Introduction
The mighty Mississippi River is the fourth longest river in the world, stretching its waters from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It has provided both a source of income and a sense of pride for those living near it for centuries. Gaining an understanding of the river’s course and the various places it flows can help people appreciate its legacy and importance. One way to do this is by examining a map and pinpointing the Mississippi River’s exact location.
Location on a Map
The Mississippi River begins with a series of small creeks and inlets in Minnesota, flowing south and curving to the west for a majority of its length until it reaches the Gulf of Mexico, located between the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. The total length of the river is 2,320 miles and its width varies from 200 to more than 2,000 feet. On a map, the Mississippi River appears as a long, meandering blue line extending from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Cities situated along the river include St. Paul, MN, St. Louis, MO, Memphis, TN, and New Orleans, LA.
Economic and Ecological Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is a major economic resource and transportation route. It supports an abundant array of river life and is responsible for providing nutrients to wetlands, lakes, and estuaries. Additionally, the Mississippi River is a popular recreational destination, providing opportunities for sailing, fishing, hunting, and boating.
Regional Differences
Depending on which section of the Mississippi River is being examined, there are notable distinctions in its appearance and the local terrain. For example, the upper Mississippi River Valley is characterized by a wide flood plain, wooded bluffs, and agricultural fields. On the other hand, the lower Mississippi River Valley is home to a flat agricultural plain, wetlands, and large meandering marshes.
Effects of Human Interference
The construction of locks, dams and levees has greatly altered the course of the Mississippi River, causing it to become more shallow and reducing its transport of sediment. Additionally, certain plant species, such as the American lotus, have become scarce due to the presence of chemical fertilizers and herbicides in the river. The nitrogen and phosphorus levels have also led to an increase in nuisance algae and aquatic plant growth, which can disrupt recreational activities.
Governance and Regulation
As with most major rivers and water sources, the Mississippi River is regulated and managed to ensure that its resources are shared equitably among the states and countries it passes through. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the International Joint Commission are responsible for enforcing regulations, preventing the overuse of resources, and protecting the environment.
Environmental Conservation and Restoration
In recent years, efforts have been made to restore the Mississippi River by reducing the amount of agricultural runoff entering the river and restoring aquatic habitats. Conscious efforts are also made to reduce industrial and recreational runoff to ensure that the river remains clean and healthy.
Uniqueness
The Mississippi River is uniquely vast and iconic, serving as an anchor for many families, communities, and cultures that have flourished along its banks for centuries. Its waters have provided for prosperity and recreation for generations, and it remains one of the most important natural resources in North America.
Conclusion
A comprehensive understanding of the Mississippi River requires more than just being able to locate it on a map – it requires remembering its uniqueness and witnessing its economic, ecological, and cultural impact. From its humble beginnings in Minnesota to its majestic termination in the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River has many stories to be shared, and many lessons to be learned.
