Where Can You Find the Mississippi River?
The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic rivers in the United States. It has been an integral part of both the U.S. economy and culture for centuries and is one of the longest rivers in the world. The Mississippi River is 2,340 miles long and runs through beautiful landscapes and landscapes created by cities, industry, and farms. It winds its way through ten states, five of which border the river. It begins in northern Minnesota and ends in the Gulf of Mexico south of New Orleans but where can you exactly find the Mississippi River?
Minnesota
The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota and meanders through Lake Itasca and the small town of Itasca before heading south. As it progresses, the river flows through a number of national parks, such as Voyageurs, where you can explore untouched forests, wetlands, and rivers. As the river heads south, the river gains strength from many tributaries, or other small rivers or streams that become part of the larger river. Here, you can witness the meeting of many cultures, industries and environments that all shape life and commerce along the Mississippi.
Illinois & Wisconsin
The river continues south and separates the states of Illinois and Wisconsin. The river is still relatively calm, but a number of lakes have developed in the area and have diversity of species and environment. The river current, meanwhile, has enough strength to sustain different industries, all of whom rely on the river for their operations.
Missouri and Iowa
The river continues south and marks the boundary between Illinois and Missouri. As it gradually increases in size, the Mississippi River is now widely known for its countless incredible sights, like the Gateway Arch and the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in St. Louis. Above St. Louis, the mighty Mississippi continues to receive a number of tributaries, such as the Kaskaskia and the Missouri rivers, which both reach over 200 miles in length. During its path, it is joined by the Missouri and the Des Moines Rivers, as well as by the Blackhawk and Iowa Rivers which provide the state of Iowa with more than 180 miles of the river.
Louisiana
The Mississippi River enters its longest states in Louisiana, a state known for its wetlands, marshlands, and rivers. The mighty Mississippi soon reaches New Orleans, an iconic city embedded in the rivers culture. The Mississippi River has been a vital part of the lives of New Orleanians for centuries and is the main source of transportation and trade of the city.
Traversing downstream to the Gulf of Mexico
After Louisiana, the Mississippi River takes a last turn before it meets the Gulf of Mexico. Here, the river is often up to two miles wide, and thousands of species inhabit it, from small creatures to large ones, from the smallest birds to the biggest mammals. The Delta, formed by the different tributaries joining with the river, provides a great abundance of resources and invaluable eco-system services, making it a special place to observe the majesty of the Mississippi.
The Mississippi River today
It’s no surprise that the Mississippi River has attracted industries, cultures and individuals throughout the years. It is nowadays used for power generation, industrial work, commercial fishing and other activities. While pollution and sociological issues have heavily affected the river, there is still a great level of astonishing beauty along the Mississippi.
The Role of the Mississippi River in the Economy
The Mississippi River has been the backbone of the United States economy since the 19th century and remains so today. The rivers have a massive influence on the transportation of goods, making it one of the most important river systems in the world. It’s 2,340-mile run, along with its many tributaries and lakes, makes it a major logistical asset since goods and services can travel up and down the river for long distances. The river is also essential for trade and passenger transport, making it an important factor in the economy of the states it runs through.
The Impact of Human Development on the Mississippi River
Humanity is closely linked to the Mississippi River, as its history and development are closely intertwined with the river’s fate. Since the 19th century, human activities have had a direct impact on the environment and the river’s health, causing significant damage to its ecosystem, a damage which could prove difficult to completely recover from. The river has been suffering from industrial waste, agricultural runoff and climate change, so much that its flow has been severely affected.
Preserving the Mississippi River
The Mississippi has been an important factor in the U.S. economy, but well-being is also dependent on the river. Currently, organizations and the federal government are working on preserving the river. New regulations and technological solutions have been implemented in order to reduce pollution, improve water quality and conserve the biodiversity of the river.
International Cooperation in Protecting the River
The Mississippi River is not contained by the US, as it is part of an international system which also touches Canada. Therefore, cooperation between countries is essential in order to protect the river. International agreements, such as the Presidential Watersheds Memorandums and the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact, provide a framework for international collaboration and sharing of information.
Education and Awareness of the Mississippi
In addition to the regulations, education is essential in preserving the river. Teaching people about the importance of protecting the Mississippi River and providing them with information on the best practices is invaluable. People must also be aware of their influence on the river’s health so they can contribute in its preservation.
Economic Opportunities Presented by the River
The Mississippi River provides a great number of economic opportunities for the communities it runs through. Its navigability and size make it an ideal source for power generation and leisure activities. Its role as a source of sustenance in the form of fish or its potential of becoming a sustainable source of fishing make it desirable in the eyes of many.
Conservation and Recreation Along The River
The Mississippi River is part of many National Parks and Nature reserves such as Applachicola, Hot Springs, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Thus, the upkeep of these reservations is essential in order to protect the river and keep it safe from development. Recreational opportunities are also presented by the river, such as kayaking and canoeing, as these activities not only contribute to its health but also recreational development of the area.
