Charleston, W.Va. – The critical role of mineral and royalty owners in West Virginia's economy was the focus of a recent episode of "Just Three Questions!" with WV Secretary of State Kris Warner and his guest Tom Huber, President of the West Virginia Royalty Owners Association (WVROA).
During the episode, Huber outlined the association’s mission to educate mineral owners, advocate for private property rights, and promote the responsible development of the state's natural resources. Founded in 2010, the WVROA serves as a leading voice for royalty owners across the Mountain State.
Huber discussed the organization's efforts to help property owners navigate leasing agreements, royalty payments, and the legislative and regulatory matters affecting West Virginia's energy industry. He also emphasized the connection between responsible energy development and statewide economic opportunity.
"Royalties paid in West Virginia are more than a billion dollars since 2010,” said Huber. "That’s a huge amount of money that gets put back into the economy. People buy things, tractors, trucks, put up new barns, invest in a small business," Huber added.
Huber also highlighted advocacy efforts toward policy to maximize both economic and workforce impact of land and mineral resources. “When we use the gas in state, it has a multiplier effect. That is where policy really needs to be focused at the legislature if we want to benefit from this huge amount of gas under our feet, and that’s figuring out ways industries, businesses can use the gas in state, so it doesn’t have to get shipped out of state, and create added value here," said Huber.
Secretary Kris Warner said, "Organizations like the West Virginia Royalty Owners Association help ensure property owners receive their fair share and have a voice in conversations that impact both economic development and energy production. We appreciate their efforts to educate landowners and support development that contributes to West Virginia's economic growth."
The interview with Tom Huber and other recorded episodes of “Just Three Questions!” can be found on the WVSOS YouTube channel.
