Kahana Nui Dam
Key Takeaway
Kahana Nui Dam is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1984 and is 42 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 49 ft (taller than 81.9% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 225 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 59 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 25,884 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1984 (42 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00126 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Maui County, Dept of Public Works
Local Government
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High Hazard 36 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kahana Nui Dam?
Kahana Nui Dam 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 Kahana Nui Dam?
Kahana Nui Dam is owned by Maui County, Dept of Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kahana Nui Dam built?
Kahana Nui Dam was completed in 1984, making it 42 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 Kahana Nui Dam?
Kahana Nui Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Kahana Nui Dam?
Kahana Nui Dam has a dam height of 49 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 Kahana Nui Dam last inspected?
Kahana Nui Dam was last inspected on April 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.