My question: having never physically visited the land acreage where my minerals are owned in Ward County, Tx, I’m looking only at the HT&C survey map. It apears there is a horizontal well drilled through part of a quater section in which we own the entire quarter minerals. Is it common to do so ? Maybe I just don’t understand how well drilling works, but I would think if you own say the entire 1/4 section there would be some discussion or some monetary benefit? Am I wrong? Curious, and maybe the online illustration is deceiving. Thanks
Dear Mr. Larman,
I am assuming that you do not own the surface. Yes, the company can drill through your minerals on a horizontal well as long as there are no take points on the lateral leg that are closer than the field or state wide rules, whichever applies, to your mineral property line. The operating company would need a easement for drilling from the surface owner.
For example, if there is no take point within say 330' or 467' from your minerals, they can do it, as long as they have an agreement with the surface owner. The surface owner owns everything except the minerals, which includes the shale layer which has your hydrocarbons. So, either an agreement with the surface owner or the mineral right owner allows this. Otherwise it is trespass. Unfortunately, if the well has take points that are at a legal location, the fractures that may extend to your mineral property is not considered trespass.
It is possible that the well is permitted and not drilled, but I would contact the company landman to get an understanding on what is going on.
Best
Buddy CottenTony, forgive them, they try to talk to us on our level! I’m assuming that was as clear as mud to you, was to me! LOL! Linton
You’re right, a little over my head. Hey, but at least I’m getting some answers! I’ll have to re-read and try to put that all together. From what I gather, yes they can
Linton Tomlin said:
Tony, forgive them, they try to talk to us on our level! I’m assuming that was as clear as mud to you, was to me! LOL! Linton
Sorry. The answer is Yes. After that I made qualifications and additional information for those interested. I did try to give a recommended course of action.
Buddy
Linton Tomlin said:
Tony, forgive them, they try to talk to us on our level! I'm assuming that was as clear as mud to you, was to me! LOL! Linton
I appreciate your interest enough to try give an answer. Not your fault I have a little hard time following. I’m sure I’m gonna have some more questions. Stay tuned. Thanks