The following animated video presentation is an example of a Class II Saltwater Disposal Well. Please note that well information may vary by region, local regulations and geology.
Class II Saltwater Disposal Well
Class II Saltwater Disposal Wells are the EPA’s preferred method for the disposal of saltwater produced from the oil extraction process.
Saltwater is often found in the same formations as oil because it was trapped in layers of sediment millions of years ago. For every barrel of oil produced, approximately 10 barrels of saltwater are also produced and require disposal.
A commercial saltwater disposal well is most often an oil or gas well that is no longer in production. However, Class II Disposal Wells have strict requirements.
What is a saltwater disposal well?
A Class II Saltwater Disposal Well is often an oil or gas well that is no longer in production and is used for the disposal of saltwater produced from the oil extraction process. These disposal wells usually already contain naturally occurring saltwater. This is the EPA’s preferred method of disposal.
According to the EPA, Class II wells have the following requirements:
Class II Disposal Well Requirements
States (including federally recognized tribes and U.S. territories) have the option of requesting primacy for Class II wells under either Section 1422 or 1425 of the SDWA.
Under Section 1422 states must meet EPA’s minimum requirements for UIC programs. Programs authorized under section 1422 must include well owner and operator requirements for:
Construction- Operation
- Monitoring and testing
- Reporting
- Closure requirements
Under Section 1422 enhanced recovery wells may either be issued permits or be authorized by rule. Disposal wells are issued permits. The owners or operators of the wells must meet all applicable requirements, including strict construction and conversion standards and regular testing and inspection.
Under Section 1425 states must demonstrate that their existing standards are effective in preventing endangerment of USDWs. These programs must include requirements for:
- Permitting
- Inspections
- Monitoring
- Record-keeping
- Reporting
The primary purpose of Class II Saltwater Disposal Wells is to provide an environmentally safe method for the disposal of the saltwater produced from oil and gas extraction and to protect drinking water sources. Surface casing is installed to keep any potential contamination on the surface from entering around the well. Steel casing pipe is cemented into the hole down to at least 100 feet below the water source.
The above video goes into detail as to how a commercial saltwater disposal well is constructed, utilized, and how it protects drinking water.
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