BRIGHAM EXPLORATION CO
EXHIBIT 10.53
<DOCUMENT>
<TYPE>EX-10.53
<SEQUENCE>10
<FILENAME>a2106364zex-10_53.htm
<DESCRIPTION>EXHIBIT 10.53
<TEXT>
<HTML>
<HEAD>

</HEAD>
<BODY BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" LINK=BLUE  VLINK=PURPLE>
<BR>

<div style="font-family:'Times New Roman';">

<p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">Exhibit 10.53</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<div style="border:none;border-top:double windowtext 1.5pt;padding:1.0pt 0in 0in 0in;">

<p style="border:none;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;padding:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

</div>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$80,000,000</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">SECOND AMENDED AND
RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Among</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">BRIGHAM OIL
&amp; GAS, L.P.</font></b><font face="Times New Roman" style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;">,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Borrower,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY</font></b>,<br><br></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and<b><font style="font-weight:bold;"><br><br></font></b></font></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">BRIGHAM, INC.</font></b>,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Guarantors,</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">THE LENDERS PARTY
HERETO FROM TIME TO TIME</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Lenders,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SOCI&#201;T&#201; G&#201;N&#201;RALE</font></b>,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Lead Arranger, Administrative Agent and as Issuing Lender,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">THE ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND plc</font></b>,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Co-Arranger and Documentation Agent,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.</font></b>,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Syndication Agent</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">March 21, 2003</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<div style="border:none;border-top:double windowtext 1.5pt;padding:1.0pt 0in 0in 0in;">

<p style="border:none;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;padding:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

</div>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=1,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=685837,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">TABLE OF CONTENTS</font></b></p>

<p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleIDefinitionsAndAccountingTe" title="Click to goto ARTICLE I  DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS">ARTICLE I &#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_01" title="Click to goto Section 1.01">Section 1.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_01" title="Click to goto Section 1.01">Certain
  Defined Terms</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_02" title="Click to goto Section 1.02">Section 1.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_02" title="Click to goto Section 1.02">Computation
  of Time Periods</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_03" title="Click to goto Section 1.03">Section 1.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_03" title="Click to goto Section 1.03">Accounting
  Terms; Changes in GAAP</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_04" title="Click to goto Section 1.04">Section 1.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_04" title="Click to goto Section 1.04">Types of
  Advances</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_05" title="Click to goto Section 1.05">Section 1.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section1_05" title="Click to goto Section 1.05">Miscellaneous</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleIiCreditFacilities" title="Click to goto ARTICLE II  CREDIT FACILITIES">ARTICLE II&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; CREDIT FACILITIES</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_01" title="Click to goto Section 2.01">Section 2.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_01" title="Click to goto Section 2.01">Revolving
  Credit Facility</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_02" title="Click to goto Section 2.02">Section 2.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_02" title="Click to goto Section 2.02">Borrowing
  Base</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_03" title="Click to goto Section 2.03">Section 2.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_03" title="Click to goto Section 2.03">Method of
  Borrowing</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_04" title="Click to goto Section 2.04">Section 2.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_04" title="Click to goto Section 2.04">Reduction
  of the Commitments</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_05" title="Click to goto Section 2.05">Section 2.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_05" title="Click to goto Section 2.05">Prepayment
  of Advances</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_06" title="Click to goto Section 2.06">Section 2.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_06" title="Click to goto Section 2.06">Repayment
  of Advances</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_07" title="Click to goto Section 2.07">Section 2.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_07" title="Click to goto Section 2.07">Letters of
  Credit</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_08" title="Click to goto Section 2.08">Section 2.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_08" title="Click to goto Section 2.08">Fees</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_09" title="Click to goto Section 2.09">Section 2.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_09" title="Click to goto Section 2.09">Interest</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_10" title="Click to goto Section 2.10">Section 2.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_10" title="Click to goto Section 2.10">Payments
  and Computations</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_11" title="Click to goto Section 2.11">Section 2.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_11" title="Click to goto Section 2.11">Sharing of
  Payments, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_12" title="Click to goto Section 2.12">Section 2.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_12" title="Click to goto Section 2.12">Breakage
  Costs</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_13" title="Click to goto Section 2.13">Section 2.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_13" title="Click to goto Section 2.13">Increased
  Costs</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_14" title="Click to goto Section 2.14">Section 2.14</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section2_14" title="Click to goto Section 2.14">Taxes</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleIiiConditionsOfLending" title="Click to goto ARTICLE III  CONDITIONS OF LENDING">ARTICLE III &#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; CONDITIONS OF LENDING</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section3_01" title="Click to goto Section 3.01">Section 3.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section3_01" title="Click to goto Section 3.01">Conditions
  Precedent to Closing Date</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section3_02" title="Click to goto Section 3.02">Section 3.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section3_02" title="Click to goto Section 3.02">Conditions
  Precedent to All Borrowings</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleIvRepresentationsAndWarranti" title="Click to goto ARTICLE IV  REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES">ARTICLE IV&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_01" title="Click to goto Section 4.01">Section 4.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_01" title="Click to goto Section 4.01">Corporate
  Existence; Subsidiaries</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_02" title="Click to goto Section 4.02">Section 4.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_02" title="Click to goto Section 4.02">Corporate
  Power</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_03" title="Click to goto Section 4.03">Section 4.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_03" title="Click to goto Section 4.03">Authorization
  and Approvals</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_04" title="Click to goto Section 4.04">Section 4.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_04" title="Click to goto Section 4.04">Enforceable Obligations</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_05" title="Click to goto Section 4.05">Section 4.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.04%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_05" title="Click to goto Section 4.05">Financial
  Statements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=2,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=552636,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_06" title="Click to goto Section 4.06">Section 4.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_06" title="Click to goto Section 4.06">True and
  Complete Disclosure</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_07" title="Click to goto Section 4.07">Section 4.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_07" title="Click to goto Section 4.07">Litigation</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_08" title="Click to goto Section 4.08">Section 4.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_08" title="Click to goto Section 4.08">Taxes</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_09" title="Click to goto Section 4.09">Section 4.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_09" title="Click to goto Section 4.09">Pension
  Plans</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_10" title="Click to goto Section 4.10">Section 4.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_10" title="Click to goto Section 4.10">Condition
  of Property; Casualties</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_11" title="Click to goto Section 4.11">Section 4.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_11" title="Click to goto Section 4.11">Security
  Instruments</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_12" title="Click to goto Section 4.12">Section 4.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_12" title="Click to goto Section 4.12">No
  Burdensome Restrictions; No Defaults</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_13" title="Click to goto Section 4.13">Section 4.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_13" title="Click to goto Section 4.13">Environmental Condition</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_14" title="Click to goto Section 4.14">Section 4.14</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_14" title="Click to goto Section 4.14">Gas
  Contracts</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_15" title="Click to goto Section 4.15">Section 4.15</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_15" title="Click to goto Section 4.15">Compliance
  with Laws</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_16" title="Click to goto Section 4.16">Section 4.16</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_16" title="Click to goto Section 4.16">Hedging
  Agreements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_17" title="Click to goto Section 4.17">Section 4.17</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_17" title="Click to goto Section 4.17">Material
  Agreements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_18" title="Click to goto Section 4.18">Section 4.18</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_18" title="Click to goto Section 4.18">Organizational
  Documents</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_19" title="Click to goto Section 4.19">Section 4.19</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_19" title="Click to goto Section 4.19">Guarantors</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_20" title="Click to goto Section 4.20">Section 4.20</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_20" title="Click to goto Section 4.20">Insurance</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_21" title="Click to goto Section 4.21">Section 4.21</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_21" title="Click to goto Section 4.21">Use of
  Proceeds</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_22" title="Click to goto Section 4.22">Section 4.22</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_22" title="Click to goto Section 4.22">Investment
  Company Act</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_23" title="Click to goto Section 4.23">Section 4.23</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_23" title="Click to goto Section 4.23">Public
  Utility Holding Company Act</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_24" title="Click to goto Section 4.24">Section 4.24</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section4_24" title="Click to goto Section 4.24">Transmitting
  Utility</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleVAffirmativeCovenants" title="Click to goto ARTICLE V  AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS">ARTICLE V&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_01" title="Click to goto Section 5.01">Section 5.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_01" title="Click to goto Section 5.01">Compliance
  with Laws, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_02" title="Click to goto Section 5.02">Section 5.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_02" title="Click to goto Section 5.02">Maintenance
  of Insurance</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_03" title="Click to goto Section 5.03">Section 5.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_03" title="Click to goto Section 5.03">Preservation
  of Corporate Existence, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_04" title="Click to goto Section 5.04">Section 5.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_04" title="Click to goto Section 5.04">Payment of
  Taxes, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_05" title="Click to goto Section 5.05">Section 5.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_05" title="Click to goto Section 5.05">Inspection;
  Books and Records</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_06" title="Click to goto Section 5.06">Section 5.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_06" title="Click to goto Section 5.06">Reporting
  Requirements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_07" title="Click to goto Section 5.07">Section 5.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_07" title="Click to goto Section 5.07">Maintenance
  of Property</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_08" title="Click to goto Section 5.08">Section 5.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_08" title="Click to goto Section 5.08">Environmental
  Laws</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_09" title="Click to goto Section 5.09">Section 5.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_09" title="Click to goto Section 5.09">Payment of
  Trade Payables</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_10" title="Click to goto Section 5.10">Section 5.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_10" title="Click to goto Section 5.10">Use of
  Proceeds</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_11" title="Click to goto Section 5.11">Section 5.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_11" title="Click to goto Section 5.11">Additional
  Collateral</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_12" title="Click to goto Section 5.12">Section 5.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_12" title="Click to goto Section 5.12">New
  Subsidiaries</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:16.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_13" title="Click to goto Section 5.13">Section 5.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:83.12%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_13" title="Click to goto Section 5.13">Title</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ii</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=3,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=831939,FOLIO='ii',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_14" title="Click to goto Section 5.14">Section 5.14</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_14" title="Click to goto Section 5.14">Further
  Assurances</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_15" title="Click to goto Section 5.15">Section 5.15</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_15" title="Click to goto Section 5.15">Operating
  Accounts</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_16" title="Click to goto Section 5.16">Section 5.16</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section5_16" title="Click to goto Section 5.16">Post-Closing
  Requirements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleViNegativeCovenants" title="Click to goto ARTICLE VI  NEGATIVE COVENANTS">ARTICLE VI&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; NEGATIVE COVENANTS</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_01" title="Click to goto Section 6.01">Section 6.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_01" title="Click to goto Section 6.01">Liens, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_02" title="Click to goto Section 6.02">Section 6.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_02" title="Click to goto Section 6.02">Debts,
  Guaranties, and Other Obligations</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_03" title="Click to goto Section 6.03">Section 6.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_03" title="Click to goto Section 6.03">Agreements
  Restricting Liens and Distributions</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_04" title="Click to goto Section 6.04">Section 6.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_04" title="Click to goto Section 6.04">Merger or
  Consolidation</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_05" title="Click to goto Section 6.05">Section 6.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_05" title="Click to goto Section 6.05">Sales of
  Assets</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_06" title="Click to goto Section 6.06">Section 6.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_06" title="Click to goto Section 6.06">Restricted
  Payments</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_07" title="Click to goto Section 6.07">Section 6.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_07" title="Click to goto Section 6.07">Investments
  and Acquisitions</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_08" title="Click to goto Section 6.08">Section 6.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_08" title="Click to goto Section 6.08">Affiliate
  Transactions</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_09" title="Click to goto Section 6.09">Section 6.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_09" title="Click to goto Section 6.09">Compliance
  with ERISA</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_10" title="Click to goto Section 6.10">Section 6.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_10" title="Click to goto Section 6.10">Sales and
  Leasebacks</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_11" title="Click to goto Section 6.11">Section 6.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_11" title="Click to goto Section 6.11">Change of
  Business</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_12" title="Click to goto Section 6.12">Section 6.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_12" title="Click to goto Section 6.12">Use of
  Proceeds</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_13" title="Click to goto Section 6.13">Section 6.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_13" title="Click to goto Section 6.13">Gas
  Imbalances, Take-or-Pay or Other Prepayments</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_14" title="Click to goto Section 6.14">Section 6.14</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_14" title="Click to goto Section 6.14">Additional
  Subsidiaries</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_15" title="Click to goto Section 6.15">Section 6.15</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_15" title="Click to goto Section 6.15">Limitation
  on Leases</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_16" title="Click to goto Section 6.16">Section 6.16</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_16" title="Click to goto Section 6.16">Environmental
  Matters</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_17" title="Click to goto Section 6.17">Section 6.17</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_17" title="Click to goto Section 6.17">Borrower as
  Operator</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_18" title="Click to goto Section 6.18">Section 6.18</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_18" title="Click to goto Section 6.18">Equity
  Interests of Partners</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_19" title="Click to goto Section 6.19">Section 6.19</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_19" title="Click to goto Section 6.19">Speculative
  Trading</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_20" title="Click to goto Section 6.20">Section 6.20</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_20" title="Click to goto Section 6.20">Change of
  Name; Fiscal Year; Accounting Method</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_21" title="Click to goto Section 6.21">Section 6.21</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_21" title="Click to goto Section 6.21">Current
  Ratio</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_22" title="Click to goto Section 6.22">Section 6.22</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_22" title="Click to goto Section 6.22">Interest
  Coverage Ratio</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_23" title="Click to goto Section 6.23">Section 6.23</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_23" title="Click to goto Section 6.23">Restrictions
  on Limited Partners</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_24" title="Click to goto Section 6.24">Section 6.24</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_24" title="Click to goto Section 6.24">Subordinated
  Debt</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_25" title="Click to goto Section 6.25">Section 6.25</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section6_25" title="Click to goto Section 6.25">Advance
  Payment Contracts</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleViiEventsOfDefaultRemedies" title="Click to goto ARTICLE VII  EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES">ARTICLE VII&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_01" title="Click to goto Section 7.01">Section 7.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_01" title="Click to goto Section 7.01">Events of
  Default</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_02" title="Click to goto Section 7.02">Section 7.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_02" title="Click to goto Section 7.02">Optional
  Acceleration of Maturity</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_03" title="Click to goto Section 7.03">Section 7.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_03" title="Click to goto Section 7.03">Automatic
  Acceleration of Maturity</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">iii</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=4,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=857983,FOLIO='iii',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_04" title="Click to goto Section 7.04">Section 7.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_04" title="Click to goto Section 7.04">Right of Set-off</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_05" title="Click to goto Section 7.05">Section 7.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_05" title="Click to goto Section 7.05">Non-exclusivity
  of Remedies</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_06" title="Click to goto Section 7.06">Section 7.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section7_06" title="Click to goto Section 7.06">Application
  of Proceeds</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleViiiTheGuaranty" title="Click to goto ARTICLE VIII  THE GUARANTY">ARTICLE VIII&#160;&#160;&#160; THE GUARANTY</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_01" title="Click to goto Section 8.01">Section 8.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_01" title="Click to goto Section 8.01">Liabilities
  Guaranteed</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_02" title="Click to goto Section 8.02">Section 8.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_02" title="Click to goto Section 8.02">Nature of
  Guaranty</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_03" title="Click to goto Section 8.03">Section 8.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_03" title="Click to goto Section 8.03">Agent&#146;s
  Rights</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_04" title="Click to goto Section 8.04">Section 8.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_04" title="Click to goto Section 8.04">Guarantor&#146;s
  Waivers</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_05" title="Click to goto Section 8.05">Section 8.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_05" title="Click to goto Section 8.05">Maturity of
  Obligations, Payment</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_06" title="Click to goto Section 8.06">Section 8.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_06" title="Click to goto Section 8.06">Agent&#146;s
  Expenses</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_07" title="Click to goto Section 8.07">Section 8.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_07" title="Click to goto Section 8.07">Liability</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_08" title="Click to goto Section 8.08">Section 8.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_08" title="Click to goto Section 8.08">Events and
  Circumstances Not Reducing or Discharging any Guarantor&#146;s Obligations</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_09" title="Click to goto Section 8.09">Section 8.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_09" title="Click to goto Section 8.09">Subordination
  of All Guarantor Claims</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_10" title="Click to goto Section 8.10">Section 8.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_10" title="Click to goto Section 8.10">Claims in
  Bankruptcy</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_11" title="Click to goto Section 8.11">Section 8.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_11" title="Click to goto Section 8.11">Payments
  Held in Trust</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_12" title="Click to goto Section 8.12">Section 8.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_12" title="Click to goto Section 8.12">Liens Subordinate</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_13" title="Click to goto Section 8.13">Section 8.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section8_13" title="Click to goto Section 8.13">Guarantor&#146;s
  Enforcement Rights</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleIxTheAdministrativeAgentAnd" title="Click to goto ARTICLE IX  THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND THE ISSUING LENDER">ARTICLE
  IX&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND THE
  ISSUING LENDER</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_01" title="Click to goto Section 9.01">Section 9.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_01" title="Click to goto Section 9.01">Authorization
  and Action</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_02" title="Click to goto Section 9.02">Section 9.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_02" title="Click to goto Section 9.02">Administrative Agent&#146;s Reliance, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_03" title="Click to goto Section 9.03">Section 9.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_03" title="Click to goto Section 9.03">The
  Administrative Agent and Its Affiliates</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_04" title="Click to goto Section 9.04">Section 9.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_04" title="Click to goto Section 9.04">Lender
  Credit Decision</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_05" title="Click to goto Section 9.05">Section 9.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_05" title="Click to goto Section 9.05">Indemnification</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_06" title="Click to goto Section 9.06">Section 9.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_06" title="Click to goto Section 9.06">Successor
  Administrative Agent and Issuing Lender</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_07" title="Click to goto Section 9.07">Section 9.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_07" title="Click to goto Section 9.07">Other
  Agents</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_08" title="Click to goto Section 9.08">Section 9.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section9_08" title="Click to goto Section 9.08">Collateral Matters</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;text-transform:uppercase;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;"><a href="#ArticleXMiscellaneous" title="Click to goto ARTICLE X  MISCELLANEOUS">ARTICLE
  X&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; MISCELLANEOUS</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_01" title="Click to goto Section 10.01">Section 10.01</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_01" title="Click to goto Section 10.01">Amendments, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_02" title="Click to goto Section 10.02">Section 10.02</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_02" title="Click to goto Section 10.02">Notices, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_03" title="Click to goto Section 10.03">Section 10.03</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_03" title="Click to goto Section 10.03">No
  Waiver; Remedies</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_04" title="Click to goto Section 10.04">Section 10.04</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_04" title="Click to goto Section 10.04">Costs and
  Expenses</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_05" title="Click to goto Section 10.05">Section 10.05</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_05" title="Click to goto Section 10.05">Binding
  Effect</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">iv</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=5,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=519630,FOLIO='iv',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_06" title="Click to goto Section 10.06">Section 10.06</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_06" title="Click to goto Section 10.06">Lender
  Assignments and Participations</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_07" title="Click to goto Section 10.07">Section 10.07</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_07" title="Click to goto Section 10.07">Indemnification</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_08" title="Click to goto Section 10.08">Section 10.08</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_08" title="Click to goto Section 10.08">Execution
  in Counterparts</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_09" title="Click to goto Section 10.09">Section 10.09</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_09" title="Click to goto Section 10.09">Survival
  of Representations, Etc</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_10" title="Click to goto Section 10.10">Section 10.10</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_10" title="Click to goto Section 10.10">Severability</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_11" title="Click to goto Section 10.11">Section 10.11</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_11" title="Click to goto Section 10.11">Governing
  Law</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_12" title="Click to goto Section 10.12">Section 10.12</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_12" title="Click to goto Section 10.12">Submission
  To Jurisdiction; Waivers</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_13" title="Click to goto Section 10.13">Section 10.13</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_13" title="Click to goto Section 10.13">Waiver of
  Jury Trial</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_14" title="Click to goto Section 10.14">Section 10.14</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_14" title="Click to goto Section 10.14">Oral
  Agreements</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_15" title="Click to goto Section 10.15">Section 10.15</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_15" title="Click to goto Section 10.15">Dissemination
  of Information</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_16" title="Click to goto Section 10.16">Section 10.16</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_16" title="Click to goto Section 10.16">Production
  Proceeds</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_17" title="Click to goto Section 10.17">Section 10.17</a></font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;"><a href="#Section10_17" title="Click to goto Section 10.17">Amendment
  and Restatement</a></font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="16%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="83%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:83.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:0in;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBITS:</font></b></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="84%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:84.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit A</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Assignment and Acceptance</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit B</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Compliance Certificate</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit C</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Notice of Borrowing</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit D</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Notice of Conversion or Continuation</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit E</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of Note</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit F</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Mortgage Amendment</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit G</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Pledge Agreement</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Exhibit H</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:4.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 10.1pt;text-indent:-10.1pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="79%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:79.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Form of
  Security Agreement</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="15%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:15.26%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:6.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="78%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:78.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="100%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:100.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SCHEDULES:</font></b></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 1</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notice
  Information, Commitments</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 1.01</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Preferred
  Shareholders</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.01</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Subsidiaries</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.07</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Litigation</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.10</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.14</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Gas
  Contracts</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.16</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Hedging
  Agreements</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 4.17</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Material
  Agreements</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 6.01</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Permitted
  Liens</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 6.02</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Permitted
  Debt</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 6.02(i)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Additional
  Permitted Debt</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="20%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:20.44%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Schedule 6.07</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">-</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="74%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:74.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Permitted
  Investments</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="110" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="11" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="24" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="11" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="26" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="538" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">v</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=6,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=36129,FOLIO='v',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED
CREDIT AGREEMENT</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 is among
Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (&#147;<u>Borrower</u>&#148;),
Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation (&#147;<u>Brigham Exploration</u>&#148;),
Brigham, Inc., a Nevada corporation (the &#147;<u>General Partner</u>&#148;), the lenders
party hereto from time to time (&#147;<u>Lenders</u>&#148;), Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as lead
arranger (in such capacity, the &#147;<u>Lead Arranger</u>&#148;), as administrative
agent for such Lenders (in such capacity, the &#147;<u>Administrative Agent</u>&#148;)
and as issuing lender for such Lenders (in such capacity, the &#147;<u>Issuing
