2026 MRLC Forum Recap

On October 6-8, 17 state legislators from across seven states convened in Jackson, Mississippi, for the 2026 Mississippi River Legislative Caucus (MRLC) Forum, where they explored how to support one of the U.S.’ most economically and socially consequential waterways. The event connected legislators with experts from national and regional organizations and federal and state agencies to learn about the importance of a healthy river and opportunities for cross-state collaboration. Attendees participated in educational sessions, facilitated discussions, a regenerative farm tour, and a canoe trip or walking tour of the riverfront city of Vicksburg to explore how states can take action to support a thriving Mississippi River and river communities. 

From Land to Water: Exploring a Regenerative Farm and Canoeing on the River 

The MRLC Forum opened with a tour of Foot Print Farms, a regenerative farm outside of Jackson, Mississippi. Attendees discussed urban agriculture, local food systems, soil health, state-level policies that affect regenerative farming, and the connection between agriculture and Mississippi River health. Legislators learned about regenerative farming practices that can be used in rural and urban agricultural settings, as well as examples of agritourism and community engagement on the farm.

On Day Two, legislators headed to Vicksburg, Mississippi, for a canoe trip on the Yazoo River with the Quapaw Canoe Company, paddling to where the Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers meet. Local guides shared their knowledge of the ecology, water cycle, and wildlife. Following the canoe activity, legislators heard from the Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee about restoration efforts and the history of federal management of the river.

Driving Economic and Community Resilience Along the Mississippi River

During this session, legislators learned why a healthy river matters for local economies, and how states can leverage the Mississippi for economic development while supporting river access and community resilience. Presenters from the Real Delta, Inc., Mississippi Department of Transportation, and Quapaw Canoe Company discussed Mississippi’s river recreation economy, creating riverfront landings to support tourism and community river access, and the value the River brings to states through transportation and recreation. Legislators shared learnings, successes, and challenges in navigating barriers to river access, and ways to leverage a healthy Mississippi River for economic activities. 

Flood Resilience in Mississippi River Farms and Communities

Legislators heard from the American Flood Coalition, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, and Minnesota Soil Health Coalition about how flooding affects communities and farms along the river, the connection between soil health and flood resilience, and agricultural strategies for reducing flood risks. They also shared examples of flood-mitigation successes after implementing these agricultural practices. Legislators engaged in interstate breakout sessions to compare the impacts of flooding on each state; barriers to addressing flood risks; and where policy, funding, technical assistance, and agricultural practices can work together for flood resilience.

 Opportunities for State Action: Filling the Gaps to Address River Health

During this session, legislators learned how federal policies impact the Mississippi River, and how states can take legislative action to protect it when federal policies fall short. Experts from the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy, the Center for Water Security and Cooperation, and National Wildlife Federation discussed the federal landscape of water policy. They explored how states can protect clean water after the 2023 Sackett v. EPA decision removed federal Clean Water Act protections of certain wetlands, and illustrated strategies for, and examples of, state resilience along the Mississippi River. This session reinforced the vital role that states play in the health of the Mississippi River.

United by the River: Shared Learnings and Cross-State Collaboration

The meeting concluded with a facilitated discussion on the challenges states face when addressing river health, shared learnings on effective strategies for legislative action on water quality, and opportunities for cross-state or regional collaboration on river health. Throughout the meeting, legislators explored the connection between a healthy Mississippi River and public health, economic stability, agriculture, and ecosystem health, and affirmed their commitment to protecting this critical resource.