ODNR Division of Mineral Resources Management - Oil and Gas

Approved Clay Sources

According to plugging rules that went into effect June 10, 2004, prepared clay from an approved source can be used to plug a cable tool-drilled well and may be used to plug the lowest producing reservoir in a rotary-drilled well, if the Chief determines that well conditions warrant the practice.

As of September 2006, the Division has approved the following sources of clay:

  • C&L Industrial Supply
    contact Brian, 740-385-1675.
  • Cedar Heights Clay Company
    PO Box 295, Oak Hill, Ohio 45656
    contact William Edwards, 740-682-7794.
  • Clark Clay Company
    contact Chad Clark, 330-231-3040.
  • L & M Mineral Company
    6299 State Route 241, Millersburg, Ohio 44654
    contact Morris Christner, 330-674-1791.
  • Logan Clay Products
    201 S. Walnut St., Logan, Ohio 43138
    contact Mr. Junge or Jane Weiland, 740-385-2184.
  • SDI Steel Buildings
    IM Permit 2182, Perry County
    contact Mark Swingle or James Swingle, 740-982-4280.
  • Valley Clay Mining Company
    contact Rick Dement, 740-697-0620 or 740-704-0387.
  • HOLEPLUG
    Bagged bentonite manfactured by Baroid Industrial Drilling Products, 1-800-735-6075

The clay used for plugging must be obtained from an approved source that meets certain standards. Per the approved rules (1501:9-11-07 B), for a sample to become an approved source, a clay content of not less than 40% (grain size of 4 microns or less) and sand or greater size content not exceeding 30% (sand fraction is defined as grain size exceeding 62.5 microns) must be met.

 

A cable tool drill rig

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

To become an “approved” source, the Division must collect a representative sample from the source and have the sample tested in accordance with ASTM standards.

If the clay content meets or exceeds 40% and the sand fraction is 30% or less, the clay will be approved by DMRM for use.

For more information contact Rick Simmers.