District’s abandoned well program safeguarding our aquifers
The District recently plugged a flowing artesian well on the public beach in Brevard County that was exposed after erosion caused by last year’s hurricanes.
The District recently plugged a flowing artesian well on the public beach in Brevard County that was exposed after erosion caused by last year’s hurricanes.
PALATKA, Fla., Jan. 9, 2024 — The St. Johns River Water Management District Governing Board continues to fund the Artesian Abandoned Well Plugging program in 2024. Highlighting the program’s success, the District achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by plugging 161 free-flowing wells, saving 20.1 million gallons of water a day.
“The District is dedicated to safeguarding our aquifers and preserving water quality,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Mike Register. “The Board’s support of funding for this program underscores our collective commitment to responsible water management, reinforcing our resolve to protect Florida’s waterways for generations to come.”
Artesian wells, often located in deeper aquifer sections, can be vulnerable to increased salinity. As these wells age, the deterioration of their casings poses a risk of allowing poorer water quality to intrude into zones used for drinking water supplies.
To report a free-flowing well or to check its eligibility for the program, click here. For any questions regarding the Abandoned Artesian Well Plugging Program, please contact Jeannine Evans at 386-329-4319.