WELL DECOMMISSIONING PROGRAM

It is estimated that there are at least 100,000 improperly abandoned wells in Illinois that pose a significant threat to health and safety. Improperly abandoned wells may be a direct conduit for pollutants to enter aquifers and contaminate groundwater shared by all citizens.

The Illinois Well Decommissioning Program is administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD’s). It is designed to provide technical and financial assistance to owners of improperly abandoned water wells. The objectives of the program are to apply appropriate well sealing measures to protect groundwater from potential contamination and to promote the health and safety of Illinois citizens.

Eligibility: Any individual who owns or manages an abandoned water well within Adams County is eligible for cost-share assistance to properly seal the well. The maximum cost-share available is 60% of the actual cost, not to exceed $400.00 for fiscal year 2010.

February 2 - 13, 2009 Applications must be filed with the Adams County SWCD.  On-line application form
Approval Notification:  Applicants will be notified if their request for cost-share assistance has been approved.  This date is dependent upon IDOA notification to SWCD's. If approved, the applicant must:
  Complete a "Request for Water Well Sealing" and send to the Adams County Health Department
  Complete a "Water Well Sealing Plan" and send to the Adams County SWCD.
June 30, 2010 – All approved work must be completed and bills submitted to the Adams County SWCD.

All requests will be prioritized based on the following:
Abandoned wells within setback zones on community water supply wells.
Abandoned wells within regulated recharge area of a community water supply well
Abandoned wells within setback zones on non-community public water supply wells (schools, churches, restaurants, etc)
Abandoned wells within 200 feet of private or semi-private wells.
Abandoned wells within watersheds of community surface water supplies
Abandoned wells in close proximity to streams
Abandoned wells that pose an immediate threat to public safety
For more information, contact the Adams County SWCD at 224-9305, Extension 3.