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.
A Minnesota Surface Use Agreement is a legal document that governs the rights and responsibilities of the oil and gas lessee (the party extracting oil and gas from the land) and the surface owner (the party who owns the land surface) in relation to surface damages and the disposal of saltwater into an existing well bore. This agreement is crucial for ensuring a fair and mutually beneficial relationship between the two parties involved. The primary objective of this agreement is to define the terms under which the oil and gas lessee can operate on the surface owner's property while minimizing any potential negative impacts and compensating for any damages that may occur. By outlining these terms, both parties can ensure that the extraction activities are conducted in a manner that preserves the integrity of the land and protects the interests of the surface owner. Keywords: Minnesota, Surface Use Agreement, Oil and Gas Lessee, Surface Owner, Surface Damages, Disposal of Salt Water, Existing Well Bore. Different Types of Minnesota Surface Use Agreements: 1. Standard Minnesota Surface Use Agreement: This type of agreement covers the standard terms and conditions for the use of the surface area by the oil and gas lessee. It usually includes provisions regarding compensation for damages caused by oil and gas extraction operations and the procedures for disposing of saltwater into existing well bores. 2. Customized Minnesota Surface Use Agreement: In some cases, the parties may negotiate specific terms and conditions tailored to their unique situation. This type of agreement takes into account the specific needs and concerns of both parties and may include additional provisions or modifications to the standard agreement. 3. Renewable Minnesota Surface Use Agreement: If the oil and gas extraction activities are expected to continue for an extended period, a renewable agreement may be drafted. This agreement outlines the conditions under which the agreement can be renewed for subsequent periods, providing both parties with the opportunity to review and modify the terms as necessary. 4. Temporary Minnesota Surface Use Agreement: In certain situations, oil and gas extraction activities may be required for a limited duration. A temporary agreement is designed to accommodate such scenarios, specifying the terms and conditions that apply only for the agreed-upon timeframe. In all cases, a Minnesota Surface Use Agreement serves as a vital tool to protect the rights of the surface owner and establish a clear framework for collaboration and communication between the oil and gas lessee and the surface owner.
