SENECA, Pa. – Rep. Lee James (R-Venango/Butler) recenlty announced that the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) is the recipient of a $20,624 Orphan or Abandoned Well Plugging (OAWP) Program grant to close two oil wells in the Tippery Meadows Natural Area Preserve in Cranberry Township, Venango County.

“I have been a staunch supporter of this initiative and am glad the Commonwealth Financing Agency, which approved the grant, also saw the merits of this project,” James said. “Properly securing these two wells will ensure safety for residents who enjoy this 56-acre nature preserve.”

The two wells are located in the southcentral and southeastern section of the preserve, which is open to the public for recreational opportunities, such as hiking and hunting.

OAWP grants are through the Marcellus Legacy Fund, which is funded through unconventional gas well impact fees charged to gas drillers in the state, and are administrated by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.