need some direction on core testing. Is it mineral or surface (I have both)? How can I find an attorney in the area to help (Howard County TX)?
What type of core testing? Do you have a fee or severed interest in the minerals? Generally, surface mining is related to the surface ownership. I have used Rick Strange in Midland for title issues.
We honestly dont know anything about this! An independent contractor reached out & wants us to sign an agreement for core testing. No offer of compensation?? We have mineral & surface but have a mineral lease in place already. This is apparently for frac sand.
Are you willing to allow surface mining on your property? If not, then the issue is moot. The core samples will be used as the basis to develop mining economics, so the results could prove or condemn the property. What type of guarantees are they providing on clean up operations related to this activity? You need to check out the drilling contractor and their client prior to any agreement. They may be reluctant to disclose the client, but you should insist on this disclosure and make the client a party to the agreement.
In some cases they may drill corners or property lines which will create minimal damage. If they plan to enter the property, then there will be damage and they should pay for restoration. In that case, I would require a damage deposit and they are responsible to return the property to the previous condition.
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what do you mean by condemn the property? Do you know if it’s considered surface or mineral? I have made calls to attorneys, individuals etc no call backs from attorneys & individuals are 50/50 on the mineral/surface question. We have wells which I dont want to compromise them or future drilling. thank you
You need to get details in writing from the landman as to exactly what is being tested, the process such a number of test holes, locations, surface restoration, etc. Frac sand testing would be different from subsurface formations or water. Classification as surface or mineral will depend on the substance. You need to review and negotiate the terms of a contract before agreeing as it will likely tie you up in advance.
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