Related Maine Programs

Water Resources Planning Committee

The Legislature enacted Title 5, §3331, sub-§8 (P.L. 2007, Chapter 399), “An Act Concerning the Sustainable Use of and planning for Water Resources” in 2007.  This new legislation directs the agencies involved in water resources, under the leadership of the Maine Geological Survey, to work with stakeholders on a new Water Resources Planning Committee (WRPC).  The WRPC will focus research and planning efforts primarily in watersheds where cumulative demands approach a significant percentage of supply.  An important element of this work will be the continued compilation and analysis of water use information throughout the state.

Significant Groundwater Wells

Also in the 2007 legislation creating the Water Resources Planning Committee, a new permitting requirement was created for Significant Groundwater Wells.  Certain groundwater wells are required to be permitted under the Natural Resources Protection Act if they propose the withdrawal of 75,000 gallons during any week or at least 50,000 gallons on any day within 500 feet of a wetland, great pond, significant vernal pool habitat, water supply well not owned or controlled by the applicant, or river, stream or brook, or 216,000 gallons during any week or at least 144,000 gallons on any day more than 500 feet from these protected locations.  The applicant is required to demonstrate that the activity will not have an undue unreasonable effect on waters of the State, water-related resources and existing uses.  This is set out in the Natural Resources Protection Act at 38 Maine Revised Statutes Annotated Section 480-D(10).  Link to NRPA program page.