The New Mexico Surface Use Compensation Agreement is a legal document that governs the compensation granted to landowners or surface rights holders for the use of their land by oil, gas, or mineral extraction companies in the state of New Mexico. This agreement ensures fair and reasonable compensation to the surface rights' holder for any disturbances caused by the extraction activities and the potential impact on the land. The Surface Use Compensation Agreement in New Mexico establishes the terms and conditions under which the extraction companies can access and use the surface of the land for drilling, exploration, well development, and associated activities. This agreement clarifies the responsibilities of both parties regarding land usage, environmental protections, reclamation, and financial compensation. There are several types of New Mexico Surface Use Compensation Agreements, each catering to specific circumstances and needs. These include: 1. Standard Surface Use Compensation Agreement: This is the most commonly used agreement where compensation is negotiated based on fair market value, taking into account the size, location, and condition of the affected land. Payment terms and schedules are defined, ensuring the landowner receives proper compensation for the disturbance caused. 2. Damage and Restoration Agreement: This agreement focuses on compensating landowners for any damages caused by the extraction activities. In addition to financial compensation, it also outlines the responsibilities of the extraction company for restoring the land to its pre-activity condition after the project is completed. 3. Surface Lease Agreement: This type of agreement is more comprehensive and encompasses both surface and subsurface rights. It grants the extraction company not only the rights to use the surface but also access, develop, and produce minerals or resources beneath the land. Financial compensation is typically negotiated based on lease terms, royalties, or other mutually agreed-upon arrangements. 4. Right-of-Way Agreement: This agreement specifically pertains to granting the extraction company the right to construct and maintain pipelines, access roads, or other necessary infrastructure across or beneath the land. Compensation is often determined based on the size and duration of the right-of-way, with provisions for land restoration after pipeline construction. Regardless of the specific type of agreement, the New Mexico Surface Use Compensation Agreement serves as a legally binding contract to protect the rights and interests of landowners while allowing responsible resource extraction. It ensures that compensation is provided, environmental impacts are minimized, and the affected land is appropriately restored.