Wyoming and Montana, like other Western states, recognize separate ownership of the surface estate and subsurface estate (where the minerals lie) and the distinct property rights associated with each. Often, different parties own the surface and subsurface. This is commonly referred to as “split estate” lands.  In some situations, there is a private surface owner and a federal mineral owner or a state mineral owner and private surface owner. These are just two of the many possible combinations among private, state and federal owners of surface and minerals. Recognizing the potential challenges associated with split estate, the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation and the Wyoming Wool Growers Association have developed the Wyoming Split Estate Initiative – to encourage logical development of minerals while supporting agricultural productivity regardless of ownership.

Click on the following link for more information on Wyoming’s Split Estate Initiative. http://wyagric.state.wy.us/divisions/natres/mediation.htm

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