Well Plugging Grant
Forecasted
Well Plugging Grant supports Missouri public water systems in identifying and plugging unused drinking water wells to reduce contamination risks and protect groundwater sources used for drinking water.
Funder: Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Priority deadline) | February 2027 (Final deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 per project in reimbursement funding
Summary: Supports eligible public water systems in identifying and plugging unused drinking water wells that threaten Missouri’s groundwater.
Key Information: Project costs incurred before full execution of a financial assistance agreement are not reimbursable.
Description
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources administers this grant to help community and not-for-profit noncommunity public water systems identify and properly plug unused drinking water wells. Abandoned wells create physical hazards and provide a direct channel for surface contamination to enter groundwater aquifers, which supply drinking water to more than 2.9 million Missourians. The program supports work that protects communities’ raw water sources.
Funding comes through the Missouri Drinking Water State Revolving Fund under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. The competitive annual program prioritizes actual well plugging rather than incentives or public information activities. Supported work includes plugging materials and supplies and contractual work by permitted well drillers or pump installers, with nominal oversight or consulting costs considered case by case.
