Background
The Mississippi River is the second longest river system in North America and the chief river of the largest drainage system in the United States. It flows 2,340 miles from its headwaters in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of the most important sources of fresh water in the United States. Along with its tributaries, the Mississippi River engages millions of people as a key part of the food chain, and provides a vital water supply to many states and numerous cities.
History of the Mississippi River
The history of the Mississippi River dates back to the 18th century. In 1783, the United States was divided into thirteen states and a desert west of the Appalachians. The Mississippi River was the main trade route connecting the two major regions. Explorers and fur-trappers were the earliest to travel and document their journey down the Mississippi, providing invaluable information to those who would follow.
In 1803, the Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States and opened the river to large-scale steamboat traffic. The early 19th century saw the first use of steamboats on the river, which helped to facilitate large-scale agricultural development and wealth generation for many of the states in the Mississippi watershed. As development progressed, so too did the impacts of the river on the local environment, leading to increased human manipulation of the river.
Hydrology of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River is often seen as an example of one of the most heavily engineered rivers in the world. As river development has occurred, many of the natural meanders and oxbow lakes have been lost and the width of the river has been made much more uniform. This has led to a decrease in the complexity of habitats that fish and other aquatic species rely on to survive.
The upper Mississippi River basin includes states such as Minnesota and Wisconsin and is home to two large river systems, the Red and the Minnesota. The Red River is a tributary to the Mississippi and flows in a northward direction until the two rivers join near the state of Illinois. The Minnesota River is the main tributary to the Mississippi River and is fed by the Souris, Rainy and Saint Louis Rivers. The Mississippi River itself originates in Lake Itasca in Minnesota, flowing south and then south-east before joining the Gulf at the state of Louisiana.
Environmental Effects of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River has a profound effect on the environment of the United States. It is the chief source of water for many of the regions in the country, particularly those in the Midwest, and heavily contributes to agricultural production. In some areas the water from the Mississippi has been used for irrigation, leading to a decrease in various wildlife species, as well as fertilizer and pollutant contamination in the groundwater and drinking water. The river is also very susceptible to yearly flooding, which can have a devastating impact on human and ecological communities.
The presence of pollutants in the Mississippi River is also a major concern. The pollutants originate from sources such as agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and urban runoff. Additionally, the linked waters of the Mississippi River system act as an efficient way to transport pollutants downstream, leading to downstream regions having increased levels of contamination.
Recovery Efforts on the Mississippi
In recent decades, there has been an increasing effort to improve the health of the waters in the Mississippi River watershed. Measures have been taken to reduce the inputs of pollutants, to restore wetlands and natural habitats, and to reduce the impact of periodic flooding. These efforts have been combined with outreach programs addressing urban runoff, agricultural runoff and wastewater treatment. These efforts have been seen to have positive impacts on local ecosystems, providing better habitat for wildlife species and improving water quality.
Impact of Human Activity
Humans have had a profound effect on the Mississippi River and its ecosystems over the centuries. Fishing and navigation were two of the earliest activities to affect the river, yet today the river is heavily impacted by human activity. The navigation of the river has led to decreased complexity and fish habitat, the introduction of pollutants, and decrease in levels of indigenous species. Furthermore, the introduction of levees has led to a decrease in nutrient loading and reduced river flows downstream, creating an overall decrease in river health.
Economic Benefits
The Mississippi River has a large economic importance for many cities and states in the United States. The river provides for navigation and transportation, a source of freshwater, and numerous recreational activities like fishing and boating. The river is also a large source of hydroelectric power, providing energy to many cities and states along its course. The river also attracts tourists from far and wide, providing an additional source of income.
Health of the Mississippi
The health of the Mississippi River is an important factor in maintaining its economic value. The river has been heavily impacted by human activity, yet the decrease in water pollution and the introduction of innovative water management techniques has led to an overall improvement. The river today supports a range of species and provides a clean source of water for many states, though there still remains much work to be done.
Effects on Human Health
The Mississippi River also plays a role in human health. The river provides a source of drinking water for many cities, and it is vital that it is kept clean and free from pollutants. Changes in the health of the Mississippi River can have a dramatic effect on water supply, with the presence of pollutants leading to health risks for local communities. The river is also a vital source of food and ecosystem services, providing food resources and habitats for many species.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River has had a long history, stretching back centuries. It has been a vital source of sustenance, navigation and resources for many states, and continues to be a vital part of American culture and economy today. Despite the impacts of human activities on the river and its ecosystems, considerable efforts have been put in place to improve the health of the river and its watershed and to protect human health in the region.