Lender</u>&#148;), The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, as co-arranger (in such capacity,
the &#147;<u>Co-Arranger</u>&#148;) and as documentation agent (the &#147;<u>Documentation
Agent</u>&#148;), and Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent (the &#147;<u>Syndication
Agent</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">INTRODUCTION</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">A.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower, the lenders party
thereto, and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as agent, are parties to that certain Amended
and Restated Credit Agreement dated February 17, 2000, as amended on or before
the date hereof (the &#147;<u>Existing Senior Credit Agreement</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">B.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower, the Lenders and the
Administrative Agent desire to refinance the indebtedness and obligations
arising under the Existing Senior Credit Agreement, and the indebtedness and
liens arising under the Existing Senior Credit Agreement shall be assigned to
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders pursuant hereto, so that all
indebtedness and obligations arising hereunder shall be secured by such liens
and security interests as were created pursuant to the Existing Senior Credit
Agreement and such other liens as provided for herein, and the terms of
Borrower&#146;s financing shall hereafter be amended and restated in its entirety as
set forth herein.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Therefore, the
Borrower, the Guarantors (as defined below), the Lenders, the Issuing Lender
and the Administrative Agent agree as follows:</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleIDefinitionsAndAccountingTe"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE I<br>
<br>
DEFINITIONS AND ACCOUNTING TERMS</font></b></a></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section1_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Certain
Defined Terms</u>.&#160; As used in this
Agreement, the terms defined above shall have the meanings set forth therein
and the following terms shall have the following meanings (unless otherwise
indicated, such meanings to be equally applicable to both the singular and
plural forms of the terms defined):</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Acceptable
Security Interest</u>&#148; in any Property means a Lien which (a) exists in favor
of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender, the Lenders, and any Swap Counterparty, (b) is superior to all
Liens or rights of any other Person in the Property encumbered thereby, other
than Permitted Liens, (c) secures the Obligations, and (d) is perfected and
enforceable.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=7,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=410334,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;text-indent:0in;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Adjusted
Base Rate</u>&#148; means, for any day, the fluctuating rate per annum of interest
equal to the greater of (a) the Base Rate in effect on such day and (b) the
Federal Funds Rate in effect on such day plus &#189; of 1%.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Administrative
Agent</u>&#148; means Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, in its capacity as agent pursuant to Article
IX, and any successor agent pursuant to Section 9.06.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Advance</u>&#148;
means any advance hereunder of monies by a Lender to the Borrower as part of a
Borrowing and refers to a Base Rate Advance or a Eurodollar Rate Advance.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Advance
Payment Contract</u>&#148; means any contract whereby any Person either receives or
becomes entitled to receive (either directly or indirectly through a third
party for such Person&#146;s account or benefit) any payment (an &#147;<u>Advance Payment</u>&#148;)
to be applied toward the payment of the purchase price of Hydrocarbons produced
or to be produced from any Oil and Gas Properties owned by such Person and
which Advance Payment is paid or to be paid more than 90 days in advance of
actual delivery of such production to or for the account of the purchaser
regardless of such production, and the Advance Payment is, or is to be, applied
as payment in full for such production when sold and delivered or is, or is to
become applied as payment for a portion only of the purchase price thereof or
for a percentage or a share of such production.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Affiliate</u>&#148;
of any Person shall mean (a) any Person directly or indirectly controlled by,
controlling or under common control with such first Person, (b) any director or
officer of such first Person or of any Person referred to in clause (a) above
and (c) if any Person in clause (a) above is an individual, any member of the
immediate family (including parents, spouse and children) of such individual
and any trust whose principal beneficiary is such individual or one or more
members of such immediate family and any Person who is controlled by any such
member or trust. For purposes of this definition, any Person which owns
directly or indirectly 20% or more of the securities having ordinary voting
power for the election of directors or other governing body of a corporation or
20% or more of the partnership or other ownership interests of any other Person
(other than as a limited partner of such other Person) will be deemed to
&#147;control&#148; (including, with its correlative meanings, &#147;controlled by&#148; and &#147;under
common control with&#148;) such corporation or other Person; provided, however, that
&#147;Affiliate&#148; shall not include any Affiliates of the Preferred Shareholders or
GA Partners.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Affiliated
Fund</u>&#148; means, with respect to GA Partners or any Preferred Shareholder, any
other fund that is managed or advised by the same manager, general partner or
investment advisor as GA Partners or such Preferred Shareholder or by an
Affiliate of such manager, general partner or investment advisor.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Agent&#146;s
Fee Letter</u>&#148; means the letter dated March 21, 2003 among the Borrower, the
Lead Arranger, the Administrative Agent and the Documentation Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Agents</u>&#148;
means the Administrative Agent, the Documentation Agent and the Syndication
Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Agreement</u>&#148;
means this Credit Agreement, as the same may be amended, supplemented, and
otherwise modified from time to time.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=8,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=747904,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Applicable
Lending Office</u>&#148; means, with respect to each Lender, such Lender&#146;s Domestic
Lending Office in the case of a Base Rate Advance and such Lender&#146;s Eurodollar
Lending Office in the case of a Eurodollar Rate Advance.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Applicable
Margin</u>&#148; means, as of any date of determination, the following percentages
determined as a function of the Borrower&#146;s Utilization Percentage:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="1" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:8.0pt;font-weight:bold;">Utilization Percentage</font></b></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;"><b><font size="1" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:8.0pt;font-weight:bold;">Eurodollar Rate<br>
  Advances</font></b></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;"><b><font size="1" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:8.0pt;font-weight:bold;">Base Rate <br>
  Advances</font></b></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;"><b><font size="1" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:8.0pt;font-weight:bold;">Commitment Fees</font></b></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 50.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&gt;</font></u> 90%</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&gt;</font></u>
  75% and &lt; 90%</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.25</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.25</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&gt;</font></u>
  50% and &lt; 75%</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.00</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.00</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&gt;</font></u>
  25% and &lt; 50%</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.75</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.75</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="47%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.24%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 50.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&lt; 25%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.72%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">0.50</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" bgcolor="#cceeff" style="background:#CCEEFF;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">%</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Arrangers</u>&#148;
means the Lead Arranger and the Co-Arranger.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Assignment
and Acceptance</u>&#148; means an assignment and acceptance entered into by a Lender
and an Eligible Assignee, and accepted by the Administrative Agent, in
substantially the form of the attached <u>Exhibit A</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Base Rate</u>&#148;
means a fluctuating interest rate per annum as shall be in effect from time to
time equal to the rate of interest publicly announced by Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as
its Base Rate, whether or not the Borrower has notice thereof.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Base Rate
Advance</u>&#148; means an Advance which bears interest as provided in Section
2.09(a).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Borrowing</u>&#148;
means a borrowing consisting of simultaneous Advances of the same Type made by
each Lender pursuant to Section 2.03(a), continued by each Lender pursuant to
Section 2.03(b), or Converted by each Lender to Advances of a different Type
pursuant to Section 2.03(b).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Borrowing
Base</u>&#148; means at any particular time, the Dollar amount determined in
accordance with Section 2.02 on account of Proven Reserves attributable to Oil
and Gas Properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries described in the most
recent Independent Engineering Report or Internal Engineering Report, as
applicable, delivered to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders pursuant to
Section 2.02.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Borrowing
Base Deficiency</u>&#148; means the aggregate outstanding amount, if any, by which
the sum of the Advances <u>plus</u> the Letter of Credit Exposure exceeds the
lesser of the (i) Borrowing Base and (ii) the aggregate Commitments.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Business
Day</u>&#148; means a day of the year on which banks are not required or authorized
to close in New York, New York and, if the applicable Business Day relates to
any Eurodollar Rate Advances, on which dealings are carried on by banks in the
London interbank market.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=9,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=444378,FOLIO='3',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Capital
Leases</u>&#148; means, as applied to any Person, any lease of any Property by such
Person as lessee which would, in accordance with GAAP, be required to be
classified and accounted for as a capital lease on the balance sheet of such
Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Capital
Stock</u>&#148; means any and all shares, interests, participations or other
equivalents (however designated) of capital stock of a corporation, any and all
equivalent ownership interests in a Person (other than a corporation) and any
and all warrants, rights or options to purchase any of the foregoing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Cash
Collateral Account</u>&#148; means a special interest bearing cash collateral
account pledged by the Borrower to the Issuing Lender containing cash deposited
pursuant to Sections 2.05(b), 7.02(b), or 7.03(b) to be maintained with the
Issuing Lender in accordance with Section 2.07(g) and bear interest or be
invested in the Issuing Lender&#146;s reasonable discretion.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Cash
Equivalents</u>&#148; means (a) direct obligations of the United States or any
agency thereof, or obligations guaranteed by the United States or any agency
thereof, in each case maturing within one year or less from the date of
creation thereof, (b) commercial paper maturing within one year from the date
of creation thereof rated in the highest grade by Standard and Poor&#146;s Ratings
Group (&#147;<u>S&amp;P</u>&#148;) and by Moody&#146;s Investors Service, Inc. (&#147;<u>Moody&#146;s</u>&#148;),
(c) deposits maturing within one year from the date of creation thereof with,
including certificates of deposit issued by, any Lender or any office located
in the United States, Canada or England or any other bank or trust company
which is organized under the laws of the United States, Canada or England or
any state or province thereof, has capital, surplus and undivided profits
aggregating at least $100,000,000.00 (as of the date of such Lender&#146;s or bank or
trust company&#146;s most recent financial reports) and has a short term deposit
rating of not lower than A2 or P2, as such rating is set forth from time to
time by S&amp;P or Moody&#146;s, respectively, and (d) deposits in money market
funds investing exclusively in investments described in clauses (a) through (c)
of this definition.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>CERCLA</u>&#148;
means the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
of 1980, as amended, state and local analogs, and all rules and regulations and
requirements thereunder in each case as now or hereafter in effect.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Change of
Control</u>&#148; means any of the following:&#160;
(a) any acquisition pursuant to which any Person or group (as defined in
Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) (other than the Preferred
Shareholders) has become the direct or indirect beneficial owner (as defined in
Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of more than 35% of the Voting Stock of
Brigham Exploration; (b) any transaction or acquisition pursuant to which any
one or more of the Preferred Shareholders has or have become (whether pursuant
to any Preferred Shareholder Transaction or otherwise) the direct or indirect
beneficial owner (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of more than
47% of the Voting Stock of Brigham Exploration; (c)&#160; Brigham Exploration is merged with or into or consolidated with
another Person except as otherwise permitted by Section 6.04; (d)&#160; Brigham Exploration, either individually or
in conjunction with one or more of its Subsidiaries, sells, conveys, transfers
or leases, or its Subsidiaries sell, convey, transfer or lease, all or
substantially all of the assets of Brigham Exploration and its Subsidiaries,
taken as a whole (either in one transaction or a series of related
transactions), including Capital Stock of its Subsidiaries, to any Person
except as otherwise permitted by Section 6.04; (e)&#160; the</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=10,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=778652,FOLIO='4',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">first day on which a majority
of the individuals who constitute the Board of Directors of Brigham Exploration
are not Continuing Directors or (f)&#160;
Brigham Exploration shall cease to own, directly or indirectly, 100% of
the Capital Stock of the Borrower.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Closing
Date</u>&#148; means the date on which the conditions set forth in Section 3.01 are
satisfied, which date shall not be later than March 31, 2003.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Code</u>&#148;
means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and any successor statute.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Collateral</u>&#148;
means Property of the Credit Parties, now owned or hereafter acquired, that is
subject to any Lien in favor of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, the
Issuing Bank or any Swap Counterparty to secure, directly or indirectly, the
Obligations of the Credit Parties under the Loan Documents.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Commitment</u>&#148;
means, for any Lender, the amount set opposite such Lender&#146;s name on <u>Schedule
1</u> as its &#147;Commitment&#148;, or if such Lender has entered into any Assignment
and Acceptance, as set forth for such Lender as its Commitment in the Register
maintained by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 10.06(c), as such
amount may be reduced or terminated pursuant to Section 2.04 or Article VII or
otherwise under this Agreement.&#160; The
original aggregate amount of the Commitments is $80,000,000.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Commitment
Termination Date</u>&#148; means the earlier of (a) the Maturity Date and (b) the
earlier termination in whole of the Commitments pursuant to Section 2.04 or
Article VII.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Compliance
Certificate</u>&#148; means a compliance certificate in the form of the attached <u>Exhibit
B</u> signed by a Responsible Officer of Brigham Exploration.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Consolidated
Net Income</u>&#148; means, with respect to Brigham Exploration and its consolidated
Subsidiaries, for any period, the aggregate of the net income (or loss) of
Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries after allowances for
taxes for such period as determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with
GAAP; <u>provided</u>, that there shall be excluded from the calculation of
such net income (to the extent otherwise included therein) the following: (a)
the net income of any Person in which Brigham Exploration or any consolidated
Subsidiary has an interest (which interest does not cause the net income of
such other Person to be consolidated with the net income of Brigham Exploration
and its consolidated Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP), except to the
extent of the amount of dividends or distributions actually paid in such period
by such other Person to Brigham Exploration or to a consolidated Subsidiary, as
the case may be; (b) the net income (but not loss) of any consolidated
Subsidiary to the extent that the declaration or payment of dividends or
similar distributions or transfers or loans by that consolidated Subsidiary is
not at the time permitted by operation of the terms of its charter or any
agreement, instrument or Legal Requirement applicable to such consolidated Subsidiary,
or is otherwise restricted or prohibited in each case determined in accordance
with GAAP; (c) the net income (or loss) of any Person acquired in a
pooling-of-interests transaction for any period prior to the date of such
transaction; (d) any extraordinary gains or losses, including gains or losses
attributable to Property sales not in the ordinary course of business; and (e)
the cumulative effect</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">5</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=11,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=872169,FOLIO='5',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">of a change in accounting
principles and any gains or losses attributable to writeups or writedowns of
assets.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Continuing
Director</u>&#148; means an individual who (a) is a member of the full Board of
Directors of Brigham Exploration and (b) either (i) was a member of the Board
of Directors of Brigham Exploration on the Closing Date or (ii) whose
nomination for election or election to the Board of Directors of Brigham
Exploration was approved by vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then
still in office who were either directors on the Closing Date or whose election
or nomination for election was previously so approved.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Controlled
Group</u>&#148; means all members of a controlled group of corporations and all
businesses (whether or not incorporated) under common control which, together
with the Borrower, are treated as a single employer under Section 414 of the
Code.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Convert</u>,&#148;
&#147;<u>Conversion</u>,&#148; and &#147;<u>Converted</u>&#148; each refers to a conversion of
Advances of one Type into Advances of another Type pursuant to Section 2.03(b).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Credit
Parties</u>&#148; means the Borrower and the Guarantors.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Debt</u>,&#148;
for any Person, means without duplication:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; indebtedness of such Person for
borrowed money;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person evidenced
by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person (whether contingent
or otherwise) in respect to letters of credit, bankers&#146; acceptances, surety or
other bonds and similar instruments, and agreements relating to the issuance of
letters of credit or acceptance financing;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person to pay the
deferred purchase price of Property or services (other than current trade
liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business and payable in
accordance with customary practices and accrued current liabilities incurred in
the ordinary course of business);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all obligations of such Person under
Capital Leases;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all indebtedness created or arising
under any conditional-sale or other title-retention agreement with respect to
Property acquired by such Person (even though the rights and remedies of the seller
or lender under such agreement in the event of default are limited to
repossession or sale of such Property);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person under any
Interest Hedge Agreement or Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person under any
Advance Payment Contract;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">6</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=12,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=679470,FOLIO='6',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person owing in
respect of redeemable preferred stock of such Person;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any obligations in connection with
any volumetric or production payments;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(k)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; obligations of such Person under
direct or indirect guaranties in respect of, and obligations (contingent or
otherwise) of such Person to purchase or otherwise acquire, or otherwise to
assure a creditor against loss in respect of, indebtedness or obligations of
others of the kinds referred to in clauses (a) through (j) above; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(l)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; indebtedness or obligations of
others of the kinds referred to in clauses (a) through (k) secured by any Lien
on or in respect of any Property of such Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Default</u>&#148;
means (a) an Event of Default or (b) any event or condition which with notice
or lapse of time or both would become an Event of Default.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Deposit
Control Agreement</u>&#148; has the meaning set forth in Section 5.16.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Dollars</u>&#148;
and &#147;<u>$</u>&#148; means lawful money of the United States of America.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Domestic
Lending Office</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Lender, the office of such
Lender specified as its &#147;Domestic Lending Office&#148; opposite its name on <u>Schedule
1</u> or such other office of such Lender as such Lender may from time to time
specify to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>EBITDA</u>&#148;
means, without duplication, for Brigham Exploration and its consolidated
Subsidiaries for any period, (a) Consolidated Net Income for such period <u>plus</u>
(b) to the extent deducted in determining Consolidated Net Income for such
period, Interest Expense, taxes, depreciation, depletion, amortization and
other non-cash charges for such period, <u>minus</u> (c) to the extent added in
determining Consolidated Net Income for such period, all non-cash income during
such period, in each case determined in accordance with GAAP and without
duplication of amounts.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eligible
Assignee</u>&#148; means (a) any Lender or any Affiliate of any Lender and (b) any
commercial bank or other financial institution approved by (i) the
Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion and (ii) provided no Default
or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrower (which consent
shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Engineering
Report</u>&#148; means either an Independent Engineering Report or an Internal
Engineering Report.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Environment</u>&#148;
or &#147;<u>Environmental</u>&#148; shall have the meanings set forth in 43 U.S.C.
9601(8) (1988).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Environmental
Claim</u>&#148; means any third party (including governmental agencies and
employees) action, lawsuit, claim, demand, regulatory action or proceeding,
order, decree, consent agreement or notice of potential or actual
responsibility or violation (including claims or proceedings under the
Occupational Safety and Health Acts or similar laws or requirements</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">7</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=13,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=479192,FOLIO='7',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">relating to health or safety of
employees) which seeks to impose liability under any Environmental Law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Environmental
Law</u>&#148; means, as to any Credit Party, all Legal Requirements or common law
theories applicable to any Credit Party arising from, relating to, or in
connection with the Environment, including without limitation CERCLA, relating
to (a) pollution, contamination, injury, destruction, loss, protection,
cleanup, reclamation or restoration of the air, surface water, groundwater,
land surface or subsurface strata, or other natural resources; (b) solid,
gaseous or liquid waste generation, treatment, processing, recycling,
reclamation, cleanup, storage, disposal or transportation; (c) exposure to
pollutants, contaminants, hazardous, medical infections, or toxic substances,
materials or wastes; or (d) the manufacture, processing, handling,
transportation, distribution in commerce, use, storage or disposal of hazardous
or toxic substances, materials or wastes.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Environmental
Permit</u>&#148; means any permit, license, order, approval, registration or other
authorization under Environmental Law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Equity
Interest</u>&#148; means with respect to any Person, any shares, interests,
participation, or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock,
membership interests or partnership interests (or any other ownership
interests) of such Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>ERISA</u>&#148;
means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended from time
to time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eurocurrency
Liabilities</u>&#148; has the meaning assigned to that term in Regulation D of the
Federal Reserve Board (or any successor), as in effect from time to time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eurodollar
Lending Office</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Lender, the office of such
Lender specified as its &#147;Eurodollar Lending Office&#148; opposite its name on <u>Schedule
1</u> (or, if no such office is specified, its Domestic Lending Office), or
such other office of such Lender as such Lender may from time to time specify
to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eurodollar
Rate</u>&#148; means, for the Interest Period for each Eurodollar Rate Advance
comprising the same Borrowing, the interest rate per annum (rounded upward to
the nearest whole multiple of 1/100 of 1% per annum) set forth on the
applicable Telerate Page as the London Interbank Offered Rate, for deposits in
Dollars at 11:00 a.m. (London, England time) two Business Days before the first
day of such Interest Period and for a period equal to such Interest Period; <u>provided</u>
that, if no such quotation appears on the applicable Telerate Page, the
Eurodollar Rate shall be an interest rate per annum equal to the rate per annum
at which deposits in Dollars are offered by the principal office of Soci&#233;t&#233;
G&#233;n&#233;rale in London, England to prime banks in the London interbank market at
11:00 a.m. (London, England time) two Business Days before the first day of
such Interest Period in an amount substantially equal to the Eurodollar Rate
Advance to be maintained by the Lender that is the Administrative Agent in
respect of such Borrowing and for a period equal to such Interest Period.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eurodollar
Rate Advance</u>&#148; means an Advance which bears interest as provided in Section
2.09(b).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">8</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=14,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=220486,FOLIO='8',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Eurodollar
Rate Reserve Percentage</u>&#148; of any Lender for the Interest Period for any
Eurodollar Rate Advance means the reserve percentage applicable during such
Interest Period (or if more than one such percentage shall be so applicable,
the daily average of such percentages for those days in such Interest Period during
which any such percentage shall be so applicable) under regulations issued from
time to time by the Federal Reserve Board for determining the maximum reserve
requirement (including, without limitation, any emergency, supplemental, or
other marginal reserve requirement) for such Lender with respect to liabilities
or assets consisting of or including Eurocurrency Liabilities having a term
equal to such Interest Period.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Event of
Default</u>&#148; has the meaning specified in Section 7.01.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Excepted
Liens</u>&#148; means (a) Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges
or levies not yet due or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate
action and for which adequate reserves have been maintained in accordance with
GAAP; (b) Liens in connection with workmen&#146;s compensation, unemployment
insurance or other social security, old age pension or public liability
obligations not yet due or which are being contested in good faith by
appropriate action and for which adequate reserves have been maintained in accordance
with GAAP; (c) operators&#146;, vendors&#146;, carriers&#146;, warehousemen&#146;s, repairmen&#146;s,
mechanics&#146;, workmen&#146;s, materialmen&#146;s, construction or other like Liens arising
in the ordinary course of business or incident to the exploration, development,
operation and maintenance of Oil and Gas Properties or customary landlord&#146;s
liens, each of which is in respect of obligations that have not been
outstanding more than 90 days or which are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been maintained in
accordance with GAAP; (d) any Liens reserved in leases, farmout agreements,
exploration agreements, operating agreements or participation agreements for
rent or royalties and for compliance with the terms of such agreements or
leases in the case of leasehold estates, to the extent that any such Lien
referred to in this clause does not materially impair the use of the Property
covered by such Lien for the purposes for which such Property is held or
materially impair the value of such Property subject thereto; (e) encumbrances
(other than to secure the payment of borrowed money or the deferred purchase
price of Property or services), easements, restrictions, servitudes, permits,
conditions, covenants, exceptions or reservations in any rights of way or other
Property for the purpose of roads, pipelines, transmission lines,
transportation lines, distribution lines for the removal of gas, oil, coal or
other minerals or timber, and other like purposes, or for the joint or common use
of real estate, rights of way, facilities and equipment, and defects,
irregularities, zoning restrictions and deficiencies in the title of any rights
of way or other Property which in the aggregate do not materially impair the
use of such rights of way or other Property for the purposes of which such
rights of way and other Property are held or materially impair the value of
such Property subject thereto; (f) deposits of cash or securities to secure the
performance of bids, trade contracts, leases, statutory obligations and other
obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business; and
(g) minor defects in the chain of title to the Oil and Gas Properties that are
customarily accepted in the oil and gas industry, <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>,
that none of such defects interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business
of any of the Credit Parties or materially detract from the value or use of the
Property to which such defects apply.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Exchange
Act</u>&#148; means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Existing
Letters of Credit</u>&#148; means the letters of credit described on <u>Schedule
2.07</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">9</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=15,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=409295,FOLIO='9',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Existing
Mortgages</u>&#148; means the collective reference to every Mortgage, Deed of Trust,
Assignment of Production, Security Agreement and Financing Statement from the
Borrower to the Trustee named therein and Bank of Montreal (or any successor
thereto), covering the assets of the Borrower located in the continental United
States, as amended prior to the Closing Date.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Expiration
Date</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Letter of Credit, the date on which such
Letter of Credit will expire or terminate in accordance with its terms.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Federal
Funds Rate</u>&#148; means, for any period, a fluctuating interest rate per annum
equal for each day during such period to the weighted average of the rates on
overnight Federal funds transactions with members of the Federal Reserve System
arranged by Federal funds brokers, as published for such day (or, if such day
is not a Business Day, for the next preceding Business Day) by the Federal
Reserve Bank of New York, or, if such rate is not so published for any day
which is a Business Day, the average of the quotations for any such day on such
transactions received by the Administrative Agent from three Federal funds
brokers of recognized standing selected by it.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Federal
Reserve Board</u>&#148; means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
or any of its successors.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Financial
Letter of Credit</u>&#148; means a Letter of Credit qualifying as a &#147;financial
standby letter of credit&#148; under 12 CFR Part 3, Appendix A, Section 4(a)(8) or
any successor U.S. Comptroller of the Currency regulation and issued by an
Issuing Bank under the terms of this Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Financial
Statements</u>&#148; means the audited consolidated balance sheet of Brigham
Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries as at December 31, 2002 and the
related consolidated statement of income, stockholders&#146; equity and cash flow of
Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries for the fiscal year ended
on such date.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>GA
Partners</u>&#148; means General Atlantic Partners III, L.P., together with its
successors, assigns and transferees of its shares of Capital Stock of Brigham
Exploration that are an Affiliated Fund of GA Partners.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>GAAP</u>&#148;
means United States generally accepted accounting principles as in effect from
time to time, applied on a basis consistent with the requirements of Section
1.03.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Governmental
Authority</u>&#148; means, as to any Person in connection with any subject, any
foreign, national, state or provincial governmental authority, or any political
subdivision of any state thereof, or any agency, department, commission, board,
authority or instrumentality, bureau or court, in each case having jurisdiction
over such Person or such Person&#146;s Property in connection with such subject.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Guarantor</u>&#148;
means Brigham Exploration, the General Partner, and each Subsidiary of the
Borrower.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Hazardous
Substance</u>&#148; means the substances identified as such pursuant to CERCLA and
those regulated under any other Environmental Law, including without limitation
pollutants,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">10</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=16,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=355974,FOLIO='10',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">contaminants, petroleum,
petroleum products, radionuclides, radioactive materials, and medical and
infectious waste.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Hazardous
Waste</u>&#148; means the substances regulated as such pursuant to any Environmental
Law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Hydrocarbon
Hedge Agreement</u>&#148; means a swap, collar, floor, cap, option, forward sale or
purchase or other contract (excluding sales contracts with fixed or floating
prices for Hydrocarbons sold) that is intended to reduce or eliminate the risk
of fluctuations in the price of Hydrocarbons.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Hydrocarbon
Interests</u>&#148; means (a) all oil and gas and/or oil, gas and mineral leases and
leasehold interests, fee mineral interests, term mineral interests, subleases,
