Topic Resources

State orphaned and abandoned well programs

Most states have inaugurated significant programs for identifying and addressing orphan wells. States should be commended for these efforts, and the IOGCC encourages states to find ways to identify and address orphan wells.

Locating pre-regulatory orphaned and abandoned wells

Orphaned wells that predate regulation often go unnoticed because their locations were never recorded.  One of the fundamental issues with orphan wells is that data concerning their existence is, by definition, inexact.

Site restoration programs

A critical component of plugging and abandonment of orphan wells includes the process of site restoration. Site restoration, which involves the removal of equipment, concrete, trash, and debris, the repair of erosion and removal of hydrocarbons and closing pits, can prevent potential safety hazards and allow landowners and citizens to employ the impacted area for other uses. In some cases, there is potential for groundwater contamination and wells must be "plugged" to reduce environmental risks. Some states designate funds and wait lists specifically for site restoration, while some states partner with industry or find other unique ways to address site restoration.