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Plugging Abandoned Wells

Source: NDSU Extension Service Agriculture Engineering Specialist

Abandoned wells are a groundwater contamination and safety hazard that occur in greater numbers than is sometimes realized. A conservative estimate is that at least 50,000 abandoned wells exist in North Dakota.

The safety hazard of abandoned wells is obvious to anyone who has encountered an unmarked and uncovered large-diameter well. With the large number of hunters, nature lovers and explorers who use rural areas for recreation, it's surprising there haven't been more accidents involving abandoned wells.

Because abandoned wells are a direct conduit to groundwater, they are a potential source of groundwater contamination. Although the abandoned well is no longer functioning as a source of water, there are often active wells in the same aquifer as the abandoned well. Accidental contamination of the abandoned well puts the rest of the wells in that aquifer at risk. Active wells nearest the abandoned well, such as within the same farmstead, run the greatest risk.

The potential risk of groundwater contamination from abandoned wells can be removed effectively and in many cases economically by filling or plugging them. Standard plugging methods and materials include a combination of sand and gravel, sodium bentonite chips, compacted native clay and neat cement grout. Depending on the depth and diameter of the well, many abandoned wells can be plugged for little more than $100.

Detailed instructions for abandoned well plugging can be found in Extension circular AE-996, "Plugging Abandoned Wells," and also an Extension Service video, "Abandoned Well Plugging: Better Safe than Sorry." Both the circular and video are available by contacting your county office of the NDSU Extension Service.

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