Kualapuu Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Kualapuu Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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 | 57 ft (taller than 89% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 7,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 95 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00041 |
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
State of Hawaii, Dept of Agriculture
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kualapuu Reservoir?
Kualapuu 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 Kualapuu Reservoir?
Kualapuu Reservoir is owned by State of Hawaii, Dept of Agriculture (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kualapuu Reservoir built?
Kualapuu Reservoir was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Kualapuu Reservoir?
Kualapuu 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 Kualapuu Reservoir?
Kualapuu Reservoir has a dam height of 57 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 Kualapuu Reservoir last inspected?
Kualapuu Reservoir was last inspected on January 25, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.