Since i have been unable to locate jed clampetts lawyer, I decided to contact EQT inc. regarding the letters we have received. According to Roger Proffit the letters are just a formallity required by the state. EQT has had a lease with Henry dating back many years prior to 1960. In 1960 the laws changed and required that mineral right owners within a 500 ft. radius of the actual drilling be paid royalties. Roger said that whether or not we sign the papers we will still be paid royalties. They are only required to notify us ( hence, the certified letters). If no one signs or returns the letters then EQT has to have a state hearing and show the lease and the copies of the certified letter receipts that we signed to prove that we were notified. He said, by law, we would receive royalties either way, it just makes it easier for them if they don't have to bother with a state hearing. They are not actually drilling on Henry's tract, but on an adjacent tract, but our tract falls within the 500 ft. radius. He is going to have their legal department send me another copy of the original letter along with contact info should we have any further questions or concerns.
I also instructed Roger to send ALL royalties directly to me and i would disperse them accordingly(minus a small administrative fee). Just kidding!
