Pittsburgh Coal Bed Methane Gas Ownership Lawyer
Coal Bed Methane
Until fairly recently, coal mines produced only coal, and coal mining companies were not interested in recovering coal bed methane gas that existed naturally in the coal seams. In recent years, however, these companies have discovered economical methods for the extraction of coal bed methane gas from coal seams. Consequently, methane gas has become an very valuable commodity. In many instances, development of the coal bed methane gas can be as profitable as the coal mining operation.
Because of the mobile nature of coal bed methane gas, ownership issues often arise. To secure your ownership rights to the coal bed methane gas extracted from coal seams, it is advisable to speak to an attorney with experience with issues related to coal bed methane gas ownership. Contact the Law Offices of Donald D. Saxton, Jr., today to learn how to protect your interests.
What's the Issue?
Generally, coal mining companies often own the rights to the coal seams they or their predecessors have purchased and the associated mining rights. They do not own the surface of the land itself. Mining and drilling companies frequently sign leases with the landowners, in which the companies pay the landowners a fee or royalty, and the owners in turn grant the mineral rights to the companies.
Recent court decisions in Pennsylvania have determined that coal bed methane gas is the property of the owner of the coal. There is no applicable law established as to what rights the owner of the coal have to enter onto the surface over the coal to extract the coal bed methane gas.
If you're a party to such a dispute, you'll find it valuable to have a seasoned natural resource lawyer on your side. Mr. Saxton has over 35 years of experience advising clients on coal, oil and gas extraction and development issues. He will rely on his knowledge to support your claim of ownership.
Contact our office today to schedule an initial meeting.
Law Offices of Donald D. Saxton, Jr.
154 A Morganza Road
Canonsburg, PA 15317
