The single greatest
threat to groundwater supply is abandoned wells.
Abandoned wells are those wells no longer used to supply water, or wells in such a state of disrepair that the well has the potential for transmitting contaminants
into an aquifer or otherwise threatens public health or safety. Abandoned
wells provide a direct route for contaminants to reach groundwater
supplies called aquifers. Permanently sealing an abandoned water well
is necessary not only to protect groundwater, but is also required by
the Illinois Water Well Construction Code and the Kendall County Health
Department Water Supplies Ordinance.
Some examples of abandoned
wells include:
- Private wells disconnected
and unused after a public water connection
- Old windmill powered
wells left abandoned on farmsteads
- Unused hand pump
wells on properties
- Unused brick or
clay-lined shallow dug wells
If you believe you
have an abandoned well on your property contact the Environmental
Health Unit at the Kendall County Health Department.
Abandoned wells may be sealed by a state licensed water well driller or by the homeowner
under permit and supervision of the Health Department. The packet below
includes informational forms on cost programs and reduced cost sealing
products. These program are of great benefit to homeowners trying to seal
their own wells while keeping costs as low as possible.
The Northeastern Illinois Regional Groundwater Protection Planning Committee (NIRGPPC) is a local groundwater protection committee that offers reduced cost well
sealing materials.
Link to committee brochure.
The Kendall
County Soil and Water Conservation District offers a technical assistance
and cost-share program for well sealing. |
