A Washington Subsurface Easement Agreement is a legally binding contract that grants one lessee (the party who holds the rights to use or occupy a property) the right to access and utilize the subsurface or underground area of the property owned by another lessee. This agreement allows for the exploration, development, extraction, or other activities related to the subsurface resources, such as minerals, oil, gas, or water. The Subsurface Easement Agreement is typically drafted to define the rights and obligations of both the granting and receiving lessees, ensuring that the usage of the subsurface area is conducted in a manner that does not negatively impact or impede the rights of either party. This agreement is particularly crucial in situations where the surface and subsurface rights are held separately by different lessees. There are several types of Washington Subsurface Easement Agreements that may vary based on the specific purpose or nature of the subsurface activities involved: 1. Mineral Subsurface Easement Agreement: This type of agreement grants one lessee the right to explore, extract, or develop minerals located beneath the surface of the property owned by another lessee. It may specify details related to the ownership and sharing of mineral resources, payment terms, and any limitations or restrictions on the activities. 2. Oil and Gas Subsurface Easement Agreement: This agreement is specific to the exploration, production, and extraction of oil and gas reserves underneath the surface of the property. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, the duration of the agreement, compensation terms, and environmental protection measures. 3. Water Subsurface Easement Agreement: In situations where water sources are located underground, this type of agreement allows one lessee to access and utilize the water resources for various purposes like irrigation, commercial use, or industrial activities. It may detail the quality and quantity of water that can be accessed, the method of extraction, and any compensation or restrictions associated with its use. These are just a few examples of the various types of Subsurface Easement Agreements that can exist in Washington State. The specific terms, conditions, and limitations within each agreement will depend on the unique circumstances and requirements of the parties involved, as well as any applicable state or federal regulations governing subsurface activities.