The Ontario government is allocating $2.5 million this year to support municipalities in managing the risks associated with old and inactive oil and gas wells.
This funding is part of a three-year, $7.5 million investment aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness across communities.
The initiative is a continuation of the government’s broader $23.6 million action plan targeting the challenges posed by legacy oil and gas wells.
“We understand the significance of this issue in Lambton County and across southwestern Ontario, and that is why we are continuing to make investments to help keep communities safe,” said Minister of Natural Resources Graydon Smith.
Money used for health, safety training and equipment
In the previous year, the province provided nearly $2 million to nine municipalities in southwestern Ontario for emergency response equipment, health and safety training for municipal staff, and public education efforts. Lambton County used its share to purchase new equipment, train staff, and subscribe to petroleum industry databases.
This year, Lambton County is set to receive an additional $105,000 to expand on existing projects and start new initiatives aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness and reducing risks. Kevin Marriott, Warden of Lambton County, expressed optimism about the ongoing efforts, stating, “The County of Lambton is looking forward to continuing work on collaborative activities with our municipal partners to build capacity for emergency preparedness and risk prevention.”
In addition to Lambton County, several other municipalities are eligible for funding this year, including the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Oxford County, Brant County, Elgin County, Essex County, Haldimand County, Norfolk County, and the Regional Municipality of Niagara. The funding will also support collaborative projects and partnerships between municipalities for research, public education, and outreach campaigns.
27,000 wells across province
Ontario has records for approximately 27,000 oil and gas wells, mainly located on private land in southwestern Ontario. The local geology and naturally occurring petroleum resources in rural municipalities pose potential risks to public health, safety, and the environment. The Ministry of Natural Resources administers the Abandoned Works Program, which provides financial assistance for plugging oil and gas wells that are high risks to public safety or the natural environment. To date, the province has invested $33 million to plug 440 wells across Ontario.
Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, emphasized the significance of the investment, stating, “This vital investment demonstrates the Ontario government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. By addressing these potential hazards, we are not only protecting our environment but also promoting a safer and more sustainable future for all residents.”
Rob Grimwood, Deputy Chief and President of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, also commended the government’s efforts, saying, “The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs is thankful for the important investments from the government of Ontario and Minister Smith in addressing and mitigating risks associated with Ontario’s legacy gas wells. The OAFC continues to work with the Minister and province on this important issue.”
The Ontario government will continue to collaborate with municipal partners and seek their input to ensure future funding remains adaptable to the needs of communities across the province.