Foster Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foster Park Dam, located in Union, South Carolina, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1929, this Earth-type dam stands at 36 feet in height and spans 475 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Meng Creek, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with inspections and enforcement conducted regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of June 2020, Foster Park Dam remains a crucial element in the recreational landscape of the area. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are yet to be fully determined, but its location and function highlight the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As part of the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Foster Park Dam plays a vital role in water management and safety within the community.

Despite its age, Foster Park Dam continues to provide essential recreational opportunities while facing the challenges of aging infrastructure and potential hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor its condition and regulatory compliance, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and safeguarding our water resources for future generations. With ongoing inspections and enforcement measures in place, Foster Park Dam remains a significant structure in the Union, South Carolina area, reflecting the intersection of human activity and natural landscapes in the management of water resources.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

TR-MENG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

87

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.