Idaho water officials are asking for help from the public to identify improperly abandoned wells.
The Idaho Department of Water Resources says wells that have not been correctly decommissioned pose a hazard to animals, humans and can be a source for contaminating the state’s groundwater and drinking water.
Last month, a hunting dog fell 270 feet into the bottom of an abandoned well in the South Hills near Twin Falls, nearly killing the dog.
Wells, especially irrigation wells, that are out of service can be up to 24 inches in diameter. They can also be a direct pathway for chemicals, bacteria, pesticides, manure, fertilizer or other wastes to contaminate underground aquifers. (AP)
