NR 812 Revisions – NR 812.13 and 812.14: Wells terminating in Unconsolidated Formations and in Bedrock

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources sent this bulletin at 06/04/2020 10:57 AM CDT

To all licensed drillers and pump installers,

Changes to NR 812 – Wisconsin’s well and pump code - are coming soon!

Revisions to chapter NR 812, Wisconsin Administrative Code (NR 812) are expected to go into effect on July 1, 2020. DNR is sending weekly email communications on specific topics to all drillers and pump installers. In this message we focus on wells terminating in unconsolidated and bedrock formations.

Two short training modules on these subjects are now available at:

 

Key changes to requirements for wells terminating in both unconsolidated formations and bedrock:

  1. NR 812.13 and NR 812.14 consolidate rotary and percussion method requirements. Methods will no longer be specified in the code – well construction requirements will be performance-based.
  2. Requirements for driving or advancing casing are clarified.
  3. Use of mud and cuttings as an annular space seal will be limited.

For wells terminating in unconsolidated formations:

  1. NR 812.13 will specify requirements for minimum depth of an upper enlarged drillhole, and clarify minimum diameter requirements.
  2. The revised code allows for more flexibility when grouting a well.
  3. The revised code clarifies the requirements for grouting wells with thermoplastic (PVC) casing.

For wells terminating in bedrock:

  1. NR 812.14 will include a method to use bentonite chips (without requiring a verbal variance) when grout is being lost to fractures or voids in the formation.
  2. The revised code will clarify requirements for cement grout.
  3. The revised code changes the minimum casing depth in limestone and dolomite.
  4. The revised code language more clearly states the prohibition on dual aquifer wells, and construction requirements when dealing with the Maquoketa Shale formation.

Make plans now to adjust your construction practices to meet the new requirements. Contact your local DNR Private Water Supply Specialist with any questions.

Where can I get more information?

DNR will post weekly email communications, links to training modules, publications, forms and fact sheets as they become available. This information will be posted on DNR’s NR 812 rule changes web page.