Kepani Reservoir

MAKAWELI RIVER OFFSTREAM· Kauai, Hawaii· Built 1954· Earth· 32 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Kepani Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 32 ft (taller than 43.3% in HI)
Dam Length860 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage85 acre-ft
Normal Storage72 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDHI00007

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 3, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DLNR

Ownership

Robinson Family Partners

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Kepani Reservoir?

Kepani 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 Kepani Reservoir?

Kepani Reservoir is owned by Robinson Family Partners (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Kepani Reservoir built?

Kepani Reservoir was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Kepani Reservoir?

Kepani 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 Kepani Reservoir?

Kepani Reservoir has a dam height of 32 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 Kepani Reservoir last inspected?

Kepani Reservoir was last inspected on November 3, 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.