{"id":13439,"date":"2023-11-09T00:00:11","date_gmt":"2023-11-08T23:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=13439"},"modified":"2023-11-09T00:00:11","modified_gmt":"2023-11-08T23:00:11","slug":"what-tributary-joins-the-mississippi-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/what-tributary-joins-the-mississippi-river\/","title":{"rendered":"What Tributary Joins The Mississippi River"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The St. Croix River<\/h2>\n

The St. Croix River, also known as “the Father of Waters,” is one of the longest tributaries of the Mississippi River. The St. Croix rises in western Wisconsin near the border of Minnesota and flows southward for about 350 miles before joining the Mississippi River near Prescott, Wisconsin. The river is estimated to have a 15,000 square-mile watershed, spanning parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan.<\/p>\n

The St. Croix River was one of the first rivers to be protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968. It also has an interesting geological history. The river has carved a deep, narrow valley through the ancient sandstone bedrock, forming many impressive cliffs, dramatic bluffs and spectacular scenery. The St. Croix also provides critical habitat for many aquatic species, including native Brook Trout, minnows, darters, and mussels. The river is also an important flyway for many species of birds, including the bald eagle.<\/p>\n

In addition to its ecological importance, the St. Croix River has long been an important trade route. For centuries, fur traders, loggers, and trappers traveled the St. Croix River. It was also a channel for boat traffic, transporting goods and supplies to remote communities. Today, the St. Croix is a popular destination for tourists and recreational boaters, providing access to beautiful camping, fishing and paddling sites.<\/p>\n

The St. Croix River is also an important source of hydroelectric power. Several hydroelectric dams have been built on the river, harnessing the power of the river to generate electricity. These dams have had a significant impact on the ecology of the St. Croix River and its watershed. By controlling the flow of the river, they have had a dramatic effect on the aquatic species and the ecosystem.<\/p>\n