Puu Pulehu Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Puu Pulehu Reservoir, located in Kukuihaele, Hawaii, is a state-owned earth dam constructed in 1910 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 20 feet and a capacity of 445 acre-feet, the reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural activities in the region. Situated on the Upper Hamakua Ditch off stream, the reservoir covers a surface area of 25.7 acres and has a drainage area of 0.65 square miles.
Despite its importance for irrigation, Puu Pulehu Reservoir faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been rated as poor, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in April 2018 revealed the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure. With a moderate risk assessment level and a history of inadequate condition, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to address potential hazards and safeguard the reservoir's functionality for the future.
Given the critical role that Puu Pulehu Reservoir plays in water resource management in the area, it is essential for state agencies like the Department of Land and Natural Resources to continue their regulatory oversight and inspection of the structure. By addressing the identified issues and implementing necessary upgrades, the reservoir can continue to support the irrigation needs of the region while mitigating risks associated with its aging infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
UPPER HAMAKUA DITCH OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.65 |
Nid Storage |
445 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Puu Pulehu Reservoir