Introduction
The Arkansas River, the second-longest tributary of the mighty Mississippi River, is a major waterway of the central United States. This waterway has provided a means of transportation, irrigation, and recreation for many centuries. Its meeting with the Mississippi River marks an important and meaningful point in the river’s journey—it is the point at which this vital river system becomes part of the larger Mississippi River ecosystem. In this article, we will take a look at the geography and history of where exactly the Arkansas River meets the Mississippi.
Geography of Where the Arkansas River meets the Mississippi
The point at which the Arkansas River meets the Mississippi is located in the state of Arkansas and is one of the most important confluences of the entire Mississippi River system. The junction occurs at the city of Desha, approximately 27 miles north of Pine Bluff. Here, the Arkansas River joins the Mississippi in an area referred to as Arkansas Post. As a result of this central geographic location, Arkansas Post had become a hub for shipping, trading and boat traffic since the 1700s.
Historical Significance of Where the Arkansas River Meets the Mississippi
The junction between the Arkansas River and the Mississippi has a rich and varied history of significance. The area was a major fixture in the Civil War, with an ongoing series of skirmishes being fought in the vicinity of Arkansas Post. In 1864, the Union Army captured the city of Desha after a siege.
The junction between the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers has also been significant to Native American inhabitants of the region, particularly the Quapaw. The Arkansas River was the homeland of the Quapaw people, who played a major role in the history of the area. In the 18th century, the Quapaw welcomed explorer La Salle at the junction, and later served as guides to American fur traders who passed through the region.
Ecological Significance of Where the Arkansas River Meets the Mississippi
The junction of the Arkansas River and the Mississippi River is an ecologically significant area. The area is home to a variety of fish and wildlife, including catfish, bass, carp, walleye, beavers and muskrats. Birdwatching is also popular in the area, with opportunities to observe a variety of migratory and local birds, such as bald eagles, egrets, herons, hawks and pelicans.
The area around the junction of the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers is also important for environmental conservation. It is home to many species of endangered and threatened wildlife, as well as a variety of unique and rare plants. It is also a critical part of the Mississippi River system, which is an important resource for water, food and recreation.
Flow of the Arkansas River and Its Impact on the Mississippi
The Arkansas River is an important source of water for the Mississippi River system and is the only large tributary to flow into the Mississippi in the southern United States. The Arkansas River contributes over 1.2 million cubic feet per second of fresh water to the Mississippi, which helps to dilute contaminants and maintain the ecological balance of the river.
The flow of the Arkansas River into the Mississippi is also important for human activities such as shipping and irrigation. The deeper, wider channel created by the junction of the two rivers makes it easier for shipping vessels to navigate the Mississippi, and the divert of water from the tributary helps to irrigate the surrounding lands.
The Arkansas River is a navigable waterway, and is an important artery of transportation for the region. Although most of the river is not navigable due to shallow waters, the stretch of the Arkansas River from Desha to its convergence with the Mississippi is navigable and has been used to transport goods and people since the 19th century. In this stretch of the river, the navigable channel is up to 200 feet wide and more than 20 feet deep.
Recreation along the Arkansas River
The Arkansas River is a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking and camping. There are numerous state parks, wildlife refuges and recreation areas along the river, which provide a variety of recreational opportunities. In addition, many restaurants and marinas are located along the river, providing access to the waterway.
Connecting with Nature along the River
Spending time on the Arkansas River is an enjoyable way to connect with nature and explore the beauty of its environment. From the crystal clear waters and the abundance of wildlife to the majestic trees and lush vegetation, the Arkansas River offers a diverse and picturesque landscape that is sure to captivate anyone who spends time there.
Conclusion
The Arkansas River’s convergence with the mighty Mississippi River is a site of both physical and spiritual significance. Historically and ecologically important, the junction of these two rivers is also an important part of the larger Mississippi River system and has been an important transportation route in the region for centuries. The Arkansas River is also a popular destination for recreation, with many state parks, wildlife refuges and other recreational areas located along its banks. The Arkansas River provides the opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the region.
