Maine Revised Statutes Title 38. Waters and Navigation § 402. Research

The Division of Geology, Natural Areas and Coastal Resources, in cooperation with the Department of Environmental Protection, is authorized to conduct research and studies to determine recharge and cleansing rates of groundwater in different sand and gravel and bedrock formations.

The Division of Geology, Natural Areas and Coastal Resources, Maine Geological Survey within the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in cooperation with other agencies as appropriate shall conduct a 3-year program to assess the impact of agricultural practices and chemicals on groundwater quality in selected agricultural areas and selected aquifers. The program must evaluate the extent and level of contamination associated with pesticide use, the mechanisms by which pesticides move through the soil and into groundwater supplies, the synergistic effects of these substances and their persistence in groundwater.

The survey shall report annually its progress to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over natural resources.