Overview of the Mississippi River
The mighty Mississippi River, the fourth-longest river in the world, stretches more than 2,345 miles, from its source in Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Mississippi River Delta at the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. It has a drainage basin of roughly 1.2 million square miles or about one-eighth of the United States and acts as a major waterway for the Midwest. The basin area of the Mississippi River covers areas from 31 US states and 2 Canadian provinces, which form the Mississippi River Watershed. Flow rates in the river range from 250,000 to 600,000 cubic feet per second. Over 500 commercial lock and dams were built along the river since 1950, allowing for navigation, transportation and development of waterways for trade and commerce.
Where Does the Mississippi River Start and End Map
The Mississippi River starts in Lake Itasca, Minnesota. Flowing south, it crosses roughly 2,340 miles before it ends at the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. The entire length of the river is depicted in the following Mississippi River map, showing where it starts and ends:
The map shows the main cities on or near the Mississippi River, such as Memphis, Nashville, Saint Louis, and Louisiana, as well as its tributaries. The Mississippi River is best known for its large natural and human-made lakes and reservoirs, such as the popular Lake Itasca and Red River.
Cultural Significance of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River has always been an integral part of American history and culture. From early Native American tribes to European settlers to modern-day Americans, the Mississippi River has been used for spiritual and economic purposes. The earliest Native Americans used the river as a major transportation route, and many tribes still inhabit the neighboring banks. The river was vital to early settlers for trade and exploration, and to this day it serves as a key waterway for commerce, shipping and trading. It also provides citizens with a recreational opportunity, as it has excellent fishing, boating and swimming areas.
Environmental Concerns of the Mississippi River
While the Mississippi River serves as a vital resource for many, there are several environmental concerns associated with it. Fertilizers and industrial waste from nearby cities and farms makes its way into the river, affecting the health and the quality of the water. This affects aquatic life and produces a significant amount of algae growth. In addition, sediment is eroding the river’s banks, which can lead to flooding. These effects are compounded with the increasing demand for water by cities, farms, businesses and industries that line the river.
Conservation Efforts
In response to environmental concerns and to ensure the river’s sustainability, conservation efforts have been made. The Mississippi River and Tributaries Project is the name of a comprehensive plan launched by the US Government to control floods, expand irrigation and hydroelectric power, and protect wildlife and habitats along the river. The project has been long overdue, considering the numerous natural and human-made impacts the river has suffered since people began to inhabit the area. Despite all this, the Mississippi River still remains a major part of American culture and history, and its importance and significance are still deeply appreciated by many.
Impacts of Climate Change on the Mississippi River
As the climate continues to change, so does the Mississippi River. Over the years, dramatic changes in weather patterns, such as record-breaking droughts and heavy flooding, have put the river’s environment at risk. These changes also have an effect on the river’s inhabitants. Warmer climates due to climate change have led to an increase in air and water temperatures, which can be harmful to certain species of fish. Additionally, significant changes in river flows have been observed, resulting in changes in sediment patterns, erosion, water quality, and more.
Conservation Policies & Legislation
Several policies and legislation have been put in place to protect the river and its environment. The Clean Water Act of 1972 is a federal law aimed at preserving and restoring water quality in the rivers and streams across the United States. It also established programs for the conservation and development of the waterways for recreational, commercial, and industrial purposes. The National Estuarine Research Reserve System was established in 1972 under the Coastal Zone Management Act, which is a network of marine reserves established for research, education, and coastal resource management. Additionally, the US Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for managing projects and protecting the river, including flood control and fish and wildlife management.
Mississippi River Pollution Solutions
In order to maintain a healthy environment, steps are being taken to reduce the amount of pollution entering the Mississippi River. First and foremost, efforts to reduce waste and runoff from industrial, agricultural, and urban sources by implementing Best Management Practices (BMP) are underway. Additionally, silt and sediment management strategies are being implemented to reduce sediment input into the river. Finally, conservation projects and restoring wetland areas are helping to reduce impact of flooding and excessive erosion. With these initiatives in place, the Mississippi River will continue to be a source of life and vitality in the Midwest.
Fish in the Mississippi River
One of the most important features of the Mississippi River is the vast variety of fish it supports. The US Fish and Wildlife Service lists more than 200 native fish species in the river, including catfish, carp, sturgeon, and bass. Additionally, the river serves as a major spawning and nursery for over 70 species of freshwater fish, as well as 161 species of migratory, game and non-game birds. These species rely on the dynamic environment of the Mississippi River, as well as its wetlands, grasslands and forests, making it an essential habitat in the Midwest.
Mississippi River Recreational Uses
The Mississippi River offers many recreational opportunities for boaters, anglers and adventurers. In addition to fishing and boat tours, there are campgrounds, hiking trails and scenic overlooks along the river. Sightseeing and wildlife viewing are popular activities for those looking to experience the wonders of the Mississippi River. From hot-air balloon rides and restaurant cruises to ecological tours, the Mississippi River provides a myriad of recreational experiences for visitors and locals alike.
