Oronoco Well Sealing
Residents of Oronoco historically depended on individual wells for all of their potable water needs. Most of these wells are shallow or sand point types and may have elevated levels of nitrates.The City of Oronoco recently completed the first phase of a municipal water system project that will lessen the citizen dependence on individual wells. As residents are connected to the municipal system their existing wells are no longer needed. The wells should be sealed to prevent possible contamination of the city wells.Grant funds will be used to assist with the cost of sealing these wells. It is anticipated that the sealing of up to 140 wells within the city limits of Oronoco will be cost shared as part of the project.A portion of clean water funds are required to be directed toward the protection of drinking water supplies. This project builds upon efforts to transition Oronoco residents to a safer and dependable water supply system.
Nicole Clapp
(c) $3,000,000 the first year and $3,000,000 the second year are for nonpoint source pollution reduction and restoration grants to watershed districts, watershed management organizations, counties, and soil and water conservation districts for grants in addition to grants available under paragraphs (a) and (b) to keep water on the land and to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams, and to protect groundwater and drinking water. The projects must be of long-lasting public benefit, include a local match, and be consistent with TMDL implementation plans or local water management plans. Up to five percent may be used for administering the grants (2011 - Clean Water Assistance)
It is anticipated that the sealing of up to 140 wells within the city limits of Oronoco will be cost shared as part of the project.
A total of 85 wells were sealed using this grant. These wells were located on 77 properties within the City of Oronoco. These residences are now connected to the municipal water system thereby reducing the potential of ground water contamination.