Where nature draws the map – here are 5 ways to look at the US, without state boundaries

State lines are one way to picture the US, but natural history provides another – one that shows the ancient and living connections running across the landscape.

By: Stewart Edie, Smithsonian Institution and Torben Rick, Smithsonian Institution, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: June 18, 2026

Words: 1,475

Last Updated: 1 month ago

Body Text Preview

By Stewart Edie, Smithsonian Institution and Torben Rick, Smithsonian Institution

State boundaries can be iconic. Many were drawn by human hands, but some of the most recognizable contours were shaped by nature: the boot of southeastern Louisiana, carved by the Mississippi River, or the ocean waves sculpting the hook of Cape Cod in Massachusetts.

For a moment, imagine that there are no state lines. View the United States through its natural contours. As curators at …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us