Saskatchewan landowners who are owed money after oil and gas drilling on their property will soon have an easier time collecting thanks to expanded legislation.
According to Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Energy and Resources, amendments to existing legislation and regulations will give the ministry and the Surface Rights Board of Arbitration more powers to enforce delinquent payments from oil and gas licensees and ensure landowners receive the proper compensation for any damages.
The amended legislation also adds helium and lithium to the set of commodities overseen by the board.
The amended regulations are expected to take effect on Jan. 1.
Jim Reiter, Saskatchewan’s minister of energy and resources, said it’s crucial to maintain strong relationships between landowners and those engaged in industry.
“Our government is committed to finding a balance that both protects landowners and allows our businesses to continue and thrive,” Reiter said in a statement.
After the changes take effect, the government said it will share more information on the process to bring claims before the Surface Rights Board of Arbitration.