Abandon Wells:

Abandoned wells have the potential to be a source of contamination
to existing wells being used to supply drinking water.

There are many abandoned wells in Southwest Kansas. If you have a well that has been abandoned and would like assistance on plugging it contact your County Conservation District.  Plugging abandoned wells will help insure a safe water supply and is required by State Regulations.
 

Kansas Regulations:

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) administers laws regulating construction, reconstruction, and plugging of wells. Articles 12-K.S.A.82a-1212 and 1213 and 30-K.A.R. 28-30-4(a) and 28-30-7 specifically address plugging of abandoned wells.  The regulations provide instructions for all types of wells and aquifer conditions.  Well drillers and landowners alike are required by law to follow these procedures, which are available from KDHE.

Kansas law requires that all abandoned wells and test holes be properly plugged.  Proper plugging accomplishes five goals:

1. Restores protective barrier to minimize groundwater contamination;
2. Removes physical hazards by removing tempting openings for curious children and animals;
3. Restores stability to the land surface, (load carrying capacity);
4. Eliminates or reduces liability exposure; and
5. Protects and improves property values.

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service. Bulletin MF-935

Some counties are providing a cost share for plugging abandoned wells.

For more information contact your County Conservation District:

Southwest Groundwater Management District No. 3

Site last updated 10/23/09