Tag Archive for: oilandgasindustry

Chevron beats earnings estimates and raised dividends after posting record oil and natural gas production, boosting Chief Executive Officer Mike Wirth’s effort to rebound from a year of missed performance targets.

Adjusted earnings of $3.45 a share exceeded the Bloomberg Consensus estimate by 23 cents. Chevron raised its dividend by almost 8% to $1.63 a share, also ahead of forecasts.

The No. 2 U.S. oil and gas operator incurred $3.7 billion of charges stemming mostly from assets in its home state of California and the dismantling of decades-old infrastructure in the Gulf of Mexico. Annual production climbed 4%, primarily boosted by rising output in the Permian basin and other U.S. fields.

Shell Plc was the first member of the oil and gas industry to post fourth-quarter results, announcing on Thursday $7.31 billion in adjusted net income that was more than $1 billion higher than the average forecast.

Chevron had a tough 2023 in some respects, when its stock underperformed rivals, dropping 17% amid production disappointments and cost overruns from the Permian basin to Kazakhstan. The company already has a challenged growth outlook compared to competitor Exxon Mobil Corp., and operational missteps only added to investor concerns.

CEO Wirth has raised share buybacks and orchestrated the Hess Corp. takeover to acquire, among other things, a 30% stake in Exxon’s offshore Guyana project, one of the world’s fastest-growing oil provinces.

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Source: World Oil

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A Bit Of A Ghost

The Utah’s oil boom: Jim Finley is a bit of a ghost. Outside of oil industry circles, few people have probably ever heard of the man. He rarely speaks in public.

Utah's oil boom

One exception was in October 2021. When Finley the CEO of Texas-based Finley Resources. Presented to a coalition of seven oil-producing counties in eastern Utah. Following his speech, coalition board members and staff applauded Finley for his investments in Utah’s oil-rich Uinta Basin, and thanked him for making time to speak. One person noted that he is a particularly difficult man to get hold of.

“Sometimes nobody knows where I am,” Finley said.

“On purpose,” someone else chimed in. Finley chuckled.

A Key Role

The Texas oilman has played a key role. In spearheading the kind of oil boom that has long evaded the remote basin. In just over a decade, he’s become one of the top producers in the Uinta. And is now playing an outsize role in shaping Utah’s energy future.

Finley has thrown his support behind a controversial rail line that would make it easier for him and the basin’s five other producers to export oil to out-of-state markets, while simultaneously boosting export capacity via trucking and existing rail. He has his fingers in every aspect of basin production, from drilling oil and mining sand for hydraulic fracturing to operating a transloading facility and a growing fleet of oil trains. Powerful political allies have helped him expand his empire, primarily by funneling public money toward infrastructure projects that benefit the oil sector.

Chris Kuveke, a researcher at BailoutWatch, a watchdog group that provided HuffPost with extensive research on Finley’s portfolio and operations, called Finley “the mastermind” of the basin’s current oil boom.

“He has a long history of using campaign finance and lobbying as influence to get his projects where he wants them to be,” Kuveke said. “And he knows what he’s doing. He has a serious track record of influencing the industry that he wants to grow, being a linchpin. And that’s what he’s doing in the Uinta.”

 

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Source: HUFFPOST

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  • The oil and gas industry is undergoing its biggest-ever consolidation, according to Enverus.
  • Upstream merger and acquisition activity hit $144 billion in the fourth quarter alone. And $190 billion for 2023, both setting records.
  • Bids from Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and Occidental Petroleum were among the key deals fueling the record.

The upstream oil and gas sector is consolidating at a record pace. As companies race to secure longevity in the market.

Merger and acquisition activity among exploration and production companies hit $144 billion in the fourth quarter alone. And $190 billion for 2023, both setting records, according to analytics firm Enverus.

“Oil and gas is undergoing a historic consolidation wave comparable to what occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s giving rise to the modern supermajors.” Senior Vice President Andrew Dittmar said in a press release. “After a decade of lowered investment in exploration and with the major US shale plays largely defined, M&A has become the preferred tool to replace declining reserves and secure longevity in these companies’ profitable upstream businesses.”

In the fourth quarter, bids from Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and Occidental Petroleum. Were among the key deals fueling the record-setting consolidation.

M&A activity was overwhelmingly focused on oil last year. Totaling $186 billion in deals, while $6 billion targeted gas, according to Enverus.

Interest in the latter will likely grow as the US industry is working on increasing its liquefied natural gas exports over the next three years.

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Source: yahoo!finance

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2023 was a big year for the U.S. oil and natural gas business. The country, Oil-rich Permian Basin, remained the world’s largest oil producer for the sixth straight year, and a wave of consolidation swept through the industry. A good chunk of that merger and acquisition activity was concentrated in the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico, which has been helping the U.S. hold on to the world’s top spot.

