The issue of seismic exploration is a component associated with urban gas leasing which causes much confusion to owners.  The logistics, low price offers, potential for damages and impact on subsequent leasing efforts should be understood and evaluated prior to accepting a check that may range from $5.00 - $25.00 an acre to allow access to your property by seismic companies.         

MECHANICS OF SEISMIC EXPLORATION:

    Seismic exploration is premised on the application of a source of energy on the surface of the earth, while simultaneously picking up reflections of the seismic waves with listening devices placed in strategic locations.  The resulting data is read electronically to form a map of the subsurface rock formations.  Technology has evolved to allow computerization of the information generated to form two-, three- and even four-dimensional results (useful for time-lapse imaging). 

    Every day brings new information about the latest offers in the Barnett Shale “GAS RUSH.”  Those receiving the now commonplace unsolicited lease offers are faced with determining whether the values are fair and whether a mineral lease should be signed now or later.         

    Drilling companies cite factors such as the depth of the East Newark field in the area, the proximity to gathering and transmission pipelines and whether or not city or town permitting is required as reasons they can’t increase offers.