The Mississippi River is essential to global agriculture and trade, but it is increasingly vulnerable to climate impacts, including severe droughts and floods, resulting in significant economic and environmental challenges.

Colin Wellenkamp, Executive Director of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI), discusses how the coalition is advancing nature-based solutions to build resilience along the river.

One notable example is Horseshoe Lake in East St. Louis, a community historically impacted by recurrent flooding and economic disadvantage. Restoration efforts there aim to reduce flood risks by enhancing natural floodplains, providing critical protection for residents and supporting biodiversity.

This initiative is part of MRCTI’s broader push to implement projects across 100,000 acres in eight states by the end of the decade, creating sustainable landscapes that safeguard both people and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.

The Mississippi By Nature series is supported by the Walton Family Foundation and outfitted by Patagonia.

Mayor Errick Simmons of Greenville, Mississippi, shares insights into his community's efforts and the collaborative initiatives of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative.

Communities along the Mississippi River face numerous challenges from natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and droughts.

This episode explores how adopting nature-based solutions can bolster resilience against these impacts.

Mayor Errick Simmons of Greenville, Mississippi, shares insights into his community's efforts and the collaborative initiatives of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative.

Simmons discusses the environmental and economic benefits of implementing nature-based infrastructure, such as floodplain reconnections and marsh restoration. He also highlights the importance of equitable strategies that support the community and foster corporate responsibility.

The conversation covers innovative funding models involving carbon credits and the reinsurance industry, emphasizing the need for sustainable and long-lasting solutions to protect communities along the river.

The Mississippi By Nature series is supported by the Walton Family Foundation and outfitted by Patagonia.

Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative team up to address water quality