An Oregon Surface Use Agreement is a legally binding contract between a landowner and a party seeking to use or access the land for various purposes. These agreements determine the terms and conditions under which the land can be used and outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved. In Oregon, there are different types of Surface Use Agreements, depending on the specific land use and activities taking place. Some types of agreements commonly found in Oregon include: 1. Agriculture Surface Use Agreement: This type of agreement allows agricultural activities to be carried out on the land, such as farming, crop cultivation, livestock grazing, or poultry farming. The agreement may outline the duration of land use and any special conditions related to agricultural practices. 2. Timber Harvesting Surface Use Agreement: Oregon has vast forests, so these agreements are common for logging and timber harvesting operations. They establish the terms under which timber companies can access and harvest trees on private lands, including regulations for sustainable forestry practices and reforestation efforts. 3. Mining Surface Use Agreement: When mining companies wish to explore, prospect, or extract minerals from private lands, they enter into mining surface use agreements. These agreements define the rights of the mining company and stipulate requirements for environmental protection, reclamation efforts, and restoration of the land after mining activities cease. 4. Energy Development Surface Use Agreement: Oregon is known for its renewable energy projects, such as wind farms and solar power plants. Surface use agreements for energy development allow companies to install, operate, and maintain energy generation facilities on the land, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and specifying compensation terms. 5. Recreational Use Surface Agreement: Landowners in Oregon may enter into surface use agreements to allow recreational activities, such as hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, or off-road vehicle use, on their property. These agreements may address access rights, liability provisions, and any restrictions or regulations related to recreational activities. When lands are currently in use under surface use agreements in Oregon, it signifies that the landowners have permitted specific activities or usage on their properties as defined by the respective agreements. These agreements serve as essential mechanisms for balancing private property rights, economic development, and environmental conservation in the state.