Punawai Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: March 31, 2026
Punawai Reservoir, located in Waimea, Hawaii, was completed in 1970 for the primary purpose of irrigation.
Summary
This private reservoir has a dam height of 38 feet and a length of 650 feet, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 2.25 acres and serves as a crucial water resource in the region, supporting agricultural activities in the area.
Managed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Punawai Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and functionality. The reservoir has a high hazard potential and is classified as fair in condition assessment. With a moderate risk level, the reservoir has emergency action plans in place, although their last revision was in October 2019. Punawai Reservoir plays a vital role in water management and irrigation in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Situated in the lush landscapes of Hawaii County, Punawai Reservoir stands as a symbol of effective water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the reservoir serves as a lifeline for agricultural activities in Waimea. As climate change continues to impact water resources globally, the maintenance and upkeep of Punawai Reservoir are crucial to ensure a sustainable and secure water supply for the community.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
38 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.25 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
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.
Punawai Reservoir