I remember the first time I was on the Mississippi. It was a week long trip with some kids from school, and I didn't really know much about canoeing or the big river. The more time I spent in Clarksdale, the more I understood how big of an impact the Mississippi has on our country and the species within it. When I came back to Clarksdale for my high school senior project, I learned about becoming a river citizen, and what it means to become one. About a week ago I was camping outside on a beach on Island 62 (Lower Mississippi). I remember looking up at the stars, and hearing the wildlife slowly tune out. I was having a great experience and it was at that moment I knew that I wanted to be a river citizen.

                                                                                              island 62

I wanted to make sure this river could still supply drinking water for millions of people, and that it could provide habitats for some of the most majestic animals in the country. There are 145 species of reptiles and amphibians, and there are also 326 different types of birds on the river. A common site on the lower Mississippi is seeing the water snakes glide across the tops of logs, and seeing turtles such as the Mississippi Map Turtle on the banks basking in the sun.
And if your lucky, you might be able to spot a bald eagle perched on a tree.

After having great experiences on the river, I understand why the big river is so important. I became a river citizen because the Mississippi is extremely valuable, and I want to make sure that it keeps its diversity and continues to have the ability to maintain everything that it provides for our country and the wildlife within it.