Foster Number 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Foster Number 2 Reynolds Number 2
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Foster Number 3 is a privately owned dam located in Fort Pierre, South Dakota along the TR-Bad River.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including water storage and flood control, with a low hazard potential rating.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Foster Number 3 is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. It undergoes regular inspections and meets state permitting and enforcement requirements. Despite being in operation for several decades, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a potential need for further evaluation and maintenance.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and functional role of Foster Number 3 in managing water resources in the region. The dam's presence along the Bad River contributes to the overall water management strategy in South Dakota, highlighting the importance of infrastructure like Foster Number 3 in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring water security for local communities.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
342 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Foster Number 3