Hukiwai Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kapa Reservoir Ioleau Reservoir
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Hukiwai Reservoir, also known as Kcof Reservoir #12, is a private-owned water storage facility located in Numila, Hawaii.
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Summary
Built in 1910, this Earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. Situated along an irrigation ditch, the reservoir covers a surface area of 6 acres and serves the surrounding agricultural lands in Kauai County.
Despite its historical significance and contribution to local farming, Hukiwai Reservoir has been rated as having poor condition, with a low hazard potential but moderate risk assessment. The dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in November 2019. While the dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 26 feet, there are no associated locks or outlet gates. The regulatory oversight of the reservoir falls under the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in Hawaii, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure in Hawaii will find Hukiwai Reservoir a fascinating case study. With its unique design features, state-regulated status, and historical significance, this reservoir serves as a crucial water source for agricultural activities in the region. As efforts to improve the dam's condition and risk management measures continue, the reservoir remains a vital component of the local water supply system, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the Hawaiian context.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
FED BY IRRIGATION DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Waimea River Nr Waimea
|
295cfs |
Waialae Str At Alt 3
|
34cfs |
Eb Of Nf Wailua River Nr Lihue
|
39cfs |
Sf Wailua River Nr Lihue
|
173cfs |
Left Branch Opaekaa Str Nr Kapaa
|
2cfs |
Wainiha River Nr Hanalei
|
178cfs |
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
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Salt Pond Beach - Kauai
|
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Lucy Wright Beach Park - Kauai
|
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Wiliwili Camp
|
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Waialae
|
Hukiwai Reservoir