Rule 36.22.1005 - DRILLING WASTE DISPOSAL AND SURFACE RESTORATION(1) The operator of a drilling well must contain and dispose of all solid waste and produced fluids that accumulate during drilling operations so as not to degrade surface water, groundwater, or cause harm to soils. Said waste and fluids must be disposed of in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations.(2) When a salt-based or oil-based drilling fluid is used to drill a well located within a floodplain, as defined by ARM 36.15.101, or in irrigated cropland, drilling waste and produced fluids that accumulate during drilling operations must be disposed of off-site in a manner allowed by local, state, and federal laws and regulations unless an alternative on-site disposal method is approved in writing by the board administrator.(3) The operator of a drilling well must construct, close, and restore any reserve pits in a manner that will prevent harm to the soil and will not degrade surface waters or groundwater. When a salt-based or oil-based drilling fluid is used, the reserve pit must be lined with a synthetic liner approved by the board administrator.(4) Within 10 days after the cessation of drilling or completion operations, all hydrocarbons must be removed from earthen pits used in association with drilling or completion operations or such pits must be fenced, screened, and netted. Such pits that contain water with more than 15,000 parts per million total dissolved solids or salt-based drilling fluids must be fenced within 90 days after the cessation of drilling and completion operations.(5) Earthen pits used in association with drilling and completion operations must not be used for the disposal of any additional fluids or materials after the cessation of drilling and completion operations.(6) All earthen pits used in association with drilling and completion operations must be closed and the surface restored according to board specifications within one year after the cessation of drilling operations. Upon written application by the operator, an exception to the one-year pit closure requirement may be granted in writing by the board administrator upon a showing that: (a) no dumping or disposal of waste or fluids in the pit will occur; and(b) delayed closure of the pit will not present a risk of contamination to soils or water or a hazard to animals or persons..Mont. Admin. r. 36.22.1005
Eff. 12/31/72; AMD, Eff. 7/5/75; AMD, 1992 MAR p. 654, Eff. 4/1/92Sec. 82-11-111, MCA: IMP, Sec. 82-11-123 and Sec. 82-11-124, MCA;