Punawai Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Punawai Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2006 |
| NID ID | HI00147 |
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
Ponoholo Ranch, Ltd.
Private
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High Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Punawai Reservoir?
Punawai 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 Punawai Reservoir?
Punawai Reservoir is owned by Ponoholo Ranch, Ltd. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Punawai Reservoir built?
Punawai Reservoir was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Punawai Reservoir?
Punawai 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 Punawai Reservoir?
Punawai 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 Punawai Reservoir last inspected?
Punawai Reservoir was last inspected on June 23, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.