Here in the Eastern Panhandle, we’re seeing a boom in industrial development. Meanwhile, other West Virginians are living through the “bust” that comes after a “boom.”

While walking on the North Bend Rail Trail a few years ago, I noticed the smell of gas in the air. Recently I learned that I had been breathing gas that escaped from abandoned or “orphaned” wells. That odor is evidence of a risk to the health of our communities, and especially the people who own the land where the well is located. These folks are stuck with a health hazard literally in their own backyards.

This gas adds to the greenhouse gases that are contributing to climate change, which is bringing frequent heavy rains that are causing flooding in our river valleys.

Cleaning up orphaned wells will spur economic development, clean up the air and water, increase property value and reduce the harmful emissions that leak from these wells and contribute to climate change. But who will pay for it? Will taxpayers end up picking up the tab?

The Orphan Well Prevention Act (HB4054, Hansen) would require companies to deposit funds for plugging their wells up front, before they begin drilling. This common sense solution can prevent the oil and gas industry from passing along this economic burden to West Virginia taxpayers should they abandon or orphan their wells.

Plugging orphaned wells will be a win for property rights, our economy, environment and public health. Act today and urge our legislators to address this crisis, without gouging taxpayers, at https://wvecouncil.org/call-to-action-2/.

Aileen Curfman, of Shepherdstown