This form is used when Lessor owns the surface estate in the Lands and Lessee desires to enter into this Agreement for the purpose of specifying the terms and conditions by which Lessee may use the surface estate of the Lands in conducting Lessee's operations under the terms of the Lease.
Michigan Surface Use Agreement Between Oil and Gas Lessee and Surface Owner Providing For Surface Damages and Disposal of Salt Water into An Existing Well Bore is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions for the use of surface land by oil and gas lessees in the state of Michigan. In this agreement, the lessee (oil and gas company) and the surface owner (owner of the land above the oil and gas reserves) establish their rights and responsibilities regarding the extraction of oil and gas. The agreement typically includes clauses related to surface damages and the disposal of salt water, a byproduct of oil and gas extraction, into an existing well bore. Surface damages can occur during the drilling and production of oil and gas. It may involve disturbances to the land such as soil erosion, land clearing, noise pollution, and impact on the surface owner's use of the property. The agreement will specify the requirements for the lessee to minimize and mitigate these damages, including the restoration and reclamation of the land post-extraction. Disposal of salt water, also known as produced water or brine, is another crucial aspect addressed in the agreement. Salt water is a byproduct of oil and gas extraction and must be properly disposed of to prevent contamination of surface and groundwater sources. Typically, oil and gas companies dispose of salt water by injecting it into an existing well bore reserved specifically for this purpose. The agreement outlines the criteria for salt water disposal, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safeguarding the surface owner's land from saltwater contamination. There may be variations of this agreement, depending on various factors such as the specific oil and gas company, the surface owner's requirements, and the existing regulatory framework. Some of these variations may include provisions that address compensation for surface damages, the frequency and volume of salt water disposal, and the establishment of monitoring mechanisms to assess and report any potential impacts to the surface environment. In conclusion, the Michigan Surface Use Agreement Between Oil and Gas Lessee and Surface Owner Providing For Surface Damages and Disposal of Salt Water into An Existing Well Bore is a legally binding document that governs the relationship between oil and gas companies and surface owners concerning the extraction of resources and the protection of surface lands and water resources.
