Waikaia Reservoir

FED BY IRRIGATION DITCH· Kauai, Hawaii· Built 1951· Earth· 26 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Waikaia Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 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 26 ft (taller than 26.8% in HI)
Dam Length720 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage58 acre-ft
Normal Storage44 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDHI00006

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 Waikaia Reservoir?

Waikaia 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 Waikaia Reservoir?

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

When was Waikaia Reservoir built?

Waikaia Reservoir was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Waikaia Reservoir?

Waikaia 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 Waikaia Reservoir?

Waikaia Reservoir has a dam height of 26 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 Waikaia Reservoir last inspected?

Waikaia 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.