Geographic Features of Landlocked States
Landlocked states are characterized by their lack of access to the ocean, but this geographical feature is often accompanied by diverse landscapes. These states are home to mountains, deserts, plains, and forests. For instance, Colorado and Montana are known for their stunning Rocky Mountain ranges, while states like Kansas and Nebraska are vast prairies. Some landlocked states, such as New Mexico and Arizona, feature deserts and canyons.
Economic Impacts of Being Landlocked
Being landlocked can affect a state’s economy, particularly in industries that rely on shipping goods via ports or international trade. States without ports must rely on railroads, highways, and air transportation to move goods across the country and internationally. However, many landlocked states have adapted by investing in robust transportation infrastructure and fostering strong industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
For example:
- Kansas and Nebraska are major agricultural hubs, producing vast quantities of corn, wheat, and other crops.
- Colorado has a booming tech industry, particularly in cities like Denver and Boulder.
- Missouri and Illinois are transportation and logistics centers, with major rail hubs and interstates connecting them to the rest of the country.
While landlocked states lack direct access to international waters, they can still engage in global trade through nearby states with coastal ports. For example, goods from the landlocked state of Kansas can be transported to ports in Texas or Louisiana, which have major access to the Gulf of Mexico.
Challenges Faced by Landlocked States
Limited Access to Ports: The absence of ocean access means that landlocked states must rely on neighboring coastal states for shipping and trade, which can sometimes add logistical costs or delays.
Shipping Costs: The cost of transporting goods overland (via trains, trucks, or planes) can be higher than shipping by sea, which tends to be more cost-effective for bulk goods.
Limited Tourism Infrastructure: While landlocked states can still attract tourists for their natural beauty and unique landmarks, they may not benefit from the same level of tourism infrastructure that coastal states with beaches and oceanfront attractions enjoy.
Water Resources: Some landlocked states, particularly those in arid regions like New Mexico or Arizona, face water scarcity issues. The lack of easy access to large bodies of water for transportation, industry, or agriculture can complicate water resource management.
Advantages of Being Landlocked
Despite the challenges, landlocked states also have several advantages:
Lower Risk of Natural Disasters: Many landlocked states are less prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, tsunamis, or coastal flooding, which can be a significant concern for coastal regions. Tornadoes, blizzards, and wildfires are more common in these areas but are generally easier to prepare for.
Economic Diversification: Because they are not overly dependent on maritime trade, landlocked states tend to have more diversified economies, often centered on agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and services. This diversification can help mitigate the risks posed by global economic fluctuations.
Real Estate and Development: Landlocked states, especially in the Midwest and West, often have lower real estate prices compared to coastal states, making them more affordable for residents and businesses. This has made some landlocked cities, like Denver and Salt Lake City, attractive places to live and work.
Strategic Location: Many landlocked states are centrally located in the U.S., making them strategic hubs for transportation and commerce. The intersection of major highways and railroads passing through states like Missouri and Illinois gives them a competitive edge in logistics.
Conclusion
While the United States has many coastal states with access to the ocean, the 27 landlocked states have carved out their own economic, cultural, and geographic niches. The absence of a coastline brings both challenges and advantages, forcing these states to be creative in their economic development strategies. Whether it's fostering diverse industries, building transportation networks, or capitalizing on unique natural resources, landlocked states have adapted in ways that continue to make them vital contributors to the U.S. economy.
By understanding the impact of being landlocked, we can appreciate the distinct characteristics and contributions these states bring to the broader picture of American life.
