We have divided the wells we find into several different groups. Below are some of the well types we commonly find. Casing is the material that keeps loose objects from falling into the well bore. Casing may have deteriorated or may still be present in different forms. It may extend down 30 - 200 feet. In a properly cased well the casing would extend down below the typical residential aquifers and be cemented in place.Most of the old wells we find either have no casing or the casing has rusted out at some point thus allowing water into the well and oil, gas and acid water into the aquifer.

Wood Casing: This indicates an old well. Wood casing deteriorates quickly and is rarely found extending above ground level.	Cast Iron Casing: This is an rare older type casing made of cast iron. It's 1 to 1.5" thick. It must be extreemly heavy.
Pipe Casing: This is current casing type. In many cases the pumping jack or other piping will extent out of the top. See the photo album for other examples.	Gas Well: Note the bolted on metal plate that sealed the top of the well. Many wells produced both gas and oil.
Open Hole: This results when the casing is removed without plugging the well. The well will eventually collapses into itself. A serious hazard to hunters and hikers	Depression: Also the result or the casing being removed or deteriorating. Inward collapse is limited but the depression may have a false bottom formed of sticks and leaves. The absence of vegetation in the depression may be due to gas leaking to the surface.