One of the longest rivers in the United States, the Mississippi, stretches more than 2,000 miles from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. It is generally accepted that the Mississippi River runs through ten states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Along the way, it empties into the Gulf of Mexico, and forms the entire or partial borders of six additional states.
Minnesota is home to the Mississippi’s official source and the headwaters of the river. Within sight of Lake Itasca, the river flows south, passing through and serving several rural communities. Before entering the state of Wisconsin, the river splits into several channels and divides the “twin cities” of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
At first, the river acts as a state border between Wisconsin and Iowa for a short distance. Although it is navigable, the majority of its course in Iowa remains undeveloped. In Illinois, it’s also navigable for most of its length, and many of the major cities along the river, such as Hannibal, Quincy, Alton, and Grafton, have been associated with the stories of Mark Twain and the Mississippi River since the 19th century.
In 1811, the New Madrid earthquake occurred in the vicinity of the river and produced tremendous damage, permanently redirecting its course. In Missouri, it flows into the enormous 4,500 sq-mile St. Francis and White River basins, which together make up the Mississippi Delta. In Arkansas, it forms its largest drain basin—the Arkansas-White-Red river system.
Once over the border in Tennessee, it separates into two main streams, the Mississippi proper running east and the Arkansas running west, before converging again in the Mississippi Delta just north of Memphis. The Mississippi continues to run through the heart of Mississippi for hundreds of miles and ultimately gives shape to Louisiana’s distinctive parishes.
Further south, the “Lower Mississippi” passes through the bayous of Louisiana and forms the birdsfoot delta with its multiple channels, creating the wetlands of the Mississippi Delta. This delta is home to a large variety of plant and animal species, and its importance to the shipping industry is undeniable as the river leads to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Mississippi river has been an integral part of American life and a vital source of transportation, water, and food for centuries. Its resources were heavily exploited in the past, resulting in soil erosion, floods, and other devastating consequences. In the present day, modern dams and mitigation techniques are put in place to counteract these effects and prevent further damage to the environment while also providing a healthier space for its wild inhabitants.
Significance of the River
The ecology of the Mississippi River is critical to the environment and culture of the states that it passes through. The river is essential for navigation and transport, recreation, floods, and its delta. The floodplains near the river are home to a rich diversity of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, such as beavers, turtles, fish, and birds.
The soil conditions near the river support a variety of root crops, such as beans, sweet potatoes, corn, and squash. These vegetable crops provide an important source of nutrition for the people in these communities, and have been cultivated for centuries.
The river also provides a source of important drinking water for people in these states, as it has historically been a major source of potable water. Along with providing fresh water, the river also supplies many different types of fish, which provides an important source of food and nutrition.
The historical significance of the river cannot be understated either. It played a vital role in sustaining native populations, providing trade, transportation, and communication networks, as well as cultural and spiritual significance. As a result, the Mississippi is an important and integral part of the social, cultural, and economic history of these states.
Fishing
The Mississippi is the largest river in the United States and is teeming with a wide variety of fish. Anglers from all over visit this river, hoping to catch some of the many species. Species like the largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish are among the most popular to be caught in the Mississippi.
The state of Mississippi itself is one of the most popular fishing destinations, because of the abundance of fish, the diversity of the species, and the ease of access. There are numerous marinas, boat ramps, and public access points, so fishermen from all over can access the Mississippi, no matter where they are.
Fishing is not only a pastime, however. Many people make their livelihoods by fishing in the river, whether it is commercial or recreational. Fishing tours and charter services provide an entirely unique way to see the river, and the people who rely on the river for their livelihoods.
Many fish-focused organizations exist in the states the river runs through, such as the Mississippi River Fisheries Association and the Mississippi River Fishing Alliance. These organizations strive to restore and preserve the fisheries of the river through education, research, and policy reform.
Environmental Impact
The Mississippi is an immense ecological system that, unfortunately, is under immense pressure from human activities. Industrial and agricultural runoff, human modification of the River’s course, and pollution burdens have a cumulative effect and impose a serious threat to the River’s health.
Insecticides, petroleum products, and heavy metals released through runoff or accidental spills can be particularly hazardous to aquatic life. Nonpoint pollutants like sewage, fertilizers, pesticides, and soaps and detergents are also a constant source of contamination.
To combat this, federal, state and regional organizations have initiated initiatives to monitor and protect the environmental quality of the Mississippi. By reducing point source pollution and improving sewage treatment, citizens and organizations have taken a stand for the rights of the river and its wildlife.
Organizations such as the Mississippi River Task Force, the Mississippi River Fund, and the Mississippi River Network are working together to protect and restore the Mississippi River and its valuable ecosystems.
Mississippi Valley Conservation
The Mississippi Valley Conservation District is a partnership between governments and citizens to conserve, protect, and enhance water resources and the environment. The district is composed of conservation managers, soil and water conservation districts, land management agencies, and individuals who share a common goal of conserving and using natural resources wisely.
Since its formation, the district has worked on stream restoration, water conservation, and land use planning. It has been a part of public and private projects that promote the protection, conservation, and proper use of the Mississippi River.
The district is currently working with the National Wildlife Federation, the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and various other organizations to promote water quality and conservation efforts in the Mississippi Valley. In addition, it has been conducting research on the impacts of population growth and climate change on water quality, as well as exploring ways to improve fish and wildlife habitat.
The district also works closely with local and state governments, land owners, and the federal government to ensure that conservation and resource protection is a high priority.
Recreational Opportunities
The Mississippi River is one of the most popular destinations for recreational activities in the United States. Along its banks you can find a myriad of activities, including fishing, boating, camping, birding, and hiking. In addition, the river is a popular destination for river cruises, offering travelers a unique perspective of the area.
The states that the Mississippi River passes through boast a wealth of recreational and entertainment opportunities. The banks are dotted with resorts, RV parks, and campgrounds. A wide variety of museums, historical sites, and cultural events are also available, while visitors to the area can also enjoy music, art, and food from local restaurants and galleries.
The Mississippi River is a popular venue for sporting events, with several professional football and baseball teams calling the river home. Families and individuals alike can enjoy the wide range of outdoor recreation available in the area. Swimming, canoeing and kayaking, rafting, tubing, and bird watching are just a few of the activities available along the banks of the Mississippi.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River has an undeniable significance in the United States, having shaped its history, geography, and culture for centuries. From its source up north in Minnesota to its delta at the Gulf of Mexico, the river provides a unique ecosystem, recreation, livelihoods, and business opportunities, as well as a vital resource to the states it passes through.
