Kaupakalua Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peahi Reservoir Pauwela Reservoir
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii, the Kaupakalua Reservoir is a privately owned irrigation reservoir completed in 1885.
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Summary
With a capacity of 210 acre-feet, this Earth dam structure stands at 57 feet in height, serving the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. The reservoir is regulated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and is inspected regularly to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations.
The Kaupakalua Reservoir sits at the base of the Paepilau Gulch and covers a surface area of 12.9 acres, with a drainage area of 2.9 acres. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 115 feet, designed to handle potential high hazard situations. Despite the reservoir's unsatisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, it plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing risk management measures are essential to maintain the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure.
The Kaupakalua Reservoir's historical significance, coupled with its current operational challenges and regulatory oversight, underscores the importance of water resource management in the face of climate change. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is vital to monitor and support efforts to ensure the sustainability and resilience of vital water infrastructure like the Kaupakalua Reservoir in the face of evolving environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
57 |
River Or Stream |
PAEPILAU GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
2.9 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Structural Height |
49 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
57 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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Kaupakalua Reservoir