[central_va]

Why does the EPA require wells be plugged when not in service?

[familyop]

"Why does the EPA require wells be plugged when not in service?"

Several reasons. For one, gas leaks from natural causes already bring a number of problems. Recent natural, periodical increases in geomagnetic field and outer core/lower mantle movements (probably causing more leakage overall) are a consideration that's often incorrectly rendered into rants masquerading as research report abstracts about anthropogenic global warming.

Also, curious folks tend to put various kinds of debris down abandoned oil and water wells--bad for everyone. Also, oil is a top security priority, though mostly privately managed. and the government likes to monitor the state of reserves with as few unknowns as possible.

[thackney]

It is not the EPA making the requirement. It is done by state rules.

Wells not in service are not being maintained. They will eventually begin to leak. Many older wells were abandoned when the production no longer paid to keep running. They began leaking oil and other reservoir gas and fluids into the drinking water levels.

Most (all?) states have some sort of Oil Field Cleanup fund, typically paid by permitting/use costs of newer wells.

More info can be found at:

WELL PLUGGING PRIMER
http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/media/6358/plugprimer1.pdf
RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS