As the fourth longest river system in the world, the Mississippi River spans across the United States and includes major tributary systems that expand its totals length. The Mississippi River is know for its iconic shape and winding nature, reaching its widest point at around 11 miles wide.
The widest point of the Mississippi River is found at the state of Mississippi, near the city of Vicksburg where the river takes a big U-turn and bulges out at the mid-point. This meandering pattern is what created the wide center point, which keeps expanding the wider the river continues to become.
Upon careful study of the Mississippi River, you will find it is especially deep near its widest points and the water gets increasingly deep the more the river winds around. The large tributaries that feed into the river straighten its course and form a thick layer of sediment throughout, making the waterway particularly deep.
Not only is the Mississippi River wide at its widest points, but also at its edges. Along the edges, you will find different species of fish, plants and other aquatic life. It is a great home for turtles and other reptiles, as well as amphibians such as frogs and toads.
The Mississippi River is a very large and important part of the United States and it contributes to the well-being of many communities living along its banks. The river is a great source of water for drinking and irrigation, transportation, and industry. The wide portions of the river allow for barges of all sizes to transport goods and materials making it a major part of the national economy.
The river also sees a lot of human activity and development, with many towns and cities popping up along the banks. This is especially true around the mid-point, where the river is at its widest. There are several large marinas and ports along the banks, as well as many resorts that capitalize on the beauty of the river.
Not only is the Mississippi River a popular spot for human activities, but it is also a great place for wildlife. The diversity of species in the water is quite impressive and includes species such as catfish, bass, carp, bluegill, and many more. Ducks, geese and other waterfowl also make their homes near the banks of the river, attracted by the abundance of food and shelter. The deep waters in some locations are essential for various fish spawning habits and used as nursery models.
Wildlife in Mississippi River
The Mississippi River provides an invaluable habitat for various wildlife. Along the banks and throughout the river system, one can find a variety of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Throughout the warmer months, you can find a variety of waterfowl on the river and marshes. Some of the species to witness here include Canada geese, mallards, wood ducks, and blue-winged teals. The river also serves as an important migration pathway for many species of birds.
Along the banks of the Mississippi River are also plenty of mammals, such as deer, beavers, muskrats, and the occasional black bear. The river is home to a range of reptiles such as snakes, wood turtles, and alligator snapping turtles. If you happen to visit during the wetter months, there are plenty of amphibians, such as bullfrogs and toads, as well.
In the river itself, there is an array of fish to be found. Species such as catfish, carp, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and striped bass are just a few of the popular species you can find. The river is also the breeding and spawning grounds for many fish species, which makes the environment particularly important for sustaining fish populations.
Environmental Impact of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is of great importance to communities living near it, but it is also vital from an environmental perspective. In particular, it serves as a buffer zone against floods and sea levels rising as a result of climate change. The vast wetlands near the Mississippi River provide an important habitat for fish and other wildlife and help to absorb stormwater and reduce flooding.
In recent years, the health of the Mississippi River has declined, largely due to increased agricultural runoff and industrial pollution. Over development around the river has also caused issues, such as deforestation and soil erosion. Nutrient runoff from nearby farms, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, can create algae blooms and other water problems. Additionally, boat motors, recreational activities, and other pollution sources contribute to the decline of the river’s health.
For this reason, efforts to protect the river and its ecosystems are very important. Conservation organizations, state and local governments, and other stakeholders work together to promote environmental stewardship and to reduce river pollution. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also plays an important role in protecting the Mississippi River by controlling flooding, managing water levels, and ensuring public safety.
Uses of the Mississippi River
In addition to being one of the world’s most important waterways, the Mississippi River is also a major source of water for drinking and irrigating crops. The wide portions of the river make it an effective highway as well, allowing barges to transport goods and materials.
The river has been an important trade and transportation network since pre-colonial times, with Native Americans using it to trade goods such as fur and food. Nowadays, the river is used to transport commodities such as grain, coal, steel, oil, and chemicals. Due to its expansive size, the river is also a popular place for recreational activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
Other important uses of the Mississippi River include hydropower generation. Several dams have been constructed along the river, providing electricity to many communities. The river also provides a significant recreational benefit, with activities such as camping, boating, fishing, and wildlife observation occurring along its banks.
Protection of the Mississippi River
The protection of the Mississippi River is of paramount importance for the economies and communities along its banks. One of the most important efforts to protect the river has been through the establishment of the Mississippi River commission, established over a century ago. The mission of this commission is to protect against flooding and maintain the navigability of the river.
The army corps of engineers is another important organization when it comes to preserving the Mississippi River. The corps is responsible for creating, operating, and maintaining the entire system of locks and dams on the river. The locks help to maintain navigable levels of water throughout the year. Channels must be kept deep and wide enough for ships to pass through, and levees help to protect nearby communities from floods.
The Mississippi River is an important part of the United States’ economic and environmental health. For this reason, it is vital to protect the river and the species living in and around it. Efforts by various organizations have been made in recent years to assist in these efforts, such as the Mississippi River Commission and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is the fourth longest river system in the world, spanning across the United States. Widely considered to be the widest river in the U.S., the Mississippi River is found at its widest point near the state of Mississippi, near the city of Vicksburg. Along the banks and throughout the river system, one can find a variety of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The river plays an invaluable role in the economy, being an important source of water for drinking, irrigation, transportation, industry, and Power. Therefore, it is important to protect the river to ensure its future as an important and integral part of the United States’s health.
