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Decades-Old Offshore Oil Well To Be Sealed On South Coast

A polluting oil well in the near-shore waters off Summerland beach will now be capped to prevent any further leaking.

The Becker well dates back decades, when onshore and offshore drilling took place in the area.

The well was never sealed off properly.

Residents have complained for years about the leak, that sometimes is very detectable and damaging to local swimming and beach access areas.

The watchdog group Heal the Ocean, along with many private donors, worked with the state on grants and contributions for the $1.5 million capping effort.

That effort will begin with the arrival of a special barge and equipment on the last Monday of February.

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