Mississippi River is one of the most iconic rivers in the United States of America. Stretching over 2,320 miles, it is the largest waterway in the country. From its start in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico, the river touches a variety of terrain, creating a unique environment for many species, from human inhabitants to fish, birds, and amphibians. But, exactly where is the head of the Mississippi River?
Based on popular opinion and general information, Lake Itasca is considered to be the official source of the Mississippi River. Situated in the northern part of Minnesota, Lake Itasca is the start of the river’s main branch, also known as the Headwaters of the Mississippi. Here, from a small stream at the northern end of the lake, the mighty Mississippi River starts off its long journey of over 2,320 miles.
However, according to the hydrologists and ecologists, Lake Itasca is not the official source of the Mississippi River; the “true source” can be found farther north of the lake. It is Lake Winnibigoshish near the border between Minnesota and Canada. From here, a small stream connects to Lake Itasca, so it is technically the true source of the Mississippi River.
Although this is the accepted fact among science professionals, Lake Itasca still remains the unofficial source of the river. While Lake Winnibigoshish is part of the Mississippi River system, it is not the official start of the river because the stream is too small and shallow for navigational purposes.
Sarah Barcek, assistant professor at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, explains further. “The source of the Mississippi River can be defined by hydrology or by navigation. If defined by hydrology, the source is the Mississippi’s headwaters—the farthest point upstream with a continuous slope in the river bed. These headwaters lie in northern Minnesota, south of the Rockies and north of the great lakes. But, if defined by navigation, the source is Lake Itasca, where large boats can launch and begin their journey downstream.”
A visit to Lake Itasca can be one of the most unforgettable experiences for everyone–from novice to professional naturalists. The headwaters of the Mississippi River provide a tranquil and mesmerizing environment for all sorts of life, from birds and fish to adventurers, offering a joyous escape from the hustle and bustle of the urban world.
Native Americans in the Mississippi River headwaters
As well as the incredible beauty and wildlife, sacred sites belonging to the Native Americans that live near the source of the Mississippi River also attract visitors. The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe has occupied the area since time immemorial, and they continue to honor those sites today. For centuries, they have described the source of the river as “Gitche Gumee”, which means “big water”. As a result, the state of Minnesota, named after the indigenous people, is home to a great deal of Native American culture that is celebrated and protected.
Dr. Joe Plaster, a historian, who specializes in the life and culture of the people living near Lake Itasca explains: “The Chippewa people have a long history in this area. They are the great caretakers of the land, the water, and the wildlife, and they continue to preserve the culture and history of early peoples. The Chippewa hold a deep connection to the Mississippi River and its source. To them, the river is their lifeblood, and its headwaters are their spiritual home.”
The source of the Mississippi River and its symbolic significance
Both Lake Itasca and Lake Winnibigoshish are important symbols of the stunning power of nature and tranquility of the outdoors. Each of these two tiny lakes serves as a reminder of the larger environment that the Mississippi River flows through, and of the human connection to the natural world.
No matter the scientific facts, Lake Itasca is the headwaters in the hearts of many, and they make a pilgrimage each year to experience the power and serenity that Nature has to offer. Marley Wynter, a long-time traveler to the Lake, describes her experience: “Standing at the head of the Mississippi River is an unforgettable experience. You can feel the centuries of geologic and human processes that made it what it is today.”
The source of the Mississippi River is a reminder to us of an incredibly powerful, vast, and unpredictable natural world that awaits us. It serves to remind us of the deep connection between humans and nature, and of the great responsibility we have to protect our environment.
Environmental Protection
As the Mississippi River is such an important waterway, supporting so many habitats and species, it’s extremely important to protect the source and its environment. The source of the Mississippi River is made vulnerable to pollution and damage because of its shallow and slow-moving waters. The river’s meandering path means that pollutants remain in the water for a longer amount of time.
The State of Minnesota has taken various measures to protect the source and the river’s surrounding areas. Along with the Minnesota Chippewa, who keep a lookout for any potential dangers, the state has put in place safeguards to keep the area clean and safe. These efforts also include the development and enforcement of a variety of laws, which protect against water pollution and the development of new water infrastructure.
In addition, the state has taken steps to promote the growth of renewable energy sources and the conservation of wildlife. These initiatives help to reduce the environmental and human impacts of the Mississippi River and its source. While there is still more work to be done, this is a great start.
Geography of the Mississippi Headwaters
The source of the Mississippi River is located in an area known as the Western Uplands. This region is characterized by rolling hills, rivers, and streams, and is home to an abundance of flora and fauna. The rich topsoil and ample rainfall aid in the growth of a variety of plants and animals, providing a habitat for many threatened and endangered species.
The Western Uplands, due to its importance for waterfowl, should be considered for conservation, according to a report by the National Wildlife Federation. The report states that this region contains rare and unique habitats, which are vital to the protection of numerous species.
Not only is the area important for wildlife and waterfowl, it is also important for people. Humans have made use of the area’s natural resources, such as agricultural products and timber, for centuries. The region also supports mining and energy exploration, which is vital to the local economy.
Effects of Global Warming on the Mississippi Headwaters
Global warming has had an impact on the source of the Mississippi River and its surrounding areas, just like it has all over the globe. The Earth is experiencing increasing temperatures, which lead to devastating natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, and drought. All of these are having an impact on the already sensitive environment found in the Mississippi’s headwaters.
The increased temperatures in the area are causing changes in the wildlife and vegetation, and the melting of ice creates an imbalance in the natural system. As the temperatures continue to rise, the region could experience even more extreme changes to its environment, such as changes in the water levels and weather patterns.
The extreme weather conditions have a devastating effect on the area, causing floods, landslides, and soil erosion. As the water levels in the Mississippi River rise due to global warming, the displacement of people and animals, loss of vegetation, and damage to the local economy increases significantly.
Changes to Water Quality
Apart from the effects of global warming, the quality of the water flowing through the source of the Mississippi River is also being challenged. Pollution of the river is a serious issue that is becoming increasingly severe in recent years.
Due to urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural runoff, toxic chemicals and sewage are being released into the river, which affects the flora, fauna, and aquatic life that depend on the river for survival.
Water contamination is an incredibly dangerous threat to the health of the river and its inhabitants, which is why initiatives have been put in place to reduce the amount of pollutants released into the water. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has put into effect strict regulations that require industries and households to limit the amount of waste environmental waste that they produce.
The state has also implemented various programs that educate and inform citizens on the importance of properly disposing of their waste, so that they can protect the source of the Mississippi River and its environment.
