Alexander

WAHIAWA STREAM· Kauai, Hawaii· Built 1931· Earth· 119 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Alexander is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1931 and is 95 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 119 ft (taller than 99.2% in HI)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.4K acre-ft
Surface Area37 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge621 cfs
Year Completed1931 (95 years old)
NID IDHI00098

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 2, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DLNR

Ownership

BBCP Kauai Operating, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Alexander?

Alexander is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Alexander?

Alexander is owned by BBCP Kauai Operating, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Alexander built?

Alexander was completed in 1931, making it 95 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Alexander?

Alexander serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Alexander?

Alexander has a dam height of 119 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Alexander last inspected?

Alexander was last inspected on August 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.