farmouts, royalties, overriding royalties, net profits interests, production
payments and similar interests or estates including any reversionary or carried
interests relating to any of the foregoing and interests under any exploration
agreements, operating agreements and participation agreements, and (b) all
production units and drilling and spacing units (and the Properties covered
thereby) which may affect all or any portion of such interests including those
units and any units created by agreement or designation or under orders,
regulations, rules or other official acts of any Federal, state or other
governmental body or agency having jurisdiction.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Hydrocarbons</u>&#148;
means oil, gas, coal seam gas, casinghead gas, drip gasoline, natural gasoline,
condensate, distillate, and all other liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons produced
or to be produced in conjunction therewith from a well bore and all products,
by-products, and other substances derived therefrom or the processing thereof,
and all other minerals and substances produced in conjunction with such
substances, including, but not limited to, sulfur, geothermal steam, water,
carbon dioxide, helium, and any and all minerals, ores, or substances of value
and the products and proceeds therefrom.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Independent
Engineer</u>&#148; means Cawley, Gillespie &amp; Associates or any other engineering
firm reasonably acceptable to either the Administrative Agent or the Majority
Lenders.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Independent
Engineering Report</u>&#148; means a report, in form and substance satisfactory to
the Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders, prepared by an Independent
Engineer, addressed to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders with respect to
the Oil and Gas Properties owned by the Borrower or its Subsidiaries (or to be
acquired by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, as applicable) which are
or are to be included in the Borrowing Base, which report shall (a) specify the
location, quantity, and type of the estimated Proven Reserves attributable to
such Oil and Gas Properties, (b) contain a projection of the rate of production
of such Oil and Gas Properties, (c) contain an estimate of the associated
capital expenditures and net operating revenues to be derived from the
production and sale of Hydrocarbons from such Proven Reserves based on product
price and cost escalation assumptions specified by the Administrative Agent and
the Lenders, and (d) contain such other information as is customarily obtained
from and provided in such reports or is otherwise reasonably requested by the
Administrative Agent or any Lender.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">11</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=17,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=345990,FOLIO='11',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Intercreditor
and Subordination Agreement</u>&#148; means that certain Amended and Restated
Intercreditor and Subordination Agreement, which shall be in a form acceptable
to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders,&#160;
dated as of the Closing Date among the Administrative Agent, certain of
the Credit Parties, and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, as agent for the
lenders party to the Subordinated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Interest
Coverage Ratio</u>&#148; means, for Brigham Exploration and its consolidated
Subsidiaries, as of the end of any fiscal quarter, the ratio of (a) EBITDA
calculated for the four fiscal quarters then ended, to (b) Interest Expense for
such period.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Interest
Expense</u>&#148; means, for Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries
for any period, total interest, letter of credit fees, and other fees and
expenses incurred in connection with any Debt for such period, whether paid or
accrued, including, without limitation, all commissions, discounts and other
fees and charges owed with respect to letters of credit and bankers&#146; acceptance
financing and net costs under Interest Hedge Agreements and Hydrocarbon Hedge
Agreements, all as determined in conformity with GAAP.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Interest
Hedge Agreement</u>&#148; means an interest hedge, rate swap, cap or collar, or
similar arrangement between the Borrower and one or more financial institutions
providing for the exchange of nominal interest obligations between the Borrower
and such financial institution.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Interest
Period</u>&#148; means, for each Eurodollar Rate Advance comprising part of the same
Borrowing, the period commencing on the date of such Eurodollar Rate Advance or
the date of the Conversion of any Base Rate Advance into a Eurodollar Rate
Advance and ending on the last day of the period selected by the Borrower
pursuant to the provisions below and Section 2.03 and, thereafter, each
subsequent period commencing on the last day of the immediately preceding
Interest Period and ending on the last day of the period selected by the
Borrower pursuant to the provisions below and Section 2.03.&#160; The duration of each such Interest Period
shall be one, two, three, or six months, in each case as the Borrower may, upon
notice received by the Administrative Agent not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York
time) on the third Business Day prior to the first day of such Interest Period,
select; <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>, that:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Borrower may not select any
Interest Period for any Advance which ends after the Maturity Date;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Interest Periods commencing on the
same date for Advances comprising part of the same Borrowing shall be of the
same duration;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; whenever the last day of any Interest
Period would otherwise occur on a day other than a Business Day, the last day
of such Interest Period shall be extended to occur on the next succeeding
Business Day, <u>provided</u> that if such extension would cause the last day
of such Interest Period to occur in the next following calendar month, the last
day of such Interest Period shall occur on the next preceding Business Day; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any Interest Period which begins on
the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day for which there is no
numerically corresponding day in the calendar month at the end of such Interest
Period) shall end on the last Business Day of the calendar month in which it
would have ended if there were a numerically corresponding day in such calendar
month.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">12</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=18,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=186049,FOLIO='12',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Internal
Engineering Report</u>&#148; means a report, in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and each Lender, prepared by the
Borrower and certified by a Responsible Officer of the General Partner,
addressed to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders with respect to the Oil
and Gas Properties owned by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries (or to be
acquired by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, as applicable) which are
or are to be included in the Borrowing Base, which report shall (a) specify the
location, quantity, and type of the estimated Proven Reserves attributable to
such Oil and Gas Properties, (b) contain a projection of the rate of production
of such Oil and Gas Properties, (c) contain an estimate of the associated
capital expenditures and net operating revenues to be derived from the
production and sale of Hydrocarbons from such Proven Reserves based on product
price and cost escalation assumptions specified by the Administrative Agent and
the Lenders, and (d) contain such other information as is customarily obtained
from and provided in such reports or is otherwise reasonably requested by the
Administrative Agent or any Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Investment</u>&#148;
means any investment, made directly or indirectly, in any Person, whether by
acquisition of Equity Interests, indebtedness or other obligations or
securities or by loan, advance, capital contribution or otherwise.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Issuing
Lender</u>&#148; means Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, and any successor issuing bank pursuant to
Section 9.06.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Legal
Requirement</u>&#148; means, as to any Person, any law, statute, ordinance, decree,
requirement, order, judgment, rule, regulation (or official interpretation of
any of the foregoing) of, and the terms of any license or permit issued by, any
Governmental Authority, including, but not limited to, Regulations D, T, U, and
X, which is applicable to such Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Lender</u>&#148;
means each Lender that has a Commitment hereunder or is the holder of an
Advance.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Letter of
Credit</u>&#148; means, individually, any standby letter of credit issued by the
Issuing Lender for the account of the Borrower in connection with the
Commitments and which is subject to this Agreement, and &#147;<u>Letters of Credit</u>&#148;
means all such letters of credit collectively.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Letter of
Credit Application</u>&#148; means the Issuing Lender&#146;s standard form letter of
credit application for standby letters of credit that has been executed by the
Borrower and accepted by the Issuing Lender in connection with the issuance of
a Letter of Credit.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Letter of
Credit Documents</u>&#148; means all Letters of Credit, Letter of Credit
Applications, and any other agreements, documents, and instruments entered into
in connection with or relating thereto.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Letter of
Credit Exposure</u>&#148; means, at any time, the sum of (a) the aggregate undrawn
maximum face amount of each Letter of Credit at such time <u>plus</u> (b) the
aggregate unpaid amount of all Reimbursement Obligations at such time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Letter of
Credit Obligations</u>&#148; means any obligations of the Borrower under this
Agreement in connection with the Letters of Credit, including the Reimbursement
Obligations.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">13</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=19,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=742755,FOLIO='13',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Lien</u>&#148;
means any mortgage, lien, pledge, assignment, charge, deed of trust, security
interest, hypothecation, preference, deposit arrangement or encumbrance (or
other type of arrangement having the practical effect of the foregoing) to
secure or provide for the payment of any obligation of any Person, whether
arising by contract, operation of law, or otherwise (including, without
limitation, the interest of a vendor or lessor under any conditional sale
agreement, synthetic lease, Capital Lease, or other title retention agreement).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Limited
Partners</u>&#148; means Brigham Holdings I, LLC, a Nevada limited liability
company, and Brigham Holdings II, LLC, a Nevada limited liability company.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Loan
Documents</u>&#148; means this Agreement, the Notes, the Administrative Agent&#146;s Fee
Letter, the Letter of Credit Documents, the Security Instruments, the
Intercreditor and Subordination Agreement, the Side Letter Agreement, any
Interest Hedge Agreements with a Swap Counterparty, any Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements
with a Swap Counterparty, and each other agreement, instrument, or document
executed by any Credit Party or any of their officers at any time in connection
with this Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Majority
Lenders</u>&#148; means, at any time, the Administrative Agent and Lenders holding
at least 66-2/3% of the then aggregate unpaid principal amount of the Notes
held by the Lenders and the Letter of Credit Exposure of the Lenders at such
time; <u>provided</u> that, if no Advances or Letter of Credit Exposure is then
outstanding, &#147;Majority Lenders&#148; shall mean the Administrative Agent and Lenders
having at least 66-2/3% of the aggregate amount of the Commitments at such
time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Material
Adverse Change</u>&#148; means (a) a material adverse change in the business,
Property (including the Oil and Gas Properties), assets, liabilities,
conditions (financial or otherwise) or prospects of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, (b) a material adverse effect on any Credit
Party&#146;s ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement, any Note, or
any other Loan Document and (c) a material adverse effect on the validity or
enforceability against any Credit Party of any of the Loan Documents or the
rights or remedies of the Administrative Agent or the Lenders thereunder.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Maturity
Date</u>&#148; means March 21, 2006; provided, however, that if on or before July
31, 2005 (a) the Subordinated Debt has not been repaid, (b) the Subordinated
Debt Maturity Date has not been extended to at least April 30, 2006 or (c) the
Subordinated Debt has not been refinanced with Debt subordinated to the
Obligations on substantially the same terms and conditions as set forth in the
Intercreditor and Subordination Agreement (or terms otherwise acceptable to all
of the Lenders) the maturity date of which is not earlier than 60 days after
the Maturity Date, then the &#147;Maturity Date&#148; shall be August 31, 2005.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#160;&#147;<u>Maximum Rate</u>&#148; means the maximum
nonusurious interest rate under applicable law (determined under such laws
after giving effect to any items which are required by such laws to be
construed as interest in making such determination, including without
limitation if required by such laws, certain fees and other costs).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">14</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=20,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=964184,FOLIO='14',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Mortgage
Amendments</u>&#148; means each of the amended and restated mortgages or deeds of
trust to be entered into on or before the Closing Date to amend and restate in
their entirety the Existing Mortgages in substantially the form of the attached
<u>Exhibit F</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Mortgages</u>&#148;
means, collectively, each Mortgage Amendment or any other mortgage or deed of
trust executed by any one or more of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in favor
of the Administrative Agent for the ratable benefit of the Administrative
Agent, the Issuing Lender, the Lenders, and any Swap Counterparty, as the same
may be amended, modified, restated or supplemented from time-to-time, and &#147;<u>Mortgages</u>&#148;
shall mean all of such Mortgages collectively.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Multiemployer
Plan</u>&#148; means a &#147;multiemployer plan&#148; as defined in Section 4001(a)(3) of
ERISA.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Note</u>&#148;
means a promissory note of the Borrower payable to the order of any Lender, in
substantially the form of the attached <u>Exhibit E</u>, evidencing
indebtedness of the Borrower to such Lender resulting from Advances owing to
such Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Notice of
Borrowing</u>&#148; means a notice of borrowing in the form of the attached <u>Exhibit
C</u> signed by a Responsible Officer of the General Partner.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Notice of
Conversion or Continuation</u>&#148; means a notice of conversion or continuation in
the form of the attached <u>Exhibit D</u> signed by a Responsible Officer of
the General Partner.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Obligations</u>&#148;
means (a) all principal, interest, fees, reimbursements, indemnifications, and
other amounts payable by any Credit Party to the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender or the Lenders under the Loan Documents, including without
limitation, the Letter of Credit Obligations and (b) all obligations of any
Credit Party owing to any Swap Counterparty under any Interest Hedge Agreement
or Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Oil and
Gas Properties</u>&#148; means (a) all Hydrocarbon Interests; (b) all operating
agreements, contracts and other agreements which relate to any of the
Hydrocarbon Interests or the production, sale, purchase, exchange or processing
of Hydrocarbons from or attributable to such Hydrocarbon Interests; (c) all
Hydrocarbons in and under and which may be produced, saved, processed or
attributable to the Hydrocarbon Interests, including all oil in tanks, the
lands covered thereby and all rents, issues, profits, proceeds, products,
revenues and other incomes from or attributable to the Hydrocarbon Interests;
(d) all accounts (including accounts resulting from the sale of Hydrocarbons at
the wellhead), contract rights and general intangibles, including all accounts,
contract rights and general intangibles now or hereafter arising <font style="background:white;">regardless of whether any of the
foregoing is </font>in connection with the sale or other disposition of any
Hydrocarbons or otherwise, including all Liens securing the same; (e) all
Properties, rights, titles, interests and estates described or referred to
above, including any and all Property, real or personal, now owned or hereafter
acquired, used or held for use in connection with the operating, working or
development of any of such Hydrocarbon Interests or Property and including any
and all oil wells, gas wells, injection wells or other wells, buildings,
structures, fuel separators, liquid extraction plants, plant compressors,
pumps, pumping units, field gathering systems, tanks and tank batteries,
fixtures, valves, fittings, machinery and parts, engines, boilers, meters,
apparatus,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">15</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=21,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=38964,FOLIO='15',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">appliances, tools, implements,
cables, wires, towers, casing, tubing and rods, and similar equipment; and (f)
all additions, substitutions, replacements, accessions and attachments to any
and all of the foregoing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Partners</u>&#148;
means the General Partner and the Limited Partners.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Partnership
Agreement</u>&#148; means the Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Borrower among
the Partners dated as of December 30, 1997, as heretofore or hereafter amended,
supplemented or restated from time to time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>PBGC</u>&#148;
means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any entity succeeding to any
or all of its functions under ERISA.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Performance
Letter of Credit</u>&#148; means a Letter of Credit qualifying as a
&#147;performance-based standby letter of credit&#148; under 12 CFR Part 3, Appendix A,
Section 3(b)(2)(i) or any successor U.S. Comptroller of the Currency regulation
and issued by an Issuing Bank under the terms of this Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Permit</u>&#148;
means any approval, certificate of occupancy, consent, waiver, exemption,
variance, franchise, order, permit, authorization, right or license of or from
any Governmental Authority, including without limitation, an Environmental
Permit.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Permitted
Liens</u>&#148; has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 6.01.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Person</u>&#148;
means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust),
joint stock company, limited liability corporation or company, limited
liability partnership, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture or
other entity, or a government or any political subdivision or agency thereof or
any trustee, receiver, custodian or similar official.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Plan</u>&#148;
means an employee benefit plan (other than a Multiemployer Plan) maintained for
employees of the Borrower or any member of the Controlled Group and covered by
Title IV of ERISA or subject to the minimum funding standards under Section 412
of the Code.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Pledge
Agreements</u>&#148; means each of the Amended and Restated Pledge Agreements, in
substantially the form of the attached <u>Exhibit G</u>, executed by each of
Brigham Exploration, the General Partner and the Borrower, as the same may be
amended, modified, restated or supplemented from time to time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Preferred
Shareholders</u>&#148; means each of the Persons listed on Schedule 1.01 who hold
Capital Stock in Brigham Exploration, together with its successors, assigns and
transferees of its shares of Capital Stock of Brigham Exploration that are
Affiliated Funds of such Preferred Shareholders.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Preferred
Shareholder Transaction</u>&#148; means any transaction in which any of the
Preferred Shareholders exercises (whether voluntarily or as required by Brigham
Exploration) its warrants to purchase common stock issued by Brigham
Exploration pursuant to the terms of such warrants or the applicable
certificate of designations of Brigham Exploration.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">16</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=22,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1519,FOLIO='16',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Property</u>&#148;
of any Person means any property or assets (whether real, personal, or mixed,
tangible or intangible) of such Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Pro Rata
Share</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Lender, either (a) the ratio (expressed
as a percentage) of such Lender&#146;s Commitment at such time to the aggregate
Commitments at such time or (b) if the Commitments have been terminated, the
ratio (expressed as a percentage) of such Lender&#146;s aggregate outstanding
Advances and Letter of Credit Exposure at such time to the aggregate
outstanding Advances and Letter of Credit Exposure of all the Lenders at such
time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Proven
Reserves</u>&#148; means, at any particular time, the estimated quantities of
Hydrocarbons which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable
certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs attributable
to Oil and Gas Properties under then existing economic and operating conditions
(i.e., prices and costs as of the date the estimate is made).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Register</u>&#148;
has the meaning set forth in paragraph (c) of Section 10.06.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Regulations
D, T, U, and X</u>&#148; mean Regulations D, T, U, and X of the Federal Reserve
Board, as the same are from time to time in effect, and all official rulings
and interpretations thereunder or thereof.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Reimbursement
Obligations</u>&#148; means all of the obligations of the Borrower to reimburse the
Issuing Lender for amounts paid by the Issuing Lender under Letters of Credit as
established by the Letter of Credit Applications and Section 2.07(d).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Release</u>&#148;
shall have the meaning set forth in CERCLA or under any other Environmental
Law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Response</u>&#148;
shall have the meaning set forth in CERCLA or under any other Environmental Law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Responsible
Officer</u>&#148; means (a) with respect to any Person that is a corporation, such
Person&#146;s Chief Executive Officer, President, Executive Vice President, Chief
Financial Officer, or Vice President&#151;Controller (b) with respect to any Person
that is a limited liability company, a manager (or such Person&#146;s Chief
Executive Officer, President, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer, or Vice President&#151;Controller, if any) or the Responsible Officer of
such Person&#146;s managing member or manager, and (c) with respect to any Person
that is a general partnership or a limited liability partnership, the
Responsible Officer of such Person&#146;s general partner or partners.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Restricted
Payment</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Person, any direct or indirect dividend
or distribution (whether in cash, securities or other property) or any direct
or indirect payment of any kind or character (whether in cash, securities or
other property) in consideration for or otherwise in connection with any
retirement, purchase, redemption or other acquisition of any Equity Interest of
such Person, or any options, warrants or rights to purchase or acquire any such
Equity Interest of such Person; <u>provided</u> that the term &#147;Restricted
Payment&#148; shall not include any dividend or distribution payable solely in
Equity Interests of Brigham Exploration or warrants, options or other rights to
purchase such Equity Interests.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">17</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=23,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=10424,FOLIO='17',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>SEC</u>&#148;
means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Security
Agreements</u>&#148; means each of the Amended and Restated Security Agreements, in
substantially the form of the attached <u>Exhibit H</u>, executed by each of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, as the same may be amended, modified, or
supplemented from time to time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Security
Instruments</u>&#148; means, collectively, (a) the Mortgages, (b) the Pledge
Agreements, (c) the Security Agreements, (d) the Deposit Control Agreements,
(e) each other agreement, instrument or document executed at any time in
connection with the Pledge Agreements, the Security Agreements and the
Mortgages, (f) each agreement, instrument or document executed in connection
with the Cash Collateral Account; and (g) each other agreement, instrument or
document executed at any time in connection with securing the Obligations.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Side
Letter Agreement</u>&#148; means the letter agreement dated as of the Closing Date
among the Borrower, the Guarantors, the Administrative Agent and The Royal Bank
of Scotland plc, as agent under the Subordinated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Significant
PUD Location</u>&#148; means a particular drilling location or proven, undeveloped
reserve prospect identified or designated as &#147;PUD&#148; or &#147;proven undeveloped&#148;
reserves in the applicable Engineering Report, that has been assigned a
discounted present value equal to or in excess of $2,000,000.00 in such
Engineering Report.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Solvent</u>&#148;
means, with respect to any Person as of the date of any determination, that on
such date (a) the fair value of the Property of such Person (both at fair
valuation and at present fair saleable value) is greater than the total
liabilities, including contingent liabilities, of such Person, (b) the present
fair saleable value of the assets of such Person is not less than the amount
that will be required to pay the probable liability of such Person on its debts
as they become absolute and matured, (c) such Person is able to realize upon
its assets and pay its debts and other liabilities, contingent obligations, and
other commitments as they mature in the normal course of business, (d) such
Person does not intend to, and does not believe that it will, incur debts or
liabilities beyond such Person&#146;s ability to pay as such debts and liabilities
mature, and (e) such Person is not engaged in business or a transaction, and is
not about to engage in business or a transaction, for which such Person&#146;s
Property would constitute unreasonably small capital after giving due
consideration to current and anticipated future capital requirements and
current and anticipated future business conduct and the prevailing practice in
the industry in which such Person is engaged.&#160;
In computing the amount of contingent liabilities at any time, such
liabilities shall be computed at the amount that, in light of the facts and
circumstances existing at such time, represents the amount that can reasonably
be expected to become an actual or matured liability.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Subordinated
Credit Agreement</u>&#148; means the Subordinated Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of the date hereof among the Borrower, the lenders party
thereto, and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, as administrative agent for such
lenders.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Subordinated
Debt</u>&#148; means the &#147;Obligations&#148; as defined in the Subordinated Credit
Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">18</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=24,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=770162,FOLIO='18',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Subordinated
Debt Maturity Date</u>&#148; means the &#147;Maturity Date&#148; as defined in the
Subordinated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Subordinated
Loan Documents</u>&#148; means the Subordinated Credit Agreement, the promissory
notes executed and delivered pursuant to the Subordinated Credit Agreement, all
agreements, instruments, or documents executed at any time in connection with
securing the Subordinated Debt, and each other agreement, instrument, or
document executed by any Credit Party or any of their Responsible Officers in
connection with the Subordinated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Subsidiary</u>&#148;
of a Person means any corporation or other entity of which more than 50% of the
outstanding Equity Interests having ordinary voting power under ordinary
circumstances to elect a majority of the board of directors or similar
governing body of such corporation or other entity (irrespective of whether at
such time Equity Interests of any other class or classes of such corporation or
other entity shall or might have voting power upon the occurrence of any
contingency) is at the time directly or indirectly owned or controlled by such
Person, by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or by one or
more Subsidiaries of such Person.&#160;
Unless otherwise indicated herein, each reference to the term
&#147;Subsidiary&#148; shall mean a Subsidiary of the Borrower.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Swap
Counterparty</u>&#148; means any Lender (or Affiliate of a Lender) that is party to
a Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement or Interest Hedge Agreement with the Borrower or
any of its Subsidiaries.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Termination
Event</u>&#148; means (a) a Reportable Event described in Section 4043 of ERISA and
the regulations issued thereunder (other than a Reportable Event not subject to
the provision for 30-day notice to the PBGC under such regulations), (b) the
withdrawal of the Borrower or any of its Affiliates from a Plan during a plan
year in which it was a &#147;substantial employer&#148; as defined in Section 4001(a)(2)
of ERISA, (c) the filing of a notice of intent to terminate a Plan or the
treatment of a Plan amendment as a termination under Section 4041 of ERISA, (d)
the institution of proceedings to terminate a Plan by the PBGC, or (e) any
other event or condition which constitutes grounds under Section 4042 of ERISA
for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any
Plan.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Type</u>&#148;
has the meaning set forth in Section 1.04.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Unused
Commitment Amount</u>&#148; means, with respect to a Lender at any time, the lesser
of (a) such Lender&#146;s Commitment at such time and (b) such Lender&#146;s Pro Rata
Share of the Borrowing Base then in effect at such time <u>minus</u>, in each
case the sum of (i) the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Advances
owed to such Lender at such time <u>plus</u> (ii) such Lender&#146;s Share of the
aggregate Letter of Credit Exposure at such time.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Utilization
Percentage</u>&#148; means, at any time, the ratio (expressed as a percentage) at
such time of (a) the sum of the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the
Advances and the aggregate Letter of Credit Exposure at such time to (b) the
lesser of (i) the Commitments or (ii) the Borrowing Base, as applicable, in
effect at such time.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">19</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=25,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=816183,FOLIO='19',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#147;<u>Voting
Stock</u>&#148; means, with respect to any Person, securities of any class or
classes of Capital Stock or other interests (including partnership interests)
in such Person entitling the holders thereof (whether at all times or at the
time that such class of Capital Stock has voting power by reason of the
happening of any contingency) to vote in the election of members of the board
of directors or comparable body of such Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section1_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Computation
of Time Periods</u>.&#160; In this Agreement,
with respect to the computation of periods of time from a specified date to a
later specified date, the word &#147;from&#148; means &#147;from and including&#148; and the words
&#147;to&#148; and &#147;until&#148; each means &#147;to but excluding&#148;.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section1_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Accounting
Terms; Changes in GAAP</u>.&#160; Except as
otherwise expressly provided herein, all accounting terms used herein shall be
interpreted, and all financial statements and certificates and reports as to
financial matters required to be delivered to the Lenders hereunder shall
(unless otherwise disclosed to the Lenders in writing at the time of delivery
thereof) be prepared, in accordance with GAAP applied on a basis consistent
with those used in the preparation of the Financial Statements.&#160; In addition, all calculations and defined
accounting terms used herein shall, unless expressly provided otherwise, when
referring to any Person, refer to such Person on a consolidated basis and mean
such Person and its consolidated subsidiaries.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section1_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Types
of Advances</u>.&#160; Advances are
distinguished by &#147;Type.&#148;&#160; The &#147;Type&#148; of
an Advance refers to the determination whether such Advance is a Eurodollar
Rate Advance or Base Rate Advance.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section1_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Miscellaneous</u>.&#160; Article, Section, Schedule, and Exhibit
references are to Articles and Sections of and Schedules and Exhibits to this
Agreement, unless otherwise specified.&#160;
All references to instruments, documents, contracts, and agreements are
references to such instruments, documents, contracts, and agreements as the
same may be amended, supplemented, and otherwise modified from time to time,
unless otherwise specified.&#160; The words
&#147;hereof&#148;, &#147;herein&#148;, and &#147;hereunder&#148; and words of similar import when used in
this Agreement shall refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any
particular provision of this Agreement.&#160;
The term &#147;including&#148; means &#147;including, without limitation,&#148;.&#160; Paragraph headings have been inserted in
this Agreement as a matter of convenience for reference only and it is agreed
that such paragraph headings are not a part of this Agreement and shall not be
used in the interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.&#160; All Exhibits and Schedules attached to this
Agreement are a part hereof for all purposes.&#160;
Pronouns in masculine, feminine and neuter genders shall be construed to
include any other gender, and words in the singular form shall be construed to
include the plural and vice versa, unless the context otherwise requires.</p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleIiCreditFacilities"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE II<br>
<br>
CREDIT FACILITIES</font></b></a></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Revolving
Credit Facility</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Each Lender severally agrees, on the
terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, to make Advances to the
Borrower from time to time on any Business Day during</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">20</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=26,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1032927,FOLIO='20',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">the period from the date of
this Agreement until the Commitment Termination Date in an amount for each
Lender not to exceed such Lender&#146;s Unused Commitment Amount.&#160; Each Borrowing shall, in the case of
Borrowings consisting of Base Rate Advances, be in an aggregate amount not less
than $1,000,000 and in integral multiples of $500,000 in excess thereof, and in
the case of Borrowings consisting of Eurodollar Rate Advances, be in an
aggregate amount not less than $2,000,000 and in integral multiples of
$1,000,000 in excess thereof, and in each case shall consist of Advances of the
same Type made on the same day by the Lenders ratably according to their
respective Commitments.&#160; Within the
limits of each Lender&#146;s Commitment, and subject to the terms of this Agreement,
the Borrower may from time to time borrow, prepay, and reborrow Advances.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The indebtedness of the Borrower to
each Lender resulting from the Advances owing to such Lender shall be evidenced
by a Note of the Borrower payable to the order of such Lender in an amount equal
to such Lender&#146;s Commitment.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Borrowing
Base</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Borrowing Base</u>.&#160; The Borrowing Base as of the Closing Date
has been set by the Administrative Agent and the Lenders and acknowledged by
