Moments like these remind us that we are making a positive impact, and together, we have so much change-making power. It takes courage to try something new or stand up for what is right. I tip my hat to you and our community and all the ways we are learning, growing, and making a difference. We hope you enjoy July and your July River Citizen newsletter!

- Michael Anderson, Director of Outreach and Education, Mississippi River Network

P.S. Read on to find out about a great tool that helps people in our watershed see the path water takes to the Mississippi River. The River truly connects us!

River Days of Action brings together thousands of people across the Mississippi River watershed (and beyond!) for events and collective action. Last month, from June 8 - 18th, was our third annual and most impactful 'River Days' yet! Our report next month will have more info, but in the meantime, here are a few more ways you can participate:

1) Take the River Days Action: Speak up for the River by taking one minute and sending an email to Congress advocating for vital conservation programs

2) Watch recordings from three online events:

• How the Farm Bill Helps Create a Healthier Mississippi River ft. Illinois Stewardship Alliance and National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition
• Climate Science Needs on the Mississippi River ft. American Rivers
• Mississippi Speed Record Trip Review ft. the World Record-Setting Paddler Team (YouTube, Facebook)

A huge thank you to all that were able to participate in River Days of Action 2023! Together, we continue to make a difference for the people, land, water, and wildlife of our River!

Seeing anything green and creepy in your waterways? Are your favorite swimming holes closed? Fueled by a type of water pollution called nutrient pollution, algal blooms create hazardous - and even deadly - conditions for people, pets, and other animals. The largest source of nutrient pollution in our Mississippi River is from nitrogen and phosphorus-rich fertilizers running off farm fields. As the pollution-laden River flows into the Gulf of Mexico, it spurs algal blooms and generates the planet's second-largest hypoxic (meaning little to no oxygen) 'dead zone.' In these oxygen-depleted waters, marine animals that can't flee often die. The impact is also devastating to the economy and people's livelihood. The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, estimated that the dead zone costs U.S. seafood and tourism industries $82 million annually.

We'll know the measured size of the 2023 Gulf dead zone in early August, with forecasts predicting about 4,100 square miles, which is twice the size of the national goal. To protect people, land, water, and wildlife, we must reduce the amount of harmful chemical pollution entering our waterways. Want to make a difference? Our 10 Actions offer smart, simple solutions, and watch for next month's newsletter for more opportunities and resources for ways you can make a difference and keep yourself, your family, and community members safe!

Did you know that our mighty Mississippi River drains an area of about 1.2 million square miles, including all or part of 32 states and two Canadian provinces, about 40% of the continental U.S.? An incredible free online tool shows how we are all connected by water and rivers.

River Runner is a video game-like interactive map that lets you place a "raindrop" anywhere on the map and watch where it will end up. Are you ready to take a ride on America's waterways? 

One of the great tools we offer River Citizens is our 10 Actions. These are simple, easy, and often fun steps you can take to truly make a difference. Action #2 is “Connect with the River." Summer is an ideal time for paddling, walking, hiking, biking, camping, fishing, picnicking along the River, or simply sitting and enjoying the River. What are YOU doing this summer to connect with the River? We want to hear – please share with us on social media, or send us a note at info@1mississippi.org. If you REALLY find yourself enjoying the River, you'll probably be inspired to thank it. One great way to do this is by donating to the Mississippi River Network - think of it as a 'gratuity' to the River. We all count on the River; can the River count on you?