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[Lynn Wigglesworth <lynnw1366 AT hotmail.com>]

I ran into a neighbor today, and he told me that all my neighbors have 
signed leases for mineral rights with gas drilling companies. I'm 
opposed to gas drilling (we should be investing in renewable energy, 
plus they do a lot of damage to the property), so I've been blowing off 
the reps calling me about leasing.

The neighbor tells me that people got $2,300 an acre for LEASING the 
mineral rights (I think a 5 year lease). I have 42 acres...that's 
$96,600 with a good chance that they'd never drill on my property. If 
they do drill, I'd get something like 16-19% of the value of the gas. 
Possible plus additional for a pipeline on my property. I had to buy out 
my ex's share of the farm when we divorced, so I have a big mortgage. 
That lease money would almost pay it off, and I wouldn't have to be 
applying for jobs washing dishes. My gut still says no; I can't imagine 
my beautiful hillside torn up, but it sure is tempting. My neighbors 
think I'm the village idiot for not cashing in. What say ye all? Highly 
principled or village idiot? Or both?

Lynn Wigglesworth
Tioga County, PA



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