Environment

Reminder of well drilling requirements (10/04/14)

NB 531

April 14, 2010

FREDERICTON (CNB) - New Brunswickers are reminded that properly installing a drilled water well is critical to the quality of drinking water.

"If you are planning to drill a new well or repair an existing well, you must be familiar with the procedures and requirements of the environmental regulations," said Environment Minister Rick Miles.

Well contractors must meet the requirements of the Water Well Regulation under the Clean Water Act, which contains a detailed set of standards including for well casings, well water disinfection and the minimum distances between the well and septic systems, highways or buildings.

The act also includes a licensing requirement for well drilling contractors. Upon completion of the well, the driller is required to provide a detailed report to the well owner and to the Department of Environment. The well contractor is not responsible for guaranteeing water quality or quantity.

When a well is drilled or deepened, the contractor must sell the well owner a $137.86- water testing voucher which can then be redeemed at Service New Brunswick centres for a water quality analysis. Homeowners who have recently drilled wells are strongly encouraged to redeem their vouchers.

"Before drilling a well, it is a good idea for property owners to check the well contractor's licence," said Miles. "By making sure the proper procedures are followed, well owners are protecting themselves and the environment."

A list of certified well drilling contractors is available online or by contacting the Department of Environment, 506-457-4846.

10/04/14

MEDIA CONTACT: Jennifer Graham, public affairs, Department of Environment, 506-453-3700.

10/04/14