The Oregon Surface Use Agreement, also known as the Oregon Surface Use Agreement with Provisions Relative to Indemnity, is a legal contract that outlines the terms and conditions for the use of surface rights in the state of Oregon. This agreement is commonly used in land or property transactions where the surface rights are being leased, granted, or otherwise utilized by a party for various purposes, such as energy exploration, mining, forestry, or utility development. The Oregon Surface Use Agreement contains provisions specifically designed to address indemnity, which is the legal protection against liability or financial loss. These provisions ensure that the party utilizing the surface rights, often referred to as the lessee or grantee, indemnifies and holds harmless the surface owner from any claims, damages, or losses that may arise during or as a result of the permitted use. The agreement typically includes key provisions such as: 1. Identification of the parties: The agreement clearly identifies both the surface owner and the lessee/grantee who will be using the surface rights. It includes their legal names, addresses, and contact information. 2. Purpose of the agreement: The document specifies the purpose for which the surface rights are being used, such as mineral extraction, energy exploration, infrastructure development, or any other authorized activity. 3. Description of the land: The agreement provides a detailed description of the land or property on which the surface rights are being granted. This description may include boundaries, access points, and any specific areas or restrictions pertaining to the permitted use. 4. Indemnity and liability provisions: These provisions outline the obligations of the lessee/grantee to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the surface owner from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from the permitted use. It may also include provisions related to insurance requirements and the scope of indemnification. 5. Compensation or consideration: The agreement specifies the terms of compensation or consideration paid by the lessee/grantee to the surface owner in exchange for the use of the surface rights. This may include rental payments, royalties, or other financial arrangements. 6. Compliance with laws and regulations: The agreement typically states that the lessee/grantee must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, permits, and environmental standards during the course of their activities on the property. 7. Duration and termination: The agreement establishes the duration of the permitted use and the conditions under which it may be terminated, such as non-compliance with the agreement terms, expiration of the lease, or completion of the authorized activities. It is important to note that while the above provisions are commonly found in Oregon Surface Use Agreements, the specific content and language may vary depending on the nature of the permitted use and the negotiation between the parties involved.