Oil-rich Permian BasinThe Permian Basin produced nearly 6 million barrels of oil a day in 2023. That’s more than Iraq, the United Arab Emirates or Kuwait, according to Peter McNally, analyst at Third Bridge.

“This year was another new high, you know, for the Permian. And that has attracted a lot of interest,” he said.

The Permian Basin has another thing going for it. “It’s almost like real estate: location, location, location,” said Robert McNally of consulting firm Rapidan Energy.

Industry-friendly regulation in Texas is part of that. There’s also less federal regulation when it comes to exporting the oil because it doesn’t have to cross state lines.

 

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Source: Marketplace

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Amidst attacks on U.S. energy production and continued global instability, the U.S. oil and natural gas industry managed to not only meet but exceed expectations in 2023. The industry broke production records and supplied critical energy resources at home and abroad, all while reducing methane emissions.

Oil and Gas Industry Continues to Innovate Amid Record Production

US oil & gas industry

 

In 2023, the oil and natural gas sectors continued to innovate and reach record breaking levels of production. After becoming a net energy exporter in 2019, the United States has emerged as a behemoth in the global energy market, hitting prolific levels of oil and natural gas production and exports in the past year.

U.S. liquified natural gas (LNG) had a tremendous year with the United States becoming the top LNG exporter in the world.

 

 

These record-breaking levels of production have not come at the expense of Americans as some activists claim. To the contrary, record energy production levels have successfully been able to meet both domestic and international demand, providing crucial energy security at home and abroad, all while keeping prices stable.

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Source: Energy in Depth

 

 

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DISCLAIMER: We are not financial advisors. The content on this website is for educational purposes only and merely cites our own personal opinions. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won’t experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!
The world of investments is vast, with opportunities spanning various industries. One lesser-known yet lucrative option for investors is putting money into Overriding Royalty Interests (ORRIs), particularly in regions with a robust history of energy production like Texas. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of investing in ORRIs, exploring what they are, how they work, the potential advantages and risks, and crucial considerations for those eyeing a slice of the energy wealth.

Understanding Overriding Royalty Interests

Before delving into the investment potential, let’s establish a solid understanding of what Overriding Royalty Interests entail. An ORRI is essentially a share of the revenue generated from the extraction and production of minerals, such as oil and natural gas, from a specific piece of land. Unlike traditional royalties, ORRIs “override” the rights of the working interest owner, entitling the holder to a portion of the income generated, irrespective of property ownership.

Typically expressed as a percentage (e.g., 1% or 3%), the ORRI is calculated based on the gross proceeds from the sale of extracted minerals. This interest is often granted to individuals or entities other than the property owner, such as geologists, drilling companies, or industry professionals.

Mechanics of Overriding Royalty Interests

To grasp how ORRIs function, consider a scenario in the oil-rich landscapes of Texas:

  • A landowner leases their land to an oil and gas company for drilling and extraction.
  • The lease agreement outlines terms, including royalty rates shared between the landowner (lessor) and the company (lessee).
  • Suppose the landowner and company settle on a 20% royalty rate, meaning the landowner gets 20% of mineral revenue.
  • Now, assume an investor holds an overriding royalty interest of 3% on this property. This entitles them to 3% of the gross revenue, in addition to the landowner’s 20% royalty.
  • The remaining 77% of the revenue goes to the drilling company as the working interest.

Investors with ORRIs benefit from mineral extraction without dealing with operational costs or day-to-day activities, making it an enticing prospect for those seeking passive income.

Advantages of Overriding Royalty Interests

Investing in ORRIs offers several advantages for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios:

Passive Income Stream: ORRI holders enjoy a steady income stream without actively participating in operations, making it an attractive source of passive income.

Minimal Operational Responsibilities: Investors are not burdened with operational activities, expenses, or risks associated with drilling and production, minimizing involvement and risk exposure.

Potential for Profit: Regions like Texas, with a history of successful oil and gas production, offer potential for significant profits, attracting investors to the energy sector.

Challenges and Risks

While ORRIs present enticing advantages, investors should be aware of potential challenges and risks:

Market Volatility: The oil and gas industry is prone to price volatility, impacting ORRI profitability and income generation due to fluctuating energy prices.

Lease Terms and Royalty Rates: Unfavorable lease terms or royalty rates negotiated between the landowner and drilling company may reduce potential income for ORRI investors.

Environmental and Regulatory Concerns: Compliance with complex and evolving regulatory frameworks at federal, state, and local levels, along with addressing environmental concerns, poses challenges for ORRI owners.

