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Well Status and Descriptions

It can be concerning to landowners when terminology is used to describe a wellsite on their land that may not be accurate. Having an accurate description and status may provide some peace of mind regarding current activity or non-activity on a landowner’s property. Data resources are available on the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) website to determine the status of a well. If you would like help navigating this process, be sure to contact the Farmers Information Service or the BCER directly.

Active well: A well that is producing oil and gas and has a viable operator.

Inactive well: A well that has not met a threshold for producing or injecting gas or fluids but has not yet been abandoned.

Suspended well: A well previously completed but is now no longer active and has been inspected and maintained to ensure long term well integrity and has a viable operator.

Abandoned well: A well that has been permanently plugged and the wellhead removed.

Dormant site: Wells and their associated operating areas that for five or more years have not met a certain threshold of activity but still have a viable operator.

Reclaimed site: A site that has been satisfactorily restored to its original state and may be eligible for a Certificate of Restoration, certifying it has met all necessary requirements.

Orphan site: An orphan designation is given by the BCER to wells and associated operating areas when the operator is insolvent or can’t be located. This can happen in any stage and allows restoration work to move ahead, paid through the industry-funded Orphan Site Reclamation Fund.

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