JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for Abandoned Well Plugging Grants from eligible public water systems through Feb. 28, 2026. The grant offers up to $20,000 per project to properly plug wells that, if left unplugged, may present a contamination risk to groundwater resources used by a regulated public water system.
If not plugged properly, abandoned wells pose a physical hazard to people and wildlife. Abandoned wells can also allow contamination to reach and impact groundwater, the primary source of drinking water for over 80% of Missouri’s public water systems.
Community and not-for-profit noncommunity public water systems with at least one active or emergency well are eligible to apply for reimbursement funding through this program. Project selection is competitive, with the priority application period running Nov. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2025. Applications received from Jan.1, 2026, through Feb. 28, 2026, may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis if funds remain. Applicants may apply via the department’s Funding Opportunities Portal at dnr.mo.gov/financial-opportunities/funding-portal/access-request. A fully executed financial assistance agreement between the project applicant and the department is required prior to incurring project-related costs.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is committed to helping Missouri communities protect their drinking water sources and human health. Water wells must be plugged properly to protect groundwater resources from contamination and to protect Missouri communities’ health and economic vitality. Funding for the department’s Abandoned Well Plugging Grant program derives wholly or in part from monies received through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For more information, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/financial-assistance-opportunities/abandoned-well-plugging-grant or contact the Source Water Protection Program Coordinator by phone at 573-526-0269 or by email at SourceWaterProtection@dnr.mo.gov.