the Borrower as $70,000,000.&#160; Such
Borrowing Base shall remain in effect until the next redetermination made
pursuant to this Section 2.02.&#160; The
Borrowing Base shall be determined in accordance with the standards set forth
in Section 2.02(d) and is subject to periodic redetermination pursuant to
Sections 2.02(b) and 2.02(c).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Calculation of Borrowing Base</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower shall deliver to the
Administrative Agent and each of the Lenders on or before April 1, 2003, and
thereafter on or before each February 15, beginning February 15, 2004, an
Independent Engineering Report dated effective as of the immediately preceding
December 31, and such other information as may be reasonably requested by any
Lender with respect to the Oil and Gas Properties included or to be included in
the Borrowing Base.&#160; Within 20 days
after the Administrative Agent and the Lenders&#146; receipt of such Independent
Engineering Report and other information, the Administrative Agent shall
deliver to each Lender the Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation for the
redetermined Borrowing Base. &#160;Within 20
days after the Lenders&#146; receipt of the Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation,
each Lender shall advise the Administrative Agent whether or not such Lender
agrees with the Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation and the Borrowing Base
shall be redetermined upon the approval of Majority Lenders (or all of the
Lenders in case of an increase in the Borrowing Base); <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>,
the failure of any Lender to give such notice within such period of time shall
be deemed to constitute an acceptance of such redetermination. The
Administrative Agent shall promptly notify the Borrower in writing of the
amount of the Borrowing Base as so redetermined; provided, however that the
failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of any such redetermination.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower shall deliver to the
Administrative Agent and each Lender on or before October 1, 2003, and
thereafter on or before each August 15, beginning August 15, 2004, an Internal
Engineering Report dated effective as of the immediately preceding June 30,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">21</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=27,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=99273,FOLIO='21',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and such other information as
may be reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent or any Lender with
respect to the Oil and Gas Properties included or to be included in the
Borrowing Base.&#160; Within 20 days after
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders&#146; receipt of such Internal Engineering
Report and other information, the Administrative Agent shall deliver to each
Lender the Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation for the redetermined Borrowing
Base.&#160; Within 20 days after the Lenders&#146;
receipt of the Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation, each Lender shall advise
the Administrative Agent whether or not such Lender agrees with the
Administrative Agent&#146;s recommendation and the Borrowing Base shall be
redetermined upon the approval of Majority Lenders (or all of the Lenders in
case of an increase in the Borrowing Base); <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>,
the failure of any Lender to give such notice within such period of time shall
be deemed to constitute an acceptance of such redetermination. The
Administrative Agent shall promptly notify the Borrower in writing of the
amount of the Borrowing Base as so redetermined.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; In the event that the Borrower does
not furnish to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders the Independent
Engineering Report, Internal Engineering Report or other information specified
in clauses (i) and (ii) above by the date specified therein, the Administrative
Agent and the Majority Lenders (or all the Lenders in case of an increase in
the Borrowing Base) may nonetheless redetermine the Borrowing Base and
redesignate the Borrowing Base from time-to-time thereafter in their sole
discretion until the Administrative Agent and the Lenders receive the relevant
Independent Engineering Report, Internal Engineering Report, as applicable, or
other information whereupon the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders
(or all the Lenders in case of an increase in the Borrowing Base) shall
redetermine the Borrowing Base as otherwise specified in this Section
2.02.&#160; The failure of the Administrative
Agent and the Lenders to redetermine the Borrowing Base and redesignate the
Borrowing Base by the dates specified above shall not affect the validity of
any redetermination and redesignation conducted from time-to-time hereafter.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Each delivery of an Engineering Report
by the Borrower to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall constitute a
representation and warranty by the Borrower to the Administrative Agent and the
Lenders that (A) the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, as applicable, own the Oil
and Gas Properties specified therein free and clear of any Liens (except
Permitted Liens), and (B) on and as of the date of such Engineering Report each
Oil and Gas Property described as &#147;proved developed&#148; therein was developed for
oil and gas, and the wells pertaining to such Oil and Gas Properties that are
described therein as producing wells (&#147;<u>Wells</u>&#148;) were each producing oil
and gas in paying quantities, except for Wells that were utilized as water or
gas injection wells or as water disposal wells.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Interim Redetermination</u>.&#160; In addition to the Borrowing Base
redeterminations provided for in Section 2.02(b), the Majority Lenders (except
that any increase in the Borrowing Base shall require the consent of all the
Lenders) may, either in their sole discretion or at the request of the Borrower
and based on such information as the Administrative Agent and the Lenders deem
relevant (but in accordance with Section 2.02(d)), make additional redeterminations
of the Borrowing Base.&#160; The parties
requesting the redetermination shall give the other parties at least 10 days&#146;
prior written notice that a redetermination of the Borrowing Base pursuant to
this paragraph (c) is to be performed.&#160;
In connection with any redetermination of the Borrowing Base under this
Section 2.02(c), the Borrower shall provide the Administrative</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">22</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=28,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=763031,FOLIO='22',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Agent and the Lenders with such
information regarding the Credit Parties&#146; business (including, without
limitation, its Oil and Gas Properties, the Proven Reserves, and production
relating thereto) as the Administrative Agent or any Lender may request,
including, in the case of requests for an increase to the Borrowing Base of
$1,000,000 or more, an updated Independent Engineering Report.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall promptly
notify the Borrower in writing of each redetermination of the Borrowing Base
pursuant to this Section 2.02(c) and the amount of the Borrowing Base as so
redetermined.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Standards for Redetermination</u>.&#160; Each redetermination of the Borrowing Base
by the Administrative Agent and the Lenders pursuant to this Section 2.02 shall
be made (i) in the sole discretion of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders
(but in accordance with the other provisions of this Section 2.02(d)), (ii) in
accordance with the Administrative Agent&#146;s and the Lenders&#146; customary internal
standards and practices for valuing and redetermining the value of Oil and Gas
Properties in connection with reserve based oil and gas loan transactions,
(iii) in conjunction with the most recent Independent Engineering Report or
Internal Engineering Report, as applicable, or other information received by
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders relating to the Proven Reserves of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries, and (iv) based upon the estimated value of the
Proven Reserves owned by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as determined by the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders.&#160;
In valuing and redetermining the Borrowing Base, the Administrative
Agent and the Lenders may also consider the business, financial condition, and
Debt obligations of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries and such other factors as
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders customarily deem appropriate.&#160; In that regard, the Borrower acknowledges
that the determination of the Borrowing Base contains an equity cushion (market
value in excess of loan value), which is essential for the adequate protection
of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders.&#160;
No Proven Reserves shall be included or considered for inclusion in the
Borrowing Base unless the Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall have
received, at the Borrower&#146;s expense, evidence of title satisfactory in form and
substance to the Administrative Agent that the Administrative Agent has an
Acceptable Security Interest in the Oil and Gas Properties relating thereto
pursuant to the Security Instruments.&#160;
At all times after the Administrative Agent has given the Borrower
notification of a redetermination of the Borrowing Base under this Section
2.02, the Borrowing Base shall be equal to the redetermined amount or such
lesser amount designated by the Borrower and disclosed in writing to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders until the Borrowing Base is subsequently
redetermined in accordance with this Section 2.02.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Method
of Borrowing</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notice</u>.&#160; Each Borrowing shall be made pursuant
to a Notice of Borrowing (or by telephone notice promptly confirmed in writing
by a Notice of Borrowing), given not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York time) (i)
on the third Business Day before the date of the proposed Borrowing, in the
case of a Borrowing consisting of Eurodollar Rate Advances or (ii) on the
Business Day of the proposed Borrowing, in the case of a Borrowing consisting
of Base Rate Advances, by the Borrower to the Administrative Agent, which shall
in turn give to each applicable Lender prompt notice of such proposed Borrowing
by telecopier or telex.&#160; Each Notice of
a Borrowing shall be given by telecopier or telex, confirmed immediately in
writing, specifying the information required therein.&#160; In the case of a proposed Borrowing comprised of Eurodollar Rate
Advances, the Administrative Agent shall promptly notify each applicable</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">23</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=29,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=859917,FOLIO='23',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Lender of the applicable
interest rate under Section 2.09(b).&#160;
Each applicable Lender shall, before 2:00 p.m. (New York time) on the
date of such Borrowing, make available for the account of its Applicable
Lending Office to the Administrative Agent at its address referred to in
Section 10.02, or such other location as the Administrative Agent may specify
by notice to the Lenders, in same day funds, in the case of a Borrowing, such
Lender&#146;s Pro Rata Share of such Borrowing.&#160;
After the Administrative Agent&#146;s receipt of such funds and upon
fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in Article III, the
Administrative Agent shall make such funds available to the Borrower at its
account with the Administrative Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Conversions and Continuations</u>.&#160; The Borrower may elect to Convert or
continue any Borrowing by delivering an irrevocable Notice of Conversion or
Continuation to the Administrative Agent at the Administrative Agent&#146;s office
no later than 12:00 p.m. (New York time) (i) on the date which is at least
three Business Days in advance of the proposed Conversion or continuation date
in the case of a Conversion to or a continuation of a Borrowing comprised of
Eurodollar Rate Advances and (ii) on the Business Day of the proposed
Conversion in the case of a Conversion to a Borrowing comprised of Base Rate
Advances.&#160; Each such Notice of
Conversion or Continuation shall be in writing or by telex or telecopier
confirmed immediately in writing specifying the information required
therein.&#160; Promptly after receipt of a
Notice of Conversion or Continuation under this Section, the Administrative
Agent shall provide each Lender with a copy thereof and, in the case of a
Conversion to or a continuation of a Borrowing comprised of Eurodollar Rate
Advances, notify each Lender of the applicable interest rate under Section
2.09(b).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Certain Limitations</u>.&#160; Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
contained in paragraphs (a) and (b) above:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; at no time shall there be more than
six Interest Periods applicable to outstanding Eurodollar Rate Advances and the
Borrower may not select Eurodollar Rate Advances for any Borrowing at any time
that a Default has occurred and is continuing;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; if any Lender shall, at least one
Business Day before the date of any requested Borrowing, Conversion, or
continuation, notify the Administrative Agent that the introduction of or any
change in or in the interpretation of any law or regulation makes it unlawful,
or that any central bank or other Governmental Authority asserts that it is
unlawful, for such Lender or its Eurodollar Lending Office to perform its
obligations under this Agreement to make Eurodollar Rate Advances or to fund or
maintain Eurodollar Rate Advances, the right of the Borrower to select Eurodollar
Rate Advances from such Lender shall be suspended until such Lender shall
notify the Administrative Agent that the circumstances causing such suspension
no longer exist, and the Advance made by such Lender in respect of such
Borrowing, Conversion, or continuation shall be a Base Rate Advance;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; if the Administrative Agent is unable
to determine the Eurodollar Rate for Eurodollar Rate Advances comprising any
requested Borrowing, the right of the Borrower to select Eurodollar Rate
Advances for such Borrowing or for any subsequent Borrowing shall be suspended
until the Administrative Agent shall notify the Borrower and the Lenders that
the circumstances causing such suspension no longer exist, and each Advance
comprising such Borrowing shall be a Base Rate Advance;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">24</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=30,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=81983,FOLIO='24',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; if the Majority Lenders shall, at
least one Business Day before the date of any requested Borrowing, notify the
Administrative Agent that the Eurodollar Rate for Eurodollar Rate Advances
comprising such Borrowing will not adequately reflect the cost to such Lenders
of making or funding their respective Eurodollar Rate Advances, as the case may
be, for such Borrowing, the right of the Borrower to select Eurodollar Rate
Advances for such Borrowing or for any subsequent Borrowing shall be suspended
until the Administrative Agent shall notify the Borrower and the Lenders that
the circumstances causing such suspension no longer exist, and each Advance
comprising such Borrowing shall be a Base Rate Advance; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; if the Borrower shall fail to select
the duration or continuation of any Interest Period for any Eurodollar Rate
Advances in accordance with the provisions contained in the definition of
&#147;Interest Period&#148; in Section 1.01 and paragraph (b) above, the Administrative
Agent shall forthwith so notify the Borrower and the Lenders and such Advances
shall be made available to the Borrower on the date of such Borrowing as Base
Rate Advances or, if an existing Advance, Convert into Base Rate Advances.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notices Irrevocable</u>.&#160; Each Notice of Borrowing and Notice of
Conversion or Continuation shall be irrevocable and binding on the Borrower.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Administrative Agent Reliance</u>.&#160; Unless the Administrative Agent shall have
received notice from a Lender before the date of any Borrowing that such Lender
shall not make available to the Administrative Agent such Lender&#146;s Pro Rata
Share of a Borrowing, the Administrative Agent may assume that such Lender has
made its Pro Rata Share of such Borrowing available to the Administrative Agent
on the date of such Borrowing in accordance with this Agreement and the
Administrative Agent may, in reliance upon such assumption, make available to
the Borrower on such date a corresponding amount.&#160; If and to the extent that such Lender shall not have so made its
Pro Rata Share of such Borrowing available to the Administrative Agent, such
Lender and the Borrower severally agree to immediately repay to the
Administrative Agent on demand such corresponding amount, together with
interest on such amount, for each day from the date such amount is made
available to the Borrower until the date such amount is repaid to the
Administrative Agent, at (i) in the case of the Borrower, the interest rate
applicable on such day to Advances comprising such Borrowing and (ii) in the
case of such Lender, the Federal Funds Rate for such day.&#160; If such Lender shall repay to the
Administrative Agent such corresponding amount and interest as provided above,
such corresponding amount so repaid shall constitute such Lender&#146;s Advance as
part of such Borrowing for purposes of this Agreement even though not made on
the same day as the other Advances comprising such Borrowing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Lender Obligations Several</u>.&#160; The failure of any Lender to make the
Advance to be made by it as part of any Borrowing shall not relieve any other
Lender of its obligation, if any, to make its Advance on the date of such
Borrowing.&#160; No Lender shall be
responsible for the failure of any other Lender to make the Advance to be made
by such other Lender on the date of any Borrowing.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">25</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=31,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=791696,FOLIO='25',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reduction
of the Commitments</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower shall have the right,
upon at least five Business Days&#146; irrevocable notice to the Administrative
Agent, to terminate in whole or reduce ratably in part the unused portion of
the Commitments; <u>provided</u> that each partial reduction shall be in the
aggregate amount of $1,000,000 or in integral multiples of $1,000,000 in excess
thereof.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Any reduction and termination of the
Commitments pursuant to this Section 2.04 shall be applied ratably to each
Lender&#146;s Commitment and shall be permanent, with no obligation of the Lenders
to reinstate such Commitments.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Prepayment
of Advances</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Optional</u>.&#160; The Borrower may prepay the Advances,
without premium or penalty, after giving by 12:00 p.m. (New York time) (i) in
the case of Eurodollar Rate Advances, at least three Business Days&#146; or (ii) in
the case of Base Rate Advances, on the same Business Day, irrevocable prior
written notice to the Administrative Agent stating the proposed date and
aggregate principal amount of such prepayment.&#160;
If any such notice is given, the Borrower shall prepay the Advances in
an aggregate principal amount equal to the amount specified in such notice,
together with accrued interest to the date of such prepayment on the principal
amount prepaid and amounts, if any, required to be paid pursuant to Section
2.12 as a result of such prepayment being made on such date; <u>provided</u>,
however, that each partial prepayment with respect to:&#160; (A) any Eurodollar Rate Advances shall be
applied to Eurodollar Rate Advances comprising part of the same Borrowing; and
(B) any Type of Advances shall be made in $2,500,000 and in integral multiples
of $500,000 in excess thereof (or the remaining aggregate principal balance
outstanding).&#160; Full prepayments of any
Borrowing are permitted without restriction of amounts.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Borrowing Base Deficiency</u>.&#160; If a Borrowing Base Deficiency exists, then
the Administrative Agent shall give the Borrower and the Lenders prompt written
notice thereof.&#160; The Borrower shall
prepay the Advances or, if the Advances have been repaid in full, make deposits
into the Cash Collateral Account to provide cash collateral for the Letter of
Credit Exposure, such that the Borrowing Base deficiency is cured within ninety
(90) days after the date a deficiency notice regarding the Borrowing Base is
received by the Borrower from the Administrative Agent.&#160; Each prepayment pursuant to this Section
2.05(b) shall be accompanied by accrued interest on the amount prepaid to the
date of such prepayment and amounts, if any, required to be paid pursuant to
Section 2.12 as a result of such prepayment being made on such date.&#160; Each prepayment under this Section 2.05(b)
shall be applied to the Advances in accordance with Section 2.10.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reduction of Commitments</u>.&#160; On the date of each reduction of the
aggregate Commitments pursuant to Section 2.04, the Borrower agrees to make a
prepayment in respect of the outstanding amount of the Advances to the extent,
if any, that the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all Advances <u>plus</u>
the Revolving Letter of Credit Exposure exceeds the lesser of (A) the aggregate
Commitments, as so reduced and (B) the Borrowing Base.&#160; Each prepayment pursuant to this Section
2.05(c) shall be accompanied by accrued interest on the amount prepaid to the
date of such prepayment and amounts, if any, required to be paid pursuant to
Section 2.12</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">26</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=32,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=251276,FOLIO='26',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as a result of such prepayment
being made on such date.&#160; Each
prepayment under this Section 2.05(c) shall be applied to the Advances as
provided in Section 2.10(a).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Illegality</u>.&#160; If any Lender shall notify the Administrative
Agent and the Borrower that the introduction of or any change in or in the
interpretation of any law or regulation makes it unlawful, or that any central
bank or other Governmental Authority asserts that it is unlawful for such
Lender or its Eurodollar Lending Office to perform its obligations under this
Agreement to maintain any Eurodollar Rate Advances of such Lender then
outstanding hereunder, (i) the Borrower shall, no later than 12:00 p.m. (New
York time) (A) if not prohibited by law, on the last day of the Interest Period
for each outstanding Eurodollar Rate Advance made by such Lender or (B) if
required by such notice, on the second Business Day following its receipt of
such notice, prepay all of the Eurodollar Rate Advances made by such Lender then
outstanding, together with accrued interest on the principal amount prepaid to
the date of such prepayment and amounts, if any, required to be paid pursuant
to Section 2.12 as a result of such prepayment being made on such date, (ii)
such Lender shall simultaneously make a Base Rate Advance to the Borrower on
such date in an amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of the
Eurodollar Rate Advances prepaid to such Lender, and (iii) the right of the
Borrower to select Eurodollar Rate Advances from such Lender for any subsequent
Borrowing shall be suspended until such Lender gives notice referred to above
shall notify the Administrative Agent that the circumstances causing such
suspension no longer exist.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Additional Right; Ratable
Prepayment</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall have
no right to prepay any principal amount of any Advance except as provided in
this Section 2.05, and all notices given pursuant to this Section 2.05 shall be
irrevocable and binding upon the Borrower.&#160;
Each payment of any Advance pursuant to this Section 2.05 shall be made
in a manner such that all Advances comprising part of the same Borrowing are
paid in whole or ratably in part.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Repayment
of Advances</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall
repay to the Administrative Agent for the ratable benefit of the Lenders the
outstanding principal amount of each Advance, together with any accrued
interest on the Maturity Date or such earlier date pursuant to Section 7.02 or
Section 7.03.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Letters
of Credit</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Issuance</u>.&#160; From time to time from the date of this
Agreement until 30 days prior to the Commitment Termination Date, at the
request of the Borrower, the Issuing Lender shall, on the terms and conditions
hereinafter set forth, issue, increase, or extend the Expiration Date of, Letters
of Credit for the account of the Borrower on any Business Day.&#160; No Letter of Credit will be issued,
increased, or extended:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; if such issuance, increase, or
extension would cause the Letter of Credit Exposure to exceed the lesser of (A)
$5,000,000 and (B) the Unused Commitment Amount;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; unless such Letter of Credit has an
Expiration Date not later than the earlier of (A) 12 months after the date of
issuance thereof (or, if extendable beyond such period, unless such Letter of
Credit is cancelable upon not more than 30 days&#146; notice given by the Issuing
Lender to the beneficiary of such Letter of Credit) and (B) the Maturity Date;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">27</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=33,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=544307,FOLIO='27',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; unless such Letter of Credit Documents
are in form and substance acceptable to the Issuing Lender in its sole
discretion;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; unless such Letter of Credit is a
standby letter of credit not supporting the repayment of indebtedness for
borrowed money of any Person;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; unless the Borrower has delivered to
the Issuing Lender a completed and executed Letter of Credit Application; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; unless such Letter of Credit is
governed by either (B) the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits
(1993 Revision), International Chamber of Commerce Publication No.&#160; 500 (or any successor to such publication)
or (A) the International Standby Practices 1998, Institute of International
Banking Law &amp; Practice (or any successor to such publication).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">If the terms of any Letter of Credit Application
referred to in the foregoing clause (v) conflicts with the terms of this
Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall control.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Participations</u>.&#160; Upon the date of the issuance or increase of
a Letter of Credit, the Issuing Lender shall be deemed to have sold to each
Lender and each Lender shall be deemed to have purchased from the Issuing
Lender a participation in the related Letter of Credit Obligations equal to
such Lender&#146;s Pro Rata Share at such date and such sale and purchase shall
otherwise be in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.&#160; The Issuing Lender shall promptly notify
each Lender by telex, telephone, or telecopy of each Letter of Credit issued,
increased, or extended or converted and the actual dollar amount of such Lender&#146;s
participation in such Letter of Credit; provided, however that the failure to
give such notice shall not affect the validity of any such participation.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Issuing</u>.&#160; Each Letter of Credit shall be issued,
increased, or extended pursuant to a Letter of Credit Application (or by
telephone notice promptly confirmed in writing by a Letter of Credit
Application), given not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York time) on the fifth
Business Day before the date of the proposed issuance, increase, or extension
of the Letter of Credit, and the Issuing Lender shall give to each other Lender
prompt notice thereof by telex, telephone, or telecopy.&#160; Each Letter of Credit Application shall be
given by telecopier or telex, confirmed immediately in writing, specifying the
information required therein.&#160; After the
Issuing Lender&#146;s receipt of such Letter of Credit Application and upon
fulfillment of the applicable conditions set forth in Article III, the Issuing
Lender shall issue, increase, or extend such Letter of Credit for the account
of the Borrower.&#160; Each Letter of Credit
Application shall be irrevocable and binding on the Borrower.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reimbursement</u>.&#160; The Borrower hereby agrees to pay on demand
to the Issuing Lender an amount equal to any amount paid by the Issuing Lender
under any Letter of Credit; provided that, subject to the terms and conditions
of this Agreement, the Borrower may request a Advance hereunder for the purpose
of satisfying any such reimbursement obligation.&#160; In the event the Issuing Lender makes a payment pursuant to a
request for draw presented under a Letter of Credit and such payment is not
promptly reimbursed by the Borrower pursuant to the preceding sentence, the
Issuing Lender shall give the Administrative Agent notice of the </font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">28</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman"><font size="2" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=34,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=504173,FOLIO='28',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font></font>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Borrower&#146;s failure to make such
reimbursement and the Administrative Agent shall promptly notify each Lender of
the amount necessary to reimburse the Issuing Lender.&#160; Upon such notice from the Administrative Agent, each Lender shall
promptly reimburse the Issuing Lender for such Lender&#146;s Pro Rata Share of such
amount, and such reimbursement shall be deemed for all purposes of this
Agreement to be a Advance to the Borrower transferred at the Borrower&#146;s request
to the Issuing Lender.&#160; If such
reimbursement is not made by any Lender to the Issuing Lender on the same day
on which the Administrative Agent notifies such Lender to make reimbursement to
the Issuing Lender hereunder, such Lender shall pay interest on its Pro Rata
Share thereof to the Issuing Lender at a rate per annum equal to the Federal
Funds Rate.&#160; The Borrower hereby
unconditionally and irrevocably authorizes, empowers, and directs the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders to record and otherwise treat such
reimbursements to the Issuing Lender as Base Rate Advances under a Borrowing
requested by the Borrower to reimburse the Issuing Lender which have been
transferred to the Issuing Lender at the Borrower&#146;s request.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Obligations Unconditional</u>.&#160; The obligations of the Borrower under this
Agreement in respect of each Letter of Credit shall be unconditional and
irrevocable, and shall be paid strictly in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement under all circumstances, including, without limitation, the following
circumstances:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any lack of validity or
enforceability of any Letter of Credit Documents;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any amendment or waiver of, or any
consent to or departure from, any Letter of Credit Documents;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the existence of any claim, set-off,
defense, or other right which the Borrower may have at any time against any
beneficiary or transferee of such Letter of Credit (or any Persons for whom any
such beneficiary or any such transferee may be acting), the Issuing Lender, or
any other person or entity, whether in connection with this Agreement, the transactions
contemplated in this Agreement or in any Letter of Credit Documents, or any
unrelated transaction;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any statement or any other document
presented under such Letter of Credit proving to be forged, fraudulent,
invalid, or insufficient in any respect or any statement therein being untrue
or inaccurate in any respect;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; payment by the Issuing Lender under
such Letter of Credit against presentation of a draft or certificate which does
not comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit; or</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any other circumstance or happening
whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">provided</font></u>,
<u>however</u>, that nothing contained in this paragraph (e) shall be deemed to
constitute a waiver of any remedies of the Borrower in connection with the Letters
of Credit or the Borrower&#146;s rights under Section 2.07(f) below.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">29</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=35,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=649916,FOLIO='29',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 12.0pt;text-align:justify;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liability of Issuing Lender</u>.&#160; The Borrower assumes all risks of the acts
or omissions of any beneficiary or transferee of any Letter of Credit with
respect to its use of such Letter of Credit.&#160;
Neither the Issuing Lender nor any of its officers or directors shall be
liable or responsible for:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the use which may be made of any
Letter of Credit or any acts or omissions of any beneficiary or transferee in
connection therewith;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the validity, sufficiency, or
genuineness of documents, or of any endorsement thereon, even if such documents
should prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient, fraudulent, or
forged;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; payment by the Issuing Lender against
presentation of documents which do not comply with the terms of a Letter of
Credit, including failure of any documents to bear any reference or adequate
reference to the relevant Letter of Credit; or</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any other circumstances whatsoever in
making or failing to make payment under any Letter of Credit <b><font style="font-weight:bold;">(<font style="text-transform:uppercase;">including the Issuing Lender&#146;s own negligence</font>)</font></b>,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">except</font></u>
that the Borrower shall have a claim against the Issuing Lender, and the
Issuing Lender shall be liable to the Borrower, to the extent of any direct, as
opposed to consequential, damages suffered by the Borrower which the Borrower
proves were caused by the Issuing Lender&#146;s willful misconduct or gross
negligence in determining whether documents presented under a Letter of Credit
comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit.&#160; In furtherance and not in limitation of the foregoing, the
Issuing Lender may accept documents that appear on their face to be in order,
without responsibility for further investigation, regardless of any notice or
information to the contrary.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Cash Collateral Account</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If the Borrower is required to
deposit funds in the Cash Collateral Account pursuant to Sections 2.05(b),
7.02(b), or 7.03(b), then the Borrower and the Issuing Lender shall establish
the Cash Collateral Account and the Borrower shall execute any documents and
agreements, including the Issuing Lender&#146;s standard form assignment of deposit
accounts, that the Issuing Lender requests in connection therewith to establish
the Cash Collateral Account and grant the Issuing Lender a first priority
security interest in such account and the funds therein.&#160; The Borrower hereby pledges to the Issuing
Lender and grants the Issuing Lender a security interest in the Cash Collateral
Account, whenever established, all funds held in the Cash Collateral Account
from time to time, and all proceeds thereof as security for the payment of the
Obligations.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; So long as no Event of Default
Exists, (A) the Issuing Lender may apply the funds held in the Cash Collateral
Account only to the reimbursement of any Letter of Credit Obligations, and (B)
the Issuing Lender shall release to the Borrower at the Borrower&#146;s written
request any funds held in the Cash Collateral Account in an amount up to but
not exceeding the excess, if any (immediately prior to the release of any such
funds), of the total amount of funds held in the Cash Collateral Account over
the Letter of Credit Exposure.&#160; During
the existence of</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">30</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=36,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=482589,FOLIO='30',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">any Event of Default, the
Issuing Lender may apply any funds held in the Cash Collateral Account to the
Obligations in accordance with Section 7.06.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Issuing Lender shall exercise
reasonable care in the custody and preservation of any funds held in the Cash
Collateral Account and shall be deemed to have exercised such care if such
funds are accorded treatment substantially equivalent to that which the Issuing
Lender accords its own property, it being understood that the Issuing Lender shall
not have any responsibility for taking any necessary steps to preserve rights
against any parties with respect to any such funds.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Fees</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Commitment Fees</u>.&#160; The Borrower agrees to pay to the
