Butterfield Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Butterfield Creek |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cook County near Matteson, Illinois 713 ft (217 m) 41°29′49″N 87°45′12″W / 41.4969444°N 87.7533333°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Thorn Creek, Glenwood, Illinois 610 ft (190 m) 41°32′46″N 87°37′26″W / 41.5461111°N 87.6238889°W |
| Length | 15 mi (24 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Butterfield Creek → Thorn Creek → Little Calumet → Calumet → Lake Michigan → Great Lakes → Saint Lawrence Seaway → Gulf of Saint Lawrence |
| GNIS ID | 405303 |
Butterfield Creek is a cool stream, about 15 miles (24 km) long, located near Chicago, Illinois. It's like a smaller river that flows into a bigger one called Thorn Creek. From there, its water eventually makes its way to Lake Michigan, which is one of the Great Lakes!
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About Butterfield Creek
Butterfield Creek starts its journey in a small marshy area near Matteson. As it flows, it gets wider when it passes through towns like Homewood, Chicago Heights, and Glenwood. Finally, it joins Thorn Creek in Glenwood.
Where Does It Flow?
The water from Butterfield Creek travels quite a distance! After joining Thorn Creek, it flows into the Little Calumet River, then the Calumet River, and finally reaches Lake Michigan. From Lake Michigan, the water can even travel through the Saint Lawrence Seaway all the way to the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean!
Keeping the Creek Healthy
Just like we need clean water to drink, animals and plants in the creek need clean water to live. In the past, Butterfield Creek faced some challenges with pollution. Things like tiny bits of metal, old chemicals, and even too much dirt could get into the water. This made it harder for fish and other wildlife to thrive.
Working Together for Clean Water
Many people and groups have been working hard to make Butterfield Creek healthier. They are trying to reduce pollution and protect the areas along the creek's banks. These efforts help improve the water quality and create better homes for the animals that live there.
Creek and Nature
Butterfield Creek flows through some beautiful areas, including parts of Olympia Fields, Flossmoor, and Homewood. Even though some areas, like golf courses, can sometimes affect the creek, it still helps connect different natural habitats. This means animals can move safely along the creek's path between different green spaces.
Enjoying the Creek
The town of Homewood has even created a fun trail along some parts of Butterfield Creek. This trail is perfect for running, walking, or just enjoying nature right by the water. It's a great way for people to connect with the creek and see the progress being made to keep it clean and beautiful.
