Overview of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the most important rivers in the United States. Originating in northern Minnesota, the massive river takes a meandering course south, eventually stretching 2,340 miles through all or part of 10 states before reaching its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. The Mississippi is the fourth longest river in the world and is the largest in North America. Countless tributaries and streams empty into the Mississippi and numerous cities, including St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville, and Baton Rouge, serve as ports of call along its edges.
The Journey of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has four distinct stages on its journey to the sea. First, the Upper Mississippi begins in the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin at Lake Itasca and flows south. At St. Louis, it converges with the Missouri River and forms the Middle Mississippi. This continuous path then curves east, forming the Lower Mississippi, but most of its original course toward the Florida Coast was blocked off centuries ago. Ships still travel along the remaining natural channels of the Lower Mississippi, and the Big Muddy battles its way through the country’s vast flood plains. The Lower Mississippi empties into the Gulf of Mexico at the Mississippi Delta, forming a 130-mile wide estuary.
The Importance of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the world’s most important waterways and is considered to be an ecological and cultural treasure. It provides water for over 18 million people and supports a variety of wildlife. Waterfowl, fish, and mammals are attracted to its watershed, as are human settlers and hunters. Fueled in part by the fish industry, hundreds of thousands of people rely upon the Mississippi for their livelihoods. Its immense size has been a source of inspiration to a great number of musicians and authors.
Pollution of the Mississippi River
Unfortunately, the great splendor of the Mississippi has become shrouded in pollution and urban sprawl. The extensive growth of cities lining its banks are responsible for discharging chemicals, trash and other pollutants into its waters. Sewage effluent, runoff from agricultural production, and other factors have decreased the level of dissolved oxygen in the waters, resulting in dead zones. In recent decades, federal agencies have imposed regulations in an attempt to reverse the damage and restore the river to its natural magnificence.
Flood Control of the Mississippi River
The low lying terrain around the Mississippi’s path is particularly susceptible to flooding during the wet season. The frequent overflows of the river can cause immense destruction and have historically resulted in massive loss of life. Numerous large scale projects have been completed to tackle the flood threat, such as levees, flood gates, and diversion channels. Nonetheless, scientists suggest that meaningful mitigation still won’t be achieved until there’s widespread recognition of the dangers associated with the river, and a strong commitment to preserving the ecosystem.
The Mississippi River is a popular transportation route, carrying over 60 commercially active vessels transporting more than 20 million tons of goods on a daily basis. Up until recently, barge traffic was the primary source of navigation; however, inflows of freshwater have made operating large barges significantly more problematic. In response, other measures are being implemented to ease congestion, such as the construction of improved locks and dams, better navigation equipment, and upgraded point-to-point segments. In addition, the US Army Corps of Engineers helps support 14,000 miles of waterways.
Mythology of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi is steeped in mythology, with numerous folktales, songs, and stories about its legendary power. It’s been said to be a bottomless river with mysterious origins and an unpredictable and unstoppable force. Writers such as Mark Twain and Huckleberry Finn have long held a special fascination with the legendary river, contributing to its deep-rooted mystique and lore.
Water Quality of the Mississippi River
Despite having to contend with heavy pollution, the water quality of the Mississippi River has actually improved dramatically. This can largely be attributed to the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972, which implements strict regulations aiming to protect and enhance the country’s water resources. Today, the river is monitored for pollutants and according to reports, numerous contaminants have been vastly reduced or removed. Furthermore, numerous federal and state government initiatives have worked towards restoring and protecting the Mississippi, resulting in a number of positive outcomes.
Environmental Issues of the Mississippi River
However, while the river’s water quality has improved, there are still areas of concern. For one, the frequency and intensity of major floods remain a major issue. As previously mentioned, the Mississippi River is prone to flooding and subsequent destruction. In addition to a constant flow of pollutants, such storm events can further pollute and damage the river’s ecology, often resulting in contaminated soil and a decrease in wildlife.
Impact on Wildlife of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has been home to a variety of wildlife throughout the years. This includes countless species of fish, birds, mammals, and reptiles. Unfortunately, the combination of pollution and increased recreational usage have led to a decline in many of the river’s native species. Federal and state agencies have taken a strong stance in terms of protecting the river’s essential wildlife and their habitats. Moreover, local communities have become involved, embarking on a number of initiatives and campaigns to help restore the river’s original wildlife population.
Role in History of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is not only essential for transportation and water resources, it has an incredible history of its own. Numerous historical events and figures are associated with the river and its surroundings, such as the French explorer, Marquette and Joliet, who were the first European travelers to chart its course, as well as its involvement during the American Civil War. Thanks to the significance of its natural environment, the river continues to play a major role in the geography, economy, and culture of the United States.
Infrastructure of the Mississippi River
A great number of infrastructure projects are associated with the Mississippi River and its surrounding areas. Dams, levees, and other structures are in place as a means to prevent flooding and support navigation, whereas other projects aim to restore or preserve the area’s natural habitats. As expected, the delicate balance between human progress and environmental protection has been a heated topic of debate since the river’s first settlement. Recent advancements in science and technology have allowed for the development of better, more sustainable infrastructure.
Aquaculture of the Mississippi River
One of the more unique forms of human use of the Mississippi River is aquaculture. In recent years, the industry has grown immensely, producing fish, mollusks and crustaceans in managed ponds, movable net pens, and raceways. Many of the products are sold to restaurants, as well as to wholesalers and superstores. Unfortunately, notable issues still exist such as a lack of enforcement, inadequate regulations and misallocation of resources, which negatively impact the ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Conclusion
The majestic Mississippi River is both an amazing force of nature and a powerful reminder of how humans can shape the landscape. Its epic journey from its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico to its source in northern Minnesota has been an integral part of US history and still has a major affect on the environment, economy and livelihood of people today. The importance of the Mississippi River to the United States can never be overstated.
