Tombigbee River Quiz
AL/MS basin, navigation, tributaries (10 questions).
Tombigbee River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Tombigbee River is a vital waterway in the southeastern United States, flowing through Mississippi and Alabama. Renowned for its historical significance and its role in modern commercial navigation, particularly through its connection to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, the river forms a crucial part of the Mobile River basin, supporting diverse ecosystems and economic activities.
Key Aspects of the Tombigbee River
Flows primarily through eastern Mississippi and western Alabama, forming the Mobile River with the Alabama River.
Integral part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, connecting the Tennessee River to the Gulf of Mexico.
Its most prominent tributary is the Black Warrior River, which joins the Tombigbee near Demopolis, Alabama.
Supports extensive barge traffic for commodities like coal, timber, and agricultural products, vital for regional economy.
Key Takeaways
- The Tombigbee River originates in northeastern Mississippi and flows generally southward.
- It joins the Alabama River just north of Mobile, Alabama, to form the Mobile River.
- The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, completed in 1995, provides a direct link between the Tennessee River and the Gulf of Mexico via the Tombigbee.
- The river basin is part of one of the most biodiverse regions in the United States.
- Commercial navigation is a primary use, facilitating the transport of various raw materials and manufactured goods.
- Major tributaries include the Black Warrior River, Sipsey River, and Buttahatchie River.
- The river was historically used by Native American tribes and later played a role in early American settlement and commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Tombigbee River located?
The Tombigbee River is located in the southeastern United States, flowing primarily through eastern Mississippi and western Alabama. Its headwaters are in northeastern Mississippi.
What is the significance of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway?
The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway is a 234-mile long man-made canal and series of locks that connects the Tennessee River with the Tombigbee River, providing a direct route for commercial navigation from inland states to the Gulf of Mexico.
Which major rivers does the Tombigbee connect to?
The Tombigbee River connects to the Tennessee River via the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. Downstream, it joins the Alabama River to form the Mobile River, which then flows into Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
What kind of economic activity does the Tombigbee River support?
The Tombigbee River is crucial for commercial navigation, supporting the transport of bulk commodities such as coal, timber, petroleum products, and agricultural goods. It also supports local fishing, tourism, and provides water resources for communities and industries.
Are there any notable natural features or protected areas along the Tombigbee?
Yes, the Tombigbee River basin is known for its ecological diversity. The Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge in Alabama is one significant protected area along the river, preserving important habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife.

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