On Thursday, September 24, the Osage Minerals Council welcomed Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs William H. Kirkland III for an in-person meeting about federal issues affecting the Osage Mineral Estate. Osage Nation Principal Chief Joseph Tillman joined the Council for the discussion.
Central to the discussion was the current proposed rule to revise 25 CFR Part 226. The Council reiterated its request that the proposed rule be withdrawn and emphasized that federal regulations governing the Osage Mineral Estate must remain consistent with the Act of June 28, 1906, as amended, and protect the rights and interests of Osage shareholders.
The Council also addressed access to well records, the protection of the Osage Mineral Estate in matters involving pore space, and staffing needs at the BIA Osage Agency. The Council noted that full and timely access to well records is necessary to verify production, protect royalty income, and properly oversee the Mineral Estate.
These issues directly affect the Council’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities under the 1906 Act, protect the Mineral Estate, and serve Osage shareholders. Having the opportunity to discuss them face-to-face with the Assistant Secretary was important, and we sincerely appreciate his willingness to hear directly from the Council.ch
We are grateful to Assistant Secretary Kirkland for taking the time to meet with us and for his commitment to working with the Council. We look forward to continuing this relationship and working together to protect the Osage Mineral Estate for our Osage shareholders.