Tribal Orphaned Wells Program

In accordance with 42 U.S.C. 15907(d)(1)(A), the Orphaned Wells Program Office administers the Tribal Orphaned Wells Program and makes available up to $150 million for Tribal well plugging, remediation and restoration activities.  Through this Program, Tribes are eligible for two types of grants: Implementation grants to fund the plugging, remediation, and reclamation of orphaned wells and well sites; and smaller Development grants to create and administer programs for well identification, assessment, training, and capacity building. Through “in lieu of grant” funding, Tribes may request that the Department administer and carry out plugging, remediation, and reclamation activities related to eligible orphaned wells on their behalf.

Guidance associated with the Tribal Program can be found below.

Technical Assistance Opportunities  

For technical assistance, including questions concerning grant application workplans and technical requirements, In Lieu of Grant requests, and for all activities associated with plugging, remediation, and reclamation of orphaned wells and well sites, contact the Orphaned Wells Program Office’s Tribal Program Division at DOI_OrphanedWells_Tribal@ios.doi.gov or (202) 219-3283.

For grants administration (financial) assistance, including downloading application materials, questions about grant requirements, and requests for approval of pre-award costs, contact the Interior Business Center at aqd-fa.tribes@ibc.doi.gov.

Resources

Open Opportunities

Reporting & Templates

Protocols & Guidelines

Closed Opportunities

Program & Consultation History

 

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