A series of forums on how to maintain the health of the Mississippi River system began is under way in New Orleans.

Dubbed The Big River Works: Building Cooperation to Sustain the Mississippi River System, the five-city tour seeks to reach an accord among the 31 states in the river’s watershed to ensure a healthy system and delta, said a news release from America’s WETLAND Foundation, which organized the issue-based events.

The first gathering touched on ways to reconnect the river to its delta and nationwide impact of an unsustainable river. Upcoming forums are set for St. Louis, Memphis, Minneapolis and Chicago and feature discussions on water quality, fisheries, recreation and commerce.