Where does the lower Mississippi River begin and end? This is a question that has been asked for centuries. It is a fascinating journey, one of exploration and discovery, from the upper reaches of the state of Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in the south. The Lower Mississippi River begins its 1,660-mile journey in northern Minnesota, winding through a variety of habitats, including forests, prairies, wetlands and agricultural land over much of the Midwestern United States before pouring into the Gulf of Mexico.
The path of the lower Mississippi River is marked by a tangled network of rivers, canals, and levees. These man-made features play an important role in controlling the flow of the river, providing flood protection, and providing access to the agricultural and industrial areas along the river’s banks. Along its banks, the Lower Mississippi River nourishes diverse ecosystems and serves as the lifeblood of numerous communities.
It takes over a month to travel the entire length of the Lower Mississippi River by boat and much longer by car or other land transport. Many see the river as a symbol of America’s spirit of exploration and strength, with much of the exploration and growth of our nation having taken place along its route.
The River’s Harrowing History
The Lower Mississippi River has a harrowing history and has been witness to a myriad of events throughout the years, from the days of the early Native Americans and French explorers to the Civil War and the Great Flood of 1927. From the slave trading of the Louisiana Purchase to the Jazz music of Louis Armstrong, the Lower Mississippi continues to be a source of tales and legends, with countless stories of courage, adversity, and resilience.
The river has been the scene of battles and skirmishes, including those between Native Americans, the French, and the American settlers. Its winding and often treacherous waters have claimed the lives of many and yet still provide a source of inspiration and adventure.
Those who study the river note that its channel has evolved significantly over time, with sweeping changes in its banks, in its course, and in its defenses. From levees to siltation, the Mississippi River is never entirely the same from year to year and is always changing, something that makes it both exciting and dangerous.
The Life of the River
The Lower Mississippi River teems with life, from the Louisiana black bear to the bald cypress tree. More than 1,200 species of birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, and other wildlife call the lower Mississippi River home, while fifty-plus boat species navigate the river’s depths.
The river’s diverse aquatic life also makes it a prime fishing destination, with hundreds of varieties of freshwater fish waiting to be caught. Anglers and boaters alike are drawn to its waters, as are the industries that depend on it, such as shipping, barge transportation, and power generation.
A wide variety of plants also thrive along the lower Mississippi River’s banks. It is home to a number of protected species, such as the American lotus, water lilies, and wild rice. These plants also provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, from turtles and alligators to birds.
The Economic Significance of the Lower Mississippi River
The economic significance of the Lower Mississippi River cannot be overstated. It is a key shipping route, providing access to more than 3,000 miles of inland shipping waterways. This shipping network is estimated to be worth billions of dollars each year.
The lower Mississippi is also important for the energy industry, providing a dependable source of hydroelectric power and natural gas. There are also numerous chemical plants, refineries, and other industries that rely on the Mississippi River and its tributaries for their operations.
Environmental Issues
The health of the river is also a major concern. The lower Mississippi River is facing numerous environmental issues, including chemical runoff, water pollution, and declining habitat. These problems are caused by a variety of factors, including agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and urban development.
In recent years, efforts to protect the river and its surrounding ecosystems have been ramped up. Governments, organizations, and communities are working to reduce pollution and improve habitat conditions, while educating the public about the importance of the river.
The Legacy of the Lower Mississippi River
The Lower Mississippi River’s legacy is one of exploration, resilience, and adventure. It has been witness to hundreds of years of history and evolution, playing a vital role in the growth of the United States.
Today, the lower Mississippi River continues to be an important part of life for many communities, providing jobs, nourishment, and a source of recreation. Its important role in our nation’s history could not be overstated, and its significance in the present-day should not be forgotten.
Important Regulation of the River
The US Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for regulating the flow of the lower Mississippi River, monitoring its banks and levees, and ensuring that the river stays free of navigational hazards.
The Corps is also responsible for managing the river’s water resources, controlling the water supply and flow, and safeguarding against flooding. This regulation helps to ensure that the Lower Mississippi River remains a viable resource for farmers, industry, and communities.
Moreover, the Corps is also responsible for carrying out numerous improvement projects, such as dredging, to maintain the river’s navigability and water quality. This includes programs to restore wetlands and fish habitats and to create new channels for navigation.
The Lower Mississippi River Reserves
The Lower Mississippi River also serves as a critical habitat for certain wildlife species, including the endangered American Baldcypress. This tree is found exclusively in the lower Mississippi River and its tributaries and is protected by the Endangered Species Act.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service also manages numerous national wildlife refuges along the river, providing habitat and protecting a variety of plants and animals. These refuges also provide essential habitat for migrating birds, reptiles, and mammals, and offer recreational opportunities for birding and fishing.
In addition, the Lower Mississippi River is also protected by the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty that seeks to protect and conserve wetlands around the world. The US is a party to this treaty and has designated portions of the lower Mississippi River as critical wetlands.
Conclusion
The Lower Mississippi River begins its long journey in Minnesota and ends in the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, it has been witness to centuries of history and been the source of exploration and adventure for many. It is a major economic and cultural resource, providing essential habitat and crafting the stories and legends of many. Today, its legacy lives on, as the river’s importance in the present-day is still apparent.
