The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic rivers in the country, and it has played a major role in the development and history of the United States. This longest river of the United States and the fourth longest river in the world, winds its way through 10 U.S. states, gracefully bisecting the entire continent in half and connecting the east coast of the USA with the west. Five of the states have a major portion of the Mississippi River running through them and two states border the iconic river, so let’s explore which two states border the Mississippi River in a bit of depth.
Background information
The Mississippi River is 2,340 miles long and is comprised of around 618 tributaries, two-thirds of which are permanent rivers, streams, and creeks. It travels across five U.S. states from Missouri in the Midwest to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. The river runs through Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana and borders on two states, Iowa and Wisconsin.
The Mississippi also plays an important role in the economy of many of the states that it runs through. It is a significant transportation artery with important ports and shipping docks located throughout the river system. It is used for irrigation and shipping, and these have led to large areas of land being made available to be farmed in southern states.
Relevant Data
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Iowa and Wisconsin are the only two states that directly border the Mississippi River. In terms of states that have their lands touched by the river, it is Minnesota, Arkansas, Mississippi, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Missouri that receives this honor. Other than the states directly bordering the Mississippi River, the Grand Canyon is the only other geographic feature that can claim this distinction.
The Mississippi has had a significant impact on the geography, ecology and history of the states bordering it. It has been a major reason for the northward spread of agriculture and commerce, has been the cause of immense floods in the past, and even today is the route of transportation of people and products. It is important to understand the relationship between the states that border the Mississippi and the river itself, as it is a major part of the country’s economic and cultural history.
Perspectives from Experts
In an effort to understand the importance of the Mississippi River for the states that border it, we asked several professionals for their opinions:
Dr. William Frazer, a geologist for the University of Wisconsin said, “The Mississippi is a vital component of the mid-western economy, and in particular Wisconsin has benefited from its presence. The river provides a transportation corridor and access to a range of resources and products that wouldn’t otherwise be possible, and it has had an important role in the development of the state.”
Dodie Anderson, a representative from Iowa Natural Resources Council said, “The Mississippi River is an invaluable asset to the people of Iowa. It provides irrigation and livestock water, recreation, and access to vital services like shipping and transportation. It sets us apart from other midwestern states and has had a significant impact on our economy.”
Own Insights and Analysis
It is clear from the perspectives of the experts and from the data we were able to source that the Mississippi River is vital for the states that border it. It is a major transportation corridor, a source of vital resources, and a direct conduit to the rest of the United States. It is important to note that it is not only the states that border the Mississippi River that are impacted by its presence and importance, but states downstream the river that benefit from it as well.
From an economic perspective, the Mississippi River is an immense source of income for the states that border it, as it provides jobs and resources that are essential for the area’s development. From an environmental perspective, the Mississippi also provides important habitat for a variety of species, and it is important to protect and maintain the river’s integrity and health.
Historical Significance and Its Impact
The Mississippi River has a long history and a significant impact on the people of the United States, but also on its environment. The river was one of the primary corridors for Native Americans during pre-settlement times, providing important resources like fish and water for human population. It was also an important transportation artery for the early settlers, connecting the east coast with the west through its massive length.
The river has also had a major effect on the development of the United States and its economy, playing a key role in the settlement of the mid-western states, and providing resources like coal, timber, and agricultural products to the rest of the nation. During the civil war it also played an important role in the outcome of the conflict, acting as a major point of communication and transportation for Union forces.
Today, the Mississippi River is still a vital part of the United States, maintaining its role as a transportation artery and source of vital resources. It is also a major recreational area for people, with state parks providing spots for activities like hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. The river has an immense importance for the people and environment that it serves, and we should all do our best to help maintain its integrity.
Environmental Considerations
The Mississippi River is one of the most important and heavily utilized natural resources of the United States, as it provides many of the resources that the country needs. However, as with any natural resource, there are environmental impacts that need to be addressed. For example, the river is used heavily for industrial and agricultural purposes, which can lead to water pollution and other environmental damage if not regulated properly.
The states that border the river also have an important role in mitigating any environmental impact. They have a responsibility to ensure that the river is used in a sustainable manner, and that any environmental damage is addressed in an appropriate and timely manner. Additionally, they have an important role in enforcing regulations and responding to any complaints or concerns that people have about the river.
The Mississippi River is a vital resource for the country, and by ensuring that it is managed wisely and sustainably, the states that border it can help protect and preserve it for generations to come.
Impact on the Local Community
The Mississippi River is a major influence on the people of the states that border it. The states that it flows through or borders are major hubs for shipping and recreational activities, and the river’s presence is an important part of many local economies. The presence of the river has an immense impact on the people of these states, providing them with important job opportunities, recreational resources, and a connection to the rest of the nation.
The river also has a significant cultural impact on the people of these states. It is an important part of the history, geography, and culture of the people living along it, and it is important to ensure that the local communities are included in the decision making process when it comes to the river’s management. The river has an immense importance to the people of these states, and they should be given the opportunity to have their voices heard.
The states that border the Mississippi River are an integral part of our nation’s history and culture, and it is important to ensure that the river remains an important part of their lives. By understanding the importance of the river and the role it plays in the lives of local people, we can work towards a better future for the Mississippi River and the people and states that rely on it.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is a cornerstone of the United States and it has an immense influence on the states that border it. It is an important source of transportation, recreation, resources, and culture for those living along it, and its management and preservation are essential for the future of the river and the people living near it. From the perspectives of the experts, it is clear that Iowa and Wisconsin are the two states that directly border the river, while numerous others are indirectly affected by its importance. It is evident that the Mississippi River is an invaluable asset to the United States, and its protection and management must be taken seriously.
