Kapa Reservoir

OFFSTREAM· Kauai, Hawaii· Built 1901· Earth· 21 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Kapa Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1901 and is 125 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 21 ft (taller than 15.7% in HI)
Dam Length1,780 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage50 acre-ft
Normal Storage26 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1901 (125 years old)
Year Modified1954
NID IDHI00100

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: November 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 Kapa Reservoir?

Kapa Reservoir 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 Kapa Reservoir?

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

When was Kapa Reservoir built?

Kapa Reservoir was completed in 1901, making it 125 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 Kapa Reservoir?

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

How tall is Kapa Reservoir?

Kapa Reservoir has a dam height of 21 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 Kapa Reservoir last inspected?

Kapa Reservoir was last inspected on November 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.