Foster Lake At Foster Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Foster Lake is a reservoir located near the city of Foster in Oregon.


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Summary

The lake was created in 1968 as a result of the construction of a dam on the South Santiam River. The reservoir is regularly used for irrigation, and also supports recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The hydrology of Foster Lake is influenced by its location in the Cascade Mountains and its proximity to snowpack providers. The South Santiam River is the primary surface flow into the lake, and snowmelt from the nearby mountains contributes to the lake's water level in the spring and early summer. The lake and surrounding area also support agricultural activities, with farms and ranches located nearby. Overall, Foster Lake is an important resource for the local community, providing water for irrigation and supporting a variety of recreational and agricultural uses.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change -0.51%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 610.57 ft
2015-03-02
Maximum 639.99 ft
2019-04-10
Average 616 ft
Dam_Height 125
Hydraulic_Height 123
Drainage_Area 494
Year_Completed 1967
Nid_Storage 61000
Structural_Height 126
Foundations Rock, Soil
Surface_Area 1220
River_Or_Stream SOUTH SANTIAM RIVER
Dam_Length 4800
Hazard_Potential High
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Nid_Height 126
       
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

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.