Foster Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sundell Dam Trout Springs Dam 22
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Foster Dam, located in Todd, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by Konechne Engineering and completed in 2015.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 800 feet across Sand Creek-TR. With a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 540 cubic feet per second, Foster Dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management in the region.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, Foster Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment score of 3. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on a regular basis. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and is equipped with outlet gates for water release when necessary.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Foster Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure management and risk assessment. Its strategic location and design make it a vital component in the local water supply network, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure its continued safe operation in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2015 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Sand Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
243 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
Little White R Near Rosebud Sd
|
96cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
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 Dam