CWD Regulatory Compliance & Legal Framework 3

Question 1

Under most state well codes, how long must a well driller retain copies of well completion reports?

Accepted Answer

At least 5 to 10 years, per state requirements

Answer

Most states require well drillers to retain copies of well logs and completion reports for a minimum of 5 to 10 years as part of record-keeping requirements.

Question 2

What does 'prior appropriation' refer to in the context of water rights law?

Accepted Answer

A water rights doctrine where the first user to put water to beneficial use has priority over later users

Answer

Prior appropriation is a western US water rights doctrine based on 'first in time, first in right,' meaning earlier water users have priority during shortages.

Question 3

A client requests installation of a geothermal heat pump well system. Which additional regulatory concern beyond standard well codes typically applies?

Accepted Answer

State regulations governing closed-loop or open-loop geothermal systems and fluid injection

Answer

Geothermal systems, especially open-loop systems that discharge water, are often regulated under UIC programs or specific state geothermal well codes in addition to standard well regulations.

Question 4

Which of the following activities would most likely require an Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class V permit?

Accepted Answer

Constructing a storm water infiltration drainage well

Answer

Class V UIC wells include shallow injection wells like storm water drainage wells, which inject fluids into or above underground sources of drinking water.

Question 5

In states using the 'riparian rights' doctrine, who has the right to use groundwater?

Accepted Answer

Landowners overlying the aquifer, who may use reasonable amounts

Answer

Under riparian rights doctrine, landowners overlying an aquifer have rights to reasonable use of groundwater, which is the prevailing system in most eastern US states.

(CWD) Certified Well Driller Practice Test

(CWD) Certified Well Driller Practice Test

CWD Regulatory Compliance & Legal Framework 3