What safeguards do the regulations require to prevent damage to the environment from drilling of test wells?
Test wells, whether they require a permit or not, must be drilled, utilized, and plugged in a manner that does not damage surface water, groundwater, soils, life, or property. Steel pipe, or casing, must be run in the well through the glacial deposits (sand, gravel, and clay overlying the bedrock) and cemented in place, to prevent collapse of the hole and protect against contamination of water sources. Drilling fluid-water, sometimes with clay additives, that is used to carry drill cuttings back to the surface and to lubricate the drill bit-must not cause contamination of groundwater. Surface water, such as Menominee River water, is allowed as drilling fluid provided there is adequate protection for aquifers. The water is chlorinated to kill any microorganisms.
