Mau Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Mau 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 | 38 ft (taller than 60.6% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 460 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 79 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1901 (125 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00116 |
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
BBCP Kauai Operating, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Elima Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 37 ftElua Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 34 ftIpuolono Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 45 ftIoleau Reservoir
Kauai, HI
Low Hazard 48 ftAlexander
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 119 ftHuinawai Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 48 ftHukiwai Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 36 ftAepo Reservoir
Kauai, HI
High Hazard 70 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mau Reservoir?
Mau 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 Mau Reservoir?
Mau Reservoir is owned by BBCP Kauai Operating, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mau Reservoir built?
Mau 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 Mau Reservoir?
Mau 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 Mau Reservoir?
Mau Reservoir has a dam height of 38 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 Mau Reservoir last inspected?
Mau Reservoir was last inspected on August 3, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.