Working by and sometimes on the Mississippi I can tell you that things are changing and people do appreciate the natural beauty and homes it creates for wildlife. Within the last 5 years Friends Groups have formed who annually clean the river near the lock and dams.  There are many positive things happening and.. negative as well.  At this point it is the surrounding bluffs that need to be protected from development and for that money/recognition is needed.  Congratulations to Grist for realizing the importance of the river, next time go down in late October to watch the migration of millions of birds.