Papuaa Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Papuaa Reservoir in Halfway Bridge, Hawaii, is a privately owned water resource primarily used for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The reservoir, completed in 1914, boasts a dam height of 43 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 921 acre-feet. Situated on the Papuaa Stream, the reservoir covers a surface area of 45 acres and serves a drainage area of 1.75 square miles.

With a spillway width of 175 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, Papuaa Reservoir has been classified with a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The reservoir is regulated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, Papuaa Reservoir poses a moderate risk and remains a crucial water source for irrigation in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Kauai, Hawaii, may find Papuaa Reservoir to be a fascinating case study of water management and infrastructure in the region. As a vital source of water for irrigation, the reservoir's history, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

PAPUAA STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

1.75

Nid Storage

921

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

48
       
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.