Richton Crossing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Cook County, Illinois, Richton Crossing Dam, also known as Richton Crossing Detention Reservoir, was completed in 1976 by Minder & Stocking.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 490 feet in length along the TRIB BUTTERFIELD CREEK. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 920 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Richton Crossing Dam is classified as a high hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its critical role in mitigating flood risks, its condition assessment is currently listed as not available. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 55 feet and has no outlet gates. With state-regulated oversight including permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Richton Crossing Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the surrounding community in Matteson.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Richton Crossing Dam an intriguing structure for its engineering design and the role it plays in managing flood risks in the region. Its location, design characteristics, and operational details make it a significant asset in protecting the local area from potential inundation events, highlighting the importance of proactive dam management and maintenance in safeguarding communities against natural hazards.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TRIB BUTTERFIELD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

53

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.