Well Abandonment

Old water wells not properly sealed and filled are an easy path for contaminants such as sediment, bacteria and chemicals to reach the groundwater supply. They also pose a hazard to children or animals that could fall into larger wells. 

The NRD will cost share 65 percent of the actual cost of plugging an abandoned well, up to $600 per well. The maximum allowable cost share for hand-dug wells is $700.   However, in areas of the South Platte NRD where a Wellhead Protection Area has been designated, cost share assistance can be as high as 100 percent.

According to Nebraska state law, the well must be abandoned according to state specifications by a licensed water well driller or pump installer.