10/28/09

The Idaho Department of Water Resources is asking for your help in identifying improperly abandoned wells.

Spokesman Bob McLaughlin says wells that have not been properly abandoned can be deadly hazards to animals and humans, and can contaminate Idaho’s ground water.

Many domestic wells are only 6-inches in diameter, but some irrigation wells can be as large as 16-to-24 inches across.

Earlier this month a hunting dog fell 270 feet into the bottom of an abandoned well in the South Hills nearly killing the animal.

If you know of an abandoned well that has not been properly decommissioned, you're urged to call IDWR at 208-287-4800.