Many people have a fascination with the Mississippi River. From Mark Twain to more modern-day admirers, this majestic river is steeped in a romance and mystery that makes it a fascinating topic of conversation. But one of the most common questions people ask is, where does the Mississippi River start? Naturally, tracing the source of the Mississippi is not quite as simple as pinpointing the beginning. So, where exactly does this iconic river get its start?
Experts point to a few different spots as the source of the Mississippi River. One of the most popular theories is that the Mississippi River starts near Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota. Located about 33 miles northwest of Bemidji, Minnesota, Lake Itasca is the start of the Mississippi’s main stem and is generally regarded as being among the most popular and most identifiable source of the river. It was also where explorer Henry Schoolcraft, in 1832, became the first to discover and travel the entire length of the Mississippi River.
Another theory on the source of the Mississippi River indicates that the river actually begins near the Crex Meadows Wildlife Refuge northwest of Grantsburg, Wisconsin. Unlike Lake Itasca, the headwaters near Crex Meadows is a marshy collection of small streams, indicating that the Mississippi River was a much more diffuse entity in its early days. Considering that the Mississippi River just west of Grantsburg is wide enough for commercial traffic, it’s no wonder why some opt for the headwaters near Lake Itasca as the true source of the Mississippi River.
Interestingly, a third option also exists. The source of the Minnesota River is widely accepted to be located at Brower’s Spring, which is within the city limits of Ortonville and a few miles south of Big Stone Lake, another point of origin for the Mississippi River. The fact that the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers are connected is also evidence to support the latter’s source in Brower’s Spring. Consequently, some believe that the true source of the Mississippi River is a combination of the sources of the Minnesota River and the Mississippi main stem that begins at Lake Itasca.
Tectonic and Hydrological Context
Tectonically, the Mississippi River is largely seen as the result of an extensional system that experienced glaciation 18,000 to 15,000 years ago. The river forms around a series of distinct tectonic elements, including the Ozark Plateau and the Valley of the Upper Mississippi. The Upper Mississippi Valley, in turn, has a series of sub-axial, fold-drift, and fault blocks all along its course, creating the structural context which, in part, controls the sedimentary facies and the general direction of the river. This, in combination with the hydrological processes, is highly influential in determining the overall course of the river and its sources.
At one point, the rivers would have been much more ephemeral and diffuse than today. However, glaciation along with the advancing glaciers caused hydrological events to recur more regularly, leading to the development of more distinct voices. This boost to water flow, in combination with the tectonic context, ultimately led to the magnificence of the Mississippi River that we see today.
Political Debate Over Mississippi Source
Given the multiple sources of the Mississippi River, there is a great deal of political debate over its true source. For example, The State of Minnesota officially declared Lake Itasca as the main source in 1887 and this is the view accepted by the majority of Americans. However, the State of Wisconsin has taken the opposite point of view, producing non-binding legislation in 1973 deciding that the primary source of the river was the nearby headwaters at Crex Meadows.
In their view, this would afford them greater protection over their portion of the river and, to some extent, some level of control in terms of what activity is performed along the river. While the resolution remains non-binding and is largely symbolic in nature, it has caused many to take a closer look at where exactly the river gets its start.
Efforts to Preserve River Origins
Whatever source you choose, it is clear that the origins of the Mississippi River require greater protection. As the river winds through a variety of states and rural areas, there are likely a great many threats to its origins and course, ranging from deforestation to increased economic activity and beyond. As such, many conservationists and others are looking for ways to better preserve the sources of the river, not just at Lake Itasca or at Crex Meadows, but also along its entire course.
That is why an effort was made to include the Headwaters Region of the Mississippi River in the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1987. The agreement sought to protect the headwaters near Lake Itasca and those near Crex Meadows, helping to ensure that the true sources of the river remain unspoiled and unblemished for future admirers to appreciate.
Economic Effects of Mississippi Source Protection
Protecting the sources of the Mississippi River not only helps preserve the rich hsitory and beauty of this iconic waterway but also has tremendous economic implications as well. Conservation programs such as this serve as an investment in the health of the river and its future, in turn protecting vast swaths of land from overdevelopment and unsavory commercial activities.
From a tourism and recreational perspective, preserving the Mississippi River sources provides visitors with the chance to connect with nature and partake in activities such as fishing, camping, and kayaking. Such endeavors would certainly not be possible if the sources of the river were degraded from years of overuse and pollution.
Great Lakes Connection to Mississippi River Source
It’s also important to note the connection between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River source. Those familiar with the Mississippi River understand its importance to transporting bulk goods and materials downstream to the Gulf of Mexico. The goods, in this case, all originate in the Great Lakes and are, at some point, transported in part via the Mississippi River.
The connection between the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River sources, and the ports south of the Gulf of Mexico all make the Mississippi River one of the most important commercial infrastructure systems in the world. This is one of the main reasons why the protection of its various sources is so essential, ensuring that commerce and transportation remain uninterrupted for years to come.
Impact of Mississippi Source Protection on Surrounding Ecology
Finally, it is important to recognize the substantial impact that protecting the sources of the Mississippi River has had on the surrounding ecology. Long before Europeans arrived in North America, the Mississippi was home to a host of species, such as deer, turkeys, and bears. However, due to a combination of settlement, logging, and farming, much of the original habitat of these animals has been destroyed or altered.
Preservation of the sources of the Mississippi River has enabled the restoration of many of these areas and the introduction of new species into the river and its tributaries. This has improved the overall health of the river and provided a greater and more diverse range of biological resources for the surrounding environment.
River Sources as Historical Landmarks
Beyond the ecological and economic benefits of preserving the sources of the Mississippi River, it is essential to note the immense cultural importance these areas hold for Americans. From the tales of Mark Twain to the exploits of Henry Schoolcraft, the Mississsippi River is deeply rooted in American history and culture. As such, the sources of the river are more than just rivers to many people – they are symbols of our nation’s vitality, a reminder of our collective experiences and a source of shared pride.
These areas, then, should be revered and protected, so future generations can appreciate the majesty and beauty of the Mississippi River and take no greater pleasure than the ones we have today.
Impact of Anthropogenic Factors on Mississippi Source
More recently, the sources of the Mississippi River have been facing threats from human activity, especially in its northern reaches. This includes activities such as logging, mining, and agricultural runoff, all of which can drastically affect the water quality of the river and its tributaries. It can also result in the erosion of banks along the river and an increase in sediment, both of which can degrade aquatic habitats and alter the course of the river.
Agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have worked to regulate various anthropogenic activities in and around the river, however, additional research is still needed to protect and ultimately preserve the sources of the Mississippi River for future generations to enjoy.
Legacy and Significance of Mississippi Source
All-in-all, the sources of the Mississippi River are and will remain an integral part of our nation’s history and identity. From the narrative of Mark Twain to the journeys of famous explorers, this majestic river has seen it all and will continue to play an important role in our shared history.
Therefore, it is more important than ever to ensure that the sources of the Mississippi River remain unspoiled and protected, ensuring that future generations can experience the same glory that we have all been privileged to witness.
