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 Missouri 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 the parties involved in oil and gas drilling operations on privately owned land in Missouri. This agreement is specifically designed to address two important aspects — surface damages caused during drilling activities and the disposal of salt water, a byproduct generated from the drilling process, into an existing well bore. The surface damages' clause of the agreement deals with the protection of the surface owner's property and the compensation they are entitled to in case any harm or damage occurs during the drilling operations. It lays out the procedures to be followed to prevent, minimize, and promptly repair any damages caused to the surface environment, including land, crops, buildings, and other structures. The agreement may include detailed provisions on how surface damages will be assessed, the notification process for reporting damages, and the timeframe for completion of necessary repairs. The disposal of salt water clause focuses on the proper handling and disposal of the salt water generated as a byproduct during the drilling process. Salt water is a natural component of many oil and gas formations and needs to be managed carefully to avoid any potential environmental hazards. This clause typically specifies that the lessee (oil and gas company) has the right to dispose of the salt water into an existing well bore located on the surface owner's property. It may outline the lessee's obligations to ensure that the disposal is done in accordance with industry regulations and best practices, with minimal risk to the environment and groundwater sources. It is important to note that there might be different types or variations of the Missouri Surface Use Agreement, depending on the specific circumstances and preferences of the parties involved. These variations can include additional clauses and provisions that address specific concerns or requirements. Some additional clauses that could be included are: 1. Indemnification Clause: This clause would outline the terms of indemnification, wherein the lessee agrees to compensate the surface owner for any liability or expenses arising from the drilling operations. 2. Restoration and Reclamation Clause: This clause would specify the steps the lessee must take to restore the land after drilling operations have ceased, including reclamation efforts to restore the land to its original condition. 3. Access and Easement Clause: If the drilling operations require access to certain areas of the surface owner's land, this clause would define the terms and conditions under which the lessee can access and utilize those areas, such as road construction, equipment placement, etc. 4. Water Resource Protection Clause: This clause would outline specific measures that the lessee must undertake to protect nearby water resources, including monitoring and regular testing of groundwater quality, as well as implementing safeguards to prevent contamination. Ultimately, the specific content and structure of the Missouri Surface Use Agreement will largely depend on the negotiations between the lessee and surface owner, ensuring that the agreement adequately addresses their concerns and protects their respective rights.
