The Missouri River, America's longest river, stretches over 2,300 miles from its birthplace in Three Forks, Montana, where the Gallatin, Jefferson, and Madison rivers converge. It eventually joins the Mississippi River in St. Louis, forming the world's fourth longest river system. The Missouri River has played a vital role in the exploration, trade, and transportation of millions of people throughout history, serving as the main artery for the Great Plains. With its rich agricultural land, the Missouri River watershed provides a significant portion of the country's wheat, flax, barley, and oats.
Although the Missouri River is often referred to as the "Big Muddy" due to its historical sediment load, the construction of dams, levees, and channelization has reduced the amount of sediment transported. Today, the river is more accurately described as a gentle giant, except in its upper reaches where the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument offers a back-to-the-wilderness experience. This section of the river, designated as a Wild and Scenic area, was explored by Lewis and Clark in 1805 and is now part of the Lewis Clark National Historic Trail. The Missouri River Basin supports a diverse range of wildlife, including rare native fish species, birds, and mammals, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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