Kapaia Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Kapaia Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 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 | 50 ft (taller than 84.3% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 1,050 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 54 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00012 |
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
Grove Farm Company
Private
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High Hazard 49 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kapaia Reservoir?
Kapaia 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 Kapaia Reservoir?
Kapaia Reservoir is owned by Grove Farm Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kapaia Reservoir built?
Kapaia Reservoir was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Kapaia Reservoir?
Kapaia 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 Kapaia Reservoir?
Kapaia Reservoir has a dam height of 50 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 Kapaia Reservoir last inspected?
Kapaia Reservoir was last inspected on April 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.