Natural Resources, Water Rights

Rule R655-1

Wells Used for the Discovery and Production of Geothermal Energy in the State of Utah

Five-Year Notice of Review and Statement of Continuation

DAR File No.: 36376
Filed: 06/15/2012 10:17:47 AM

NOTICE OF REVIEW AND STATEMENT OF CONTINUATION

Concise explanation of the particular statutory provisions under which the rule is enacted and how these provisions authorize or require the rule:

Under Section 73-22-5, the Division of Water Rights is given jurisdiction and authority to require that all wells for the discovery and production of water to be used for geothermal energy production of water in the state of Utah; be drilled, operated, maintained, and abandoned in a manner as to safeguard life, health, property, the public welfare; and to encourage maximum economic recovery.

Summary of written comments received during and since the last five-year review of the rule from interested persons supporting or opposing the rule:

No written comments have been received in the past five years.

Reasoned justification for continuation of the rule, including reasons why the agency disagrees with comments in opposition to the rule, if any:

The Division of Water Rights maintains jurisdiction and authority to require that all wells for the discovery and production of water to be used for geothermal energy production of water in the state of Utah; be drilled, operated, maintained, and abandoned in a manner as to safeguard life, health, property, the public welfare; and to encourage maximum economic recovery. Therefore, this rule should be continued.

The full text of this rule may be inspected, during regular business hours, at the Division of Administrative Rules, or at:

Direct questions regarding this rule to:

• Marianne Burbidge at the above address, by phone at 801-538-7370, by FAX at 801-538-7467, or by Internet E-mail at marianneburbidge@utah.gov

Authorized by:

Kent Jones, State Engineer/Director

Effective:

06/15/2012