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constructed in accordance with proper notice may only be converted to a monitoring and observation well, recovery well for purposes of aquifer remediation, or dewatering system for dewatering of the aquifer, if such conversion is approved and permitted by the State Engineer. RULE 10 MINIMUM CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS FOR WATER WELLS Basis and Purpose: The statutory authority for this rule is found in sections 37-91-101(1); 37-91- 102; 37-_91-104(1)(c), (j), & (k); 37-91-106(3); 37-91-109(1); and 37-91-110(2), C.R.S. The purpose of this Rule is to identify the minimum construction standards for water wells or other excavations constructed in different types of aquifers in Colorado, in order to ensure that such construction prevents harm to the public health, will not impair water quality or cause contamination of shared groundwater resources, and will ensure the safety of groundwater resources for Colorado's existing and future populations. 10.1 General -To assist in the orderly development of the groundwater resources of Colorado, to insure the protection of the public health, and to prevent degradation of the groundwater resource, all wells constructed to withdraw or inject water must be constructed, maintained, or repaired in such a manner that will: a. maintain existing natural protection against contamination of aquifers; b. prevent the entry of contaminants through the borehole; c. limit groundwater production to one aquifer unless otherwise permitted by the State Engineer; and d. prevent the intermingling of groundwater from different sources through the borehole,- 10.1.1 The contractor is responsible for constructing the well using standards that are more stringent than the minimum specified in these Rules, if necessary to ensure the adequate integrity of the well and protection of the aquifer. If conditions on the well permit specify standards that exceed the minimum standards of these Rules, the well construction contractor must comply with the conditions specified on the well permit. 10.1.2 Prior to starting construction, all persons authorized to construct wells must investigate and become familiar with the geology of potential aquifers, confining layer-sunits, anticipated water quality problems, and known contaminated water-bearing zones that may be encountered in the area of the proposed drilling activity, and where necessary, must advise the well owner of the potential for poor water quality or contamination and plan for the resolution of such issues prior to beginning construction. 10.1.3 All wells and boreholes, when unattended, must be securely sealed, capped, or covered. It is the responsibility of the well construction contractor and pump installation contractor to ensure the well is securely covered while unattended during well construction and pump installation and securely sealed or capped upon completion of the well. Thereafter, it is the responsibility of the well owner to ensure that the well is securely sealed or capped. 10.1.1 a. A secure cover is intended as a temporary arrangement of materials or a device that must perform the function of preventing deleterious entry of objects, insects, animals or contaminants into the borehole or well while unattended and prior to completion of the well. Move Following to Basis and Purpose: Unrestrained buckets or tape are not considered a secure cover and are specifically not allowed by the Rules. b. A secure well seal or well cap shall consist of a "sanitary" cap or seal as commonly defined within the industry and must be properly sized for the casing. The sanitary well seal or well cap must be capable of preventing entry of contaminants, water, insects and animals into the well. A sanitary well cap or seal must be constructed of metal and may utilize gaskets or seals composed of rubber or other suitable materials.