N.M. Code R. § 19.25.8.15

Current through Register Vol. 35, No. 11, June 11, 2024

Section 19.25.8.15 - PILOT OR DEMONSTRATION PROJECT

A pilot or demonstration project is a prerequisite of a full-scale project.

A. Definitions:

(1) Demonstration project: A demonstration project is considered a full-scale test of a project, in part or in whole, for a limited period of time. An example of a demonstration project is testing a full-size aquifer storage and recovery well.

(2) Pilot Project: A pilot project is considered a scale model test of a full-scale project.

B. The purposes of a pilot/demonstration project are to determine if a full-scale, long-term project is hydrologically feasible and to collect and evaluate the operational, hydrologic, and geologic data needed to support an application for permit for a full-scale project. The source water used in a pilot/demonstration project should be from the same source proposed for the full-scale project.

C. A pilot/demonstration project will enable a governmental entity to collect and evaluate technical information to determine the feasibility of a full-scale, long-term project. A pilot/demonstration project permit will allow a governmental entity to store small amounts of water for a limited period of time in order to generate the data necessary for a full-scale project. A pilot/demonstration project permit will be limited to a volume and duration determined acceptable by the state engineer. The water stored under a pilot project is considered recoverable.

D. If an applicant has completed a pilot/demonstration type project prior to the enactment of the Act, and the state engineer is satisfied that the applicant's project fulfills the essential purposes of the state engineer prescribed pilot/demonstration project, then the state engineer will accept the applicant's pilot/demonstration type project and its results in support of a full-scale project.

N.M. Code R. § 19.25.8.15

19.25.8.15 NMAC - N, 01-31-2001