The Mississippi River is both iconic and vital to North America, running a staggering length of around 2,650 miles. It passes through a vast 10 states, from the northern shores of Minnesota to the hot, humid climes of Louisiana, yet where do the headwaters of the Mississippi River begin?
At the source of all things, the source of the Mississippi, the source begins from neighbouring states of Minnesota and Wisconsin. In fact, the source starts as two small branches, known as the Mississippi River and the Minnesota River. The Mississippi River’s headwaters combine at Itasca State Park, Minnesota, where the river officially starts.
The headwaters of the Mississippi River have been home to various species of plant, animal and insects for thousands of years. There is a diverse array of flora and fauna, from the large and majestic to the small and exquisite. In addition, the river is home to a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, otters and deer.
Yet it’s not only nature that is entranced with these beginning waters. Tourists are fabled to flock to this mighty river in search of adventure and exploration. Enthusiasts can canoe, explore the caves and hike the trails. Furthermore, Itasca State Park holds deeper secrets in its vast depths: the headwaters of the Mississippi River.
The headwaters are also hugely important for a number of reasons. Primarily, the river assists in providing transportation for barges, as well as aid for farmers. It is also used for energy in the form of hydro-power. In addition, it can be used for recreational purposes such as fishing and swimming in the summer months.
The headwaters are well-regulated by the state. Several rules, such as no swimming and fishing without the appropriate permits, are in place to ensure the safety of those visiting the source. Perhaps most important of all, though, is the regulation of the intake of water for energy, irrigation and other systems for the entire length of the Mississippi.
It is evidently clear how vital the headwaters of the Mississippi River are to life in North America. Yet as conservationists become increasingly aware of the potential that lies within these waters, they are not the only ones realising the importance of these rivers. A closer appreciation of the environment, the restrictions that must be in place, and the potential development of sustainable tourism suggest that there is much to gain, and a plethora of beauty to appreciate, at the source of the Mississippi River.
The Ecosystem of Headwaters
As previously highlighted, the headwaters of the Mississippi River is home to an extensive ecosystem of wildlife, plants and fungi. For instance, the southern portion is heavily shaded by cottonwood, elm, and oak trees, as well as working forests and grasslands. Wildlife flourishes in the ecosystem, including deer, beaver, otter, mink, and muskrat, as well as numerous species of birds and fish.
The presence of so much biodiversity adds not only to the aesthetic beauty of this source, but also contributes to the wider environmental and economic health of the area. For instance, endangered species such as the 5-toe prairie lizard inhabit the wetlands, and plants including prairie mallow, native rose and wild beans proliferate.
Moreover, locals, conservationists and researchers are teaming up to set up a ‘River Otter Reintroduction Program.’ Project Otter, as it is now known, entails capturing, relocating and reintroducing the North American river otter population. It was the first of its kind in the upper Midwest, and hopes are high that the project will succeed in restoring the population to its former glory.
Overall, the ecosystem of the Mississippi’s headwaters is quite remarkable. Not only does it provide a home for an array of unique species, but it is also a vital source of sustenance for both locals and the wider area. Its importance to eco-systems and biodiversity cannot be understated.
The Value of Tourism
As previously mentioned, Itasca State Park is increasingly becoming a destination for tourists. Visitors flock to the headwaters for a range of activities, such as kayaking, camping, fishing and exploring the spectacular natural surroundings. Moreover, the visitor centre also offers varied activities and trails to investigate some of the history and heritage as to how the region developed.
As a result of this increased popularity, the local economy is certainly receiving a boost. It has been estimated that around 600,000 visitors a year make the pilgrimage to the source of the Mississippi River. It is definitely bringing much-needed revenue to this region, and is now considered as an important part of the overall economy of the region.
Local businesses have responded by providing wider attractions for tourists. For instance, nearby Dragonwood Garden provides unique cycle tours, outdoor exhibitions and children’s play areas. It is the perfect place to immerse oneself in the natural surroundings and take in some of the fascinating flora and fauna of the headwaters.