Key Considerations for Investors

For those eyeing ORRIs as an investment opportunity, careful consideration is paramount:

Lease Negotiations: Thoroughly review and negotiate lease agreements to ensure favorable terms, royalty rates, and protection of investor interests. Professional guidance is invaluable in this process.

Legal and Tax Implications: Navigate the complex legal and tax aspects associated with ORRI ownership by seeking professional guidance. Understand the unique implications and potential tax benefits.

Due Diligence: Conduct comprehensive due diligence before investing. Evaluate profitability potential, stability of the drilling company, and environmental and regulatory factors impacting the investment.

ORRIs vs. Working Interests: Distinguish between overriding royalty interests (ORRIs) and working interests (WIs). While ORRIs offer passive income, WIs involve active participation in operations, bearing operational costs and risks.

 

Investing in Overriding Royalty Interests proves to be a compelling option for those seeking a slice of the lucrative energy sector. While it offers passive income and profit potential, investors must navigate market volatility, lease terms, and regulatory complexities. With careful consideration, thorough due diligence, and professional guidance, investors can unlock the wealth potential of ORRIs and contribute to the dynamic landscape of the energy industry.

 

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North Dakota Mineral Resource Director said 2023 was a good year for the state’s oil and gas industry.

“Prices were good,” said Lynn Helms. “And the companies were able to attract enough frack crews, to get into the mid to upper teens.”

Helms said the companies weren’t as successful with drilling crews.

“There are still workforce issues,” Helms said.

Helms said the year began with North Dakota producing just over a million barrels of oil per day. He said the hope was to get to the 1.3 million barrel mark by the end of the year. He said those final production numbers aren’t in yet.

As for next year?

“2024 looks to be slower growth,” Helms said. “But people are pretty optimistic.”

North Dakota Pipeline Authority Director Justin Kringstad echoed Helms’ comments.

“In 2023, what stands out is the month we got down to 4 percent flaring,” Kringstad said. “We’re continuing to see dedication by all sides — producers, mid-stream companies — to stay on top of this.”

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Source: Prarie Public NewsRoom

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DISCLAIMER: We are not financial advisors. The content on this website is for educational purposes only and merely cites our own personal opinions. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won’t experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!

Overriding royalty interests (ORRI) are a unique and valuable aspect of the oil and gas industry, particularly in a state like Texas, which has a rich history of energy production. If you’re a landowner, investor, or industry professional involved in the Texas oil and gas sector, understanding overriding royalty interests is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of overriding royalty interests in Texas, shedding light on what they are, how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and the key considerations for landowners and investors.

Texas has long been synonymous with the oil and gas industry, making it a prime location for investment and ownership in this sector. Overriding royalty interests are a critical aspect of this industry, allowing landowners and investors to participate in the energy wealth of the state. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into overriding royalty interests in Texas, exploring their nuances, benefits, risks, and what you need to know to navigate this complex terrain.

Understanding Overriding Royalty Interests

An overriding royalty interest (ORRI) is a share of the revenue that produce from the extraction and production of minerals, such as oil and natural gas, from a specific piece of land. ORRIs are created by a royalty interest that is “overriding” the rights of the working interest owner. In simpler terms, the holder of an ORRI is entitled to a portion of the income generated from the minerals extracted from a property, regardless of whether they own the property itself.

An ORRI is typically expressed as a percentage, such as 1% or 3%, and it is calculated based on the gross proceeds from the sale of extracted minerals. This interest is often granted to someone other than the property owner, such as a geologist, drilling company, or a professional in the industry.

The Mechanics of Overriding Royalty Interests

To understand how overriding royalty interests work, consider the following scenario:

  • A landowner, say in Texas, leases their land to an oil and gas company for drilling and extraction.
  • The lease agreement specifies the terms, including royalty rates, which are typically shared between the landowner (the lessor) and the company (the lessee).
  • Let’s say the landowner and the company agree on a 20% royalty rate, meaning the landowner receives 20% of the revenue from the minerals extracted from their land.
  • Now, suppose a geologist or investor holds an overriding royalty interest of 3% on this property. This ORRI entitles them to 3% of the gross revenue from mineral sales, in addition to the landowner’s 20% royalty.
  • The remaining 77% of the revenue goes to the drilling company as the working interest.

In this way, the holder of the overriding royalty interest benefits from the minerals extracted from the land without being responsible for the operational costs or day-to-day activities involved in drilling and production.

Advantages of Overriding Royalty Interests

Overriding royalty interests offer several advantages for landowners and investors in the Texas oil and gas industry:

Passive Income Stream

Holders of ORRIs receive a steady and often passive income stream. They can enjoy financial benefits without actively participating in the operations, making ORRIs an attractive source of income for many.

