Title: Understanding South Dakota Provisions That May Be Added to a Pooling or Unit Designation Introduction: In South Dakota, the process of pooling or unit designation is an essential aspect of oil and gas exploration and production. To ensure effective and equitable resource extraction, specific provisions can be added to pooling or unit agreements. This article aims to provide a detailed description of South Dakota provisions that may be added to a pooling or unit designation, highlighting their importance and potential variations. Keywords: South Dakota, provisions, pooling, unit designation, oil and gas exploration, production, resource extraction 1. Mandatory Pooling: Mandatory pooling is one type of provision that may be added to a pooling or unit designation in South Dakota. It allows operators to negotiate and establish a pool or unit agreement even if all the mineral rights owners have not agreed to the pooling. This provision ensures efficient development of oil and gas resources by preventing individual landowners from obstructing exploration activities. 2. Compulsory Integration: Compulsory integration is another South Dakota provision that may accompany a pooling or unit designation. Similar to mandatory pooling, this provision allows an operator to integrate the interests of non-consenting mineral rights owners into the unit or pool. It guarantees fair compensation for lessees and protects the rights of those who would otherwise not participate or agree to the pooling arrangement. 3. Pooling Ratios and Percentages: South Dakota provisions may also specify the pooling ratios and percentages within a unit or pool. These ratios determine the share of production expenses, royalties, and working interests each mineral rights owner will receive. Pooling ratios and percentages are determined based on various factors, including acreage, geological data, well productivity, or financial contributions. 4. Pooling Unit Size and Configuration: Another important provision relates to the size and configuration of a pooling unit. South Dakota legislation may define the minimum acreage required to form a unit and prescribe its geographical boundaries. These specifications prevent inefficient drilling and promote orderly and organized resource management. 5. Lease Extension Provisions: Lease extension provisions may also be included in a South Dakota pooling or unit designation. These provisions address the extension of primary lease terms within the unit or pool, thereby ensuring continued exploration and production activities. The agreement may outline the conditions under which leases can be extended, such as ongoing drilling or production operations. 6. Unit Allocation Wells: South Dakota provisions may allow for the drilling of unit allocation wells within a pool or unit. These wells aim to efficiently extract hydrocarbons from the designated area, optimizing the overall production and minimizing surface disturbance. Unit allocation wells can be strategically placed to maximize the recovery of resources while minimizing environmental impact. Conclusion: When it comes to South Dakota provisions that may be added to a pooling or unit designation, several aspects play a crucial role in facilitating oil and gas exploration and production. Mandatory pooling, compulsory integration, pooling ratios and percentages, unit size and configuration, lease extension provisions, and unit allocation wells are just a few examples of the regulations that guide the industry, enabling fair and efficient use of the state's natural resources.