Lisa is entirely correct. I didn’t address that issue in my earlier response and should have. I have attached information regarding what is known as the Finley Decision from a couple of years ago. That decision was the first time in Texas history that “forced pooling” as we think of it was allowed to occur. It has been a while since I have researched the subject (I would imagine you could find any number of blogs or legal papers on it). But if my memory serves me, before Finley the Mineral Interest Pooling Act was only used with regard to small tracts of land known as “strips and gores.” Same basic concept, except Finley was the first time a substantially sized tract of land in the interior of a proposed unit was allowed to be force pooled. It was a real game changer for the industry. Bob can also choose to participate in the well as a Non-Operating Working Interest Partner (they’ll send him a bill for his share of the drilling, completion and operating costs). Or he can choose to participate in the well(s), but not put up his share of the drilling, completion and operating costs and, under Texas law, they will start sending him checks for his share of the production once 200% of “payout” on the well(s) has/have been reached. But before we get in to too much detail about any of that, I’d like to see what information we can provide Bob on his situation - who is drilling what, for example. I’ll need a legal description to do that.
Enjoy your weekend - I’m headed out. Hope the attachments work - I’m new to all this.
Charles