2010 Cabin Run Orphan Well
General
Problem Description
A leaking orphan oil well was polluting Cabin Run, a tributary which discharges directly into the Muskingum River in Morgan County. The orphan well is located on a 29-acre tract of land recently acquired by the Friends of the Lower Muskingum River (FLMR).
UPDATE: During the capping and cleanup of this project, a second well was located and capped further reducing contamination to the Muskingum River.
Solution Description
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Mineral Resources Management secured partial funding from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, authorized by the Oil Pollution Act administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The U.S. Coast Guard agreed to provide approximately $25,000 for this project with an additional $15,000 required to complete the project.
Total project cost: $40,000
Requested Grant: $15,000
Recommended Grant: $15,000
Grant Funding
Plugging this oil well eliminates a major point source of oil pollution in Cabin Run. Stopping the flow of oil also eliminates the release of natural gas to the atmosphere, a major green house gas and a fire hazard. This project will improve the water quality of Cabin Run and the Muskingum River eliminating an adverse impact on aquatic species and waterfowl. The cessation of the oil well flow will improve the safety and enjoyment of the public when this area is opened for passive recreation.
Location Information
Cabin Run is located near the intersection of State Route 266 and Columbus Street, directly east of Stockport Ohio and just slightly northeast of Big Bottom State Memorial Park, in Morgan County.
Activity Log
Partners in Watershed Management grant approved by the Board of Directors on September 17, 2010.
Repairs on this site completed in fall of 2010.
On April 22, 2011 the Board of Directors approved an additional grant of $5,000 for the capping and cleanup of the second well found at this location.
This project was completed in May of 2011.
Partners
