A Minnesota Surface Use Agreement, which includes provisions relative to indemnity, is a legal contract that outlines the terms and conditions for granting permission to use the surface of a property located in Minnesota. This agreement is crucial in situations where surface rights need to be acquired for activities such as mining, drilling, construction, or any other activity that requires access to or alteration of the surface of the land. The main purpose of a Minnesota Surface Use Agreement is to establish clear guidelines and responsibilities for both the landowner and the party seeking the surface rights. One important provision found in these agreements is indemnity, which refers to the obligation of one party to compensate the other for any damages, losses, liabilities, or claims that may arise during or as a result of the activities conducted on the land. These agreements typically include various provisions related to indemnity, ensuring that both parties are protected from potential risks and liabilities. Some common provisions may include: 1. Hold Harmless: This provision states that the party seeking surface rights will hold the landowner harmless from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their activities on the property. It shifts the responsibility for any potential harm or accidents to the party conducting the operations. 2. Defense Costs: This provision outlines that the party seeking surface rights will bear the costs associated with defending any claims or lawsuits brought against the landowner due to the activities being conducted on the property. 3. Insurance: The agreement may require the party seeking surface rights to obtain and maintain specific insurance coverage, such as general liability insurance or environmental pollution insurance. This ensures that adequate financial protection is in place should any accidents or environmental damages occur. 4. Reclamation and Remediation: These provisions address the obligations of the party seeking surface rights to restore the land to its pre-activity condition once the operations are complete. It may include requirements for reclamation techniques, financial assurances, and remediation efforts if any pollution or environmental damage occurs. It is important to note that there can be different types of Minnesota Surface Use Agreements that contain provisions relative to indemnity, depending on the specific nature of the activities being conducted and the parties involved. For example, there may be separate agreements for mining operations, oil and gas exploration, or construction projects. Each type of agreement will have provisions tailored to the specific industry and the potential risks associated with it. In summary, a Minnesota Surface Use Agreement containing provisions relative to indemnity is a legal document that protects the interests of both the landowner and the party seeking surface rights. These agreements ensure that all parties involved understand their responsibilities, provide financial protection against potential liabilities, and address the reclamation and remediation of the land after the activities are completed.