Understanding Abandoned Wells: Science, Risks, and Community Action

Rio Vista sits on the largest natural gas field in California and is surrounded by hundreds of wells, both active and abandoned. This informal session was brought about by the Rio Vista Youth Air Protectors' interest in learning more about the impacts of the oil and gas wells they see around them every day.

From a scientific perspective, we know surprisingly little about abandoned wells and health, and there's space to learn more.

During this informational Zoom session, researcher Dr. David González will share about the scope of oil and gas exposures statewide, what we know about how abandoned wells can impact the environment, and things to watch out for regarding health. He will also share examples of how community and youth groups have taken on these kinds of challenges in the past.

Dr. González's presentation will be followed by an informal Q&A, so please come with your questions!

A Zoom link will be sent out prior to the event.

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David González is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health. Dr. González has interdisciplinary training as an epidemiologist and environmental scientist, which he applies to investigate the environmental and public health impacts of extractive industries and climate-driven disasters. His research centers environmental justice and health disparities, with the aim of informing evidence-based interventions to improve health and address persistent inequities.

Dr. González has recently focused on the health impacts of oil and gas development and wildfire smoke, using population-level data and community-engaged methods. He is the Principal Investigator of the EQUIS Lab.