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Geothermal Rules <br />Statement of Basis and Purpose <br />Rule 6.6 provides for notice to be given to other governmental agencies that may have <br />information, comments, or jurisdiction over a geothermal well, or involved activity. The <br />Rule provides a minimum list of agencies that will be noticed. The Rule also specifies <br />the maximum comment period for noticed agencies. <br />Rule 6.7 addresses expiration, extension and permanent validation of a geothermal <br />permit. The Rule also describes the requirement for a certified individual to obtain an <br />annual permit for the installation of loop fields in a geoexchange system. <br />Rules 6.8 and 6.9 describes the denial process for a geothermal well permit and the <br />means for appeal by any person aggrieved by a decision of the State Engineer in <br />granting or denying a geothermal permit. <br />RULE 7 CERTIFICATION <br />Section 37-90.5-102(1)(b), C.R.S. (2003) declares that the development of geothermal <br />resources should occur in a manner that safeguards life, health, property, public welfare <br />and the environment. The purpose of Rule 7.1 is to achieve this goal in the context of <br />the construction of loop fields for geoexchange systems. To accomplish the statutory <br />directive, the State Engineer requires that an individual who intends to <br />perform/supervise the construction of loop fields must obtain certification from the State <br />Engineer by demonstrating familiarity with the Geothermal Rules. <br />Rule 7.2.1 identifies the minimum information that an applicant must provide on the <br />certification application. The information is necessary if the State Engineer needs to <br />contact the applicant. <br />Rules 7.3, 7.4, 7.4.1, and 7.5 discuss minimum qualifications for certification and the <br />examination for certification prescribed by the State Engineer. The examination is <br />primarily to evaluate an applicant's familiarity with the Geothermal Rules as they apply <br />to the construction of loop fields for geoexchange systems. A provision for an oral <br />examination is included so that the State Engineer can more fully evaluate an applicant <br />who has experienced difficulty in passing the written examination. <br />Rule 7.6 provides that an applicant requesting certification must show that the work to <br />be performed under the certification will be covered by a bond, insurance, or some <br />alternative funds in an amount of at least $10,000. The amount specified is the same <br />as is required for water well construction contractors to maintain a drilling license. <br />Rule 7.7 and 7.7.1 specify that an individual must be certified to perform/supervise <br />drilling, excavating, backfilling and/or grouting procedures and, if supervising such <br />procedures, the individual must be on site during the procedures. <br />