Foster Number 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Foster Number 1, a privately owned dam located in Fort Pierre, South Dakota, stands as a crucial water resource structure along the TR-Bad River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1953 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earthen dam reaches a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 327 feet, providing a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, with no recent inspection data available.

Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Foster Number 1 plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage in the region. While the dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, its presence contributes to the overall water management efforts in Jones County. With the oversight of state regulatory agencies and regular inspection protocols in place, Foster Number 1 continues to serve as a key infrastructure asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts track the developments of Foster Number 1, its role in ensuring water security and flood protection remains paramount. With a focus on maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards, the dam stands as a testament to collaborative efforts between private owners, federal agencies, and state regulators in safeguarding critical water infrastructure. As discussions around risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and long-term management measures evolve, Foster Number 1 exemplifies the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

327

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.