Kaneha Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Kaneha Reservoir in Kealia, Hawaii, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the Department of Land and Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1910 for irrigation purposes, this Earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 14.1 acres and is fed by the offstream flow of the Kealia Stream.

Despite its historical significance, Kaneha Reservoir poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment, prompting regular inspections every five years. The spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is uncontrolled, adding to the risk factor. The reservoir's risk assessment has been classified as moderate, indicating a need for proactive risk management measures to ensure public safety and long-term sustainability.

With a congressman representing the area and a designated state agency overseeing regulation and enforcement, Kaneha Reservoir serves as a critical water source for irrigation in Kauai, Hawaii. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of such vital infrastructure are paramount to ensure the resilience and safety of communities reliant on this essential resource.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

TR-KEALIA STREAM OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.1

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

420

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.