Elua Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mau Reservoir Elima Reservoir
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Elua Reservoir, also known as No.
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Summary
2 Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Kalaheo, Hawaii. Built in 1902, this Earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet, primarily used for irrigation purposes. With a surface area of 13 acres and a drainage area of 1.15 square miles, the reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region.
Managed and regulated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Elua Reservoir has a spillway width of 67 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4700 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and undergoes regular inspections every 5 years. The risk assessment for the reservoir is moderate (3), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential water resource in Kauai, Hawaii.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elua Reservoir offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate infrastructure that supports agricultural irrigation in Hawaii. As a historic dam with a significant storage capacity, it serves as a vital lifeline for farmers in the region, while also posing challenges in terms of hazard potential and risk management. With its unique design and location within the Kalaheo Gulch, Elua Reservoir stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation required to sustain water resources in the face of changing climates and environmental pressures.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
KALAHEO GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
1.15 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Waimea River Nr Waimea
|
295cfs |
Waialae Str At Alt 3
|
34cfs |
Sf Wailua River Nr Lihue
|
173cfs |
Eb Of Nf Wailua River Nr Lihue
|
39cfs |
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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Niumalu Park - Kauai
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Waialae
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Wiliwili Camp
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Elua Reservoir