Before any testhole is abandoned, all of the cuttings possible must be returned to the testhole, and it shall be plugged in such a manner as to prevent the intrusion of any foreign material. Any cuttings not returned to the hole must be spread at the surface, if approved by the landowner, or properly disposed of off the testhole site, if approved by the owner of the disposal site. The plugging shall be accomplished immediately when all desired information has been obtained.
If a testhole penetrates water bearing sands it shall be plugged with cement or some other method approved by the state geologist, in such a manner as to permanently confine the water to its original stratum.
N.D. Admin Code 43-02-01-14
General Authority: NDCC 38-12.1-04
Law Implemented: NDCC 38-12.1-04