Waikaia Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kaawanui Reservoir Waikoloi Reservoir
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Waikaia Reservoir, located in Kapalawai, Hawaii, is a private-owned earth dam structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Completed in 1951, the reservoir stands at a structural height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.08 square miles, the reservoir is fed by an irrigation ditch and has a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Waikaia Reservoir is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency, DLNR, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement conducted by Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources. The reservoir poses a very high risk (Rank 1) and has a five-year inspection frequency. While the risk management measures and emergency action plan details are not provided, the reservoir's risk assessment and potential inundation maps preparation remain critical aspects for water resource and climate enthusiasts to consider.
In the realm of water resource and climate advocacy, Waikaia Reservoir serves as a focal point for understanding the intricate balance between irrigation needs, dam safety, and environmental conservation. With its strategic location in Kauai, Hawaii, and under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, the reservoir represents both a vital water management asset and a potential risk factor that requires continuous monitoring and management to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
720 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
FED BY IRRIGATION DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Waimea River Nr Waimea
|
295cfs |
Waialae Str At Alt 3
|
34cfs |
Kawaikoi Stream Nr Waimea
|
30cfs |
Wainiha River Nr Hanalei
|
178cfs |
Eb Of Nf Wailua River Nr Lihue
|
39cfs |
Left Branch Opaekaa Str Nr Kapaa
|
2cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Area Campgrounds
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|---|---|---|
Lucy Wright Beach Park - Kauai
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Salt Pond Beach - Kauai
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Wiliwili Camp
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Kaluahaulu
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Hipalau
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Lonomea
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Waikaia Reservoir