BONNYVILLE – The Orphan Well Association (OWA) has updated its action plan, setting dates to move in heavy machinery to decommission an orphan well in the 4500 block between 45th and 46th Avenue in Bonnyville.
“We anticipate moving the rig onto the site and starting decommissioning operations sometime between July 19 and 24,” states the OWA.
In June of 2024, the orphan well was found to be leaking minor volumes of sweet natural gas - mostly methane. The houses surrounding the orphan well were purchased by the OWA and demolished in order to make room for the rig.
The orphan well was drilled in 1954 by a now defunct corporation and decommissioned to the standard of that time.
“The Orphan Well Association works with industry, government and public stakeholders to manage the safety and environmental risks of oil and gas sites that do not have a legally or financially responsible party. These properties are known as “orphans,” states the OWA.
The OWA says the demolition of the homes has prepared the site to receive the drilling rig, but before they move the rig in, they will install a wellhead on the well and place wooden matting over the entire site.
“This will provide a stable surface for the rig and protect the site . . . It is anticipated the rig will operate for two to three days to complete the decommissioning of the well,” according to the OWA.
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