Administrative Agent for the account of each Lender a commitment fee at a per
annum rate equal to the Applicable Margin for commitment fees on the average
daily Unused Commitment Amount of such Lender, from the date of this Agreement
until the Commitment Termination Date.&#160;
The commitment fees shall be due and payable quarterly in arrears on the
last day of each March, June, September, and December commencing on March 31,
2003 and continuing thereafter through and including the Commitment Termination
Date.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Letter of Credit Fees</u>.&#160; The Borrower agrees to pay (i) to the
Administrative Agent for the pro rata benefit of the Lenders a per annum letter
of credit fee for each Financial Letter of Credit issued hereunder in an amount
equal to the Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Rate Advances on&nbsp;the aggregate
amount available for drawing from time to time under such Letter of Credit,
(ii) to the Administrative Agent for the pro rata benefit of the Lenders a per
annum letter of credit fee for each Performance Letter of Credit issued
hereunder in an amount equal to 50% of the Applicable Margin for Eurodollar
Rate Advances on&nbsp;the aggregate amount available for drawing from time to
time under such Letter of Credit.&#160; Each
such fee will be calculated based on the face amount of all Letters of Credit
outstanding on each day at the above applicable rate and will be payable
quarterly in arrears.&#160; In addition, the
Borrower agrees to pay to the Issuing Lender, (i) a fronting fee for each
Letter of Credit equal to 0.125% of the face amount of such Letter of Credit
and (ii) such other usual and customary fees associated with any transfers,
amendments, drawings, negotiations or reissuances of any Letters of Credit.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Fees</u>.&#160; The Borrower agrees to pay to the Lead
Arranger, the Administrative Agent and the Documentation Agent the fees
described in the Administrative Agent&#146;s Fee Letter.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Interest</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall pay interest on the
unpaid principal amount of each Advance made by each Lender from the date of
such Advance until such principal amount shall be paid in full, at the
following rates per annum:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Base Rate Advances</u>.&#160; If such Advance is a Base Rate Advance, a
rate per annum equal at all times to the Adjusted Base Rate in effect from time
to time <u>plus</u> the Applicable Margin in effect from time to time, payable
quarterly in arrears on the last day of each calendar quarter and on the date
such Base Rate Advance shall be paid in full, <u>provided</u> that upon the
occurrence and continuance of an Event of Default, such Advances shall bear
interest from the date on which such Event of Default occurred until such Event
of Default has been cured or</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">31</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=37,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=280960,FOLIO='31',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#160;waived, payable on demand, at a rate per
annum equal at all times to the Adjusted Base Rate in effect from time to time <u>plus</u>
the Applicable Margin <u>plus</u> 2.00%, provided that the rate charged
pursuant to this Section 2.09(a) shall never exceed the Maximum Rate.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Eurodollar Rate Advances</u>.&#160; If such Advance is a Eurodollar Rate
Advance, a rate per annum equal at all times during the Interest Period for
such Advance to the Eurodollar Rate for such Interest Period <u>plus</u> the
Applicable Margin in effect from time to time, payable on the last day of such
Interest Period, and, in the case of six-month Interest Periods, on the
day which occurs during such Interest Period three months from the first day of
such Interest Period, <u>provided</u> that upon the occurrence and continuance
of an Event of Default, such Advance shall bear interest from the date on which
such Event of Default occurred until such Event of Default has been cured or
waived, payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal at all times to the rate
required to be paid on such Advance immediately prior to the occurrence of such
Event of Default <u>plus</u> 2.00%, <u>provided</u>  <u>further</u>, that any
amount of principal, interest, fees or any other amount which is not paid when
due (whether at stated maturity, by acceleration, or otherwise) shall bear
interest from the date on which such amount is due until such amount is paid in
full, payable on demand, at a rate per annum equal at all times to the Adjusted
Base Rate in effect from time to time <u>plus</u> the Applicable Margin <u>plus</u>
2.00%, provided that the rate charged pursuant to this Section 2.09(b) shall
never exceed the Maximum Rate.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Additional Interest on Eurodollar
Rate Advances</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall
pay to each Lender, so long as any such Lender shall be required under
regulations of the Federal Reserve Board to maintain reserves with respect to
liabilities or assets consisting of or including Eurocurrency Liabilities,
additional interest on the unpaid principal amount of each Eurodollar Rate
Advance of such Lender, from the effective date of such Advance until such
principal amount is paid in full, at an interest rate per annum equal at all
times to the remainder obtained by subtracting (i) the Eurodollar Rate for the
Interest Period for such Advance from (ii) the rate obtained by dividing such
Eurodollar Rate by a percentage equal to 100% minus the Eurodollar Rate Reserve
Percentage of such Lender for such Interest Period, payable on each date on
which interest is payable on such Advance.&#160;
Such additional interest payable to any Lender shall be determined by
such Lender and notified to the Borrower through the Administrative Agent (such
notice to include the calculation of such additional interest, which
calculation shall be conclusive in the absence of manifest error).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Usury Recapture</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If, with respect to any Lender, the
effective rate of interest contracted for under the Loan Documents, including
the stated rates of interest and fees contracted for hereunder and any other
amounts contracted for under the Loan Documents which are deemed to be
interest, at any time exceeds the Maximum Rate, then the outstanding principal amount
of the loans made by such Lender hereunder shall bear interest at a rate which
would make the effective rate of interest for such Lender under the Loan
Documents equal the Maximum Rate until the difference between the amounts which
would have been due at the stated rates and the amounts which were due at the
Maximum Rate (the &#147;<u>Lost Interest</u>&#148;) has been recaptured by such Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If, when the loans made hereunder are
repaid in full, the Lost Interest has not been fully recaptured by such Lender
pursuant to the preceding subsection (i), then, to the</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">32</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=38,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=492504,FOLIO='32',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">extent permitted by law, for
the loans made hereunder by such Lender the interest rates charged under this
Section 2.09 shall be retroactively increased such that the effective rate of
interest under the Loan Documents was at the Maximum Rate since the
effectiveness of this Agreement to the extent necessary to recapture the Lost
Interest not recaptured pursuant to the preceding sentence and, to the extent
allowed by law, the Borrower shall pay to such Lender the amount of the Lost
Interest remaining to be recaptured by such Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <b><font style="font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other term in this
Agreement and the Loan Documents to the contrary, it is the intention of each
Lender and the Borrower to conform strictly to any applicable usury laws.&#160; Accordingly, if any Lender contracts for,
charges, or receives any consideration which constitutes interest in excess of
the maximum rate, then any such excess shall be canceled automatically and, if
previously paid, shall at such Lender&#146;s option be applied to the outstanding
amount of the Advances made hereunder by such Lender or be refunded to the
Borrower.</font></b></font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payments
and Computations</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payment Procedures</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall make each payment under
this Agreement and under the Notes not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York time) on
the day when due in Dollars to the Administrative Agent at the location
referred to in the Notes (or such other location as the Administrative Agent
shall designate in writing to the Borrower) in same day funds without
deduction, setoff, or counterclaim of any kind.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall promptly thereafter cause to be
distributed like funds relating to the payment of principal, interest or fees
ratably (other than amounts payable solely to the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender, or a specific Lender pursuant to Section 2.08(b), 2.08(c),
2.09(c), 2.12, 2.13, 2.14, 10.05, or 11.07, but after taking into account payments
effected pursuant to Section 10.04) in accordance with each Lender&#146;s Pro Rata
Share to the Lenders for the account of their respective Applicable Lending
Offices, and like funds relating to the payment of any other amount payable to
any Lender or the Issuing Lender to such Lender for the account of its
Applicable Lending Office, in each case to be applied in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Computations</u>.&#160; All computations of interest based on the
Base Rate and of fees shall be made by the Administrative Agent on the basis of
a year of 365 or 366 days, as the case may be, and all computations of interest
based on the Eurodollar Rate and the Federal Funds Rate shall be made by the
Administrative Agent, on the basis of a year of 360 days, in each case for the
actual number of days (including the first day, but excluding the last day)
occurring in the period for which such interest or fees are payable.&#160; Each determination by the Administrative
Agent of an interest rate or fee shall be conclusive and binding for all
purposes, absent manifest error.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Non-Business Day Payments</u>.&#160; Whenever any payment shall be stated to be
due on a day other than a Business Day, such payment shall be made on the next
succeeding Business Day, and such extension of time shall in such case be
included in the computation of payment of interest or fees, as the case may be;
<u>provided</u>, however, that if such extension would cause</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">33</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=39,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=958702,FOLIO='33',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">payment of interest on or
principal of Eurodollar Rate Advances to be made in the next following calendar
month, such payment shall be made on the next preceding Business Day.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Administrative Agent Reliance</u>.&#160; Unless the Administrative Agent shall have
received written notice from the Borrower prior to the date on which any
payment is due to the Lenders that the Borrower shall not make such payment in
full, the Administrative Agent may assume that the Borrower has made such
payment in full to the Administrative Agent on such date and the Administrative
Agent may, in reliance upon such assumption, cause to be distributed to each
Lender on such date an amount equal to the amount then due such Lender.&#160; If and to the extent the Borrower shall not
have so made such payment in full to the Administrative Agent, each Lender
shall repay to the Administrative Agent forthwith on demand such amount
distributed to such Lender, together with interest, for each day from the date
such amount is distributed to such Lender until the date such Lender repays such
amount to the Administrative Agent, at the Federal Funds Rate for such day.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.11</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Sharing
of Payments, Etc</u>.&#160; If any Lender
shall obtain any payment (whether voluntary, involuntary, through the exercise
of any right of set-off, or otherwise) on account of the Advances or Letter of
Credit Obligations made by it in excess of its Pro Rata Share of payments on
account of the Advances or Letter of Credit Obligations obtained by all the
Lenders, such Lender shall notify the Administrative Agent and forthwith
purchase from the other Lenders such participations in the Advances made by
them or Letter of Credit Obligations held by them as shall be necessary to
cause such purchasing Lender to share the excess payment ratably with each of
them; <u>provided</u>, however, that if all or any portion of such excess
payment is thereafter recovered from such purchasing Lender, such purchase from
each Lender shall be rescinded and such Lender shall repay to the purchasing
Lender the purchase price to the extent of such Lender&#146;s ratable share
(according to the proportion of (a) the amount of the participation sold by
such Lender to the purchasing Lender as a result of such excess payment to (b)
the total amount of such excess payment) of such recovery, together with an
amount equal to such Lender&#146;s ratable share (according to the proportion of (i)
the amount of such Lender&#146;s required repayment to the purchasing Lender to (ii)
the total amount of all such required repayments to the purchasing Lender) of
any interest or other amount paid or payable by the purchasing Lender in
respect of the total amount so recovered.&#160;
The Borrower agrees that any Lender so purchasing a participation from
another Lender pursuant to this Section 2.11 may, to the fullest extent
permitted by law, exercise all its rights of payment (including the right of
set-off) with respect to such participation as fully as if such Lender
were the direct creditor of the Borrower in the amount of such participation.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.12</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Breakage
Costs</u>.&#160; If (a) any default by the
Borrower in making any borrowing of, conversion into or continuation of any
Eurodollar Rate Advance after the Borrower has given a notice requesting the
same in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, (b) any payment of
any Eurodollar Rate Advance is made prior to the last day of the Interest
Period for such Advance, whether as a result of any payment pursuant to Section
2.05, the acceleration of the maturity of the Notes pursuant to Article VII, or
otherwise, or (c) any default by the Borrower in making any prepayment of any
Eurodollar Rate Advance after the Borrower has given notice thereof in
accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Borrower shall, within 10
days of any written demand sent by any Lender to the Borrower through the
Administrative Agent, pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of such</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">34</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=40,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=963037,FOLIO='34',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Lender any amounts required to
compensate such Lender for any additional losses, out-of-pocket
costs or expenses which it may reasonably incur as a result of such payment or
nonpayment, including, without limitation, any loss, cost, or expense incurred
by reason of the liquidation or reemployment of deposits or other funds
acquired by such Lender to fund or maintain such Advance.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.13</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Increased
Costs</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Eurodollar Rate Advances</u>.&#160; If, due to either (i) the introduction of or
any change (other than any change by way of imposition or increase of reserve
requirements included in the Eurodollar Rate Reserve Percentage) in or in the
interpretation of any law or regulation or (ii) the compliance with any
guideline or request from any central bank or other Governmental Authority
(whether or not having the force of law), there shall be any increase in the
cost to any Lender of agreeing to make or making, funding, or maintaining
Eurodollar Rate Advances, then the Borrower shall from time to time, upon
demand by such Lender (with a copy of such demand to the Administrative Agent),
immediately pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of such Lender
additional amounts sufficient to compensate such Lender for such increased
cost.&#160; A certificate as to the amount of
such increased cost and detailing the calculation of such cost submitted to the
Borrower and the Administrative Agent by such Lender shall be conclusive and
binding for all purposes, absent manifest error.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Capital Adequacy</u>.&#160; If any Lender or the Issuing Lender
determines in good faith that compliance with any law or regulation or any
guideline or request from any central bank or other Governmental Authority
(whether or not having the force of law) affects or would affect the amount of
capital required or expected to be maintained by such Lender or the Issuing
Lender or any corporation controlling such Lender or the Issuing Lender and
that the amount of such capital is increased by or based upon the existence of
such Lender&#146;s commitment to lend or the Issuing Lender&#146;s commitment to issue
the Letters of Credit and other commitments of this type, then, upon 30 days&#146;
prior written notice by such Lender or the Issuing Lender (with a copy of any
such demand to the Administrative Agent), the Borrower shall immediately pay to
the Administrative Agent for the account of such Lender or to the Issuing
Lender, as the case may be, from time to time as specified by such Lender or
the Issuing Lender, additional amounts sufficient to compensate such Lender or
the Issuing Lender for the reduced rate of return on that capital of such
Lender or the Issuing Lender (but without duplication of amounts, if any, paid
by the Borrower pursuant to Section 2.13(a) above), in light of such
circumstances, (i) with respect to such Lender, to the extent that such Lender
reasonably determines such increase in capital to be allocable to the existence
of such Lender&#146;s commitment to lend under this Agreement and (ii) with respect
to the Issuing Lender, to the extent that the Issuing Lender reasonably
determines such increase in capital to be allocable to the issuance or
maintenance of the Letters of Credit.&#160; A
certificate as to such amounts and detailing the calculation of such amounts
submitted to the Borrower by such Lender or the Issuing Lender shall be
conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Letters of Credit</u>.&#160; If any change in any law or regulation or in
the interpretation thereof by any court or administrative or Governmental
Authority charged with the administration thereof shall either (i) impose,
modify, or deem applicable any reserve, special deposit, or similar requirement
against letters of credit issued by, or assets held by, or deposits in </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">35</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=41,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=315608,FOLIO='35',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">or for the account of, the
Issuing Lender or (ii) impose on the Issuing Lender any other condition
regarding the provisions of this Agreement relating to the Letters of Credit or
any Letter of Credit Obligations, and the result of any event referred to in
the preceding clause (i) or (ii) shall be to increase the cost to the Issuing
Lender of issuing or maintaining any Letter of Credit (which increase in cost
shall be determined by the Issuing Lender&#146;s reasonable allocation of the
aggregate of such cost increases resulting from such event), then, upon demand
by the Issuing Lender, the Borrower shall pay to the Issuing Lender, from time
to time as specified by the Issuing Lender, additional amounts which shall be
sufficient to compensate the Issuing Lender for such increased cost.&#160; A certificate as to such increased cost
incurred by the Issuing Lender, as a result of any event mentioned in clause
(i) or (ii) above, and detailing the calculation of such increased costs
submitted by the Issuing Lender to the Borrower, shall be conclusive and
binding for all purposes, absent manifest error.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section2_14"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.14</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Taxes</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Deduction for Certain Taxes</u>.&#160; Any and all payments by the Borrower shall
be made, in accordance with Section 2.10, free and clear of and without
deduction for any and all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, deductions,
charges or withholdings, and all liabilities with respect thereto, excluding,
in the case of each Lender, the Issuing Lender, and the Administrative Agent,
taxes imposed on its net income, and franchise taxes imposed on it, by the
jurisdiction under the laws of which such Lender, the Issuing Lender, or the
Administrative Agent (as the case may be) is organized or any political
subdivision of the jurisdiction (all such non-excluded taxes, levies, imposts,
deductions, charges, withholdings and liabilities being hereinafter referred to
as &#147;<u>Taxes</u>&#148;) and, in the case of each Lender and the Issuing Lender,
Taxes by the jurisdiction of such Lender&#146;s Applicable Lending Office or any
political subdivision of such jurisdiction.&#160;
If the Borrower shall be required by law to deduct any Taxes from or in
respect of any sum payable to any Lender, the Issuing Lender, or the
Administrative Agent, (i) the sum payable shall be increased as may be
necessary so that, after making all required deductions (including deductions
applicable to additional sums payable under this Section 2.14), such Lender,
the Issuing Lender, or the Administrative Agent (as the case may be) receives
an amount equal to the sum it would have received had no such deductions been
made; <u>provided</u>, however, that if the Borrower&#146;s obligation to deduct or
withhold Taxes is caused solely by such Lender&#146;s, the Issuing Lender&#146;s, or the
Administrative Agent&#146;s failure to provide the forms described in paragraph (d)
of this Section 2.14 and such Lender, the Issuing Lender, or the Administrative
Agent could have provided such forms, no such increase shall be required; (ii)
the Borrower shall make such deductions; and (iii) the Borrower shall pay the
full amount deducted to the relevant taxation authority or other authority in
accordance with applicable law.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Taxes</u>.&#160; In addition, the Borrower agrees to pay any
present or future stamp or documentary taxes or any other excise or property
taxes, charges or similar levies which arise from any payment made or from the
execution, delivery or registration of, or otherwise with respect to, this
Agreement, the Notes, or the other Loan Documents (hereinafter referred to as &#147;<u>Other
Taxes</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Indemnification</u>.&#160; <b><font style="font-weight:bold;">THE
BORROWER INDEMNIFIES EACH LENDER, THE ISSUING LENDER, AND THE ADMINISTRATIVE
AGENT FOR THE FULL AMOUNT OF TAXES OR OTHER TAXES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, ANY TAXES OR OTHER TAXES IMPOSED BY ANY</font></b></font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">36</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=42,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=919750,FOLIO='36',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">jurisdiction
on amounts payable under this Section 2.14) paid by such Lender, the Issuing
Lender, or the Administrative Agent (as the case may be) and any liability
(including interest and expenses) arising therefrom or with respect thereto,
whether or not such Taxes or Other Taxes were correctly or legally asserted
unless the payment of such Taxes or Other Taxes were not correctly or legal
asserted and such Lender&#146;s payment of such Taxes or Other Taxes was the result
of its gross negligence or wilful misconduct.&#160;
Each payment required to be made by the Borrower in respect of this
indemnification shall be made to the Administrative Agent for the benefit of
any party claiming such indemnification within 30 days from the date the
Borrower receives written demand therefor from the Administrative Agent on
behalf of itself as Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, or any such
Lender.&#160; If any Lender, the
Administrative Agent, or the Issuing Lender receives a refund in respect of any
Taxes paid by the Borrower under this paragraph (c), such Lender, the
Administrative Agent, or the Issuing Lender, as the case may be, shall promptly
pay to the Borrower the Borrower&#146;s share of such refund.</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Foreign Lender Withholding
Exemption</u>.&#160; Each Lender and Issuing
Lender that is not incorporated under the laws of the United States of America
or a state thereof agrees that upon the request of the Borrower it shall
deliver to the Borrower and the Administrative Agent (i) two duly completed
copies of United States Internal Revenue Service Form W8-ECI, W8-IMY or W8-BEN
or successor applicable form, as the case may be, certifying in each case that
such Lender is entitled to receive payments under this Agreement and the Notes
payable to it, without deduction or withholding of any United States federal
income taxes, (ii) if applicable, an Internal Revenue Service Form W-9 or
successor applicable form, as the case may be, to establish an exemption from
United States backup withholding tax, and (iii) any other governmental forms
which are necessary or required under an applicable tax treaty or otherwise by
law to reduce or eliminate any withholding tax, which have been reasonably
requested by the Borrower.&#160; If an event
(including without limitation any change in treaty, law or regulation) has
occurred prior to the date on which any delivery required by the preceding
sentence would otherwise be required which renders all such forms inapplicable
or which would prevent any Lender from duly completing and delivering any such
form with respect to it and such Lender advises the Borrower and the
Administrative Agent that it is not capable of receiving payments without any
deduction or withholding of United States federal income tax, and in the case
of a Form W-9 establishing an exemption from United States backup
withholding tax, such Lender shall not be required to deliver such form.&#160; The Borrower shall withhold tax at the rate
and in the manner required by the laws of the United States with respect to
payments made to a Lender failing to timely provide the requisite Internal
Revenue Service forms.&#160; For any period
with respect to which a Lender or the Issuing Lender has failed to provide the
Borrower and the Administrative Agent with the appropriate form pursuant to
this Section 2.14(d) (unless such failure is due to a change in treaty or Legal
Requirement occurring subsequent to the date on which a form originally was
required to be provided), such Lender or the Issuing Lender, as applicable,
shall not be entitled to indemnification under Section 2.14(c) with respect to
Taxes imposed by the United States which taxes would not have been imposed but for
such failure to provide such forms; <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u> that should
a Lender, which is otherwise exempt from or subject to a reduced rate of
withholding tax becomes subject to Taxes because of its failure to</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">37</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=43,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=246354,FOLIO='37',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">deliver a form required
hereunder, the Borrower shall take such steps as such Lender shall reasonable
request to assist such Lender to recover such Taxes.</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleIiiConditionsOfLending"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE III<br>
<br>
CONDITIONS OF LENDING</font></b></a></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section3_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Conditions
Precedent to Closing Date</u>.&#160; The Closing
Date shall occur upon the satisfaction of the following conditions precedent
that:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Documentation</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall have received
the following duly executed by all the parties thereto, in form and substance
satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender and the Lenders,
and, where applicable, in sufficient copies for each Lender:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; this Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a Note payable to the order of each
Lender in the amount of its Commitment;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a Security Agreement executed by the
Borrower and each of its Subsidiaries;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a Pledge Agreement executed by Brigham
Exploration and the General Partner;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; stock certificates required in
connection with the Pledge Agreements and stock powers executed in blank for
each such stock certificate;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Mortgage Amendments and any
additional Mortgages that may be required pursuant to Section 5.11;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; copies of insurance policies or
certificates thereof naming the Administrative Agent loss payee or additional
insured, as applicable, certified by the Borrower&#146;s insurance broker as true
and correct copies thereof, and which are otherwise satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(viii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a favorable opinion dated as of the
Closing Date of Thompson &amp; Knight L.L.P., counsel to the Credit Parties, in
form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative Agent covering such
matters as any Lender through the Administrative Agent may reasonably request;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ix)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a favorable opinion dated as of the
Closing Date of Mahaffey &amp; Gore, P.C., Oklahoma counsel to the Credit
Parties, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative
Agent;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(x)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; copies, certified as of the date of
this Agreement by a Responsible Officer or the secretary or an assistant
secretary of the General Partner of (A) the resolutions of the</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">38</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=44,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=662985,FOLIO='38',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">applicable governing body of
the Borrower approving the Loan Documents to which the Borrower is a party, (B)
the organizational documents of the Borrower, and (C) all other documents
evidencing other necessary corporate action and governmental approvals, if any,
with respect to this Agreement, the Notes, the Security Instruments and the
other Loan Documents to which the Borrower is a party;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; certificates of a Responsible Officer
or the secretary or an assistant secretary of the General Partner certifying
the names and true signatures of the officers of the General Partner authorized
to sign on behalf of the Borrower this Agreement, the Notes, Notices of
Borrowing, Notices of Conversion or Continuation, the Security Instruments and
the other Loan Documents to which the Borrower is a party;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; copies, certified as of the date of
this Agreement by a Responsible Officer or the secretary or an assistant
secretary of each Guarantor of (A) the resolutions of the applicable governing
body of such Guarantor approving the Loan Documents to which it is a party, (B)
the organizational documents of such Guarantor, and (C) all other documents
evidencing other necessary corporate action and governmental approvals, if any,
with respect to this Agreement, the Security Instruments, and the other Loan
Documents to which such Guarantor is a party;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xiii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a certificate of the secretary or an
assistant secretary of each Guarantor certifying the names and true signatures
of officers of such Guarantor authorized to sign this Agreement, the Security
Instruments and the other Loan Documents to which such Guarantor is a party;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xiv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; certificates from the appropriate
Governmental Authority certifying as to the good standing, existence and
authority of each of the Credit Parties in all jurisdictions where required by
the Administrative Agent;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; a certificate dated as of the date of
this Agreement from the Responsible Officer of the General Partner stating that
(A) all representations and warranties of the Borrower set forth in this
Agreement are true and correct in all material respects; (B) no Default has
occurred and is continuing; and (C) the conditions in this Section 3.01 have
been met;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xvi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Intercreditor and Subordination
Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xvii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; results of lien, tax and judgment
searches of the UCC Records of the Secretary of State and applicable counties
of the States of Delaware, Oklahoma and Texas from a source acceptable to the
Administrative Agent and reflecting no Liens against any of the Collateral as
to which perfection of a Lien is accomplished by the filing of a financing
statement other than in favor of the Administrative Agent, other than Permitted
Liens;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xviii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; appropriate UCC-1 Financing
Statements covering the Collateral for filing with the appropriate authorities
and any other documents, agreements or instruments necessary to create an
Acceptable Security Interest in such Collateral;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xix)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Side Letter Agreement; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">39</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=45,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=743664,FOLIO='39',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xx)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; such other documents, governmental
certificates, agreements and lien searches as the Administrative Agent or any
Lender may reasonably request.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Due Diligence</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent and the Lenders
shall have completed satisfactory due diligence review of the assets,
liabilities, business, operations and condition (financial or otherwise) of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries, including, but not limited, to a review of their
Oil and Gas Properties, Subordinated Debt, and all legal, financial,
accounting, governmental, environmental, tax and regulatory matters, and
fiduciary aspects of the proposed financing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payment of Fees</u>.&#160; On the date of this Agreement, the Borrower
shall have paid the fees required by Section 2.08(c) and all costs and expenses
that have been invoiced and are payable pursuant to Section 10.04.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Delivery of Financial Statements</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent and the Lenders
shall have received true and correct copies of (i) the Financial Statements,
and (ii) such other financial information as the Administrative Agent or any
Lender may reasonably request.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Default</u>.&#160; No Default shall have occurred and be
continuing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Representations and Warranties</u>.&#160; The representations and warranties contained
in Article IV hereof and in each other Loan Document shall be true and correct
in all respects.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Material Adverse Change</u>.&#160; No event or circumstance that could cause a
Material Adverse Change shall have occurred.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Proceeding or Litigation; No
Injunctive Relief</u>.&#160; Except as
described in Schedule 4.07, no action, suit, investigation or other proceeding
(including, without limitation, the enactment or promulgation of a statute or
rule) by or before any arbitrator or any Governmental Authority shall be
threatened or pending and no preliminary or permanent injunction or order by a
state or federal court shall have been entered against the Borrower or any of
its Subsidiaries.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><u>Consents, Licenses, Approvals, etc</u>.&#160; The
Administrative Agent shall have received true copies (certified to be such by a
Responsible Officer the Borrower or other appropriate Credit Party) of all
consents, licenses and approvals required in accordance with applicable Legal
Requirements, or in accordance with any document, agreement, instrument or
arrangement to which any Credit Party is a party, in connection with the
execution, delivery, performance, validity and enforceability of this Agreement
and the other Loan Documents.&#160; In
addition, the Credit Parties shall have all such material consents, licenses
and approvals required in connection with the continued operation of the Credit
Parties, and such approvals shall be in full force and effect, and all
applicable waiting periods shall have expired without any action being taken or
threatened by any competent authority which would restrain, prevent or
otherwise impose adverse conditions on this Agreement and the actions
contemplated hereby.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Subordinated Debt</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall have entered into the
Subordinated Credit Agreement, the terms and conditions thereof shall be
reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders and the
