Two states, two sets of rules
Farwell sits on the Texas–New Mexico line, and the rules for drilling a water well change when you cross it. RK Drilling holds driller licenses in both states, and we provide answers to questions regarding permits on either side.
Texas
Parmer, Bailey and Lamb counties, and parts of Castro and Deaf Smith, are inside High Plains Underground Water Conservation District No. 1. Any well equipped to produce 17.5 gallons per minute or more needs a district permit before drilling. Smaller domestic and livestock wells are exempt but can be registered.
New Mexico
Every well needs a permit from the Office of the State Engineer before drilling. The Curry County and Portales basins are closed to new appropriations, so irrigation and other larger wells are filed as replacement or supplemental wells on an existing water right.
Questions
Permit rules and fees are set by the water district and the State Engineer, and they can change. Check with them for current requirements, or get in contact with us with your questions.