Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Linda Summers on July 6, 2012 at 6:22pm

I have to wonder if anything is being done to pursue a class action suit in Columbiana County for landowners over the brinker storage field.   It seems this would be more expedient and less expensive than all the individual suits.  Anyone know?

Permalink Reply by Inchworm antenna on July 6, 2012 at 6:50pm

This is why the other large storage field capacity states have a minimum royalty law.  Given the age of the leases referenced in this article I would not be suprised if the royalty was a flat rate , too.  It's one thing to not be able to sign a lease on your own accord, and even worse to have a royalty that is completely exploitative.  Our state Legilsature needs to to address this issue. 

Permalink Reply by hunter4440 on July 7, 2012 at 3:23am

This case is more than just about the royalty amount. It is about the companies entering into an explore and drill lease 80 to 90 years ago and not produce as agreed. Instead most or all lessors, in the 80's and 90's, gave the company an additional right to store gas in the Clinton formation only, but not the right to sit on and not produce other formations. Dominion has know for years that they have a problem and chose to pay the measly storage fee and hope the landowners never woke up. 

Permalink Reply by Inchworm antenna on July 7, 2012 at 5:48am

You're right, but when it comes down to it the royalty is the sole essence of any lease.