Abandoned well could be source of gas leak

Abandoned well could be source of gas leak by Adrian Pittman, July 25, 2012, WBRZ.com
BELLE ROSE – Assumption Parish officials believe an abandon well leaking natural gas could be what’s causing bubbles on Bayou Corne and Grand Bayou. A resident came across the abandoned well two days ago off La. 70, in a swamp near Bayou Corne. Officials said the well is leaking flammable natural gas, but the chance of any ignition is 35 percent. Although a lot of fingers point to this well as the cause for the bubbling bayou, officials still aren’t saying the mystery’s solved. “We have to check and try and determine what is the source of the gas that is bubbling in Bayou Corne and Grand Bayou, if this is related to one larger incident,” said Assumption Parish Emergency Preparedness manager John Boudreaux. Residents said at this point, they don’t know what to believe. “I’m not a scientist, I’m not an engineer, I don’t know any of this stuff, I’m just having to take people at their word for it. But we feel like we’re not getting enough real concrete answers to make us feel safe,” said Bucky Mistretta.