Kauai Lagoons Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 5, 2026

Kauai Lagoons, located in Kauai, Hawaii, is a private water resource managed by Belt Collins and Associates.


Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1987, serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 470 acre-feet and a surface area of 33.5 acres. While the dam stands at a height of 15 feet, it also offers recreational opportunities for visitors, making it a versatile and valuable asset to the region.

Although Kauai Lagoons is regulated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, its hazard potential is categorized as high, with a fair condition assessment as of April 2021. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure the dam's safety and integrity. Additionally, the dam operates an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 9 feet, further enhancing its flood risk reduction capabilities.

Furthermore, the dam at Kauai Lagoons presents a moderate risk level, suggesting the importance of implementing effective risk management measures. With a rich history and pivotal role in water resource management, Kauai Lagoons stands as a significant landmark that integrates flood control with recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors to enjoy.



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Wind

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Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1987

Dam Height

15

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33.5

Drainage Area

0.64

Nid Storage

470

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.