MOUNT VERNON — Fourteen orphan wells have been identified in Knox County with state-led efforts to close them.

Removing orphan wells is funded by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, aiming to plug abandoned oil and gas wells, known as orphan wells. The Division has grown the Orphan Well Program, in place since1977, is combined with federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and state funding–providing $634 million through 2035 if federal and state funds remain at expected levels. 

The division of oil and gas wells are increasing efforts to locate orphan wells across Ohio, according to ODNR’s website, also noting approximately 19,000 orphan wells have been identified using existing records, however, more likely exist.

Proper plugging of orphan wells is necessary to protect public health and safety, conserve natural resources, and develop Ohio’s oil and gas resources efficiently, Knox Public Health’s website states.

The 14 orphan wells were identified in Knox County in 2021 using existing records. But more are likely to exist, according to ODNR records.

The wells have been collected in a list through a survey by ODNR or third-party contractors through ODNR. 

An orphan well is closed by using materials such as cement, sand, and gravel to plug the well.

The potential dangers of orphan wells include the collection of methane, a heat-trapping gas that can be 50 times more dangerous than carbon dioxide.

Knox Public Health public relations coordinator Logan Schofield added that landowners can report potential abandoned wells to the department of natural resources for investigation, or the division can conduct aerial magnetic surveys using drone technology flown approximately 150 feet above the surface to locate orphan wells.

The orphan wells program uses amounted funds for contractors to cap your orphan well, Schofield said, adding you must apply to ODNR to have them cap your orphan well.

Applications are available on their web site at dnr.ohio.gov.

Contractors receive an “approved list” of applications from ODNR.  Expiration dates are unknown, Schofield said.

Landowners can submit their land for potential survey by completing the appropriate form online. To report an orphan well or for general questions call 330-308-0007.