Several important rivers flow through the state of Mississippi.
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River forms the western border of Mississippi. Facts about the Mississippi River in Mississippi:
- It flows over 2,300 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
- The river passes through cities like Vicksburg, Natchez, and Greenville, Mississippi.
- Its delta provides vital ecosystem habitats in southern Mississippi.
- The river supported cotton trade and steamboat transport in early Mississippi.
Pearl River
The Pearl River is located in central Mississippi, flowing southwest from the state. Details about the Pearl River:
- It forms part of the boundary between Mississippi and Louisiana.
- The river passes through Jackson, Mississippi, the state capital.
- Its mouth merges with Lake Borgne near the Gulf of Mexico.
- The Pearl River supports aquatic species like alligator gar, paddlefish and blue catfish.
Tombigbee River
The Tombigbee River flows south through northeastern Mississippi from Tennessee. Facts about the Tombigbee River:
- It joins with the Alabama River near Demopolis, Alabama to form the Mobile River.
- The river flows through Columbus and Aberdeen, Mississippi.
- It was an important trade and transportation route for Native American tribes.
Notable Lakes in Mississippi
Some of Mississippi's largest lakes include:
- Ross Barnett Reservoir - Provides water supply and recreation near Jackson.
- Lake Ferguson - Located in the Mississippi Delta region.
- Grenada Lake - A flood control reservoir in northern Mississippi.
- Sardis Lake - Built and managed by the Army Corps of Engineers in north Mississippi.
Mississippi's rivers and lakes have shaped its history and culture while supporting vital ecosystems, agriculture, and transportation.