Nevada has a state program to protect ground water quality. Proposed projects are evaluated to ensure that the background ground water quality is not degraded or that drinking water quality standards are not violated. The BWPC views all ground water as potential drinking water. The state issues surface water discharge permits to surface waters, including lakes, streams, dry washes and storm drains. All surface discharge permits are sent to E.P.A., Region IX for review before they are issued.
Examples are discharges during well drilling or dewatering during construction.
The conditions for the permit and the monitoring required are the same or similar for all entities under the permit. General permits may be revoked and the director of the division may require someone with a general permit to obtain an individual permit. The underground injection well program is authorized pursuant to the federal Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 and has also been delegated to the state. Some projects need to be coordinated with other divisions such as drilling activities and wells to recharge an aquifer or to store or recover waters, all which are regulated by the Division of Water Resources. Certification is required for certain sewer-treatment plant employees.