Minnesota Rivers & Water Quiz
Headwaters of Mississippi, lakes, watersheds (10 questions).
Minnesota Rivers & Water Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Minnesota, often called the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes,’ holds a critical place in North American hydrology. This quiz explores the state’s unique water features, from the iconic headwaters of the Mississippi River to its vast network of lakes and the major watersheds that define its geography.
Key Concepts
Lake Itasca is the official source, a small lake in Itasca State Park where the mighty Mississippi begins its journey.
The state officially contains 11,842 lakes larger than 10 acres, covering more than 4,000 square miles of water.
Minnesota is unique; its waters drain into three continental basins: Mississippi River (Gulf of Mexico), Red River of the North (Hudson Bay), and Great Lakes (Atlantic Ocean).
Beyond the Mississippi, key rivers include the Minnesota River, St. Croix River (a National Scenic Riverway), and the northward-flowing Red River of the North.
Key Takeaways
- Lake Itasca: The globally recognized source of the Mississippi River.
- “Land of 10,000 Lakes”: Reflects Minnesota’s immense number of freshwater bodies, vital for ecology and recreation.
- Continental Divides: Minnesota is the only state whose waters feed three distinct continental drainage basins.
- Red River of the North: Noteworthy for its northward flow to Hudson Bay, defining part of the state’s western border.
- Lake Superior: The deepest and largest of the Great Lakes, sharing a significant border with northeastern Minnesota.
- Mille Lacs Lake: A large, shallow inland lake famous for its walleye fishing and recreational activities.
- Hydrological Significance: Minnesota’s unique water geography has a profound impact on North American hydrology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the headwaters of the Mississippi River located?
The Mississippi River officially begins at Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park, located in northwestern Minnesota. A small stream emerges from the lake, marking the river’s origin.
How many lakes does Minnesota actually have?
While popularly known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota officially contains 11,842 lakes that are 10 acres or larger in size. If smaller bodies of water are included, the number is even higher.
What are the three major watersheds that originate in Minnesota?
Minnesota is the only state where waters drain into three major continental watersheds: the Mississippi River watershed (flowing to the Gulf of Mexico), the Red River of the North watershed (flowing to Hudson Bay/Arctic Ocean), and the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River watershed (flowing to the Atlantic Ocean).
What is Minnesota’s largest lake entirely within its borders?
Red Lake, which is divided into Upper Red Lake and Lower Red Lake, is the largest lake located entirely within Minnesota’s borders. It covers an area of approximately 288,800 acres.
Which major river in Minnesota flows north?
The Red River of the North flows northward, forming part of the Minnesota-North Dakota border before continuing into Manitoba, Canada, and eventually draining into Hudson Bay.
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