Minimal Operational Responsibilities

ORRI owners are not responsible for the operational activities, expenses, or risks associated with drilling and production. This minimizes their operational involvement and risk exposure.

Potential for Profit

Texas has a long history of successful oil and gas production, making it a prime location for ORRI ownership. With the potential for significant profits, investors are under pressure to the state’s energy sector.

Challenges and Risks of Overriding Royalty Interest

While ORRIs offer numerous advantages, they are not without their challenges and risks:

Market Volatility

The oil and gas industry is known for its price volatility. Fluctuations in energy prices can impact the profitability of ORRIs and the income generated for owners.

Lease Terms and Royalty Rates

The terms of the lease agreement and the royalty rates negotiated between the landowner and the drilling company can impact the financial benefits of an ORRI. Unfavorable terms may reduce the potential income.

Environmental and Regulatory Concerns

Oil and gas operations are subject to complex and evolving regulatory frameworks at federal, state, and local levels. Staying compliant with these regulations and addressing environmental concerns is a challenge for ORRI owners.

Key Considerations for Landowners and Investors

For landowners and investors interested in overriding royalty interests in Texas, several key considerations should remain in mind:

Lease Negotiations

Landowners should carefully review and negotiate lease agreements to ensure favorable terms, royalty rates, and protection of their interests. Legal and industry expertise can be invaluable in this process.

Legal and Tax Implications

The legal and tax aspects of ORRI ownership can be complex. Seek professional guidance to understand the unique implications and potential tax benefits associated with ORRIs.

Due Diligence

Before investing in ORRIs, conduct thorough due diligence. Evaluate the potential for profitability, the stability of the drilling company. And the environmental and regulatory factors that may impact the investment.

Overriding Royalty Interests vs. Working Interests

It’s essential to distinguish between overriding royalty interests (ORRIs) and working interests (WIs). While ORRI owners receive a share of the revenue without operational responsibilities, WI owners are actively involved in the drilling and production operations. WI owners also bear a share of the operational costs and risks. Understanding the differences between these interests is critical when considering involvement in the oil and gas industry.

Overriding royalty interests in Texas offer a opportunity for landowners and investors to participate in the state’s oil and gas industry. While they provide a steady income stream and the potential for substantial profits, they are not without their challenges and risks. By carefully considering lease terms, understanding legal and tax implications, and conducting thorough due diligence, landowners and investors can make informed decisions regarding ORRIs in Texas. As a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, the Texas oil and gas sector continues to be a promising source of income and investment opportunities through overriding royalty interests.

 

 

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Two Key State Funds

About $8.5 billion was settle into two key state funds that wouldn’t exist without Texas oil and gas industry and production tax revenue, according to state data.

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced that his office transferred $3.06 billion into the State Highway Fund (SHF) and $5.46 billion to the Economic Stabilization Fund, otherwise known as the Rainy Day Fund.

The two funds normally receive the same amount of money from Texas oil and natural gas industry taxes. However, because another general revenue surplus was write down at the end of fiscal 2023 – after the industry paid record-breaking amounts in taxes – the Rainy Day Fund received $2.41 billion more because of constitutional requirements.

“The strong Texas economy and judicious budgeting by lawmakers netted a surplus that, for the first time in more than a decade, allows us to set aside an additional bucket of money to ensure we are able to weather future downturns,” Hegar said. “The Rainy Day and State Highway funds are tremendous assets for the taxpayers of Texas and help provide the foundation needed for the future of this great state.”

1987 Collections

The combined $6.11 billion severance tax transferred to the Rainy Day Fund and SHF are based on crude oil and natural gas production tax revenues in excess of 1987 collections, in accordance with state constitutional requirements. If either tax generates more revenue than the 1987 threshold, an amount equal to 75% of the excess is move, the comptroller said.

A Constitutional Amendment

In November 2014, voters passed a constitutional amendment requiring at least half of these severance taxes to be allocated to the Rainy Day Fund. The remainder is required to be allocated to the SHF to be used for non-toll highway construction, maintenance and right-of-way acquisition. Additionally, the Texas Constitution provides for a second transfer to the Rainy Day Fund equal to one-half of any unencumbered general revenue surplus at the end of each biennium. This year, an additional transfer of $2.41 billion of unobligated general revenue fund dollars went to the Rainy Day Fund, the comptroller said. The last time such a transfer occurred was in 2008.

