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 South Carolina 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 rights, obligations, and responsibilities of both the oil and gas lessee (the company extracting oil and gas resources) and the surface owner (the individual or entity who owns the land) in South Carolina. This agreement addresses two main aspects: surface damages and disposal of saltwater. Surface damages refer to any potential harm or disruption caused to the land, structures, vegetation, or any other aspect of the surface owner's property during the oil and gas extraction process. Some specific types of surface damages may include soil disturbance, erosion, noise pollution, or damage to roads and infrastructure. This agreement aims to establish protocols and procedures for managing and compensating these surface damages, ensuring fair treatment for the surface owner while allowing the oil and gas lessee to conduct their operations effectively. Another important aspect addressed in this agreement is the disposal of saltwater. In the oil and gas extraction process, saline water often referred to as "saltwater" is extracted along with the oil and gas reserves. This water can be damaging to the environment if not properly disposed of. Therefore, this agreement provides guidelines and regulations for the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of the saltwater into existing well bores. It ensures that the saltwater is disposed of in a manner that minimizes any potential negative impact on the surrounding environment, such as contamination of groundwater or surface water sources. It is important to note that there may be different variations of South Carolina Surface Use Agreements between oil and gas lessees and surface owners, depending on specific circumstances, preferences, and negotiated terms. While the overall purpose remains the same, the specific terms, conditions, and provisions may vary based on factors such as the size of the lease, the nature of the oil and gas operations, and the unique requirements of the surface owner.
