Kahana Nui Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Located in Maui, Hawaii, Kahana Nui Dam, also known as Structure#5, was completed in 1984 by the USDA NRCS with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Kahana Stream.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet with a hydraulic height of 50 feet and a structural height of 58 feet. It has a length of 500 feet and provides a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 59 acre-feet over a surface area of 5.6 acres.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the DLNR, Kahana Nui Dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 25,884 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway. However, with a hazard potential rated as high and a poor condition assessment, the dam is in need of maintenance and improvement to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The last inspection in December 2018 revealed the dam's deficiencies, prompting a risk assessment indicating moderate risk.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kahana Nui Dam presents an important case study in the management and maintenance of critical infrastructure for flood protection in Hawaii. As efforts continue to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential, stakeholders must prioritize necessary repairs and improvements to mitigate risks and uphold public safety. With its strategic location in Kahana and significant impact on the surrounding area, the dam serves as a reminder of the crucial role of infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters and climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
KAHANA STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
4.83 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Structural Height |
58 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
58 |
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.
Kahana Nui Dam