Waita Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Waita Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Hawaii. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 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 | 23 ft (taller than 18.9% in HI) |
| Dam Length | 3,250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 9.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 650 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1906 (120 years old) |
| NID ID | HI00099 |
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
Grove Farm Company
Private
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High Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Waita Reservoir?
Waita 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 Waita Reservoir?
Waita Reservoir is owned by Grove Farm Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Waita Reservoir built?
Waita Reservoir was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Waita Reservoir?
Waita 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 Waita Reservoir?
Waita Reservoir has a dam height of 23 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 Waita Reservoir last inspected?
Waita Reservoir was last inspected on June 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.