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Kentucky Water Science Center

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The mission of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is to serve the Nation by providing reliable, impartial scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.


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NEW image graphicAbandoned Oil and Gas Wells near Fort Knox

High concentrations of chlorides in the ground water have resulted in the abandonment of several drinking-water supply in the West Point area. Previous investigations by the USGS have identified the probably sources of chlorides to be improperly abandoned natural gas wells. Over time, the casings of abandoned wells may eventually develop leaks and if not properly plugged, can act as a conduit for oil and gas field brines to migrate into shallow fresh water aquifers.

In March 2007, the USGS began an investigation to locate, identify, inventory, and assess as many of the abandoned gas wells in the West Point area as possible. The investigation consisted of data and file reviews, interviews, field visits and verifications, ground-water elevation and chloride measurements, and surface geophysical surveys. The project was undertaken in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Louisville District and the U.S. Army Installation at Fort Knox.


Picture of USGS staff monitoring changing pressure in an abandoned gass well.

Monitoring changing pressure in an abandoned gas well at Fort Knox, KY

Abandoned gas well in streambed near Ft. Knox.

Abandoned gas well in streambed near Fort Knox, KY.

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