Opposition to energy development in the United States is fed (perhaps "fueled" would convey the irony better) by a basic set of values about protecting our environment and preserving areas of wilderness. Although we Americans consume energy conspicuously, many of us oppose energy development passionately. This is a paradox our society cannot long sustain. This article proposes principles to undergird an energy ethic and explores how that ethic might lead us to a national consensus on the balance of development, protection, and preservation needed for the years ahead. Opposition to energy development in the United States is fed (perhaps "fueled" would convey the irony better) by a basic set of values about protecting our environment and preserving areas of wilderness. Although we Americans consume energy conspicuously, many of us oppose energy development passionately. This is a paradox our society cannot long sustain. This article proposes principles to undergird an energy ethic and explores how that ethic might lead us to a national consensus on the balance of development, protection, and preservation needed for the years ahead.

Toward an Energy Ethic. Leggette, Poe, Spring 2004, pp. 1‑23.

Two approaches to determining post-production deductions from royalties can be seen in the "at the well" states (Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi) and the "marketable product" states (Oklahoma, Arkansas, Wyoming, and Colorado). The first installment of this article dealt with the "at the well" states. This second installment addresses the "marketable product" states' approach to post-production deductions from royalties.

Post-Production Deductions from Royalty, Part Two. Poitevent II, Edward B., Spring 2004, pp. 24‑57.

Oil and gas activities obviously take place where the oil and gas is located, and population growth and urban sprawl has brought the citizenry into close proximity with oil and gas wells. This development makes the understanding of local land use regulatory mechanisms important for all of the interested parties in oil and gas development-royalty interest owners, working interest owners, and surface owners. This is a two-part article which will conclude. in the Summer 2003 issue of the Journal.

Drilling in the Cities and Towns: Rights and Obligations of Lessees, Royalty Owners, and Surface Owners in an Urban Environment. Kramer, Bruce, Spring 2004, pp. 58‑80.

This column offers a side-by-side comparison between SF AS No. 143, lAS 3 7, and FRS 12, all of which involve provisions and contingent liabilities for asset retirement obligations.

Current Developments in Environmental Issues. Wright, Charlotte, Spring 2004, pp. 81‑85.