Manchin, Capito Announce Funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Address an Orphaned Well in the Gauley River National Recreation Area

Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin

May 26, 2022

Orphaned well clean-up will create good-paying jobs, ensure healthy communities and revitalize rural economies

Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) announced West Virginia will receive funding to plug, remediate and reclaim an orphaned well located within the Gauley River National Recreation Area. This project is funded through an initial $33 million from the Department of the Interior to address and clean up orphaned oil and gas wells on Federal lands across the country. This funding, along with the more than $141 million for wells on private and state lands previously announced in January, was made possible by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and will reduce methane emissions, clean up the environment and help reinvigorate communities across West Virginia impacted by orphaned oil and gas wells.

“The Gauley River National Recreation Area is one of West Virginia’s – and America’s – most treasured playgrounds. For generations, families and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country have enjoyed the world-class rapids and rugged hiking trails this area has come to be known for. The orphaned well clean up funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will ensure this beloved area can remain healthy for our children and grandchildren while also bringing new economic opportunities and creating good-paying jobs. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this funding and, as Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, I will continue advocating for resources to ensure the wild and wonderful corners of West Virginia are protected for generations to come,” said Chairman Manchin.

“The natural beauty of West Virginia’s landscape is unmatched, and that is especially true of our Gauley River National Recreation Area. Generations of West Virginians have enjoyed the outdoor opportunities available at the Gauley River, and it’s essential that we preserve this access for generations to come,” Senator Capito said. “Providing resources that protect the grandeur of the Mountain State will always be a priority, and I’m proud to see this effort facilitated by the bipartisan infrastructure law.”