Rocker

That's a tough one as it depends on the size of the bonus money they are offering. It it is small (less than $5000/acre) than that generally means they see the area as being less prospective and carrying more risk. So if you get force pooled, you may end up with nothing if the well isn't very good. If they are offering you a big bonus, then they like the area and expect big wells. Many have pointed to a general distrust of the O&G companies and their accounting methods. Since I work in the biz, I don't share that blanket distrust. If the company is reputable (I include Shell, CHK, PK, XTO, maybe others) then I'm not that worried. But realize, you delay getting paid and you take on the risk that the well doesn't work out and your get nothing.

If it were me, I'd probably go unleased but that's because I don't "need" the bonus money...I don't have any financial need for money right now. But there's a lot of risk to this approach. I would tell you it will mean staying on top of the O&G company's payment statements, finding out more about the law/regulations as to what they must supply you, and probably having a good attorney just in case.

The name Johnson Branch is named for the creek that runs in the area "Johnson Branch Creek"

I read your comment dated Oct 21, 2008 concerning land owners getting their deal and freeing up section 24 in Keithville. I had the misfortune of leasing long before all the info came out about the Haynesville Shale. I am in section 24 and we are not unitized and there are no wells in our section. Have you heard anything else about section 24. There are wells all around us.