N.M. Admin. Code § 19.14.25.8
Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 21, November 5, 2024
Section 19.14.25.8 - DRILLING MUD AND MUD PITSA. In order to assure an adequate supply of drilling fluid to confine all natural fluids to their respective native strata and to prevent blowouts, each operator shall, prior to commencing drilling operations, provide a pit of adequate size to hold such drilling fluid and to receive drill cuttings, and such pit shall be so constructed and maintained to prevent contaminants from overflowing on the surface of the ground and/or entering any water course.B. The temperature of the return mud shall be monitored continuously during the drilling of the surface casing hole, and in the case of a thermal gradient well, shall be monitored to total depth. Either a continuous temperature recording device shall be installed and maintained in good working condition, or the temperature shall be measured manually and recorded at least one time each hour.N.M. Admin. Code § 19.14.25.8