conditions precedent set forth in Section 3.01 of </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">40</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=46,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=88910,FOLIO='40',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">the Subordinated Credit
Agreement shall contemporaneously herewith have been satisfied or waived as of
the date of the Closing Date.&#160; The
Borrower shall have delivered copies of the Subordinated Credit Agreement and
each other agreement, instrument, or document executed by any Credit Party or
any of their officers at any time in connection with the Subordinated Credit
Agreement on or before the Closing Date.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(k)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Security Instruments</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall have received
all appropriate evidence required by the Administrative Agent and the Lenders
in their sole discretion necessary to determine that arrangements have been
made for the Administrative Agent (for its benefit and the benefit of the
Lenders) to have an Acceptable Security Interest in the Collateral and that all
actions or filings necessary to protect, preserve and validly perfect such
Liens have been made, taken or obtained (or will be upon the filing and
recording of the appropriate Security Instruments), as the case may be, and are
in full force and effect.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(l)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Title</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall be satisfied
in its sole discretion with the title to the Oil and Gas Properties included in
the Borrowing Base and that such Oil and Gas Properties constitute a percentage
of such Collateral reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(m)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Assignment of Existing Senior
Credit Agreement</u>.&#160; The
Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall have received sufficient evidence
indicating that simultaneously with the making of the initial Advances
hereunder, the obligations of the Credit Parties under the Existing Senior
Credit Agreement (including, without limitation, any obligations of any Credit
Party in respect of guaranties and security agreements executed in connection
with such Existing Credit Agreements) and the Liens securing the same shall
have been assigned to the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Lenders
and encumbering the same Property.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(n)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notice of Borrowing</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall have received
a Notice of Borrowing with appropriate insertions and executed by a duly
authorized Responsible Officer of the General Partner.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section3_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Conditions
Precedent to All Borrowings</u>.&#160; The
obligation of each Lender to make an Advance on the occasion of each Borrowing
and of the Issuing Lender to issue, increase, or extend any Letter of Credit
shall be subject to the further conditions precedent that on the date of such
Borrowing or the date of the issuance, increase, or extension of such Letter of
Credit:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the following statements shall be
true (and each of the giving of the applicable Notice of Borrowing, Notice of
Conversion or Continuation, or Letter of Credit Application and the acceptance
by the Borrower of the proceeds of such Borrowing or the issuance, increase, or
extension of such Letter of Credit shall constitute a representation and
warranty by the Borrower that on the date of such Borrowing, the issuance,
increase, or extension of such Letter of Credit, such statements are true):</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the representations and warranties
contained in Article IV of this Agreement and the representations and
warranties contained in the Security Instruments, the Guaranties, and each of
the other Loan Documents are true and correct in all material respects on </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">41</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=47,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=42694,FOLIO='41',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and as of the date of such
Borrowing or the date of the issuance, increase, or extension of such Letter of
Credit, before and after giving effect to such Borrowing or to the issuance,
increase, or extension of such Letter of Credit and to the application of the
proceeds from such Borrowing, as though made on and as of such date (unless
such representations and warranties are stated to relate to a specific earlier
date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and
correct in all material respect as of such earlier date);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; no Default has occurred and is
continuing or would result from such Borrowing or from the application of the
proceeds therefrom, or would result from the issuance, increase, or extension
of such Letter of Credit; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; after giving effect to the such
proposed Borrowing, no Borrowing Base Deficiency exists; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Administrative Agent shall have
received such other approvals, opinions, or documents reasonably deemed necessary
or desirable by any Lender as a result of circumstances occurring after the
date of this Agreement, as any Lender through the Administrative Agent may
reasonably request.</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleIvRepresentationsAndWarranti"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE IV</font></b></a><font style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;"><br>
<br>
</font><font style="text-transform:none;">REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Each Credit Party
jointly and severally represents and warrants as follows:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Corporate
Existence; Subsidiaries</u>.&#160; Each of
the Credit Parties is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing
under the laws of the jurisdiction of its formation and in good standing and
qualified to do business in each jurisdiction where its ownership or lease of
Property or conduct of its business requires such qualification and where the
failure to so qualify could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse
Change.&#160; As of the Closing Date, the
Credit Parties have no Subsidiaries other than those listed on <u>Schedule 4.01</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Corporate
Power</u>.&#160; The execution, delivery, and
performance by each Credit Party of this Agreement, the Notes, and the other
Loan Documents to which it is a party and the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby and thereby (a) are within such Credit Party&#146;s powers, (b)
have been duly authorized by all necessary governing action, (c) do not
contravene (i) such Credit Party&#146;s governance documents or (ii) any Legal
Requirement or any material contractual restriction binding on or affecting
such Credit Party, and (d) will not result in or require the creation or
imposition of any Lien upon any of the material Property of any Credit Party
prohibited by this Agreement.&#160; At the
time of each Advance, such Advance and the use of the proceeds of such Advance
will (A) be within the Borrower&#146;s limited partnership powers, (B) have been
duly authorized by all necessary partnership action, (C) not contravene (i) the
Borrower&#146;s limited partnership agreement or other organizational documents or
(ii) any Legal Requirement or any material contractual restriction of any
material agreement binding on or affecting the Borrower and (D) not result in
or require the creation or imposition of any Lien upon any of the material
Property of any Credit Party prohibited by this Agreement.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">42</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=48,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=213998,FOLIO='42',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Authorization
and Approvals</u>.&#160; No consent, order,
authorization, or approval or other action by, and no notice to or filing with,
any Governmental Authority or any other Person is required for the due
execution, delivery, and performance by any Credit Party of this Agreement, the
Notes, or the other Loan Documents to which such Credit Party is a party or the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.&#160; At the time of each Borrowing and each
issuance, increase or extension of a Letter of Credit, no authorization or
approval or other action by, and no notice to or filing with, any Governmental
Authority will be required for such Borrowing or such issuance, increase or
extension of such Letter of Credit or the use of the proceeds of such Borrowing
or such Letter of Credit.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Enforceable
Obligations</u>.&#160; This Agreement, the
Notes, and the other Loan Documents to which each Credit Party is a party have
been duly executed and delivered by such Credit Party.&#160; Each Loan Document to which each Credit
Party is a party is the legal, valid, and binding obligation of such Credit
Party enforceable against such Credit Party in accordance with its terms,
except as such enforceability may be limited by any applicable bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, or similar law affecting creditors&#146;
rights generally and by general principles of equity.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Financial
Statements</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower has delivered to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders the Financial Statements, and the
Financial Statements are correct and complete in all material respects and
present fairly the consolidated financial condition of the Credit Parties as of
their respective dates and for their respective periods in accordance with
GAAP, applied on a consistent basis.&#160; As
of the date of the Financial Statements, there were no material Debt, trade
payables, contingent obligations, liabilities for taxes, unusual forward or
long-term commitments, or unrealized or anticipated losses of any Credit
Party, except as disclosed therein and adequate reserves for such items have
been made in accordance with GAAP.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Since December 31, 2002, no event or
circumstance that could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse
Change has occurred.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Each of the Credit Parties is
Solvent.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>True
and Complete Disclosure</u>.&#160; All written
information (whether delivered before or after the Closing Date) furnished by
or on behalf of any Credit Party to any Lender or the Administrative Agent for
purposes of or in connection with this Agreement, any other Loan Document or
any transaction contemplated hereby or thereby, when taken as a whole, is true
and accurate in all material respects on the date as of which such information
is dated or certified (or, if not dated and certified, as of the date as of
which such information is provided) and does not contain any untrue statement
of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the
statements contained therein not materially misleading at such time.&#160; All projections, estimates, and pro forma
financial information furnished by the Borrower were prepared on the basis of
assumptions, data, information, tests, or conditions believed to be reasonable
at the time such projections, estimates, and pro forma financial information
were furnished, but the Credit Parties do not represent and warrant that such
projections, estimates or pro forma information is (or will ultimately prove to
have been) accurate.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">43</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=49,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=487097,FOLIO='43',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Litigation</u>.&#160; There is no pending or, to the knowledge of
any Responsible Officer of any Credit Party, threatened action or proceeding
affecting any of the Credit Parties before any court, Governmental Authority or
arbitrator which (a) both (i) involves the possibility of any judgment or
liability against any Credit Party not fully covered by insurance (except for
normal deductibles) and (ii) could reasonably be expected to be cause a
Material Adverse Change or (b) purports to affect the legality, validity,
binding effect or enforceability of this Agreement, any Note, or any other Loan
Document.&#160; Additionally, there is no
pending or, to the knowledge of any Responsible Officer of any Credit Party,
threatened action or proceeding instituted against any Credit Party which seeks
to adjudicate such Credit Party as bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking
liquidation, winding up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection,
relief, or composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy,
insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors, or seeking the entry of an
order for relief or the appointment of a receiver, trustee or other similar
official for it or for any substantial part of its Property.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Taxes</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reports and Payments</u>.&#160; All Returns (as defined below in clause (c)
of this Section) required to be filed by or on behalf of any Credit Party or
any member of the Controlled Group (hereafter collectively called the &#147;<u>Tax
Group</u>&#148;) have been duly filed on a timely basis or appropriate extensions
have been obtained and such Returns are and will be true, complete and correct
in all material respects; and all Taxes shown to be payable on the Returns or
on subsequent assessments with respect thereto will have been paid in full on a
timely basis, and no other Taxes will be payable by the Tax Group with respect
to items or periods covered by such Returns, except where any obligation is
being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings and after adequate
reserves for such items have been made in accordance with GAAP.&#160; The reserves for accrued Taxes reflected in
the financial statements delivered to the Lenders under this Agreement are
adequate in the aggregate for the payment of all unpaid Taxes, whether or not
disputed, for the period ended as of the date thereof and for any period prior
thereto, and for which the Tax Group may be liable in its own right, as
withholding agent or as a transferee of the assets of, or successor to, any
Person.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Taxes Definition</u>.&#160; &#147;<u>Taxes</u>&#148; in this Section 4.08 shall
mean all taxes, charges, fees, levies, or other assessments imposed by any
federal, state, local, or foreign taxing authority, including without
limitation, income, gross receipts, excise, real or personal property, sales,
occupation, use, service, leasing, environmental, value added, transfer, payroll,
and franchise taxes (and including any interest, penalties, or additions to tax
attributable to or imposed on with respect to any such assessment).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Returns Definition</u>.&#160; &#147;<u>Returns</u>&#148; in this Section 4.08 shall
mean any federal, state, local, or foreign report, estimate, declaration of
estimated Tax, information statement or return relating to, or required to be
filed in connection with, any Taxes, including any information return or report
with respect to backup withholding or other payments of third parties.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Pension
Plans</u>.&#160; All Plans are in compliance
in all material respects with all applicable provisions of ERISA.&#160; No Termination Event has occurred with
respect to any Plan, and each Plan has complied with and been administered in
all material respects in accordance</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">44</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=50,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1034500,FOLIO='44',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">with applicable provisions of
ERISA and the Code.&#160; No &#147;accumulated
funding deficiency&#148; (as defined in Section 302 of ERISA) has occurred and there
has been no excise tax imposed under Section 4971 of the Code.&#160; No Reportable Event has occurred with
respect to any Multiemployer Plan, and each Multiemployer Plan has complied
with and been administered in all material respects with applicable provisions
of ERISA and the Code.&#160; The present
value of all benefits vested under each Plan (based on the assumptions used to
fund such Plan) did not, as of the last annual valuation date applicable
thereto, exceed the value of the assets of such Plan allocable to such vested
benefits.&#160; None of the Credit Parties or
any member of the Controlled Group has had a complete or partial withdrawal
from any Multiemployer Plan for which there is any withdrawal liability.&#160; As of the most recent valuation date applicable
thereto, none of the Credit Parties or any member of the Controlled Group would
become subject to any liability under ERISA if any Credit Party or any member
of the Controlled Group received notice that any Multiemployer Plan is
insolvent or in reorganization.&#160; Based
upon GAAP existing as of the date of this Agreement and current factual
circumstances, no Credit Party has reason to believe that the annual cost
during the term of this Agreement to any Credit Party or any other member of
the Controlled Group for post-retirement benefits to be provided to the current
and former employees of the Borrower or any member of the Controlled Group
under welfare benefit plans (as defined in Section 3(1) of ERISA) could, in the
aggregate, reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Change.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Condition
of Property; Casualties</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Subject to the matters set forth in <u>Schedule
4.10</u>, each of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries has good and indefeasible
title to all of its Oil and Gas Properties evaluated in any Engineering Report,
free and clear of all Liens except for Permitted Liens.&#160; Brigham Exploration has good and defensible
title to all of the Equity Interests in the General Partner and, directly and
indirectly, all of the ownership interests in the Limited Partners, except for
Permitted Liens.&#160; Each of the General
Partner and the Limited Partners has good and defensible title to all of the
Equity Interests in the Borrower, except for Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The quantum and nature of the
interest of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in and to its Hydrocarbon
Interests as set forth in each Engineering Report includes the entire interest
of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in such Hydrocarbon Interests as of the
date of such Engineering Report and are complete and accurate in all material
respects as of the date of such Engineering Report; and there are no &#147;back-in&#148;
or &#147;reversionary&#148; interests held by third parties which could materially reduce
the interest of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in such Hydrocarbon Interests
except as taken into account in such Engineering Report.&#160; The ownership of the Hydrocarbon Interests
held by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries shall not in any material respect
obligate any such Person to bear the costs and expenses relating to the
maintenance, development or operations of such Hydrocarbon Interests in an
amount in excess of the working interest of such Person in each such
Hydrocarbon Interest set forth in the most recent Engineering Report.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All leases and agreements comprising
the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; Oil and Gas Properties necessary for the
conduct of business of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries are valid and
subsisting, in full force and effect and there exists no default or event of
default or circumstance which with the giving of notice or lapse of time or
both would give rise to a default</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">45</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=51,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=327528,FOLIO='45',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">under any such leases,
instruments or agreements which would affect in any material respect the
conduct of the business of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries.&#160; Neither Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries
nor, to the knowledge of Borrower, any other party to any leases, instruments
or agreements comprising its Oil and Gas Properties evaluated in any Engineering
Report, has given or threatened to give notice of any default under or inquiry
into any possible default under, or action to alter, terminate, rescind or
procure a judicial reformation of, any such lease, instrument or
agreement.&#160; Except as set forth on <u>Schedule
4.10</u> or as otherwise disclosed in writing to the Administrative Agent,
neither the Borrower nor any of its Subsidiaries is subject to any obligation
to drill additional wells, finance the drilling of additional wells, or conduct
additional operations in order to earn or continue to own any Significant PUD
Location or any other proved developed producing reserves or proved developed
nonproducing reserves evaluated in any Engineering Report.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Properties presently owned,
leased or licensed by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, including, without
limitation, all leases, easements, rights of way, and contractual rights,
include all Properties necessary to permit the Borrower and its Subsidiaries to
conduct their business in all material respects in the same manner as its
business has been conducted prior to the Closing Date.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All of the Properties of the Borrower
and its Subsidiaries that are reasonably necessary for the operation of their
business are in good repair, working order and condition in all material
respects and are maintained in accordance with prudent business standards.&#160; Since the date of the most recent financial
statements delivered pursuant to Section 5.06(a), neither the business nor the
Properties of the Credit Parties, taken as a whole, has been materially and adversely
affected as a result of any fire, explosion, earthquake, flood, drought,
windstorm, accident, strike or other labor disturbance, embargo, requisition or
taking of Property or cancellation of contracts, Permits, or concessions by a
Governmental Authority, riot, activities of armed forces, or acts of God or of
any public enemy.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10
or as otherwise disclosed in writing to the Administrative Agent:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; In each case only with respect to
any of the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; Oil and Gas Properties that have
been assigned a discounted present value equal to or in excess of $2,000,000 in
any Engineering Report, (A) all rentals, royalties, overriding royalties,
shut-in royalties and other payments due under or with respect to any such
Hydrocarbon Interests evaluated in any Engineering Report have been properly
and timely paid in the ordinary course of business and (B) all material
expenses payable under the terms of the contracts and agreements comprising
such Oil and Gas Properties (other than those described above in clause (A))
have been properly and timely paid in the ordinary course of business except in
each case (1) where such payments are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves complying with GAAP
have been made or (2) for payments the late payment of which could not
reasonably be expected to cause a termination or forfeiture of any of the
Borrower&#146;s or its Subsidiaries&#146; rights under any such leases, instruments or
agreements comprising any such Oil and Gas Properties or otherwise,
individually or in the aggregate, cause a Material Adverse Change;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">46</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=52,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=113929,FOLIO='46',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All of the proceeds from the sale of
Hydrocarbons produced from the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; Hydrocarbon
Interests are being properly and timely paid to the Borrower without suspense,
other than any such proceeds the late payment or non-payment of which could not
reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Change or materially
adversely affect the value of the Collateral taken as a whole; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; No material amount of proceeds that
has been received by any Credit Party from the sale of Hydrocarbons produced
from the Oil and Gas Properties evaluated in any Engineering Report is subject
to any claim for any refund or refund obligation, except as permitted under
Section 4.14 or Section 6.13.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.11</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Security
Instruments</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The provisions of each of the Pledge
Agreements delivered to the Administrative Agent are effective to create in
favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable benefit of the Lenders, a
legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the Pledged Collateral (as
defined therein) and proceeds thereof and when (i) certificates, if any,
representing or constituting the Pledged Collateral are delivered to the
Administrative Agent, the Pledge Agreement shall constitute a first priority
Acceptable Security Interest in, all right, title and interest of the pledgor
party thereto in such Pledged Collateral and the proceeds thereof, subject to
Permitted Liens or and (ii) upon the filing of UCC-1 Financing Statements with
the secretary of state of each jurisdiction of formation for each of the
grantors party thereto, the Pledge Agreements shall constitute a first priority
Acceptable Security Interest in, all right, title and interest of the
applicable Credit Party in such Pledged Collateral and the proceeds thereof,
subject to Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; On the Closing Date, the Equity Interests
listed on <u>Schedule I</u> to each of the Pledge Agreements will constitute
all the issued and outstanding Equity Interests in the Borrower, the General
Partner, the Limited Partners, and the direct and indirect Subsidiaries of the
Borrower; all such Equity Interests have been duly and validly issued and are
fully paid and nonassessable; and the relevant pledgor of said shares is the
record and beneficial owner of said shares.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The provisions of the Mortgages will
be effective to grant to the Administrative Agent, for the ratable benefit of
the Lenders, legal, valid and enforceable mortgage liens on all of the right,
title and interest of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries in the mortgaged
property described therein.&#160; Once such
Mortgages have been recorded in the appropriate recording office, the Mortgages
will constitute perfected first liens on, and security interest in, such
mortgaged property, subject to Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The provisions of each of the
Security Agreements delivered to the Administrative Agent are effective to
create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable benefit of the
Lenders, a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the collateral
described therein and proceeds thereof and, upon the filing of UCC-1 Financing
Statements with the secretary of state of each jurisdiction of formation for
each of the grantors party thereto, the Security Agreement shall constitute a
first priority Acceptable Security Interest in, all right, title</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">47</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=53,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=36656,FOLIO='47',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and interest of the applicable
Credit Party in such collateral and the proceeds thereof, subject to Permitted
Liens.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Once the Deposit Control Agreements
have been executed, the provisions of each of the Deposit Control Agreements will
be effective to create in favor of the Administrative Agent, for the ratable
benefit of the Lenders, a legal, valid and enforceable security interest in the
collateral described therein and proceeds thereof and shall constitute a first
priority Acceptable Security Interest in, all right, title and interest of the
applicable Credit Party in such collateral and the proceeds thereof, subject to
Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; On the Closing Date and except with
respect to the Deposit Control Agreements until such Deposit Control Agreements
have been executed, all governmental actions and all other filings, recordings,
registrations, third party consents and other actions which are necessary to
create and perfect the Liens provided for in the Security Instruments will have
been made, obtained and taken in all relevant jurisdictions (or are the subject
of arrangements, satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, to be made, obtained
or taken on or promptly after the Closing Date).&#160; No other filings or recordings are required in order to perfect
the security interests created under any Security Instruments.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.12</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No
Burdensome Restrictions; No Defaults</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Neither the Borrower nor any of its
Subsidiaries is a party to any indenture, loan, or credit agreement or any
lease or other agreement or instrument or subject to any charter or corporate
restriction or provision of applicable law or governmental regulation that
could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Change.&#160; Neither the Borrower nor any of its
Subsidiaries is in default nor has any event or circumstance occurred which,
but the expiration of any grace period or the giving of notice, or both, would
constitute a default under (i) the Subordinated Credit Agreement or (ii) any
other material contract, agreement, lease, or other instrument to which such
Credit Party is a party which default could reasonably be expected to cause a
Material Adverse Change.&#160; None of the
Credit Parties has received any notice of default under any material contract,
agreement, lease, or other instrument to which such Credit Party is a party.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; No Default has occurred and is
continuing.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.13</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Environmental
Condition</u>.&#160; Other than exceptions to
any of the following that would not reasonably be expected to cause a Material
Adverse Change or materially adversely affect the value of the Collateral taken
as a whole:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Permits, Etc</u>.&#160; With respect to its Oil and Gas Properties
for which such Credit Party is the operator and with respect to its Oil and Gas
Properties that are operated by operators other than the Borrower or a
Subsidiary, to the best of its knowledge, in all material respects, each of the
Credit Parties (i) has obtained all Environmental Permits necessary for the
ownership and operation of any and all of their respective Properties and the
conduct of their respective businesses; (ii) have at all times been and are in
compliance with all terms and conditions of such Permits and with all other
requirements of applicable Environmental Laws and other Legal Requirements;
(iii) have not received notice of any violation or alleged violation of any</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">48</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=54,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=549488,FOLIO='48',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Environmental Law or any such
Permit; and (iv) are not subject to any actual or contingent Environmental
Claim with respect to such Properties.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 12.0pt;text-align:justify;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Certain Liabilities</u>.&#160; None of the present or, to the best
knowledge of any Credit Party, previously owned or operated Property of any of
the Credit Parties, wherever located, (i) has been placed on or proposed to be
placed on the National Priorities List, the Comprehensive Environmental
Response Compensation Liability Information System list, or their state or
local analogs, or have been otherwise investigated, designated, listed, or
identified as a potential site for removal, remediation, cleanup, closure,
restoration, reclamation, or other response activity under any Environmental
Laws; (ii) is subject to a Lien other than a Permitted Lien, arising under or
in connection with any Environmental Laws, that attaches to any revenues or to
any Property owned or operated by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries,
wherever located; or (iii) has been the site of any Release of Hazardous
Substances or Hazardous Wastes from present or past operations that has caused
at the site or at any third-party site any condition that has resulted in
or could reasonably be expected to result in the need for Response.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Certain Actions</u>.&#160; Without limiting the foregoing, (i) all
necessary notices have been properly filed, and no further action is required
under current Environmental Law as to each Response or other restoration or
remedial project undertaken by the Borrower or its Subsidiaries or any of their
former Subsidiaries on any of their presently or formerly owned or operated
Property and (ii) there is no present and, to the Borrower&#146;s knowledge, future
liability, if any, of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries which could reasonably
be expected to arise in connection with requirements under Environmental Laws.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_14"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.14</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Gas
Contracts</u>.&#160; Except as set forth in
the most recent Engineering Report or in <u>Schedule 4.14</u>, on a net basis
there are no material gas imbalances, material take-or-pay or other prepayments
with respect to the Oil and Gas Properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries
(or, in the case of Oil and Gas Properties operated by operators other than the
Borrower or its Subsidiaries, to the Borrower&#146;s knowledge after reasonable
investigation) that would require the Borrower and its Subsidiaries to deliver
2.5% or more of the aggregate calendar quarter production from the Borrower&#146;s
and its Subsidiaries&#146; Hydrocarbons produced on a calendar quarter basis from
their Hydrocarbon Interests at some future time without then or thereafter
receiving full payment therefor.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_15"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.15</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Compliance
with Laws</u>.&#160; Except for any failure
to comply with any of the foregoing which would not reasonably be expected to
cause a Material Adverse Change, each of the Credit Parties has (a) complied
with all applicable Legal Requirements of any Governmental Authority having
jurisdiction over the conduct of their respective businesses or the ownership
of their respective Property and (b) obtained all Permits that are necessary
for the ownership of any of its Properties or the conduct of their business.&#160; Other than immaterial exceptions to any of
the following: (i) the prices being received by the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries for the production of Hydrocarbons do not violate any material
provision of any contract or agreement comprising the Oil and Gas Properties of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries or any Legal Requirement, (ii)&#160;&#160; where applicable, all of the wells located
on the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; Hydrocarbon Interests and production of
Hydrocarbons therefrom have been properly classified under appropriate
governmental regulations, (iii) all necessary regulatory filings have been
properly made in connection with the drilling, completion and operation of the
wells on or attributable to </p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">49</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=55,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=815604,FOLIO='49',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">the Borrower&#146;s and its
Subsidiaries&#146; Hydrocarbon Interests and all other operations related thereto
and (iv) all production and sales of the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146;
Hydrocarbons produced or sold from the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146;
Hydrocarbon Interests have been made in accordance with any applicable
allowables (plus permitted tolerances) imposed by any Governmental Authorities.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_16"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.16</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Hedging
Agreements</u>.&#160; <u>Schedule 4.16</u>
sets forth, as of the Closing Date, a true and complete list of all Interest
Hedge Agreements and Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements of the Borrower and each of
its Subsidiaries, setting forth the type, term, effective date, termination
date and notional amounts or volumes, and the counterparty to each such
agreement.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_17"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.17</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Material
Agreements</u>.&#160; <u>Schedule 4.17</u>
sets forth a complete and correct list of all material agreements, leases,
indentures, purchase agreements, obligations in respect of letters of credit,
guarantees, joint venture agreements, and other instruments in effect or to be
in effect as of the Closing Date (other than the agreements set forth in <u>Schedule
4.16</u>) providing for, evidencing, securing or otherwise relating to any
material Debt of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, and all obligations
of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries to issuers of surety or appeal bonds
(other than operator&#146;s bonds, plugging and abandonment bonds, and similar
surety obligations obtained in the ordinary course of business) issued for the
account of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries, and such list correctly
sets forth the names of the debtor or lessee and creditor or lessor with
