The water temperature in early September was previously 70-72°F, HOWEVER, in 2022 new regulations were put in place regarding water level management. Green Peter reservoir which feeds Foster reservoir must now be drawn down earlier in the summer. The result is much cooler water temperatures. We now expect temperatures around 58-65°F and recommend a wetsuit.
Just east of the city of Sweet Home, OR, Foster Reservoir is a popular recreation destination for mid-valley residents, providing a pleasing Cascade foothills backdrop for a variety of water recreation activities. Foster Reservoir measures over three miles in length and was created in the late 1960s by the construction of the Foster Dam on the South Santiam River.
Just east of the city of Sweet Home, OR, Foster Reservoir is a popular recreation destination for mid-valley residents, providing a pleasing Cascade foothills backdrop for a variety of water recreation activities. Foster Reservoir measures over three miles in length and was created in the late 1960s by the construction of the Foster Dam on the South Santiam River.
Historical Data
This is the first year we will have the race in June. Here are the water temps from the dam at 8am for the past several years on June 8th: 2023 65°F 2022 57°F 2021 64°F 2020 62°F 2019 64°F Our best guess is that the temp will be in the low 60's come race morning. Water Temperature History Race Weekend September: 2023 66°F 2022 70°F Friday night, 58°F Saturday morning. 2021 was virtual 2020 72°F 2019 73°F 2018 73°F 2018 72°F 2017 72°F 2016 68°F 2015 70°F 2014 73°F |
FAQ: Do I need a wet suit?
We follow USAT wetsuit regulations. With the changes to water management at Foster Lake, we recommend you come prepared with a wetsuit.
Want to rent a wet suit? We have rentals available. More information about rentals.
We follow USAT wetsuit regulations. With the changes to water management at Foster Lake, we recommend you come prepared with a wetsuit.
- Under 58°F, wetsuit REQUIRED
- 58-65°F wetsuit recommended but optional
- 66-78°F wetsuit optional
- 78.1 – 83.9°F, competitors may wear wetsuits but will not be eligible for awards
- 84°F or above, participants may NOT wear wetsuits
Want to rent a wet suit? We have rentals available. More information about rentals.
In the event of exceptionally warm water conditions, USAT regulations will be followed:
USAT Competitive Rulebook, Article IV
4.4 Wet suits. Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
USAT Competitive Rulebook, Article IV
4.4 Wet suits. Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
The weather in June is relatively variable. The average high for the second weekend in June is 70°F, the low, 50°F. Late spring at the foothills of the Cascades can bring warm sunny days and also can bring light rain. We've complied the last 10 years of weather data for the second weekend in June for reference. For June races in our are, we wear warm ups to transition in the morning, and tri suits for the race. On cooler years, arm warms are sufficient for warmth. A light jacket doesn't hurt if there is rain in the forecast. |
Temperature History
Second Weekend in June
|