How One Orphan Well Stopped 25 000 t CO₂e from Entering the Atmosphere
In Q3 2025, CH4mber sealed well OK‑04123—preventing 25 000 t of CO₂e that would otherwise have vented into the sky. This is our step‑by‑step account of drilling, abandonment, discovery, and final plugging.
1938 – Well Drilled; 1940–1985 – 12 M bbl Produced
The OK‑04123 well was drilled into the prolific Mississippian formation, producing oil for nearly half a century. Operated by a series of independents, the field’s geology made it a reliable source of energy for decades.
2005 – Ownership Transferred & Orphaned
After several ownership changes, the well was left without a solvent operator. With no responsible party, it was classified as an orphan well—unmaintained and leaking methane.
2023 Q2 – CH4mber Discovers Active Leak
CH4mber’s team identified OK‑04123 as a high-priority site using satellite data and on-site surveys. Measurements revealed a baseline methane leak rate of 78 L/min—one of the largest in the region.
2023 Q3 – Legal Research & Landowner Engagement
Extensive county records searches and outreach letters were conducted, but no current owner could be located. This legal diligence paved the way for state intervention and plugging.
2025 Q3 – Plug Complete (25 000 t CO₂e)
A specialized rig was mobilized to the site. Using industry-standard plugging techniques, the well was permanently sealed and verified, preventing an estimated 25 000 t of CO₂e from entering the atmosphere.
Join Us in Stopping More Methane
Every orphan well we seal means fewer gigatons of greenhouse gas. Reserve your pilot credits today.