44 NOVEMBER 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® Orphaned Gas and Oil Well Program Adapted from Information by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Many gas and oil wells in Arizona were drilled in the early 1900s, which means they were established before modern regulations were put in place and may not have been adequately sealed. ADEQ is collaborating with the Arizona Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (AZOGCC), as well as engaging with local communities and both state and private landowners, to tackle the issue of orphaned gas and oil wells and their associated sites in Arizona. This initiative is supported by a $25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), awarded to ADEQ on behalf of AZOGCC. The program, which spans multiple years, aims to reduce potential safety hazards, public health concerns, and environmental risks linked to these abandoned wells. ADEQ has pinpointed nearly 200 potential orphaned gas and oil wells that qualify for the program. In 2024, field investigations successfully located just over 120 of these wells. The field verified wells encompass confirmed orphaned wells, plugged gas and oil wells, and converted water wells registered with the Arizona Department of Water Resources. Additionally, drone-based magnetometer surveys were performed to assist in identifying any buried wells. The Orphaned Oil and Gas Well Program implemented by ADEQ consists of four distinct phases: Phase 1 - Site Assessment: This phase involves verifying potential orphaned gas and oil wells and determining their eligibility for the program. ADEQ conducts file reviews to collect crucial information regarding ownership, location, geology, and other relevant details. Phase 2 - Site Characterization: State contractors, prioritizing the employment of displaced gas and oil workers, carry out fieldwork in this phase. They collaborate with landowners to access potential orphaned well sites, gather more information about the wells and their surroundings, confirm well locations, as well as conduct environmental sampling of air, soil, and available water sources (both surface and groundwater). If necessary, ADEQ will partner with the community and property owners to temporarily restrict access to well sites to address any public health and environmental concerns prior to the well plugging process. Phase 3 - Well Plugging: During this phase, cement is injected into the wellbore at specified depth intervals to seal off the zones where gas and oil was located, followed by the installation of a permanent cap on the well. Confirmation methane testing will be performed to ensure the well has been properly sealed. ADEQ will work closely with property owners and nearby community members to coordinate the plugging activities. Phase 4 - Site Remediation: If necessary, ADEQ will undertake cleanup or restoration of the area surrounding the plugged well to return it to its original state. This may involve removing contaminated soil, grading the landscape to align with native ground cover, and replanting native species. ADEQ has determined at least 40 wells need to be plugged and has successfully collaborated with landowners to plug 15 of these wells. Photos courtesy of the DOI. G&O For more information, call 480-609-3993 info@ mountainstatesgroundwater.com U Raffles U Exhibits U Seminars U Networking Opportunities U Buck Lively Scholarship Auction PLACE YOUR ORDER NOW FOR THE JANUARY ISSUE OF WWDR. CALL 850-547-0102 GET AHEAD OF THE PACK!
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