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ABANDONED WELL SEALING

LAKE OF THE WOODS SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

IS THERE AN OLD WELL ON YOUR PROPERTY?
NOT SURE WHAT TO DO?

Sealing abandoned wells is important.  Wells provide a direct route for contamination to reach underground aquifers.  Some cistern-style wells can also be a safety issue for children and animals. 

The District has a cost share program to promote abandoned well sealing in Lake of the Woods County.  This program pays up to $1,000 to seal your old, abandoned well.  Applications must be received in advance of the work being performed.  Wells must be sealed by a licensed contractor. 

FUNDING IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE

  • Download the Application Packet or contact the District for further information on how to apply. 
  • Licensed Well Sealing Contractors – visit the MN Department of Health for contractors throughout MN.  The SWCD also maintains a list of local contractors who seal wells in LW County.  This list is on page 2 of the cost share application packet.  

To find out more information on Abandoned Wells, or to receive assistance for finding abandoned wells on your property, visit the Department of Health website.

NEED ASSISTANCE LOCATING A BURIED OR ABANDONED WELL?

The staff at the MN Department of Health have equipment that can help find old, buried wells.  Buried wellheads were not totally uncommon years ago, and this style of well may still be in use.  In some cases, it is necessary to locate these wells for construction projects, or when it’s time to decommission them.  MDH staff have assisted landowners in the county in finding the approximate location of these buried wells.  

Call the SWCD and we can help get you in contact with MDH staff.  You can also contact the Bemidji Department of Health office.