Geography
The Missouri River is the longest river in North America, stretching 2,340 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi River in St. Louis, Missouri. This confluence is one of the most remarkable scenes in North America, and it is the point at which the two great waterways come together. It is a place where the Missouri takes a mighty turn south, giving the rising Mississippi River the 180 degree turn it needs to begin its journey down to New Orleans. Knowing the geography of the Missouri–Mississippi confluence has been essential for human development of the region and allows us to chart the history of the nation itself.
History
Throughout its long history, the Missouri-Mississippi confluence has been an important navigational feature. This part of the river has been well-traveled since the 16th century. In the 1700s and 1800s, the confluence was seen as a key point along the voyage of the steamboats from St. Louis to the sea. By the mid-1800s the confluence had cut the travel time from St. Louis to New Orleans by more than half, making it the preferred route for travelers. As the area developed, the tremendous riverside bluffs of limestone slowly began to form a picturesque landscape that draws millions of tourists each year.
Impact of the Missouri River on the Mississippi River
The Missouri River has had a tremendous impact on the Mississippi River. The Missouri adds a significant amount of sediment and water to the Mississippi, which in turn makes it much more dynamic. The sediment from the Missouri helps to fill in areas of the Mississippi, making it less shallow and more navigable. The resulting river is much wider and deeper, and capable of handling larger vessels. The Missouri also adds nutrients to the Mississippi River, helping to support a more diverse range of flora and fauna.
At the confluence of the Mississippi and the Missouri, the rivers are navigable from St. Louis to their common mouth. In this section of the Mississippi, the river is generally a slow and meandering 6 to 7 MPH. The Missouri River generally runs with a much slower current and is often slow enough to make navigation quite difficult. When the two rivers meet, the combined flow of the two rivers makes navigation much easier. The navigability of the two rivers combined is a huge factor in the development and expansion of the region.
Environmental Issues
The combined effects of human activity and the two rivers have had an impact on the environment of the region. In recent years, the Missouri River has seen a dramatic decrease in water flow due to upstream dams and diversions, which has led to unsustainable utilization of water resources. The decreased flow has resulted in loss of biodiversity in the region, and in some areas of the confluence, the sedimentation has changed the course of the Mississippi. These harmful effects have been compounded by pollution from nearby industries, agricultural run-off, and other human activities.
Life on the rivers
Today, life around the Missouri-Mississippi confluence is vibrant and full of opportunities. The region is home to numerous small towns and cities, bustling ports, and a wealth of recreational opportunities. Although the confluence can be a busy place, it’s also home to a variety of wildlife and natural wonders, including bald eagle and American white pelican nests, lush river bottom forests, and massive sandbars. The area is also known as a hub for fishing and recreational boating, with access to an array of fantastic fishing holes, camping sites, beautiful bluffs, and even a few shipwrecks.
Conservation Efforts
In order to protect the vital waters of the Missouri-Mississippi, efforts have been taken to keep the river and its surrounding areas clean and healthy. Organizations like The Nature Conservancy are working at the Missouri-Mississippi Confluence to conserve critical habitats and watersheds, improve water quality, reduce sedimentation, and promote recreational opportunities. Additionally, local and state governments have worked to enact stringent pollution laws to safeguard the river and the region.
Economic Impact
The Missouri-Mississippi is a major source of economic activity in the region, providing employment to thousands of people and sustaining numerous businesses. Shipping companies take advantage of the combined waterway to move loads of commodities and goods up and down the two rivers. The riverfront towns also benefit from tourism, with people coming from all over the world to explore the area’s rich history, experience its vibrant culture, and take in the stunning vistas along the rivers.
Recreational Activities
The confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers provides a unique opportunity for recreational and leisure activities. With its many sandbars, bluffs, and islands, the area is perfect for swimming, boating, camping, fishing, and hiking. The rivers also provide ideal spots for bird-watchers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Every year, thousands of visitors come to explore the rich cultural and natural history of the region, as well as take advantage of all the recreational activities the area has to offer.
Street Art
In recent years, the area has become a destination for street art. Inspired by the region’s vibrant culture, local and international artists have created stunning murals and graffiti works that adorn the walls of buildings and bridges along the rivers. These works of art capture the spirit of the area and its people, giving visitors an intimate look into the culture and history of the region.
Conclusion
The Missouri-Mississippi Confluence is a unique place where two remarkable rivers come together and form the greatest waterways of North America. While the confluence has had tremendous impact on the region’s history and development, it has also brought opportunities of recreation, work, and leisure. Thanks to the efforts of organizations, governments, and individuals, the confluence is well-protected and preserved and remains an incredible destination for those looking to explore the wildlife and culture of the area.