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Source: The Center Square

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DISCLAIMER: We are not financial advisors. The content on this website is for educational purposes only and merely cites our own personal opinions. In order to make the best financial decision that suits your own needs, you must conduct your own research and seek the advice of a licensed financial advisor if necessary. Know that all investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving, or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won’t experience any loss when investing. Always remember to make smart decisions and do your own research!

Mineral rights are a valuable and often complex aspect of property ownership. When landowners possess mineral rights, they have the legal authority to extract and profit from the minerals beneath the surface of their land. This can include a variety of valuable resources such as oil, gas, coal, and minerals. However, the extraction of these resources can lead to the imposition of severance taxes, which are levied on the removal of these minerals. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of mineral rights and severance taxes, shedding light on what landowners should know to navigate this intricate landscape.

Mineral rights can significantly impact the financial well-being of landowners, providing opportunities for income generation and wealth accumulation. However, with these rights come the obligations and complexities associated with severance taxes. Understanding the implications of these taxes is vital for landowners looking to maximize their mineral rights while remaining compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.

Understanding Mineral Rights

Mineral rights, also known as subsurface rights, are legal rights that grant the owner the authority to extract and profit from minerals located beneath the surface of their property. These minerals can include a wide range of resources, such as oil, natural gas, coal, metals, and even water.

Landowners may own both the surface and mineral rights to their property, or these rights may be severed. When mineral rights are severed, a different party, such as a mineral exploration company, holds the rights to extract and profit from the minerals.

The Basics of Severance Tax

Severance tax is a tax imposed by state and local governments on the removal or “severance” of minerals or natural resources from the ground. These taxes are typically levied on the producers or extractors of these resources and vary by state and resource type. Severance tax rates are determined by state legislatures and can fluctuate over time based on economic, political, and environmental factors.

Severance tax revenue is often used to fund state and local government operations, including infrastructure development, education, and environmental conservation.

The Impact of Severance Tax on Landowners

Severance taxes can have various effects on landowners, both positive and negative. Understanding these impacts is crucial for landowners to make informed decisions about their mineral rights.

Reducing Revenue

For landowners who own the mineral rights to their property, the imposition of severance taxes can reduce the income generated from the extraction of minerals. These taxes are typically paid by the resource extraction companies, but the financial burden can be shifted to landowners through lower royalty payments.

Economic Development

Severance tax revenue is often used to fund local and state government programs, including those related to economic development. This can lead to job creation, infrastructure improvements, and community investments, which can benefit landowners in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Severance taxes can also have a positive environmental impact. By taxing resource extraction, governments can encourage responsible and sustainable mining and drilling practices. This can help mitigate environmental damage and promote conservation efforts.

Minimizing Severance Tax Liabilities

While landowners may not have direct control over severance tax rates, there are ways to minimize their tax liabilities and maximize the benefits of mineral rights:

Tax Credits and Incentives

Some states offer tax credits and incentives for resource extraction companies that engage in environmentally responsible practices. Landowners can encourage lessees to take advantage of these incentives, which can reduce overall tax liabilities.

Proper Documentation

Accurate record-keeping and documentation are essential. Landowners should maintain detailed records of their mineral rights agreements, royalty payments, and any deductions or expenses related to the property. These records can be valuable when filing taxes and disputing discrepancies.

Consulting with Experts

Seeking guidance from legal and financial professionals who specialize in mineral rights and taxation can help landowners navigate this complex landscape. These experts can provide advice on tax planning, lease agreements, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Landowners should be aware of the legal and regulatory considerations related to mineral rights and severance tax. These may include:

  • Lease Agreements: The terms and conditions of lease agreements can significantly impact tax liabilities and royalty payments. Landowners should carefully review and negotiate these agreements to maximize their benefits.
  • State and Local Laws: Severance tax rates and regulations vary by state and locality. Landowners should be familiar with the specific laws that apply to their property.
  • Environmental Regulations: Compliance with environmental regulations is crucial. Failure to meet these requirements can result in fines and legal disputes.
  • Property Assessments: Some states use property assessments to determine severance tax liability. Understanding how your property is assessed can help you plan for tax obligations.

Mineral Rights and Severance Tax

Mineral rights can be a valuable asset for landowners, offering the potential for income generation and wealth accumulation. However, the imposition of severance taxes can impact the financial benefits associated with these rights. To navigate this complex landscape, landowners should be well-informed about the implications of severance taxes, work to minimize their tax liabilities, and stay compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.

Seeking guidance from legal and financial experts who specialize in mineral rights and taxation is a proactive approach to optimizing the financial outcomes of mineral rights ownership. By understanding the role of severance taxes and taking informed actions, landowners can make the most of their mineral rights and contribute to responsible and sustainable resource extraction practices.

 

 

 

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