What the record can show
- The clause's trigger date, and how it defines the acreage kept: a proration unit, a set number of acres, or a unit the state prescribes.
- Each well's location, completed interval and depth.
- The acreage assigned to each well in state filings.
- Partial releases the lessee recorded, and whether they match the clause.
- Later leases on the released acreage.
Documents that matter
- The lease and every amendment.
- State filings for each well: permits, completion reports, acreage designations, proration plats and field rules.
- Directional surveys for horizontal wells.
- Recorded partial releases and any designation of retained tracts.
How a landman's work helps
- A map of each well and the tract the clause allows it.
- A depth table from the completion records, where the clause limits depths.
- A comparison of the lessee's release with the clause's terms.
- The acreage both sides claim, marked on one plat.
What to send
- The lease, and the county and state.
- The wells on the lease, if you know them.
- Any partial release the lessee recorded.
- The parties, for a conflicts check.
We are landmen, not attorneys. This page describes the land record in general terms. It is not legal advice, and every matter turns on its own instruments.