Kaili Ili Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Kaili Ili Reservoir, located in Makawao, Hawaii, is a privately owned water storage structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The reservoir, completed in 1984, has a dam height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 30.7 acre-feet. Situated on the Awalau River, the reservoir covers an area of 2.1 acres and serves as a critical water source for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Kaili Ili Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced for safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam structure, primarily made of earth with buttress core types, poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the reservoir is subject to regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite its remote location in Maui County, Kaili Ili Reservoir plays a vital role in supporting local agriculture and water resource management efforts. The reservoir's controlled spillway and uncontrolled spillway type, along with its emergency action plan preparedness, highlight the commitment to mitigating risks and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the area. As a significant component of the water infrastructure in Hawaii, Kaili Ili Reservoir exemplifies the importance of efficient water storage and distribution systems in the face of climate variability and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

909

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Awalau

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.1

Nid Storage

30.7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.