Overview
The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic waterways in the United States. It is the second longest river in America and runs from the northernmost tip of Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, it stretches through ten US states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The river serves as a critical transportation artery for goods and people, and it is also a significant breeding ground for many fish species. From its headwaters to its ending point, the Mississippi River facilitates a range of activities that support the country’s economy.
Source & Length
The Mississippi River begins at Lake Itasca in Minnesota and flows southward for 2,320 miles before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. It is the fourth longest river in the world and the longest in the United States. The source of the Mississippi River lies in the Laurentian Uplands, and it eventually culminates in the delta of Louisiana where the river’s channel is split into three arms before entering the Gulf of Mexico.
Water QualityThe Mississippi River has become a symbol of diverse ecosystem conservation efforts. Throughout its length, a number of regional and international organizations have collaborated to maintain its health and sustainability, ensuring that its waters retain the necessary qualities for wildlife and human activities. The US Army Corps of Engineers has worked tirelessly to ensure the navigability of the river. In addition, significant efforts have been undertaken to prevent urban and industrial pollution from entering the river.
Deposition & Effects
The Mississippi River is prone to its enormous floodplains, which have been capable of splitting into numerous channels whenever necessary. The river’s ever-changing course allows it to slowly meander its way around, making it the perfect vehicle for transporting sediment and replenishing the surrounding land. Due to its expansive basin, the Mississippi River plays an integral role in the agricultural economy of the central United States. Its slow movement also reduces the risk of catastrophic flooding in the area, which can have significant effects on transportation, trade, and the environment.
Recreation & Wildlife
The Mississippi River provides a wealth of recreational activities for individuals from all walks of life. Historic Steamboats make the journey from the headwaters of the river to its delta and provide a nostalgic look into America’s past. In addition, anglers flock to the river each year for some of the country’s best freshwater fishing. Endangered species such as the iconic American bald eagle and the endangered interior least tern bird both seek refuge along the Mississippi’s banks.
Effects of Climate Change
The effects of climate change have brought uncertainty to the future of the Mississippi River. As temperatures continue to rise, the river is predicted to experience more frequent and severe floods, which will ultimately be destructive to the surrounding land and wildlife. In addition, it is forecasted that the Mississippi’s wetlands will become more vulnerable to drought, further damaging ecosystems and drastically changing the spectacle of the river.
Famous Mississippi River Locations
The Mississippi has been home to some of the nation’s most famous people, places, and events. In historic St. Louis, the arch serves as a reminder of President Thomas Jefferson’s dedication to the expansion of the United States, ensuring the nation can stretch “from sea to shining sea”. In Natchez, Mississippi, America’s Wild West begins. The Mississippi River may end in Louisiana, but its importance has no bounds, declaring itself an integral part in the formation of the rest of the country.
Pollution & Flooding
The Mississippi River’s delicate ecosystem is constantly threatened by large-scale pollution and frequent flooding. Pollution is a direct consequence of human interaction and is incredibly hard to stop. Farming runoff and urbanization, in particular, are the main perpetrators and can significantly impact the river’s ability to sustain its delicate aquatic system. Furthermore, the increased strength and occurrence of storms in the Midwest have created frequent flooding along the Mississippi. This has been hard on the environment, leading to monetary costs and consequently a decrease in the river’s quality.
Climate Change Adaptation & Mitigation
The future of the Mississippi River is uncertain as climate change continues to become more and more prominent. In order to mitigate these effects, several organizations are working together to create plans for going forward. There are programs being put in place to ensure that the communities that depend on the Mississippi River for survival are able to adjust to the changes that are coming. In addition, these programs are designed to promote the use of best practices to reduce the impacts of climate change on the Mississippi.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an integral part of American life and culture. From its source all the way to its finish line, the river has shaped the course of history, offering refuge to wildlife, providing essential transportation and fostering a bustling regional economy. Despite the negative impacts of climate change and human interference, organizations are working together to make sure that this vital source of life and livelihood continues running. That’s why it’s no wonder that the Mississippi River has become a symbol of the American spirit, one that will continue to power America forward.
