{"id":9165,"date":"2024-01-31T17:45:20","date_gmt":"2024-01-31T16:45:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=9165"},"modified":"2024-01-31T17:45:20","modified_gmt":"2024-01-31T16:45:20","slug":"how-much-of-mississippi-river-is-in-mn","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/how-much-of-mississippi-river-is-in-mn\/","title":{"rendered":"How Much Of Mississippi River Is In Mn"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Location<\/h2>\n

The Mississippi River starts at Lake Itasca in north-western Minnesota and flows south, eventually reaching the Gulf of Mexico. Minnesota is home to a large part of the Mississippi River, covering roughly 10% of the length of the entire river. The Mississippi River is one of the longest in the world and is 2,320 miles long. It is the only river to cross through 10 states, making it a vital resource for transportation and commerce in the United States.<\/p>\n

Water Level Management<\/h2>\n

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the Mississippi River to maintain a consistent water level and to minimize flooding. During flood season, the USACE constructs levees, pumps, and diversion channels to control the water level, thus preventing flooding and damage to the area. In addition, the USACE is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing the locks and dams along the river.<\/p>\n

Navigation<\/h2>\n

The navigation of the Mississippi River is mainly maintained by the USACE. The navigation of the Mississippi is handled using the Mississippi River Navigation System, which consists of 29 locks and dams. This system helps with the management of the water levels, navigation, and irrigation along the river.<\/p>\n

Environmental Impact<\/h2>\n

The Mississippi River has been a major source of transportation and commerce for centuries. However, this has also led to environmental pollution and degradation along the way. The industrialization of the region has caused the river to become heavily polluted with waste and chemicals from factories. Additionally, the river is being used as an agricultural runoff site, leading to runoff chemicals and pollutants polluting the water.
\nThere have been initiatives in recent years to combat this environmental degradation, as well as other challenges posed by increased population and industrialization. These initiatives include improving water quality, controlling pollutants, and reducing runoff. However, these initiatives have had limited success in restoring the Mississippi River to its natural state.<\/p>\n

Recreational Use<\/h2>\n