Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Jon Henderson on July 25, 2011 at 3:02pm

Robert,

You have certainly come to the right site. There are several forums to read through, but focus on Guernsey and Harrison Counties. There is a big opportunity out there, but don't be in a big rush. The offers are crazy big money, but be sure it's a reputable company.

Permalink Reply by frank and beth santell on July 27, 2011 at 1:26pm

It appears that some people are jumping on board without doing their homework.  There are tax implications, not to mention environmental implications not only for the landowner who decides to lease, but also their neighbors who may or may not be on board with this.  We've all heard the old saying, "if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is".  I would suggest that landowners do their homework, including checking out the story that aired on 60 Minutes (i think it was on 7/17).  There was also an article in Vanity Fair that addressed drilling in Damascus, PA.  Additionally, it's much easier to get ahold of these company representatives when they need you (and your property), rather than after the fact when you may have a mess on your hands. 

Permalink Reply by Nelson Roe on July 27, 2011 at 3:02pm

I agree that there are risks involved with these processes.  However, the stories that are usually told, or make it to the media seem to be the worse case scenario's.  I have been doing quite a bit of research on this matter as I live on the property that I am considering leasing.  An individual can go to http://www.ohiodnr.com/mineral/default/tabid/10352/Default.aspx and click on either the Oil & Gas or Shale Development link on the left side of the page to actually learn some things about this process.  Another thing with Ohio is that I believe that there are more regulations here now (after watching things happen in PA) than there was over in PA when the Marcellus boom started.  & If one is careful & gets a well written lease, it should cover the basis of most "messes" that could end up coming from the drilling process.  Granted you are probably never going to be able to cover every basis & there are potential risks, so I do agree that any individual that is considering leasing should definitely do the research & weigh the risk vs. reward & make their own decision as to whether they are willing to accept the potential risk before they start seeing dollar signs.