Mineral Exploration Program

The Mineral Exploration program issues and reviews permits, conducts inspections, and performs compliance reviews for holes drilled, driven, bored, or dug for the purpose of mineral exploration.

These permits are issued to persons exploring for potential mineral resources such as consolidated rock; sand and gravel; or material commingled, in solution, or otherwise occurring beneath the surface or in waters of the State, and are regulated under Title 135 – Rules and Regulations for Mineral Exploration Holes.

This type of exploration specifically excludes oil and gas exploration, which is regulated by the Nebraska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission.

Wells that are drilled for the production of a mineral resource using in-situ leach technology are regulated as Class III injection wells, and are governed by Title 122 – Rules & Regulations for Underground Injection and Mineral Production Wells.

Who to Contact

Groundwater Unit at: 402-471-0096