Manuhonuhonu Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Manuhonuhonu Reservoir in Kukuiula, Hawaii, is a privately owned water source primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 2.5 acres and is fed by an unnamed gulch, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region.

Despite its importance, Manuhonuhonu Reservoir poses a high hazard potential with an unsatisfactory condition assessment. The dam height of 45 feet and hydraulic height of 32 feet contribute to its risk profile, prompting a high-risk assessment (2) for the structure. Regular inspections, last conducted in November 2018, are essential to monitor the dam's integrity and ensure public safety in case of emergencies.

Located in Kauai County, Hawaii, Manuhonuhonu Reservoir is under state regulation by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). With a history of modifications and maintenance, the reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities in the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts are drawn to this site for its strategic significance in water management and its role in supporting sustainable agriculture practices in the region.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

UNNAMED GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

49

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.