Enterprise software and cloud infrastructure provider Oracle has established a funding partnership with the Well Done Foundation to address abandoned oil and natural gas infrastructure in New Mexico. The initiative targets orphaned wells that no longer have a responsible operator but continue to release methane, hydrogen sulfide and volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere.
Under the agreement, Oracle will finance the environmental assessment and prioritization of ten orphaned wells across the state. Following the evaluation phase, the company will fund the physical plugging and surface restoration of the two locations identified as producing the highest volume of emissions. The financial grant also covers tuition for two local individuals to receive certification as measurement specialists, leading to direct employment on the foundation's remediation projects.
The Well Done Foundation, a non profit organization focused on capping abandoned extraction sites, coordinates with state agencies and local service providers to execute the closures. Before any physical work begins, crews conduct a technical screening to measure temperature, pressure, fluid leaks and specific gas emission rates. This telemetry data is logged and published through the organization's Well Intel tracking system to provide an auditable record of the environmental remediation.
The hazards associated with these legacy sites include groundwater contamination, localized smog formation and elevated safety risks for surrounding landowners.
“Orphaned oil and gas wells have posed silent threats to communities across New Mexico for years,” said Curtis Shuck, Chairman of the Board, Well Done Foundation. “Oracle’s support allows us to tackle this challenge more immediately by safely closing wells today and laying the groundwork to scale these efforts to plug more wells over time. That’s how real progress is made.”
Program organizers estimate that addressing these initial targets will prevent the release of more than 60,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in methane emissions. This reduction aligns directly with the regulatory goals outlined in the New Mexico Climate Action Plan.
"Oracle is committed to making a real difference in the communities where we operate," said Colleen Cassity, Global Head of Social Impact and Executive Director of Oracle Education Foundation and Oracle Health Foundation. "By partnering with WDF, we are addressing environmental risks, empowering local communities, and providing a healthier, more sustainable future for New Mexicans. This initiative reflects Oracle's broader dedication to social responsibility and our deep respect for the people and natural resources of New Mexico."
