Maine Revised Statutes Title 38. Waters and Navigation § 470-A. Definitions

1. Nonconsumptive use. “Nonconsumptive use” means any use of water that results in the water being discharged back into the same water source within 1/4 mile upstream or downstream from the point of withdrawal such that the difference between the volume withdrawn and the volume returned is no more than the threshold amount per day. This also includes withdrawals from groundwater that are discharged to a subsurface system or to a hydraulically connected surface water body such that no more than the threshold amount is consumed.

2. Water source. “Water source” means any river, stream or brook as defined in section 480-B, any lake or pond classified GPA pursuant to section 465-A or groundwater located anywhere in the State.

3. Water withdrawal; withdrawal of water. “Water withdrawal” or “withdrawal of water” means the removal, diversion or taking of water from a water source. All withdrawals of water from a particular water source that are made or controlled by a single person are considered to be a single withdrawal of water.