Geomorphology
The Missouri River meets the Mississippi River at the confluence of these two mighty midwestern streams, which together form the longest river in North America. Geomorphologic studies of this confluence reveal that these rivers have been flowing together for thousands of years, forming the “Mouth of the Mississippi” which stretches from Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico. The Missouri is a relatively young river, with its course only emerging over 10,000 years ago after the Wisconsinian glaciation, while the Mississippi is much older and has been in existence since the Pliocene period, over three million years ago. Geomorphologists believe that the Missouri would have made its major contribution to the Mississippi in the warping of the region’s landscape, over which the Mississippi then assumed its current course.
Geologic Implications
The geology of the region around the Missouri-Mississippi river confluence is unique and complex. The distinctive meanders of this stretch of the Mississippi suggest a long history of alternating high-energy and low-energy episodes of sedimentation, yet the terrain has much to reveal about the geologic heritage of these two rivers. Nearby St. Louis and its suburbs were built on rocky terraces composed of various igneous and metamorphic rocks, sedimentary beds, and fluvial terraces. Geologists have uncovered evidence of major flooding over the centuries, as well as massive ice sheets that previously filled large portions of the territory that today comprise St. Louis. This evidence is of great importance as it reveals the dynamic geological history of the region and helps scientists better understand the history of the Mississippi River itself.
Biogeography & Biodiversity
The confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers has created a unique and diverse range of habitats and ecosystems, providing sanctuary to a broad array of plant and animal species. Over 270 species of fish have been documented in the Missouri-Mississippi Rivers, along with a variety of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. The rivers also provide a perfect home to dozens of endangered species, as well as thriving populations of aquatic plants and micro-organisms. The region’s biogeography is extremely complex, as its rivers are composed of different terrains and biogeographic provinces. This complexity provides an ideal location for ongoing research on the diversity of life in this region.
Environmental Issues & Management
The Missouri-Mississippi River confluence is an area of great economic importance, providing jobs, economic growth and recreation opportunities. Unfortunately, this vital resource is also threatened by numerous environmental issues, including contamination from industrial activities, agricultural runoff, sedimentation, invasive species and loss of habitat. These threats are compounded by the placement of levees and dams, which impede the natural migratory patterns of fish and reduce the area’s carrying capacity for aquatic life. To protect the Missouri-Mississippi River system, local and state governments have imposed regulations and developed management plans to limit pollution and reduce wildlife exploitation. Constructed wetlands, rehabilitation projects and prescribed recreational activities are just some of the strategies employed.
Impact on Native Americans & Colonization
The Missouri and Mississippi River confluence has long been an important target for Native Americans and European settlers. Tribes such as the Osage, Cherokee and Dakota used the rivers for hunting and agriculture, while Europeans adopted the area as a major hub of transportation and commerce. The region’s strategic geographic location made it an attractive target for colonization, expanding the reach of European empires to the West. As the area changed hands, so too did its native tribes, who were forced to vacate the land due to government policies and expanding population. In some cases, these policies resulted in conflict between native peoples and the colonial settlers and governments.
Recreational and Tourism Potential
The Missouri-Mississippi river confluence provides a wealth of recreational and tourism opportunities. The region is an ideal spot for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming, while its abundant flora and fauna make it perfect for hiking and bird-watching. Historical sites, museums and other attractions in the area also draw visitors from around the world. The region’s rich cultural heritage includes many significant Native American sites and is of increasing importance to the tourism industry.
Climate & Weather Dynamics
The region around the Missouri-Mississippi river confluence is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. The area is subject to wind speed bursts from the north and from the south; the region typically receives heavy amounts of rainfall and frequent storms. Recent climate change has exacerbated extreme weather events, particularly flooding, leading to significant devastation in the area. Global climate models predict that these events will increase in frequency and intensity in the near future, creating a major challenge for the region’s residents, businesses, and governments alike.
Economic Activity & Infrastructure Development
The Missouri-Mississippi river confluence supports a range of different economic activities, including agriculture, shipping, and manufacturing. The agriculture sector alone employs thousands of workers and brings substantial profits to the region, while transport and processing facilities have been established to facilitate the movement of goods. To meet the needs of the region’s growing population and industries, major infrastructure projects have been undertaken in recent years. This includes the development of transportation networks linking cities on both sides of the river, and ongoing construction of an extensive network of levees to protect the region from catastrophic flooding.
Political and Social Factors
The Missouri-Mississippi river confluence is a region of great political importance, and recent events have highlighted the social and economic struggles of the area’s native populations. The lack of economic opportunity for many of the region’s rural communities has led to social unrest and tension between different groups. The rise of populism in the United States has seen certain politicians utilising the region’s economic and social issues to forward their own agendas, creating further division. At the same time, local civil society organizations have worked to identify and mitigate the root causes of these challenges, while also highlighting the potential of the region’s educational institutions, natural resources and cultural history.
Challenges Ahead
The future of the Missouri-Mississippi river confluence is uncertain, with a range of challenges on the horizon. Climate change is likely to bring more extreme weather events and extreme temperatures, while rapid population growth is increasing the strain on the region’s resources and infrastructure. In addition, the area faces the continuing threat of environmental destruction, due to increased urbanisation and the growing demand for energy from industries and households. Furthermore, rising inequality has led to social unrest and decreased social cohesion. To meet these challenges, local and regional authorities will need to invest in infrastructure projects, educational institutions, and better governance structures that promote sustainable development.
