The Shapiro Administration announced the plugging of the 300th orphaned or abandoned well over the past two years in North Franklin Township, Washington County. This project was done under an emergency contract because the well was leaking methane and sits between two reservoirs on the site of the township’s future Waterside Park, an 89-acre park to connect residents to greenspace, outdoor recreation opportunities, and to serve as a community hub.  

The state Department of Environmental Protection is focusing efforts through the Orphan Well Plugging Grant Program on the 27,000 orphan and abandoned wells and is prioritizing those posing the highest risk. Funds will focus on those high-priority and nearby wells. Click here for the press release.