Main

Geology & Hydrology

Delineation

Advanced Data Gathering Using GPS

Well Pump Station Geology

Abandoned Well Program

Public Outreach

Aquifer Protection Areas

Future Plans

References

Download Plan

SAWS Abandoned Well Program

Abandoned wells are an environmental concern because they are direct conduits for contaminants to enter a water supply. The Groundwater Resource Protection Section is proactive in the pursuit of identifying and seeking the closure of abandoned wells. Abandoned wells are identified during inspections of platted or replatted properties, property inspections performed after SAWS receives an application for water service, and the Search and Abatement Program, which is the inspection of approximately 1,500 accumulated active well files. SAWS issues permits for approximately 70 well closures per year.

In 1997, a geophysical logging program was initiated to ensure the proper closure of abandoned wells. Additionally, this program provides the technical and scientific information to promote subsurface research, and ensure proper well construction.