The South Dakota Affidavit of Compliance with Terms of Oil and Gas Lease by Lessee is an important legal document that certifies the lessee's adherence to the terms and conditions outlined in an oil and gas lease agreement in the state of South Dakota. This affidavit serves as a formal declaration by the lessee, confirming their compliance with all the obligations and requirements set forth in the lease agreement. It is typically required by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DEER) or the South Dakota Board of Minerals and Environment to ensure that lessees are adhering to the lease terms and operating their oil and gas activities responsibly. The affidavit contains various key elements that must be addressed by the lessee. These include: 1. Identifying Information: The affidavit begins with the lessee's full legal name, contact information, and the specific lease agreement it pertains to. The lease agreement details, such as the lease number, lease dates, and acreage, should be accurately provided. 2. Compliance with Lease Terms: The lessee affirms that they have fully complied with all the terms, covenants, and conditions stated in the oil and gas lease agreement. This includes commitments related to drilling operations, exploration, production, payment of royalties, environmental protection, and reclamation of the leased area. 3. Operations and Reporting: The lessee must disclose any operational activities undertaken on the leased premises during the reporting period. This may include details about drilling activities, well maintenance, production volumes, waste management, and any violations or accidents that may have occurred. 4. Financial Obligations: The affidavit may require the lessee to provide financial information, such as the payment of royalties and other financial obligations, ensuring compliance with the lease terms in this aspect as well. 5. Environmental Compliance: The affidavit should include information regarding the lessee's compliance with environmental regulations and mitigation measures. This may involve reporting on measures taken to prevent pollution, reclamation efforts, and compliance with relevant permits and licenses. 6. Signature and Notarization: The affidavit must be signed by an authorized representative of the lessee, acknowledging the accuracy and truthfulness of the information provided. Notarization is generally required to validate the document and add an extra layer of authenticity. It is important to note that while the above description covers the general content of a South Dakota Affidavit of Compliance, there may be different types or variations of this document depending on specific lease agreements or regulatory requirements. For example, there might be separate affidavits for surface rights compliance, environmental compliance, or financial compliance. It is crucial to refer to the specific lease agreement and regulatory guidelines to ensure the proper completion of the affidavit.