As used in this chapter, unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires:

Terms Used In North Dakota Code 43-35-02

  • Person: means an individual, organization, government, political subdivision, or government agency or instrumentality. See North Dakota Code 1-01-49

1.    “Board” means the North Dakota board of water well contractors.

2.    “Constructing” a well includes boring, digging, drilling, or excavating and installing casings, well screens, and other appurtenances.

3.    “Drilling” means making any opening in the earth’s surface by drilling, boring, or otherwise, and includes inserting any object into any part of the earth’s surface for the purpose of obtaining an underground water supply except drainage tiles or similar devices designed primarily to improve land by removing excess water.

4.    “Water well contractor” means any person who is certified to conduct the business of well drilling under the provisions of this chapter.

5.    “Well” means any artificial opening or artificially altered natural opening, however made, by which ground water is sought, including test holes drilled for the purpose of exploration for and development of ground water, or through which ground water flows under natural pressure or is artificially withdrawn, provided that this definition does not include a natural spring, stock ponds, or holes drilled for the purpose of exploration for production of oil, gas, gravel, or other minerals.