Norfolk County is thankful to the Province of Ontario after receiving news last week that they are investing in a province–wide action plan to research, identify and address the risks of abandoned oil and gas wells – an issue that has concerned Council, staff, and the public alike since 2015.
Norfolk County is home to more than 2,600 wells. These dormant wells have been abandoned and are not maintained. The topic has been highly discussed through several terms of Council, but moving the needle has been challenging due to the lack of funding and technical expertise needed to remediate the issue.
The $23.6 million funding includes $7.5 million over three years to directly support municipalities in their efforts to reduce risks and enhance emergency preparedness within their communities. Eligible municipalities, including Norfolk County, can apply for funding for these and other activities in the coming weeks.
The funds will also go toward doubling the Abandoned Works Program that focuses on the plugging of old oil and gas wells, resulting in $6 million in support over three years. Norfolk County utilized this program to make progress toward plugging the gas well on Forestry Farm Road.
Mayor Amy Martin has advocated for action from the provincial government for over five years as a member of Council and now as Mayor of Norfolk County. She recently presented at the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities to advocate for higher levels of government to support these and other efforts.
“On behalf of members of Council, Staff, and the residents of Norfolk County, I would like to thank the Province of Ontario for their support in addressing the significant issues that abandoned oil and gas wells present,” said Mayor Martin. “Norfolk County recognizes the impact this significant financial investment will have in our community and looks forward to the positive outcomes the Government of Ontario’s latest announcement will enable.”
The protection of the health and safety of the public remains Norfolk County’s top priority. Residents with questions or concerns about gas leaks on or near their property can contact the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Spills Action Centre at 416-325-3000, 1-800-268-6060 (toll-free), or 1-855-889-5775 (TYY).
