Which Region Includes The Everglades and The Mississippi River
The beautiful and vast region known as the American South covers many land areas from the Gulf of Mexico region to the Appalachian Mountains, and is home to some of the United States’ most recognizable attractions. Spanning from Virginia in the north all the way south to Florida, the American South encompasses many iconic natural areas, including the Everglades and the mighty Mississippi River.
The Everglades is an expansive, breathtaking wetland area that is home to a myriad of native flora and fauna. As an iconic symbol of the American South, it offers an array of recreational activities such as canoeing and fishing. Moreover, the Everglades is an incredibly important asset and habitat to vulnerable, threatened and endangered species, including the Florida panther, Florida black bear and the American Alligator.
The Mississippi River is another important feature of the American South, famous for its length and meandering path that bisects the center of the United States. This mighty river is among the most heavily used waterways in the entire country, and it serves as an abode to many species of fish, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Additionally, it plays an important role in the economic health of the region, providing critical infrastructure and resources.
Economic Benefits Of The Mississippi River
The economic benefits of the Mississippi River are unparalleled in the American South. As its length surpasses 2,300 miles and cuts directly through the region, its utility as a transportation option is of great use to local businesses and farmers. Not only does the river provide an effective means of transportation and trade, but its rich soil is used to grow crops such as cotton, corn, soybeans and wheat.
In addition to being a critical component of the American South’s agricultural industry, the Mississippi River is also used extensively in power generation, with hydroelectric plants providing power to millions of people in the region annually. Furthermore, its waters are used as drinking water sources and as recreational sites for fishing, boating and swimming.
The Mississippi River is an instrumental resource that supports the American South’s economy in a number of ways, both directly and indirectly. As such, it is critical that local stakeholders and policy makers prioritize prevention of contamination, pollution and depletion of the river’s resources.
Environmental Threats To The Everglades
As one of the most ecologically diverse and important habitats in the United States, the Everglades face a myriad of environmental threats today. Pollution from industrial and agricultural sources is a primary source of concern for conservationists, as contaminants and nutrients are released into the wetlands and can have drastic effects on the flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
In addition to pollutants from human sources, the Everglades are also threatened by the effects of climate change. As the temperature in the region rises, sea levels are projected to rise with it, leading to the steady encroachment of saltwater into the wetlands. This has the potential to wipe out vulnerable species and create drastic shifts in the local food web.
Perhaps most noticeably, however, are the extensive ever-encroaching development projects throughout the region. As the population of the American South continues to grow, the presence of urban sprawl has become an ever-increasing factor in the region’s landscape. As buildings and infrastructure spread outward, the wetlands are slowly being eaten away and the colorful variety of species therein are threatened as a result.
Governmental Protection Efforts
The American South is fortunate to have staunch governmental protection efforts safeguarding the relatively intact nature of the Everglades and the Mississippi River. Established in 1947, the Everglades National Park serves as an important agency to protect and preserve the wetlands from the aforementioned environmental threats. Furthermore, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is diligently working to protect the vulnerable species that inhabit the area.
A lesser-known governmental effort is the Upper Mississippi and Great Rivers Restoration Program. This federal endeavor works to conserve the land surrounding the Mississippi River, as well as monitor the aquatic ecosystems and habitat contained within. This ambitious project is critical in preventing overexploitation of the course and its surrounding areas.
Ultimately, the American South’s unique areas such as the Everglades and the Mississippi River are integral resources and must be valued and protected for the benefit of not only local flora and fauna, but for the entire region. Though there are serious environmental and developmental threats to these areas, the governmental protection efforts provided are a small bit of solace.
The Impact Of Human Development
Though the Everglades and the Mississippi River are currently being safeguarded, it is important to acknowledge the impact that human development has had and is continuing to have on these areas. Development projects ranging from housing subdivisions to industrial complexes are slowly but surely encroaching on the wetlands and aquatic habitats. As this development continues to occur, the presence of runoff and erosion increases, leading to water quality degradation and physical changes to the landscape.
Moreover, invasive species are increasingly becoming a factor in the regions ecosystem. Animals such as the Burmese python, which are popular as pets but are released into the wild, have had a devastating effect on local wildlife, with the python’s tendency to hunt and consume smaller animals wreaking havoc on the food web.
The presence of introduced species is especially concerning for conservationists, but is monitored and managed by programs such as the National Invasive Species Council. This council works to identify and reduce the spread of non-native animals, plants, and insects through a combination of education, research and removal efforts.
The Recreational Opportunities Of The American South
The Everglades and the Mississippi River provide fantastic recreational opportunities to those living in or visiting the region. Canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats are all commonly used to traverse the wetlands, offering breathtaking views of the area’s native flora and fauna. Likewise, the banks of the Mississippi River are often bustling with activity as folks enjoy the numerous fishing spots and swimming areas provided.
Leisurely campers also find solace in these areas, both enjoying the simple peacefulness of sleeping overnight while also having the opportunity to explore some of The American South’s most classic landscapes by day. With well-maintained camping spots provided by the Everglades and the Upper Mississippi and Great Rivers Restoration Program, camping in the Everglades or near the Mississippi River can be an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, the American South’s Everglades and Mississippi River areas remain two iconic elements of the region’s natural landscape and are enjoyed and appreciated by locals and visitors alike. While there are looming threats to the area, governmental protection efforts and conscientiousness of development can help to ensure that these areas remain the landmark attractions that they have been for generations.
