Oil-capping efforts continue to make progress in Kentucky.
That’s according to Governor Andy Beshear, who during his Thursday “Team Kentucky” update once again noted that a $25 million federal grant is helping pay for the plugging of these oil and gas orphan wells — left behind from decades of petroleum industry.
At this point, Kentucky is one of 22 states receiving this funding from Washington D.C., courtesy of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. And as one of just seven states beginning the refitting, the Commonwealth reportedly remains ahead of the curve on national removal rates.
As of Thursday, 540 wells have been capped in 23 counties, and 42 total contracts have been signed to plug 628 wells. The maneuver has reportedly restored more than 32 acres of land for farming and other uses in Kentucky, while creating 90 jobs.
Beshear said there’s potential to create 30 more jobs. And among the counties impacted: Christian County.
In a public statement through the governor’s office, Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam said he was excited about the work that’s been done. He said “they’re capping the wells three feet under the soil, so the tractors don’t have to go around them in the crop fields. This work is good for the environment, and [he’s] happy the contracts went to local companies.”
Beshear also noted he’s received mostly positive feedback on the measure, and referenced one business in Webster County.
Rideout stated that as a resident and business owner in Sebree, he appreciates the eye sore being removed, and he can host big events and now have a safe place to land Medivac helicopters if needed.
