Deep-Well Disposal of Waste

Deep-well disposal as a method for pollution control is investigated by states to ascertain the degree of development of deep-well disposal, and the procedures evolved to control this mode of disposal. Only 9 of the 45 states surveyed expressly prohibit or, as a matter of policy, actively discourage the method of deep-well disposal. Twenty-five states have some type of disposal wells presently in operation. The two controlling conditions necessary for an operable deep-well disposal system are a suitable disposal stratum, and a waste physically and chemically compatible with the resident material in the disposal formation. Care must be taken to assure that the various benefits are balanced, and that one aspect is not protected in such a manner as to be to the complete detriment of others.