The farmer owns the land, but not the mines and minerals.
mines and minerals
idiomThe legal title to geological resources in the subsurface of a piece of land, usually by reference to being in the same or separate ownership to the surface of that land.
Before buying the property, the developer checked the deed to see who held the rights to the mines and minerals.
The complex legal agreement clearly separated the surface rights from the mines and minerals, ensuring the original owner retained control over any potential subsurface resources.
Last updated April 17, 2026