Did you know that two states border the Mississippi River? It’s true! The Mississippi River is one of the most powerful, significant and renowned major rivers in the United States, rising in the Rocky Mountains and draining out into the Gulf of Mexico. From its source in Minnesota to its Delta in Louisiana, the Mississippi is widely known for its beauty, commercial and economic importance, and for the crucial role it plays in the history and development of the United States. Though it is located in 10 US States, two states answer the question – what two states border the Mississippi River? The answer to that question is Arkansas and Mississippi.
Designated as a national river in 1988 and one of the first National Wild and Scenic Rivers, the Mississippi River serves a variety of purposes to both the states and the rest of the country. As the opinion of experts such as Dr. Edwin Anderson, who teaches geography and global studies at The Ohio State University, the impressive river is a critical physical feature of both states. As he explains, “The Mississippi River is a major landmark that delimits the border shared by Arkansas and Mississippi. It serves as a natural boundary between the two states, creates community and regional identity, and provides a range of economic benefits to both states.”
Aside from being an effective border between states, the Mississippi River has also contributed to the development and growth of both Arkansas and Mississippi in terms of transportation and business. Today, numerous bridges, ports and waterways connect the two states, thus allowing people to travel and trade more easily, and eliminating the isolation of these two states. As experts note, the accessibility that the Mississippi River provides increases the economic power of Arkansas and Mississippi and allows them to benefit more fully from their proximity and historical ties to each other.
In addition to providing economic benefits, many people visit Arkansas and Mississippi for recreation and relaxation. The unique features of the Mississippi River and its ability to act as a buffer between the two states provide not just a continued source of business opportunities, but also a source of leisure activities. From canoe trips and wildlife tours to beach visits and swimming, the Mississippi River offers a variety of recreational activities for the states, providing tourists with an array of exciting options to enjoy.
The River Basin
The Mississippi River Basin, or watershed, is one of the largest in the world. Its watershed is approximately 1 million square miles and covers 31 states, six Canadian provinces, and over a million square miles of both land and water. As such, the Mississippi River watershed is of vital importance to both Arkansas and Mississippi. By collecting rain and snow and funneling it into rivers and streams, the river basin is the source of life for the states’ agriculture, industry, cities, and public utilities.
In addition, the river basin is an important source of water for a variety of wildlife, including migrating birds and aquatic species. It is also a vital transportation system, providing transportation and commerce between not only the two states but also the entire region. The Mississippi River and its basin are essential for commerce, recreation, and society at large.
Role of the States
Both Arkansas and Mississippi play a critical role in the protection and maintenance of the Mississippi River. Both states have identified and implemented initiatives to protect the Mississippi River and its watershed through conservation and environmental protection measures, and have established agencies responsible for protecting the watershed and promoting its protection and restoration.
By working together, the two states have developed a wide range of programs designed to provide a safe and healthy environment for the Mississippi River and the states it serves. These programs include water quality monitoring, river corridor protection, wetland restoration projects, riparian habitat enhancement, and land-use studies. Through their efforts, the two states are paving the way for an improved and healthier Mississippi River for their citizens and for the entire country.
Environmental Concerns
Though the states have taken steps to improve and protect the Mississippi River, the River has borne the brunt of human activity since the early 19th century. As experts note, the industrialization of the US has had an adverse effect on the river, resulting in widespread pollution, degradation, and destruction of the river’s habitat. This has not only affected the environment of both states, but also their economies.
As a result, both Arkansas and Mississippi have taken a proactive approach to environmental protection, developing strict regulatory guidelines and practices to protect the river and its watershed. These measures have not only improved water quality, but have also helped to protect the environment and the economy of both states. In addition, the states have invested heavily in public education initiatives to help local communities understand the importance and value of the Mississippi River and its watershed, as well as strategies for their protection.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of the Mississippi River on both Arkansas and Mississippi is estimated to be in excess of $2 billion per year. This includes everything from commercial shipping and transportation to the taxes generated by commercial activities along the River. In addition, the River provides a source of recreational activities, employment opportunities, and economic development for the two states.
Additionally,the Mississippi River has a major impact on the culture and lifestyle of both states. It serves as a major source of entertainment and pleasure for locals, and its presence prompts the area’s cultural identity and sense of community. The Mississippi River contributes to the larger regional identity in the South and Midwest, and has become a popular tourist destination for people all around the United States.
Protection Efforts
In addition to the initiatives already in place to protect the River, Arkansas and Mississippi have also joined forces to create a unified plan of action to ensure the continued protection of the Mississippi River. This plan includes measures to protect and restore the River’s habitats, reduce and manage runoff, improve water quality, control invasive species, and increase public awareness about the importance of the River.
As part of this plan, both states have adopted policies to encourage cooperation and collaboration, and have worked closely to develop a coordinated approach to managing and protecting the River. By working together, both states can ensure that the River remains healthy and viable for years to come.
Fishing and Hunting
The Mississippi River is home to many forms of aquatic life, including bluegills, largemouth bass, and walleyes. As such, fishing is a popular outdoor activity for locals and visitors in both Arkansas and Mississippi. In addition to fishing, the River is also a popular destination for hunting. Be it ducks, geese, or deer, the Mississippi River provides a variety of species for both the states.
Both Arkansas and Mississippi have developed a system of conservation and management regulations designed to protect the River’s aquatic and wildlife population, as well as to promote safe and responsible fishing and hunting. As a result, both states have become a haven for outdoor activities, including recreational fishing and hunting, providing locals and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an incredible source of beauty and opportunity for both Arkansas and Mississippi. Not only does the River provide a source of business and transportation for both states, but it also acts as a natural barrier between the two states. Through their combined efforts, the two states have managed to protect and maintain the River, creating a safe and healthy environment for the River and its inhabitants. As such, both states remain committed to protecting and restoring the Mississippi River so that it may continue to thrive and provide the countless benefits to both states for many years to come.
