My grandmother just transferred her mineral rights to my mother, and I am going to take on overseeing and managing all of the interests for the rights. (I am very new to this but researching all I can, leases, pooling orders, general mineral ownership dos and don’ts) The properties are in Custer County sections 28 and 29 - township 12N Range 20W. I have noticed quite a few people primarily in the section 29 and section 32 directly below have signed leases. The last signed leases we have for ours were in 2003 for 29 and 1980 for 28. I know that in the past my family hasn’t been the best at keeping up with this, but I am curious how to tell if ours is available for leasing as well? Also, any general information that a new owner should know besides the obvious? Thanks
I am somewhat new to this as well. But, I would contact an oil and gas attorney in Custer County to research and confirm your mom‘s inherited mineral interest. Once it is confirmed the attorney can record a mineral deed for her ownership. That’s a good starting point.
If the leases are not producing, then it is likely that they would be available to lease. However, unlike rental properties, there is not an effective way to “market” your minerals. The best thing is to have the current owner’s name and address on file with the county records referencing the legal descriptions as a mineral owner.
This post is not legal, tax or investment advice. Reading or responding to this post does not create an attorney/client relationship.
Your minerals are probably available for leasing if they aren’t currently producing. An oil & gas lease has a primary term, which is for a stated term, and “as long thereafter as oil and/or gas are produced in paying quantities” (or something to that effect). There are six wells in these two sections. The Hall 2-29 (Cimarex-Mach III) and the Graybill 1-28 (Sanctoleum) lare active producers; the others are either P&A or shut-in with no production for many years.
I recommend OKCountyrecords.com to search land records. Wells can ne located at OCC Well Data Finder
Keep reading here and in NARO (National Association of Royalty Owners) to learn the ropes.
Good luck.
Why New Mineral Owners Should Join the National Association of Royalty Owners
If you’re new to oil and gas mineral ownership, it can feel overwhelming. The National Association of Royalty Owners (NARO) provides the tools, education, and community support to help you make the most of your ownership.
1. Education You Can Trust
NARO offers webinars, introductory courses, and on-demand resources designed specifically for pmineral and royalty owners. Whether you need help understanding royalty statements, lease terms, or the basics of mineral management, NARO gives you access to expert knowledge.
2. Conventions & State Chapters
NARO hosts both national and state chapter conventions that provide in-depth seminars, workshops, and opportunities to connect with professionals and other mineral owners in your area. With active state chapters across the country, you’ll find support that’s tailored to your local laws and issues.
3. Community & Networking
By joining, you’ll gain a community of fellow owners who share their experiences, answer questions, and provide guidance. NARO connects you with people who understand what it means to manage mineral rights.
4. Advocacy & Support
NARO keeps you informed through newsletters and legislative updates, making sure your interests are represented at both state and national levels.
Learn more and join at https://naro-us.org/
NARO is a non-profit organization.
This post is not legal, tax or investment advice. Reading or responding to this post does not create an attorney/client relationship.