{"id":12034,"date":"2023-09-28T19:25:08","date_gmt":"2023-09-28T18:25:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=12034"},"modified":"2023-09-28T19:25:08","modified_gmt":"2023-09-28T18:25:08","slug":"what-is-the-mainstream-of-the-mississippi-river-system","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/what-is-the-mainstream-of-the-mississippi-river-system\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is The Mainstream Of The Mississippi River System"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Mississippi River system is the fourth largest river system in the world, and is the largest river system in the United States. The main stem of the river stretches from the headwaters of Lake Itasca in Minnesota, through the Midwest and down to the Gulf of Mexico. From Lake Itasca, it flows through the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and finally into the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, it is joined by numerous rivers, tributaries, and creeks that all merge into the sprawling Mississippi River system.<\/p>\n

Since the Mississippi River system is so vast, the mainstream is often referred to as just the Mississippi River. This is the most heavily used route of the entire system, as it is the most direct route to the ocean. Along the mainstream, there are many dams and levies to regulate the flow of the water, as well as to protect against flooding. The mainstream of the river begins at Lake Itasca, and extends all the way to the main entrance of the Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Louisiana. <\/p>\n

The mighty Mississipi is an essential part of the lives of many across America. Because it is such a lifegiving water source, it is also home to many of America’s beloved species. From the majestic bald eagle to the playful river otter, the Mississippi River is full of diverse wildlife and is a common habitat to many species. <\/p>\n

The river also provides much-needed water for many major cities along its banks. Cities such as St. Louis, Memphis, Baton Rouge and New Orleans benefit from the water source. The massive hydropower plants alongside the river provide electricity to many areas as well. In addition to this, the river is a major shipping route, hauling goods and commodities from all around the globe.<\/p>\n