Foster Dam, also known as Foster Lake, is a rockfill dam located on the South Santiam River in Oregon. Completed in 1967 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, navigation, and recreation. With a height of 125 feet and a length of 4800 feet, Foster Dam has a storage capacity of 61,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 1220 acres.

Despite being well-built and maintained, Foster Dam faces a high hazard potential due to its location upstream of populated areas like Sweet Home and Lebanon. An advanced risk assessment conducted by the USACE in 2021 identified the dam's risk as high, primarily driven by the potential impact of extreme events such as earthquakes and heavy rainfall. Measures are in place to evaluate and mitigate risks, including ongoing inspections, computer modeling of dam structures, and emergency action plans. USACE continues to engage with local communities to raise awareness of flood risks and the importance of dam safety.

In conclusion, Foster Dam plays a crucial role in reducing flood risks in the region, but the potential for extreme events remains a concern. By implementing risk management measures and staying vigilant through regular inspections and community outreach, USACE is dedicated to ensuring the safety and resilience of Foster Dam and the surrounding areas.