{"id":11890,"date":"2024-02-25T09:50:10","date_gmt":"2024-02-25T08:50:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=11890"},"modified":"2024-02-25T09:50:10","modified_gmt":"2024-02-25T08:50:10","slug":"what-river-system-is-the-mississippi-river-apart-of","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/what-river-system-is-the-mississippi-river-apart-of\/","title":{"rendered":"What River System Is The Mississippi River Apart Of"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Mississippi River is a powerful body of water, held in high regard for its watershed, its cultural importance, and for being the main source of transportation for many across the United States. The river is a part of the world’s fourth largest river system, covering more than 3 million square kilometers. And, of course, it is the largest river by volume in North America.<\/p>\n

Starting from Lake Itasca in northwestern Minnesota, the Mississippi flows south through North America’s interior. Moving through 10 states, it empties into the Gulf of Mexico. Along its way, it also collects and drains most of the water from the 31 states that form the Mississippi Basin. This river system is made up of the Upper Mississippi, Lower Mississippi, and Missouri rivers.<\/p>\n

The Mississippi River Basin is one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. From its northern regions to the southern estuaries, there are a variety of habitats that support different numerasions of plants and animals. This biodiverse network has been impacted by a number of human activities, the consequences of which are seen even today.<\/p>\n

In its waters, the Mississippi transports nutrient-rich sediments, keeping the river system productive. The river also acts as a buffer between the Great Lakes, which is the biggest source of freshwater in the United States, and the Gulf of Mexico. The controlled flow of water helps sediments stay on the banks of the river, reducing the spread of pollutants.<\/p>\n