Kapalaalaea Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Kapalaalaea Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 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 | 48 ft (taller than 78.7% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 230 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 197 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 153 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00094 |
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
East Maui Irrigation Company, Mahi Pono Holdings, LLC
Private
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High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kapalaalaea Reservoir?
Kapalaalaea 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 Kapalaalaea Reservoir?
Kapalaalaea Reservoir is owned by East Maui Irrigation Company, Mahi Pono Holdings, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kapalaalaea Reservoir built?
Kapalaalaea Reservoir was completed in 1885, making it 141 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 Kapalaalaea Reservoir?
Kapalaalaea 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 Kapalaalaea Reservoir?
Kapalaalaea Reservoir has a dam height of 48 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 Kapalaalaea Reservoir last inspected?
Kapalaalaea Reservoir was last inspected on October 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.