{"id":13586,"date":"2024-01-20T17:20:15","date_gmt":"2024-01-20T16:20:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=13586"},"modified":"2024-01-20T17:20:15","modified_gmt":"2024-01-20T16:20:15","slug":"which-direction-does-the-mississippi-river-flow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/which-direction-does-the-mississippi-river-flow\/","title":{"rendered":"Which Direction Does The Mississippi River Flow"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Did you know the Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States? Could you imagine it being even longer? The massive Mississippi begins at Lake Itasca in Minnesota and flows south for nearly 2,000 miles until it joins with the Gulf of Mexico at the end of its journey in Louisiana. The mighty rivers strength and relentless flow are used to produce electricity, provide transportation, and irrigate millions of acres of land.<\/p>\n

The direction of the Mississippi River begins in the North and flows South. The river’s gradual decline in elevation on its journey east allows for better navigation downstream. After leaving Minnesota, the river courses through 10 states before draining into the Gulf of Mexico. It’s course begins in northern Wisconsin, then flows through Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and finally the Gulf of Mexico. This natural course has remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years.<\/p>\n

The Mighty Mississippi has been an integral part of America’s history and culture. Its importance has been deeply engrained into every aspect of our lives, from the towns and cities that line its banks, to the literature and artworks that have been inspired by its strength and timelessness. The Mississippi River is not just one of America’s longest rivers, but also one of its most important natural resources.<\/p>\n

Today, aquatic wildlife along the Mississippi includes many species of fish, reptiles and birds that depend on the environment provided by its course. As a result, the river offers many recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing. The river also provides a natural habitat for many plants and animals, such as bald eagles, great blue herons, and river otters. In addition, the Mississippi’s wetlands serve to filter run-off and provide flood protection for many downstream areas.<\/p>\n