New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 19 - NATURAL RESOURCES AND WILDLIFE
Chapter 2 - STATE TRUST LANDS PART 24 CULTURAL PROPERTIES PROTECTION
Part 17 - GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION ON UNLEASED STATE TRUST LANDS
Section 19.2.17.14 - FINANCIAL ASSURANCE

A. Improvements; Waivers. Before commencement of geophysical exploration activity, the permittee shall execute and provide financial assurance to secure payment for potential injuries to tangible improvements upon the permitted area that may result from a permittee's activity. The commissioner shall fix the amount of such financial assurance in an amount not less than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) for each section or portion of a section of trust lands covered by the permit. The financial assurance instrument shall be in favor of the state, but held for the benefit of the state's contract purchasers, patentees, and surface lessees with pre-existing rights within the permitted area. Provided that, in lieu of said financial assurance, the commissioner may accept a waiver of financial assurance, duly executed or acknowledged by the owners of all improvements in the permitted land.

B. Blanket Bonds. The permittee may, with the approval of the commissioner, provide one instrument ("megabond") to cover financial assurance requirements under multiple permits or other instruments that authorize the permittee to enter trust lands. The commissioner shall fix the amount of the megabond, which shall be no less than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00).

C. Reclamation Bonds. Notwithstanding the provision of financial assurance under this part, the commissioner may require a permittee to provide for additional financial assurance to guarantee performance of reclamation requirements promulgated under state land office rules.

D. Form of Financial Assurance Instruments. Forms for all financial assurance instruments shall either be prescribed and furnished by the commissioner, or be in a form approved by the commissioner. Self-insurance, in any form, shall not be allowed.