Wisconsin Release and Surface Damages Agreement, also known as a Surface Use Agreement, is a legally binding contract entered into by a property owner/custodian and an oil/gas company or drilling operator. This agreement is crucial to protect the interests of both parties and ensure responsible exploration and extraction activities. The main purpose of a Wisconsin Release and Surface Damages Agreement is to define the rights and responsibilities of the landowner and the drilling operator concerning the use and occupation of the surface land during drilling operations. It addresses various aspects such as compensation for damages, indemnity, insurance, and environmental protection. By signing this agreement, the landowner grants the operator the right to access the property and conduct drilling activities. Keywords: 1. Wisconsin: Refers to the US state of Wisconsin where this agreement is applicable. 2. Release Agreement: A contractual arrangement releasing the operator from certain liabilities in exchange for compensation. 3. Surface Damages Agreement: A contract outlining the compensation and responsibility for damages caused to the surface land during drilling operations. 4. Prior to Drilling: Indicates that this agreement is entered into before the commencement of drilling activities. 5. Surface Use Agreement: Another commonly used term for Wisconsin Release and Surface Damages Agreement. 6. Property Owner: Refers to the individual or entity holding legal rights to the land. 7. Oil/Gas Company: An organization involved in the exploration and extraction of oil and gas resources. 8. Drilling Operator: The entity responsible for carrying out the drilling activities. 9. Exploration and Extraction: The process of searching for and recovering oil or gas reserves from the ground. 10. Compensation for Damages: The monetary reimbursement paid by the operator to the landowner for any surface damages occurring during drilling. 11. Indemnity: A provision outlining the responsibility of the operator to protect the landowner from legal claims arising out of drilling activities. 12. Insurance: Specifies the insurance coverage the operator must maintain to mitigate potential risks and liabilities. 13. Environmental Protection: Emphasizes the measures to be followed by the operator to minimize environmental impacts and comply with applicable laws and regulations. Types of Wisconsin Release and Surface Damages Agreements: 1. Standard Release and Surface Damages Agreement: This is the basic form of the agreement that addresses general provisions for compensation and damages. 2. Enhanced Release and Surface Damages Agreement: Includes additional clauses related to environmental protection, relocation assistance, and longer-term impacts on the land. 3. Customized Release and Surface Damages Agreement: Tailored agreements that accommodate specific circumstances or concerns of the landowner and operator, considering factors such as land use restrictions or unique characteristics of the property. It is important for both parties to carefully review and negotiate the Wisconsin Release and Surface Damages Agreement to ensure their respective rights, obligations, and interests are adequately protected.