An investigation is ongoing after a third well was discovered near the site of the August 26 gas explosion in Wheatley.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent said contractors discovered a brick well structure earlier this week, with a small wooden casing extending from the bottom approximately 12 feet below the surface.
While small amounts of methane have been detected from the well, an investigation is ongoing to determine if the structure is a water well or a gas well.
Municipal officials have also begun reviewing a work plan that will establish what the next remediation steps will be to prevent further dangerous gas emissions.
“We have a preliminary work plan now under review,” said CK CAO Don Shropshire in a news release. “Once that has taken place, our plan is to hold a virtual public meeting with Wheatley residents and provide information as to next steps.”
A gas release has not taken place at the site of the explosion in downtown Wheatley since November 21. Given the interval between gas leaks, municipal officials are expecting a release soon, however, topographical changes and cold weather may be having an effect on the site.
