I recently completed an Extension Bulletin that walks mineral owners through some of the issues to be considered when leasing minerals for oil and gas exploration. The publication entitled State Review of Environmental Impacts Could Result in Mineral Leasing Opportunities in Maryland (EB-418, 2014) is currently available on the Agriculture Law Education Initiative’s website.
I realize this is currently not a hot topic in Maryland, but in many areas the need for this information may become valuable as the State finishes its review on the best management practices to be utilized for orderly development of Maryland’s shale gas resources later this year. The publication looks at many common lease clauses and gives an explanation for these common clauses, explains additional terms that a mineral owner may want to consider, and why working with a knowledgeable attorney in oil and gas leasing is worth considering. If you need help finding a knowledgeable oil and gas attorney please do not hesitate to contact me and I can help you find one.