(UIC) Interagency Cooperation
Class II and Class V geothermal injection wells are permitted and regulated by the Division of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Division of Minerals (DOM), Division of Water Resources (DWR) and/or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
The DEP has Memorandum of Understandings with DOM and BLM, and works closely with DWR on Class V wells. Each of the agencies approach the regulation of injection wells from a different prospective but with certain areas of overlapping interest. The DOM and BLM regulate the construction and operation of oil and gas, and geothermal wells within the State. This includes injection wells that are used to enhance production or to dispose of produced water. The DEP has separate regulatory authority to regulate all underground injection in the State, and its regulations are much more detailed and comprehensive in that area.
Although both the DOM and BLM are concerned about protecting the waters of the State, their regulatory authorities are centered around well safety, mineral rights and resources, and royalties. There are no conflicts between the statutes or regulations of these agencies and staff often confer when making changes in their policies or regulations. This interagency cooperation has assisted in broadening the individual programs alleviating the need to hire additional staff, and has given the means to resolve industry issues utilizing the expertise of each team member.
The Division of Water Resources also regulates geothermal wells with regard to water rights and plugging & abandonment. Please contact them directly for information at (775) 687-4380.
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