Waimea 60 Mg Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Located in Waimea, Hawaii, the Waimea 60 Mg Reservoir, also known as the Puukapu Reservoir, is a state-owned structure primarily utilized for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet, making it a vital resource for the agricultural community in the region. The reservoir spans an area of 5.1 acres and is situated along the Upper Hamakua Ditch, serving as a crucial component of the local water distribution system.

Despite its significance, the Waimea 60 Mg Reservoir is rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, prompting a need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 6 feet, posing potential risks in case of overflow. With a moderate risk level assigned, there is a call for effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of this essential water resource. As climate change continues to impact water availability and distribution patterns, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like the Waimea 60 Mg Reservoir are crucial for sustaining agricultural activities in the region.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

UPPER HAMAKUA DITCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.1

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

189

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
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.