In addition, the Headwaters Music Festival attracts tens of thousands of people annually and showcases the music and culture of this vast area. Furthermore, it has been noted that tourists are also contributing to other cultural attractions surrounding Itasca State Park. It seems clear, then, that tourism has been a driving force in both the economic and cultural evolution at the headwaters of the Mississippi.
Managing the Resources
The resources present in the headwaters of the Mississippi are exhaustible and must be managed accordingly. Primarily, the state of Minnesota has primarily focused on the preservation and prevention of environmental degradation of the area. This includes intense regulations related to the intake of water and waste management.
Moreover, the number of visitors to the headwaters is also strictly managed. With tourism at an all-time high and increasing, authorities have worked hard to protect the precious source of the Mississippi River from over-development and malicious intentions.
Furthermore, access to the source is also managed through a specific pass, available from the visitor centre. Prices are kept low to encourage tourism but also controlling the levels of visitors strictly. Of course, these are all necessary precautionary measures to prevent over-usage, damage or desecration to this iconic site.
Due to these regulations, the headwaters of the Mississippi River have maintained their integrity and continue to offer a safe haven for vibrant life, long-standing vegetation and an area of scenic beauty.
Restoring the Headwaters
In the past, some heavy industrial uses such as mining and logging have welcomed environmental degradation. The effects of these activities have been particularly obvious in the headwaters of the Mississippi. Yet the good news is that, due to diligent conservation efforts, the ecosystem is gradually restoring itself, and the water is clean and healthy and ready for use.
However, conservationists have highlighted the significant number of invasive species present in the area, such as zebra mussels, common carp and Eurasian water milfoil. These tiny predators reduce the quality of open waters, as they consume oxygen and feed on native species of fish.
An important way to combat these undesirable species, is to introduce native predators such as otters or muskrats, which can be done via the River Otter Reintroduction Program. This is a tremendous initiative, and according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, will help to provide a “functional wetland habitat and enhance the freshwater flow into the upper Mississippi River”.
Ultimately, the headwaters of the Mississippi River provide a vital source of life and sustenance to the entire region. Conservationists are now tackling the invasive species that have damaged this source of life, and with successful programmes such as Project Otter, the area should effectively be restored to its former glory.
Celebrating the Headwaters
Award ceremonies such as the Mississippi Headwaters Special Award have also been held to recognize and reward initiatives that have helped to revitalize the headwaters of the Mississippi. At the award ceremony in 2017, a total of $ 50,000 was distributed to local initiatives, such as ‘Project Otter’ and the numerous local research initiatives that have been conducted.
In addition, several art competitions enable the general public to take part in celebrating the natural beauty of the headwaters. This includes the ‘Headwaters Art Award’ which has seen participants submitting their artwork to the project. Previous winners have even displayed their work in Itasca State Park, allowing tourists to grasp the sheer magnificence of the region.
Ultimately, the celebration of the headwaters showcases the local communities and their deepest appreciation for the area. By being rewarded, praised and appreciated, it allows the people of the Mississippi Headwaters demonstrate their pride.
Educating Children about the Headwaters
By educating the younger generations about the headwaters of the Mississippi River, we can ensure this source is well-protected in the future. Numerous initiatives have been developed to teach children about the significance of this source of life.
For instance, ‘Project Watershed’ is an educational programme that visits schools in the headwaters region. Pupils learn about the area’s past and present, as well as undertaking research projects on conservation and restoration. This allows them to gain a deeper appreciation for the area, and importantly, deem it as a treasured part of their heritage.
In addition, the ‘Headwaters Junior Ranger Program’ provides children with fun, hands-on activities to gain an understanding of the natural world. The enthusiasm of the younger generation helps inspire and motivate conservation of the environment.
Overall, these initiatives are just some of the numerous examples of how children can be inspired, motivated and educated about the headwaters of the Mississippi River. It is a true testament to the importance specialists attach to passing on the knowledge and understanding of this remarkable source of life.
