Aquifer Protection Section

Groundwater Protection Unit

Purpose and Function

The Groundwater Protection Unit is responsible for protecting and preserving the high quality of North Carolina's groundwater resources.  This is accomplished by implementing pollution prevention strategies, compliance assessments, and abatement programs, all of which contribute to the protection of human health and the environment in which we live.  In addition to implementing well construction regulations for injection wells and other types of wells, the Groundwater Protection Unit provides hydrogeological support to other DWQ programs that may affect groundwater resources. 

Use the navigation links to the right to access application and reporting forms, contact staff, or learn more about program areas such as:

• Injection wells (Underground Injection Control Program)
• Geothermal heating and cooling
• In situ remediation
• Monitoring, recovery, and other wells
• Aquifer Storage and Recovery

News and Noteworthy Information

• NEW:  May 15, 2013 - Permit applications and permitted facilities can now be tracked using DENR's interactive online maps. These tools are available on the Permit Process webpage under the Application & Permit Tracking heading.
• List of Approved Injectants - View this file to see which substances have met regulatory requirements for use with injection wells.  This list is updated as new injectants are approved for use.  Want to use a product not on the list?  Submit the appropriate risk assessment form (microbial or non-microbial) with a permit application or notification form and the product will be evaluated for use.
• On April 19, 2012, the Rules Review Commission approved the injection well rules adopted by the Environmental Management Commission on March 8, 2012.  The new rules became effective on May 1, 2012.  Major changes are summarized in memoranda addressing geothermal systems, groundwater remediation, and stormwater infiltration.
• BMP Guide for Managing Water Produced During Well Drilling