banks and in extreme cases, can even change its course. This might seem catastrophic, however it has also created an array of advantageous landscapes for a huge variety of plants and animals. The water has created vast wetlands and flood plains, largely filled with an abundance of aquatic life.
The mighty Mississippi is generally categorized into three distinct segments – the Upper Mississippi, the Middle Mississippi and the Lower Mississippi. As it passes through each state, it changes its speed, turbidity, width and ecology.
The Headwaters
The Mississippi starts its 2,320 mile journey at Lake Itasca, located in northern Minnesota. It flows with gentle ease as it meanders through the northern prairies, including Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. In this region of the country, the Mississippi is called the Upper Mississippi. As it passes through these states, it receives inputs from many creeks and tributaries, including the Missouri River.
Illinois & Missouri
In the Middle Mississippi, spanning Illinois and Missouri, the river quickly picks up speed and volume. As it passes through the area, it forms the majestic Gateway Arch. The river continues to flow south along the American plains, taking in the mighty Ohio river, until it reaches the confluence of the Wisconsin River in southern Illinois.
Kentucky, Arkansas & Tennessee
Once it crosses into Kentucky, the Mississippi begins to meander its way through the hilly lowlands, picking up steam and gaining volume as it progresses. With a name meaning ‘father of the waters’, the Mississippi eventually winds its way past Arkansas and into the Grand Old State of Tennessee, eventually entering the home of the blues – Mississippi State.
The Delta
As it passes through the Delta region, the river begins to divide and form a network of channels that eventually empties out into the Gulf of Mexico. Along this stretch, one can find an array of fish including bass, catfish and crappie as well as a wide variety of birds. The emergence into the Gulf helps to spread out sediment and nutrients, affecting the entire region for miles and miles downstream.
Economic Impact
The Mississippi has also been a major contributor to the development of the American economy. Its economic impact on the states it passes through is remarkable, providing jobs, transportation and energy. In fact, according to the US Geological Survey, the river serves as a channel for 50% of the nation’s exports, carrying cargo up and down its length and helping to stimulate economic development in the area.
Cultural Impact
The Mississippi River has also had a major impact on the culture of the states it passes through. This includes literature and music, as the mighty river has provided inspiration to writers and musicians alike. Perhaps the most famous is Mark Twain’s, ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’. Breaking the conventions of the time, Twain used the Mississippi to tell a groundbreaking story.
Natural Wonders
The beauty of the Mississippi river is undeniable. Its 2,300-mile course provides spectacular natural wonders, most notably the mighty waterfall of St. Anthony at Minneapolis. Here, its gushing waters plunge over 60 feet and is a sight to behold. Along its winding course, there are other natural marvels such as the Great River Road and the Nachez Trace.
Conclusion
The Mississippi is undoubtedly a huge source of pride for the states it passes through, providing culture, history, economic and natural wonders. This majestic river evokes great admiration and respect from all who witness its grandeur and majesty.
