Final answer:
Mary's responsibility includes registering the tank, professional inspections, meeting environmental regulations, reporting leaks, and maintaining proper documentation for the underground storage tank on her newly purchased farm.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Mary purchases a farm with an underground metal storage tank, she becomes responsible for ensuring the tank's safe and environmentally sound operation. The first step is to verify if the tank is registered with local or state environmental agencies, as many regions have specific requirements for the management of underground storage tanks (USTs).
Mary should also get the tank inspected by a professional to determine if there are any leaks or potential for contamination. If the tank is old or not in compliance with current environmental regulations, she may need to consider upgrading the tank or its containment systems.
In case of leaks or contamination, Mary must report this immediately to the appropriate authorities and engage in remediation efforts to mitigate any environmental damage. It is essential to maintain proper documentation of inspections, any repairs, and environmental compliance to prevent legal and financial liabilities.