Well Decommissioning Guide
Guide to decommissioning a well, covering why it matters, who to hire and what records to keep. Work through the steps in order and keep notes on what you find along the way.
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GuideSoil, Water & ConservationFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Confirm the well is no longer needed
- Locate and record the well
- Check state rules
- Hire a licensed contractor
- Plan pump and equipment removal
- Arrange sealing per state rules
- Take photos before and after
- Obtain the contractor's report
- File records with the agency
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with CDC and eXtension.
For more in this area, see the row crop calendar. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Farm Journal Reveals Secret to Farming Profit: Inherit an Oil Well, and farming farm stories.