Papaaea Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Papaaea Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 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 | 37 ft (taller than 56.7% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 820 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 154 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 31 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00092 |
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 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Papaaea Reservoir?
Papaaea 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 Papaaea Reservoir?
Papaaea 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 Papaaea Reservoir built?
Papaaea Reservoir was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Papaaea Reservoir?
Papaaea 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 Papaaea Reservoir?
Papaaea Reservoir has a dam height of 37 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 Papaaea Reservoir last inspected?
Papaaea Reservoir was last inspected on October 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.