What Are the Natural Resources of Mississippi?
Mississippi is located where the Mississippi River drains into the Gulf of Mexico, making this low-lying state rich in minerals and croplands. It has petroleum and natural gas deposits along with sand, gravel and clay. The fertile soil is ideal for crops and forests and supports a variety of animal life.
Minerals available in Mississippi include lignite, a soft brown coal that is an important carbon source. Salt domes in the state provide sodium chloride and limestone provides calcium chloride. Petroleum and natural gas provide fuel for use in Mississippi and for export to other states and countries.
The Mississippi river and nine other major rivers in the state are included in the area’s natural resources. These water resources provide recreational activities and transportation of goods for distribution within the state and to neighboring locations.
Mississippi’s forests provide both hard and soft woods. Hickory and oak forests provide long-lasting hardwoods with beautiful grain patterns used in flooring, furniture and cabinetry. Soft woods such as pine provide structural elements for use in constructing homes and businesses.
The deer, squirrels, foxes and rabbits that are a part of the fauna of Mississippi increase the residents’ enjoyment of nature. The rivers provide freshwater game fish while the seashore offers shellfish, including crabs, shrimp and oysters.
