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Idaho officials: Help identify unused wells

 - STATESMAN STAFF

Published: 11/03/09


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State water officials are asking for the public to report improperly abandoned wells.

Officials say wells that have not been correctly decommissioned pose a hazard to animals, humans and can be a source for contaminating Idaho's groundwater and drinking water.

Last month, a hunting dog fell 270 feet into the bottom of an abandoned well in the South Hills near Twin Falls, nearly killing the dog.

The Idaho Department of Water Resources is poised to help property owners decommission unused wells.

Wells, especially irrigation wells, that are out of service can be up to 24 inches in diameter. The can also be a direct pathway for chemicals, bacteria, pesticides, manure, fertilizer or other wastes to contaminate underground aquifers.

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