respect to the Debt or lease obligations outstanding or to be outstanding and
the Property subject to any Lien securing such Debt or lease obligation.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_18"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.18</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Organizational
Documents</u>.&#160; The Partnership
Agreement has not been terminated, is in full force and effect as of the
Closing Date and no default has occurred and is continuing thereunder that
could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse Change.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_19"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.19</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Guarantors</u>.&#160; All of the Borrower&#146;s Subsidiaries are
Guarantors under Article VIII.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_20"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.20</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Insurance</u>.&#160; Each of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries
carry insurance required under Section 5.02.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_21"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.21</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Use
of Proceeds</u>.&#160; The proceeds of the
Advances will be used by the Borrower for the purposes described in Section
5.10.&#160; The Borrower is not engaged in
the business of extending credit for the purpose of purchasing or carrying
margin stock (within the meaning of Regulation U).&#160; No proceeds of any Advance will be used to purchase or carry any
margin stock in violation of Regulation T, U or X.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_22"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.22</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Investment
Company Act</u>.&#160; Neither Brigham
Exploration nor any of its Subsidiaries is an &#147;investment company&#148; or a company
&#147;controlled&#148; by an &#147;investment company&#148; within the meaning of the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_23"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.23</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Public
Utility Holding Company Act</u>.&#160;
Neither Brigham Exploration nor any of its Subsidiaries is a &#147;holding
company,&#148; or a &#147;subsidiary company&#148; of a &#147;holding company,&#148; or an &#147;affiliate&#148;
of a &#147;holding company&#148; or of a &#147;subsidiary company&#148; of a &#147;holding company,&#148; or
a &#147;public utility&#148; within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding Company Act
of 1935, as amended.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">50</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=56,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=419961,FOLIO='50',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section4_24"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.24</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Transmitting
Utility</u>.&#160; Neither Brigham
Exploration nor any of its Subsidiaries is a &#147;transmitting utility&#148; or an
&#147;interstate gas pipeline company&#148; or a &#147;public service corporation&#148; within the
meaning of the laws currently in effect for the States of Texas and/or
Oklahoma.</p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleVAffirmativeCovenants"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE V</font></b></a><font style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;"><br>
<br>
</font><font style="text-transform:none;">AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">So long as any Note or any amount under any
Loan Document shall remain unpaid, any Letter of Credit shall remain
outstanding, or any Lender shall have any Commitment hereunder, each of the
Credit Parties agrees to comply with the following covenants.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Compliance
with Laws, Etc</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall
comply, and cause each of its Subsidiaries to comply, in all material respects
with all Legal Requirements; <u>provided</u>, however, that this Section 5.01
shall not prevent the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries from, in good faith
and with reasonable diligence, contesting the validity or application of any
such laws or regulations by appropriate legal proceedings.&#160; Without limitation of the foregoing, the
Borrower shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain, and shall cause
each of its Subsidiaries to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain, as
soon as practicable, all consents or approvals required from any states of the
United States (or other Governmental Authorities) necessary to grant the
Administrative Agent an Acceptable Security Interest in the Borrower&#146;s and its
Subsidiaries&#146; Oil and Gas Properties.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Maintenance
of Insurance</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Borrower shall, and shall cause
each of its Subsidiaries to, maintain with financially sound and reputable
insurance companies insurance of such types, in such amounts and against such
risks as is customary to be maintained by companies engaged in the same or a
similar business in the same general area; and furnish to the Administrative
Agent, upon written request, full information as to the insurance carried.&#160; In addition, the Borrower shall, and shall cause
each of its Subsidiaries to, comply with all requirements regarding insurance
contained in the Security Instruments.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All certified copies of policies or
certificates thereof, and endorsements and renewals thereof shall be delivered
to and retained by the Administrative Agent.&#160;
All policies of insurance shall either have attached thereto a Lender&#146;s
loss payable endorsement for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, as loss
payee in form reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent or shall name
the Administrative Agent as an additional insured, as applicable.&#160; All policies or certificates of insurance
shall set forth the coverage, the limits of liability, the name of the carrier,
the policy number, and the period of coverage.&#160;
In addition, all policies of insurance required under the terms hereof
shall contain an endorsement or agreement by the insurer that any loss shall be
payable in accordance with the terms of such policy notwithstanding any act of
negligence of the Borrower, or a Subsidiary or any party holding under the Borrower
or a Subsidiary which might otherwise result in a forfeiture of the insurance
and the further agreement of the insurer waiving all rights of setoff,
counterclaim or deductions against the Borrower and its Subsidiaries.&#160; All such policies shall contain a provision
that notwithstanding</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">51</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=57,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=551751,FOLIO='51',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">any contrary agreements between
the Borrower, its Subsidiaries, and the applicable insurance company, such
policies will not be canceled, allowed to lapse without renewal, surrendered or
amended (which provision shall include any reduction in the scope or limits of
coverage) without at least 10 days&#146; prior written notice to the Administrative
Agent in the event of the Borrower&#146;s failure to pay any premiums and in all other
cases, 30 days&#146; prior written notice to the Administrative Agent.&#160; In the event that, notwithstanding the
&#147;lender&#146;s loss payable endorsement&#148; requirement of this Section 5.02, the
proceeds of any insurance policy described above are paid to the Borrower or a
Subsidiary of the Borrower, the Borrower shall deliver such proceeds to the
Administrative Agent immediately upon receipt.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Preservation
of Corporate Existence, Etc</u>.&#160; Each
of the Credit Parties shall preserve and maintain its corporate, limited
partnership or limited liability company, as applicable, existence, and all of
its material rights, franchises, and privileges in the jurisdiction of its
formation, and qualify and remain qualified as a foreign entity in each
jurisdiction in which qualification is necessary or desirable in view of its
business and operations or the ownership of its Properties to the extent the
failure to qualify could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse
Change.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payment
of Taxes, Etc</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall,
and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, pay and discharge, before the same
shall become delinquent, (a) all taxes, assessments, and governmental charges
or levies imposed upon it or upon its income or profits or Property prior to the
date on which penalties attach thereto and (b) all lawful claims that are
material in amount which, if unpaid, could by law become a Lien upon its
Property; <u>provided</u>, however, that neither the Borrower nor any such
Subsidiary shall be required to pay or discharge any such tax, assessment,
charge, levy, or claim which is being contested in good faith and by
appropriate proceedings, and with respect to which reserves in conformity with
GAAP have been provided.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Inspection;
Books and Records</u>.&#160; Upon reasonable
notice, each Credit Party shall permit the Administrative Agent and any Lender
or any of their respective agents or representatives thereof, during normal
business hours, to (a) examine and make copies of and abstracts from the
records and books of account of, and visit and inspect at their reasonable
discretion the Properties of, such Credit Party, and (b) discuss the affairs,
finances and accounts of such Credit Party with any of their respective
officers or directors, all to the extent reasonably requested by the
Administrative Agent or such Lender, as the case may be.&#160; Each Credit Party shall keep proper books of
records and account in which full, true and correct entries in conformity with
GAAP and all Legal Requirements shall be made of all dealings and transactions
in relation to its business and activities.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reporting
Requirements</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall
furnish, or shall cause the applicable Credit Party to furnish, to the
Administrative Agent and each Lender:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Annual Financials of Brigham
Exploration</u>.&#160; As soon as available,
but in any event within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year of Brigham
Exploration or sooner if required by the SEC, the audited consolidated
statements of income, stockholders&#146; equity, changes in financial position and
cash flow of Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries for such
fiscal year, and the related consolidated and unaudited consolidating balance
sheets of</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">52</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=58,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=678544,FOLIO='52',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham Exploration and its
consolidated Subsidiaries as at the end of such fiscal year, and setting forth
in each case in comparative form the corresponding figures for the preceding
fiscal year, together with a certification by its Chief Executive Officer and
its Chief Financial Officer in accordance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
and accompanied by the related opinion of independent public accountants of
recognized national standing reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent
which opinion shall state that such financial statements fairly present the
consolidated financial position and results of operations of Brigham
Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries as at the end of, and for, such
fiscal year and that such financial statements have been prepared in accordance
with GAAP except for such changes in such principles with which the independent
public accountants shall have concurred and such opinion shall not contain a
&#147;going concern&#148; or like qualification or exception;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Quarterly Financials of Brigham
Exploration</u>.&#160; As soon as available,
but in any event not later than 45 days after the end of each of the first
three quarterly fiscal periods of each fiscal year of Brigham Exploration and
its consolidated Subsidiaries (or sooner if required by the SEC), consolidated
statements of income, stockholders&#146; equity, changes in financial position and
cash flow of Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries for such
period and for the period from the beginning of the respective fiscal year to
the end of such period, and the related consolidated and consolidating balance
sheets of Brigham Exploration and its consolidated Subsidiaries as at the end
of such period, and setting forth in each case in comparative form the
corresponding figures for the corresponding period in the preceding fiscal
year, together with a certification by its Chief Executive Officer and its
Chief Financial Officer in accordance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and
accompanied by the certificate of&#160; a
Responsible Officer of Brigham Exploration, which certificate shall state that
such financial statements fairly present the consolidated financial position
and results of operations of Brigham Exploration and its consolidated
Subsidiaries in accordance with GAAP, as at the end of, and for such period
(subject to normal year-end audit adjustments);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Compliance Certificates</u>.&#160; Concurrently with the delivery of each of
the financial statements referred to in subsections 5.06(a) and (b), a
Compliance Certificated executed by a Responsible Officer of Brigham
Exploration;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Insurance Certificates</u>.&#160; Concurrently with the delivery of each of
the financial statements referred to in subsection 5.06(a), insurance
certificates naming the Administrative Agent loss payee or additional insured,
as applicable, and evidencing insurance which meets the requirements of this
Agreement and the Security Instruments;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notice of Defaults</u>.&#160; As soon as possible after the occurrence of
a Default known to any Responsible Officer of any Credit Party which is
continuing on the date of such statement, a statement of a Responsible Officer
setting forth the details of such Default and the actions which the Credit
Parties have taken and propose to take with respect thereto;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Material Changes</u>.&#160; Prompt written notice of any condition or
event of which any Responsible Officer of any Credit Party has knowledge, which
condition or event has resulted or could reasonably be expected to cause a
Material Adverse Change;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">53</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=59,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=418186,FOLIO='53',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Annual Budget</u>.&#160; As soon as available and in any event prior
to January 31, a one- year financial projection for Brigham Exploration and its
Subsidiaries in form and substance acceptable to the Administrative Agent,
which projection shall include revenues, expenses and capital expenditures
(detailing the projected capital expenditures with respect to drilling (both
development and exploration), leasehold, geological and geophysical,
capitalized general and administrative expenses, and capitalized interest) for
the following fiscal year;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Hedging Agreements</u>.&#160; Concurrently with the delivery of each of
the financial statements referred to in subsections 5.06(a) and (b), a true and
complete list of all Interest Hedge Agreements and Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements
of the Borrower and each of its Subsidiaries, setting forth the type, term,
effective date, termination date and notional amounts or volumes and the
counterparty to each such agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Litigation</u>.&#160; Prompt written notice of (i) any claims,
legal or arbitration proceedings, proceedings before any Governmental
Authority, or disputes, or to the knowledge of the Borrower threatened, or
affecting any Credit Party which, if adversely determined, could reasonably be
expected to cause a Material Adverse Change, (ii) any material litigation or
proceeding against the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries in which the amount
involved is not covered in full by insurance (subject to normal and customary
deductibles), or in which injunctive or similar relief is sought or (iii) any
claim, judgment, Lien or other encumbrance (other than a Permitted Lien)
affecting any Property of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries if the value
of such claim, judgment, Lien, or other encumbrance affecting such Property
shall exceed $1,000,000 (excluding liabilities to the extent covered by
insurance if the insurer has confirmed that such insurance covers such
liabilities);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Environmental</u>.&#160; Prompt written notice of any threatened
action, investigation or inquiry by any Governmental Authority of which any
Responsible Officer of any Credit Party has knowledge in connection with any
Environmental Laws with respect to the Property of the Borrower or any of its
Subsidiaries, excluding routine testing, compliance and corrective action;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(k)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Accounting Reports</u>.&#160; Promptly upon receipt thereof, a copy of
each other report or letter (excluding routine correspondence) submitted to any
Credit Party by independent accountants in connection with any annual, interim
or special audit made by them of the books of any Credit Party, and a copy of
any response by any Credit Party to such letter or report;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(l)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Securities Law Filings and other
Public Information</u>.&#160; Promptly, upon
its becoming available, each financial statement, notice, proxy material,
reports and other information which any Credit Party sends to the holders of
its respective public securities generally, files with or received from the SEC
(excluding correspondence and other information received from the SEC concerning
draft registration statements), or otherwise makes available to the public or
the financial community generally;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(m)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notices Under Other Loan Agreements</u>.&#160; Promptly after the furnishing thereof,
copies of any statement, report or notice furnished to any Person pursuant to
the terms of any indenture, loan or credit or other similar agreement, other
than this Agreement and not otherwise required to be furnished to the Lenders
pursuant to any other provision of this Section 5.06;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">54</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=60,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=866549,FOLIO='54',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(n)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>ERISA Information and Compliance</u>.&#160; Promptly furnish, and will cause any ERISA
Affiliate to promptly furnish, (i) if requested by the Administrative Agent
promptly after the filing thereof with the United States Secretary of Labor,
the Interest Revenue Service or the PBGC, copies of each annual and other
report with respect to each Plan or any trust created thereunder, (ii)
immediately upon becoming aware of the occurrence of any ERISA Event or of any
&#147;prohibited transaction,&#148; as described in section 406 of ERISA or in section
4975 of the Code, in connection with any Plan or any trust created thereunder,
a written notice signed by a Responsible Officer of the General Partner or such
ERISA Affiliate specifying the nature thereof, what action the borrower or the
ERISA Affiliate is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto, and when
known, any action taken or proposed by the Internal Revenue Service, the
Department of Labor or the PBGC with respect thereto, and (iii) immediately upon
receipt thereof, copies of any notice of the PBGC&#146;s intention to terminate or
to have a trustee appointed to administer any Plan;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(o)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Acquisition Information</u>.&#160; Concurrently with the delivery of each of
the financial statements referred to in subsections 5.06(a) and (b), a list of
any Oil and Gas Properties purchased by the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries
during the previous twelve consecutive calendar months for a price equal to or
greater than $1,000,000 for any single transaction or group of related
transactions or $5,000,000 in the aggregate, together with such other
information regarding such Oil and Gas Properties as Administrative Agent or
any Lender may reasonably request; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(p)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Information</u>.&#160; Subject to any applicable restrictions on
disclosure, such other information respecting the business or Properties, or
the condition or operations, financial or otherwise, of the Credit Parties
(including, without limitation, any Plan or Multiemployer Plan and any reports
or other information required to be filed under ERISA), as any Lender through
the Administrative Agent may from time to time reasonably request.&#160; The Administrative Agent agrees to provide
the Lenders with copies of any material notices and information delivered
solely to the Administrative Agent pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Maintenance
of Property</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall,
and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, (a) develop and operate its Oil
and Gas Properties in a good and workmanlike manner as is customary in the oil
and gas industry, and observe and comply in all material respects with all of
the terms and provisions, express or implied, of all oil and gas leases
relating to such Properties so long as the oil and gas leases are capable of
producing Hydrocarbons in quantities and at prices providing for continued
efficient and profitable operation of business; (b) comply in all material
respects with all contracts and agreements applicable to or relating to its Oil
and Gas Properties or the production and sale of Hydrocarbons and accompanying
elements therefrom; (c) maintain, preserve, and keep all operating equipment
used with respect to its Oil and Gas Properties in proper repair, working order
and condition, and make all necessary or appropriate repairs, renewals,
replacements, additions and improvements thereto so that the efficiency of the
operating equipment shall at all times be properly preserved and maintained,
provided that no item of operating equipment need be so repaired, renewed,
replaced, added to or improved, if the Borrower or its Subsidiaries shall in
good faith determine that the action is not necessary or desirable for such
Person&#146;s continued efficient and profitable operation of business, and (d) with
respect to its Oil and Gas Properties that are operated by operators other than
the Borrower or a Subsidiary, (i) seek to enforce the operators&#146; contractual
obligations to maintain,</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">55</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=61,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=606829,FOLIO='55',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">develop, and operate such
Properties subject to the applicable operating agreements and (ii) cause or
make reasonable and customary efforts to cause such Oil and Gas Properties to
be operated in a good and workmanlike manner as is customary in the oil and gas
industry.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Environmental
Laws</u>.&#160; To the extent that a
reasonably prudent owner or operator would do so under the same or similar
circumstances, the Borrower shall, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to
establish and implement such procedures as may be reasonably necessary to
periodically determine and assure that any failure of the following does not
cause a Material Adverse Change: (i) all Property of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries and the operations conducted thereon and other activities of the
Borrower and the Subsidiaries are in compliance with and do not violate the
requirements of any Environmental Laws; (ii) no Hazardous Substances or
Hazardous Wastes are disposed of or otherwise releases on or to any Property
owned by any such party except in compliance with Environmental Laws, (iii) no
Hazardous Substance will be released on or to any such Property in a quantity
equal to or exceeding that quantity that requires reporting under CERCLA, and
(iv) no Hazardous Substances or Hazardous Wastes is released on or to any such
Property so as to pose an imminent and substantial endangerment to public
health or welfare or the environment.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payment
of Trade Payables</u>.&#160; Each of the
Credit Parties shall pay, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to pay, all
of their customary trade payables incurred in the ordinary course of business
now or hereafter incurred within 90 days of the date the invoice is received by
such Credit Party, unless subject to legal offset or unless being contested in
good faith by appropriate proceedings and reserves adequate under GAAP shall
have been established therefore.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Use
of Proceeds</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall use
the proceeds of the Advances and Letters of Credit (a) to refinance Debt under
the Existing Credit Agreements and (b) for other general corporate purposes,
other than for acquisitions of seismic data, land or oil, gas and mineral
leases other than in the ordinary course of the Borrower&#146;s business as of the
Closing Date.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.11</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Additional
Collateral</u>.&#160; The Borrower will
grant, and will cause each of its Subsidiaries to grant, to the Administrative
Agent an Acceptable Security Interest in such Oil and Gas Properties of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries, constituting at least 90% of the discounted net
present value of the Proven Reserves of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as
determined by the Administrative Agent.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.12</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>New
Subsidiaries</u>.&#160; Within 10 days after (a) the date of the
creation of any new Subsidiary of Brigham Exploration or the Borrower, or (b)
the purchase by Brigham Exploration, the Borrower, or any of its other
Subsidiaries of the Equity Interests of any Person, which purchase results in
such Person becoming a Subsidiary of Brigham Exploration or of the Borrower
permitted by this Agreement, Brigham Exploration or the Borrower, as
applicable, shall, in each case, cause (i) such Person to execute and deliver
to the Administrative Agent (with sufficient originals for each applicable
Lender) a joinder agreement to this Agreement in form and substance acceptable
to the Administrative Agent, a Pledge Agreement (if such new Subsidiary owns
one or more Subsidiaries), one or more Mortgages (if such new Subsidiary owns
Oil and Gas Properties), a Security Agreement, and such other Security
Instruments as the</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">56</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=62,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=96829,FOLIO='56',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Administrative Agent or any
Lender may reasonably request, in each case to secure the Obligations together
with evidence of corporate authority to enter into and such legal opinions in
relation to such joinder agreement, Pledge Agreement, Mortgages, Security
Agreement and other Security Instruments as the Administrative Agent may
reasonably request, and (ii) the stockholder of such new Subsidiary to execute
a Pledge Agreement pledging its interests in the Equity Interests of such new
Subsidiary to secure the Obligations and such evidence of corporate authority
to enter into and such legal opinions in relation to such Pledge Agreement as
the Administrative Agent may reasonably request, along with share certificates,
if any, pledged thereby and appropriately executed stock powers in blank.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.13</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Title</u>.&#160; As of the Closing Date, the Administrative
Agent shall have received title opinions reflecting that the Borrower has title
reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent in such Oil and Gas
Properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries constituting at least 50% of
the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; proved, developed, producing Hydrocarbon
reserves and proved, developed, nonproducing Hydrocarbon reserves (each as
determined in conformity with the guidelines in effect from time to time as
promulgated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers or its successor association)
as determined by the Administrative Agent.&#160;
In addition, the Borrower shall from time to time upon the reasonably
request of the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, provide evidence
of title reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent constituting an
additional 30% of the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; proved, developed,
producing Hydrocarbon reserves and proved, developed, nonproducing Hydrocarbon
reserves as determined by the Administrative Agent with respect to the Oil and
Gas Properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as of the Closing
Date.&#160; Thereafter, with respect to Oil
and Gas Properties acquired after the Closing Date or not previously included
in the Borrowing Base, the Borrower shall from time to time upon the reasonable
request of the Administrative Agent, take such actions and execute and deliver
such documents and instruments as the Administrative Agent shall require to
ensure that the Administrative Agent shall, at all times, have received
satisfactory title opinions (including, if requested, supplemental or new title
opinions addressed to it), which title opinions shall be in form and substance
acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion and shall include
opinions regarding the before payout and after payout ownership interests held
by the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, for all wells located on the Oil and Gas
Properties covered thereby as to the ownership of Oil and Gas Properties of the
Borrower and its Subsidiaries, and reflecting that the Administrative Agent has
an Acceptable Security Interest in such Oil and Gas Properties of the Borrower
and its Subsidiaries.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_14"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.14</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Further
Assurances</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall, and
shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to, cure promptly any defects in the
execution and delivery of the Loan Documents, including, without limitation,
the Security Instruments and this Agreement.&#160;
The Borrower hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to file any
financing statements without the signature of the Borrower to the extent
permitted by applicable law in order to perfect or maintain the perfection of
any security interest granted under any of the Loan Documents.&#160; The Borrower at its expense will, and will
cause each of its Subsidiaries to, promptly execute and deliver to the
Administrative Agent upon request all such other documents, agreements and
instruments to comply with or accomplish the covenants and agreements of the
Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower, as the case may be, in the Security
Instruments and this Agreement, or to further evidence and more fully describe
the collateral intended as security for the Notes, or to correct</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">57</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=63,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=174730,FOLIO='57',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">any omissions in the Loan
Documents, or to state more fully the security obligations set out herein or in
any of the Loan Documents, or to perfect, protect or preserve any Liens created
pursuant to any of the Loan Documents, or to make any recordings, to file any
notices or obtain any consents, all as may be necessary or appropriate in
connection therewith or to enable the Administrative Agent to exercise and
enforce its rights and remedies with respect to any Collateral.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_15"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.15</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Operating
Accounts</u>.&#160; Within 120 days after the
Closing Date, the Borrower shall maintain its primary operating accounts with
one or more of the Lenders (the &#147;<u>Operating Accounts</u>&#148;) and agrees to
deposit therein all proceeds of any sales of Hydrocarbons attributable to its
and its Subsidiaries&#146; Oil and Gas Properties unless and until the
Administrative Agent directs it to act otherwise.&#160; The Borrower may, prior to the occurrence and continuance of an
Event of Default and the delivery of a notice of exclusive control or any other
similar instruction under any Deposit Control Agreement, make withdrawals from
such Operating Accounts to pay operating costs and expenses.&#160; After the occurrence and continuance of an
Event of Default, all amounts deposited in such Operating Accounts, may, at the
option of the Administrative Agent or Majority Lenders, be retained by the
Administrative Agent as collateral for the Obligations.&#160; Neither the Administrative Agent nor any
Lender waives or relinquishes any of its rights or interests arising under the
Credit Documents by permitting the Borrower and its Subsidiaries to collect and
deposit the proceeds of sales of Hydrocarbons attributable to its and its
Subsidiaries&#146; Oil and Gas Properties.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section5_16"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.16</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Post-Closing
Requirements</u>.&#160; Within 120 days after
the Closing Date, the Borrower shall deliver to the Administrative Agent duly
executed tri-party deposit account control agreements, in each case
satisfactory to Administrative Agent, with each of the lenders at which the
Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146; bank accounts are located (&#147;<u>Deposit Control
Agreements</u>&#148;).</p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleViNegativeCovenants"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE VI</font></b></a><font style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;"><br>
<br>
</font><font style="text-transform:none;">NEGATIVE COVENANTS</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">So long as any Note or any amount under any
Loan Document shall remain unpaid, any Letter of Credit shall remain
outstanding, or any Lender shall have any Commitment, each of the Credit
Parties agrees to comply with the following covenants.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liens,
Etc</u>.&#160; None of the Credit Parties
shall create, assume, incur, or suffer to exist, or permit any of their
Subsidiaries to create, assume, incur, or suffer to exist, any Lien on or in
respect of any of its Property whether now owned or hereafter acquired, or assign
any right to receive income, except that the Credit Parties may create, incur,
assume, or suffer to exist the following (collectively, the &#147;<u>Permitted Liens</u>&#148;):</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Liens securing the Obligations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Liens securing the Subordinated Debt;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Excepted Liens;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">58</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=64,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=2262,FOLIO='58',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Liens securing leases allowed under
Section 6.02(f) but only on the Property under lease;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Liens disclosed on <u>Schedule 6.01</u>;
and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any encumbrances permitted under the
terms of any Mortgage.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Debts,
Guaranties, and Other Obligations</u>.&#160;
None of the Credit Parties shall, and none of the Credit Parties shall
permit any of their Subsidiaries to, create, assume, suffer to exist, or in any
manner become or be liable in respect of, any Debt except:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries under the Loan Documents;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries under the Subordinated Loan Documents;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt existing on the Closing Date
that is reflected in the Financial Statements or is disclosed on <u>Schedule
6.02</u>, and any renewals or extensions (but not increases) thereof;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Accounts payable for the deferred
purchase price of Property or services (other than customary trade payables
incurred in the ordinary course of business) from time to time incurred in the
ordinary course of business which, if greater than 90 days past the date the
invoice is received by such Credit Party, are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP
have been established;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt owing by a Credit Party to any
other Credit Party which is subordinated to the Obligations pursuant to
subordination provisions in form and substance acceptable to the Administrative
Agent;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower under Capital
Leases not to exceed $2,000,000 at any one time outstanding;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower under
Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements or Interest Hedge Agreements that is made (i) with
a Person that is, at the time such Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement or Interest
Hedge Agreement is made, either a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender, or (ii)
with another counterparty rated at least A- or better by S&amp;P or A3 or
better by Moody&#146;s, provided that the aggregate notional amounts under all such
Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements (other than Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement that are
floors) do not exceed 75% of the Borrower&#146;s proved, developed, producing
Hydrocarbon reserves (as determined in conformity with the guidelines in effect
from time to time as promulgated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers or its
successor association) to be produced during the term of such Hydrocarbon Hedge
Agreements and that such Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreements are entered into as a
part of its normal business operations as risk management strategy and/or hedge
against changes resulting from market conditions related to the Borrower&#146;s and
its Subsidiaries&#146; operations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries (i) associated with bonds or surety obligations required by Legal
Requirements in connection with the operation of the Oil and Gas Properties and
(ii) associated with the financing of insurance premiums;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">59</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=65,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=367365,FOLIO='59',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt of the Borrower described in <u>Schedule
6.02(i)</u> and such other Debt of the Borrower related to the acquisition of
software and licensing rights related thereto that does not exceed $100,000 at
any one time outstanding; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Debt that is not described in
subsections (a) through (i) above and that together with all Debt of the
Borrower allowed under subsection (i) above does not exceed $1,000,000 at any
one time outstanding.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Agreements
Restricting Liens and Distributions</u>.&#160;
None of the Credit Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties
permit any of their Subsidiaries to, create, incur, assume or permit to exist
any contract, agreement or understanding (other than the Loan Documents and the
Subordinated Loan Documents) that in any way prohibits or restricts (a) the
granting, conveying, creation or imposition of any Lien on any of its Property,
whether now owned or hereafter acquired, to secure the Obligations, except for
customary limitations and restrictions contained in, and limited to, specific
leases, licenses, conveyances, partnership agreements and co-owners&#146;
agreements, and similar conveyances and agreements or (b) any Subsidiary from
paying dividends or making any other distribution to the Borrower, or otherwise
transferring assets to the Borrower, or which requires the consent of or notice
to other Persons in connection therewith.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Merger
or Consolidation</u>.&#160; None of the
Credit Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to (a) merge or consolidate with or into any other Person, or (b)
sell, lease or otherwise dispose of (whether in one transaction or in a series
of transactions) all or substantially all of its Property to any other Person,
except that (i) if either Brigham Exploration or the Borrower is a party to
such merger or consolidation, then Brigham Exploration or the Borrower, as the
case may be, shall be the continuing Person, (ii) a Subsidiary of the Borrower
may merge with or into the Borrower or a wholly owned Subsidiary of the
Borrower (provided that if either of such Subsidiaries is a Guarantor, the
surviving entity shall be a Guarantor), (iii) a Subsidiary of the Borrower may
transfer all or substantially all of its assets (upon voluntary liquidation or
otherwise) to the Borrower or to another wholly-owned Subsidiary of the Borrower
(provided that if the transferor in such a transaction is a Guarantor, then the
transferee must either be the Borrower or a Guarantor), and (iv) a Subsidiary
of Brigham Exploration (other than the Borrower and its Subsidiaries) may merge
with or into Brigham Exploration or a wholly owned Subsidiary of Brigham
Exploration (provided that if either of such Subsidiaries is a Guarantor, the
surviving entity shall be a Guarantor), provided in each case that (A) no Event
of Default exists or no Default would be caused thereby, and (B) if any
Collateral is transferred pursuant to this Section 6.04, the Borrower shall
provide the Administrative Agent with ten Business Days&#146; written notice prior
to such transfer, and the Borrower or such Guarantor, as the case may be,
owning the Collateral after such transfer shall ratify and confirm the Lien on
such Collateral and shall take all action reasonably requested by the
Administrative Agent in respect of the continued priority and perfection of the
Lien over such Collateral.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Sales
of Assets</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of its
Subsidiaries to, discount or sell (with or without recourse) any of their notes
receivable or accounts receivable.&#160; The
Borrower shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries to sell,
assign, farm-out, convey or otherwise transfer any Hydrocarbon Interests</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">60</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=66,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=186643,FOLIO='60',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">except for (a) the sale of
Hydrocarbons in the ordinary course of business, (b) the sale or transfer of
equipment that is no longer necessary for the business of such Person or
contemporaneously replaced by equipment of at least comparable value and use,
or (c) sales of Oil and Gas Properties made in arm&#146;s length transactions for
fair market value, not exceeding $3,000,000 in any period of twelve consecutive
calendar months in the aggregate, provided that no Default or Event of Default
has occurred and is continuing or would result from such sale.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Restricted
Payments</u>.&#160; Neither Brigham
Exploration nor the Borrower shall make any Restricted Payments except (a) as
permitted under Section 6.07(a)(iii) or (b) any Preferred Shareholder
Transaction.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Investments
and Acquisitions</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; None of the Credit Parties shall, nor
shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their Subsidiaries to, make or
permit to exist any Investment, except:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Investments, loans or advances
reflected in the Financial Statements or that are disclosed to the Lenders in <u>Schedule
6.07</u>;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Investments in Cash Equivalents; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Investments by any Credit Party in the
Borrower or a Person that is or will become within 10 Business Days after the
making of such Investment a Guarantor in accordance with Section 5.12 or that
will, within ten (10) Business Days after the making of any such Investment
merge or consolidate into such Credit Party, provided, however, that the
Borrower may only make Investments to Brigham Exploration or any Partner to pay
federal or state taxes owing by any of them, payroll and payroll related taxes
and other reasonable general and administrative expenses, or consisting of
forgiveness of indebtedness;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; None of the Credit Parties shall, nor
shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their Subsidiaries to, purchase
any Hydrocarbon Interests not evaluated in any Engineering Report or any
pipelines, gas gathering systems, gas plants, and similar assets related
thereto in an aggregate amount in excess of $5,000,000 in any period of twelve
consecutive calendar months.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Affiliate
Transactions</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, enter into or permit to exist any
transaction or series of transactions (including, but not limited to, the
purchase, sale, lease or exchange of Property, the making of any investment,
the giving of any guaranty, the assumption of any obligation or the rendering
of any service) with any of their Affiliates (other than any transaction
between the Borrower, any Credit Party, or any Subsidiary of the Borrower)
unless such transaction or series of transactions is not in violation of this
Agreement and upon fair and reasonable terms no less favorable to it than it
would obtain in a comparable arm&#146;s length transaction with a Person that is not
such an Affiliate.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Compliance
with ERISA</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, (a) engage in, or permit any ERISA
Affiliate to engage in, any transaction in connection with which any Credit
Party or any ERISA Affiliate could be subjected to either a civil penalty
assessed pursuant to</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">61</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=67,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1012063,FOLIO='61',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">section 502(c), (i) or (l) of
ERISA or a tax imposed by Chapter 43 of Subtitle D of the Code in excess of
$500,000; (b) terminate, or permit any ERISA Affiliate to terminate, any Plan
in a manner, or take any other action with respect to any Plan, which could
result reasonably be expected to result in any liability to any Credit Party or
any ERISA Affiliate to the PBGC in excess of $500,000; (c) fail to make, or
permit any ERISA Affiliate to fail to make, full payment when due of all
amounts which, under the provisions of any Plan, agreement relating thereto or
applicable law, any Credit Party or any ERISA Affiliate is required to pay as
contributions thereto; (d) permit to exist, or allow any ERISA Affiliate to
permit to exist, any accumulated funding deficiency in excess of $500,000
within the meaning of Section 302 of ERISA or section 412 of the Code, whether
or not waived, with respect to any Plan; (e) permit, or allow any ERISA
Affiliate to permit, the actuarial present value of the benefit liabilities (as
&#147;actuarial present value of the benefit liabilities&#148; shall have the meaning
specified in section 4041 of ERISA) under any Plan maintained by any Credit
Party or any ERISA Affiliate which is regulated under Title IV of ERISA to
exceed the current value of the assets (computed on a plan termination basis in
accordance with Title IV of ERISA) of such Plan allocable to such benefit
liabilities by an amount in excess of $500,000; (f) contribute to or assume an
obligation to contribute to, or permit any ERISA Affiliate to contribute to or
assume an obligation to contribute to, any Multiemployer Plan; (g) acquire, or
permit any ERISA Affiliate to acquire, an interest in any Person that causes
such Person to become an ERISA Affiliate with respect to any Credit Party or
any ERISA Affiliate if such Person sponsors, maintains or contributes to, or at
any time in the six-year period preceding such acquisition has sponsored,
maintained, or contributed to, (i) any Multiemployer Plan, or (ii) any other
Plan that is subject to Title IV of ERISA under which the actuarial present
value of the benefit liabilities under such Plan exceeds the current value of
the assets (computed on a plan termination basis in accordance with Title IV of
ERISA) of such Plan allocable to such benefit liabilities; (h) incur, or permit
any ERISA Affiliate to incur, a liability to or on account of a Plan under
sections 515, 4062, 4063, 4064, 4201 or 4204 of ERISA which in the aggregate
for all such liabilities exceeds $500,000; (i) contribute to or assume an
obligation to contribute to, or permit any ERISA Affiliate to contribute to or
assume an obligation to contribute to, any employee welfare benefit plan, as
defined in section 3(1) of ERISA, including, without limitation, any such plan
maintained to provide benefits to former employees of such entities, that may
not be terminated by such entities in their sole discretion at any time without
any material liability; or (j) amend or permit any ERISA Affiliate to amend, a
Plan resulting in an increase in current liability such that any Credit Party
or any ERISA Affiliate is required to provide security to such Plan under
section 401(a)(29) of the Code.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Sales
and Leasebacks</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to, enter into any arrangement, directly or indirectly, with any
Person whereby such Credit Party shall sell or transfer any of its Property,
whether now owned or hereafter acquired, and whereby such Credit Party shall then
or thereafter rent or lease as lessee such Property or any part thereof or
other Property which such Credit Party intends to use for substantially the
same purpose or purposes as the Property sold or transferred.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.11</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Change
of Business</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to, allow any material change to be made in the character of its
business as an independent oil and gas exploration and production company.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">62</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=68,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=670637,FOLIO='62',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.12</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Use
of Proceeds</u>.&#160; The Borrower will not
permit the proceeds of any Advance or Letters of Credit to be used for any
purpose other than those permitted by Section 5.09.&#160; Neither the Borrower nor any Person acting on behalf of the
Borrower has taken or shall take, any action which might cause any of the Loan
Documents to violate Regulation T, U or X or any other regulation of the Board
of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or to violate Section 7 of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 or any rule or regulation thereunder, in each case as now
in effect or as the same may hereinafter be in effect.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.13</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Gas
Imbalances, Take-or-Pay or Other Prepayments</u>.&#160; Except as set forth in <u>Schedule 4.14</u>, the Borrower shall
not allow gas imbalances, take-or-pay or other prepayments with respect to the
Oil and Gas Properties of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries that would require
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries to deliver 2.5% or more of the aggregate
calendar quarter production from the Borrower&#146;s and its Subsidiaries&#146;
Hydrocarbons produced on a calendar quarter basis from such Hydrocarbon
Interests at some future time without then or thereafter receiving full payment
therefor.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_14"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.14</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Additional
Subsidiaries</u>.&#160; Except as otherwise
permitted by Section 6.07, none of the Credit Parties shall, nor shall any of
the Credit Parties permit any of their Subsidiaries to, create any additional
Subsidiaries or make any additional Investment in a Subsidiary unless such Credit
Party has complied with Section 5.12.&#160;
All Subsidiaries of the Borrower together at no time shall own or hold
Oil and Gas Properties having Proven Reserves with a net discounted present
value calculated in the same manner as in the most recent Engineering Report in
excess of 10% of the total net discounted present value of Proven Reserves of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as reflected in such Engineering Report (plus
such Subsidiaries&#146; Proven Reserved not included in such Engineering Report).&#160; Except as otherwise permitted by Section
6.07(a)(iii), no assets may be transferred to a Subsidiary that is not a
Guarantor.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_15"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.15</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Limitation
on Leases</u>.&#160; None of the Credit
Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their
Subsidiaries to, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any obligation for
the payment of rent or hire of Property of any kind whatsoever (real or
personal including Capital Leases but excluding leases of Hydrocarbon Interests
and the equipment used thereon), under leases or lease agreements that would
cause the aggregate amount of all payments made by the Credit Parties and their
Subsidiaries pursuant to all such leases or lease agreements to exceed
$1,500,000 in any period of twelve consecutive calendar months during the life
of such leases.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_16"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.16</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Environmental
Matters</u>.&#160; None of the Credit Parties
shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties permit any of their Subsidiaries to,
cause or permit any of its Property to be in violation of, or do anything to
permit anything to be done that will subject any such Property to any remedial
obligations under any Environmental Laws, assuming disclosure to the applicable
Governmental Authority of all relevant facts, conditions and circumstances, if
any, pertaining to such Property where such violations or remedial obligations
would cause a Material Adverse Change.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_17"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.17</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Borrower
as Operator</u>.&#160; Except for any Oil and
Gas Properties sold in accordance with Section 6.05, the Borrower shall not,
and shall not permit any of its Subsidiaries</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">63</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=69,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=555185,FOLIO='63',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">to, during any calendar year,
voluntarily resign as the operator of Oil and Gas Properties constituting more
than twenty-five percent (25%) of the value of the proved developed producing
reserves evaluated in the Independent Engineering Report applicable to such
calendar year unless the Majority Lenders deliver prior written approval of
such resignations to the Borrower.&#160; </font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_18"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.18</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Equity
Interests of Partners</u>.&#160; Brigham
Exploration will not permit any of Equity Interests of any of the Partners to
be owned or controlled by any Person other than Brigham Exploration or another
Partner.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_19"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.19</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Speculative
Trading</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall not,
nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries to, purchase, assume, or hold a
speculative position in any commodities market or futures market or enter into
any Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement, Interest Hedge Agreement or similar hedge
arrangements for speculative purposes; <u>provided</u> that any hedge arrangements
which cover anticipated production volumes attributable to Proven Reserves of
the Borrower and its Subsidiaries within the limits set forth in Section
6.02(g) shall not be considered &#147;speculative&#148;.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_20"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.20</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Change
of Name; Fiscal Year; Accounting Method</u>.&#160;
None of the Credit Parties shall, nor shall any of the Credit Parties
permit any of their Subsidiaries to, change its name, fiscal year or method of
accounting except as required by GAAP; provided, however, any Credit Party may
change its name if such Credit Party has given the Administrative Agent at
least 30 days&#146; (unless otherwise consented to by the Administrative Agent)
prior written notice of such name change and taken such action as the
Administrative Agent deems reasonably necessary to continue the perfection of
the Liens securing payment of the Obligations.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_21"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.21</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Current
Ratio</u>.&#160; Brigham Exploration shall
not permit the ratio of (a) its consolidated current assets (including the
Unused Commitment Amount) of Brigham Exploration and its consolidated
Subsidiaries to (b) their consolidated current liabilities to be less than 1.00
to 1.00 at any time.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_22"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.22</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Interest
Coverage Ratio</u>.&#160; Brigham Exploration
shall not permit the Interest Coverage Ratio as of the end of any fiscal
quarter (calculated quarterly at the end of each fiscal quarter) to be less
than 2.75 to 1.0 for the twelve month period ending March 31, 2003; and
thereafter, not less than 3.25 to 1.0 for the twelve month period ending June
30, 2003, and each twelve month period ending at the end of each such fiscal
quarter.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_23"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.23</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Restrictions
on Limited Partners</u>.&#160; Brigham
Exploration shall not permit either of the Limited Partners to hold any
Properties other than the limited partner interests in the Borrower.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_24"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.24</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Subordinated
Debt</u>.&#160; None of the Credit Parties
may make any optional, mandatory or scheduled payments on account of principal
(whether by redemption, purchase, retirement, defeasance, set-off or otherwise)
in respect of the Subordinated Debt.&#160;
None of the Credit Parties may make any scheduled payments on account of
interest on and fees in respect of the Subordinated Debt if a Default or an
Event of Default would result or has occurred and is continuing.&#160; None of the Credit Parties may amend, supplement
or otherwise modify the terms of </p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">64</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=70,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=332309,FOLIO='64',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">the Subordinated Debt,
(including, without limitation, the Subordinated Credit Agreement) without the
express written consent of the Majority Lenders, which consent will not be
unreasonably withheld, which has the effect of (a) increasing the outstanding
principal amount of the Subordinated Debt above $20,000,000, provided that the
foregoing shall not affect the Borrower&#146;s right to make payment in kind of accrued
interest or the ability of the lenders thereunder to accept payment in kind as
provided in the Subordinated Credit Agreement, thereby increasing the principal
amount of the Subordinated Debt or (b) increasing the rate of interest except
with respect to imposing the default rate as provided for in the Subordinated
Credit Agreement on the date hereof or any fees charged on the Subordinated
Debt.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section6_25"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.25</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Advance
Payment Contracts</u>.&#160; None of the
Credit Parties will enter into or be a party to any Advance Payment Contract
with respect to any Oil and Gas Properties that are Collateral.</p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleViiEventsOfDefaultRemedies"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE VII</font></b></a><font style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;"><br>
</font><font style="text-transform:none;"><br>
EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Events
of Default</u>.&#160; The occurrence of any
of the following events shall constitute an &#147;Event of Default&#148; under any Loan
Document:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payment</u>.&#160; The Borrower shall fail to (i) pay any
principal of any Advance or reimburse any drawing under any Letter of Credit
when the same becomes due and payable, or (ii) pay any interest on any Note,
any fees, reimbursements, indemnifications, or other amounts payable in
connection with the Obligations, this Agreement or any of the other Loan
Documents within three Business Days after the same becomes due and payable;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Representation and Warranties</u>.&#160; Any representation or warranty made or
deemed to be made (i) by any Credit Party in this Agreement or in any other
Loan Document, or (ii) by any Credit Party in connection with this Agreement or
any other Loan Document, shall prove to have been incorrect in any material and
adverse respect when made or deemed to be made;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Covenant Breaches</u>.&#160; Any Credit Party shall fail to perform or
observe (i) any covenant contained in Section 2.05(b), Section 5.02(a), Section
5.06(e), Section 5.12, or Article VI of this Agreement or (ii) any other term
or covenant set forth in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document which is
not covered by clause (i) above or any other provision of this Section 7.01 if
such failure shall remain unremedied for 30 days after notice of such breach or
failure has been given to the Borrower by the Administrative Agent or any of
the Lenders (through the Administrative Agent);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Cross-Defaults</u>.&#160; (i) Any Credit Party shall fail to pay any
principal of or premium or interest on its Debt which is outstanding in a
principal amount of at least $1,000,000 individually or when aggregated with
all such Debt of the Credit Parties so in default (but excluding Debt evidenced
by the Notes) when the same becomes due and payable (whether by scheduled
maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand or otherwise), and such
failure shall continue after the applicable grace period, if any, specified in
the agreement or instrument relating to such Debt; (ii) any other event shall
occur or condition shall exist under any </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">65</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=71,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=430624,FOLIO='65',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">agreement or instrument
(including, without limitation, the Subordinated Credit Agreement) relating to
Debt which is outstanding in a principal amount of at least $1,000,000
individually or when aggregated with all such Debt of the Credit Parties so in
default, and shall continue after the applicable grace period, if any,
specified in such agreement or instrument, if the effect of such event or
condition is to accelerate, or to permit the acceleration of, the maturity of
such Debt; or (iii) any such Debt shall be declared to be due and payable, or
required to be prepaid (other than by a regularly scheduled required prepayment
or optional prepayment), prior to the stated maturity thereof;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Insolvency</u>.&#160; Any Credit Party shall generally not pay its
debts as such debts become due, or shall admit in writing its inability to pay
its debts generally, or shall make a general assignment for the benefit of
creditors; or any proceeding shall be instituted by or against any Credit Party
seeking to adjudicate it a bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking liquidation,
winding up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection, relief, or
composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency
or reorganization or relief of debtors, or seeking the entry of an order for
relief or the appointment of a receiver, trustee or other similar official for
it or for any substantial part of its property and, in the case of any such
proceeding instituted against any Credit Party either such proceeding shall
remain undismissed for a period of 60 days or any of the actions sought in such
proceeding shall occur; or any Credit Party shall take any corporate action to
authorize any of the actions set forth above in this paragraph (e);</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Judgments</u>.&#160; Any judgment or order for the payment of
money in excess of $1,000,000 (excluding liabilities to the extent covered by
insurance if the insurer has confirmed that such insurance covers such
liabilities) shall be rendered against any Credit Party and either (i)
enforcement proceedings shall have been commenced by any creditor upon such
judgment or order or (ii) there shall be any period of 30 consecutive days
during which a stay of enforcement of such judgment or order, by reason of a
pending appeal or otherwise, shall not be in effect;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Loan Documents</u>.&#160; Any provision of any Loan Document shall for
any reason cease to be in full force and effect and valid, binding and
enforceable in all material respects in accordance with their terms or cease in
any material respect to create a valid and perfected Lien of the priority
required thereby on any of the collateral purported to be covered thereby,
except to the extent otherwise permitted by this Agreement, or any Credit Party
shall so state in writing;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Brigham Exploration</u>.&#160; Any Change of Control shall occur; or </font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Operator</u>.&#160; The Borrower ceases to be the primary
operating entity for Brigham Exploration and its Subsidiaries and the Borrower
and its Subsidiaries cease to be the only Brigham Exploration entities owning
Oil and Gas Properties.&#160; </font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Optional
Acceleration of Maturity</u>.&#160; If any
Event of Default (other than an Event of Default pursuant to paragraph (e) of
Section 7.01) shall have occurred and be continuing, then, and in any such
event,</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Administrative Agent (i) shall at
the request, or may with the consent, of the Majority Lenders, by notice to the
Borrower, declare the Commitments and the obligation of each Lender and the
Issuing Lender to make extensions of credit hereunder, including making</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">66</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=72,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=531029,FOLIO='66',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Advances and issuing Letters of
Credit, to be terminated, whereupon the same shall forthwith terminate, and
(ii) shall at the request, or may with the consent, of the Majority Lenders, by
notice to the Borrower, declare all principal, interest, fees, reimbursements,
indemnifications, and all other amounts payable under this Agreement, the
Notes, and the other Loan Documents to be forthwith due and payable, whereupon
all such amounts shall become and be forthwith due and payable in full, without
notice of intent to demand, demand, presentment for payment, notice of
nonpayment, protest, notice of protest, grace, notice of dishonor, notice of
intent to accelerate, notice of acceleration, and all other notices, all of
which are hereby expressly waived by the Borrower;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Borrower shall, on demand of the
Administrative Agent at the request or with the consent of the Majority
Lenders, deposit with the Administrative Agent into the Cash Collateral Account
an amount of cash equal to the Letter of Credit Exposure as security for the
Obligations; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Administrative Agent shall at the
request of, or may with the consent of, the Majority Lenders proceed to enforce
its rights and remedies under the Security Instruments, this Agreement, and any
other Loan Document for the ratable benefit of the Lenders by appropriate
proceedings.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Automatic
Acceleration of Maturity</u>.&#160; If any
Event of Default pursuant to paragraph (e) of <u>Section 7.01</u> shall occur,</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; (i) the Commitments and the
obligation of each Lender and the Issuing Lender to make extensions of credit
hereunder, including making Advances and issuing Letters of Credit, shall
terminate, and (ii) all principal, interest, fees, reimbursements,
indemnifications, and all other amounts payable under this Agreement, the
Notes, and the other Loan Documents shall become and be forthwith due and
payable in full, without notice of intent to demand, demand, presentment for
payment, notice of nonpayment, protest, notice of protest, grace, notice of
dishonor, notice of intent to accelerate, notice of acceleration, and all other
notices, all of which are hereby expressly waived by the Borrower;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Borrower shall deposit with the
Administrative Agent into the Cash Collateral Account an amount of cash equal
to the outstanding Letter of Credit Exposure as security for the Obligations;
and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the Administrative Agent shall at the
request of, or may with the consent of, the Majority Lenders proceed to enforce
its rights and remedies under the Security Instruments, this Agreement, and any
other Loan Document for the ratable benefit of the Lenders by appropriate
proceedings.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Right
of Set-off</u>.&#160; Upon the occurrence and
during the continuance of any Event of Default, the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender and each Lender is hereby authorized at any time and from time
to time, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to set off and apply any and
all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any
time held and other indebtedness at any time owing by the Administrative Agent,
the Issuing Lender or such Lender to or for the credit or the account of the
Borrower against any and all of the</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">67</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=73,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=84937,FOLIO='67',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">obligations of the Borrower now
or hereafter existing under this Agreement, the Notes held by the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender or such Lender, and the other Loan
Documents, irrespective of whether or not the Administrative Agent, the Issuing
Lender or such Lender shall have made any demand under this Agreement, such
Notes, or such other Loan Documents, and although such obligations may be
unmatured.&#160; The Administrative Agent,
the Issuing Lender and each Lender agrees to promptly notify the Borrower after
any such set-off and application made by the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender or such Lender, provided that the failure to give such notice
shall not affect the validity of such set-off and application.&#160; The rights of the Administrative Agent, the
Issuing Lender and each Lender under this Section 7.04 are in addition to any
other rights and remedies (including, without limitation, other rights of
set-off) that the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender or such Lender may
have.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Non-exclusivity
of Remedies</u>.&#160; No remedy conferred
upon the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender and the Lenders is intended
to be exclusive of any other remedy, and each remedy shall be cumulative of all
other remedies existing by contract, at law, in equity, by statute or
otherwise.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section7_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Application
of Proceeds</u>.&#160; From and during the
continuance of any Event of Default, any monies or property actually received
by the Administrative Agent pursuant to this Agreement or any other Loan
Document, the exercise of any rights or remedies under any Security Instrument
or any other agreement with the Borrower, any Guarantor or any of the
Borrower&#146;s Subsidiaries which secures any of the Obligations, shall be applied
in the following order:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; First, to the payment of all amounts,
including without limitation costs and expenses incurred in connection with the
collection of such proceeds and the payment of any part of the Obligations, due
to the Administrative Agent under any of the expense reimbursement or indemnity
provisions of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, any Security
Instrument or other collateral documents, and any applicable law;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Second, to the ratable payment of
accrued but unpaid fees of the Administrative Agent, commitment fees, letter of
credit fees, and fronting fees owing to the Administrative Agent, the Issuing
Lender, and the Lenders in respect of the Advances and Letters of Credit under
this Agreement and the Notes;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Third, to the ratable payment of
accrued but unpaid interest on the Advances owing under this Agreement and the
Notes;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Fourth, ratably, according to the
then unpaid amounts thereof, without preference or priority of any kind among
them, to the ratable payment of all other Obligations then due and payable
which relate to Advances and Letters of Credit and which are owing to the
Administrative Agent and the Lenders and to the payment of all obligations of
the Borrower or its Subsidiaries owing to any Swap Counterparty under any
Interest Hedge Agreement or Hydrocarbon Hedge Agreement, if any, then due and
payable; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">68</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=74,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=575937,FOLIO='68',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Fifth, the remainder, if any, to the
Borrower or its Subsidiaries, or its respective successors or assigns, or such
other Person as may be lawfully entitled to receive the same or as a court of
competent jurisdiction may direct.</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleViiiTheGuaranty"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE
VIII</font></b></a><font style="font-weight:normal;text-transform:none;"><br>
<br>
</font><font style="text-transform:none;">THE GUARANTY</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liabilities
Guaranteed</u>. Each Guarantor hereby, joint and severally, irrevocably and
unconditionally guarantees the prompt payment at maturity of the Obligations.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Nature
of Guaranty</u>. This guaranty is an absolute, irrevocable, completed and
continuing guaranty of payment and not a guaranty of collection, and no notice
of the Obligations or any extension of credit already or hereafter contracted
by or extended to the Borrower need be given to any Guarantor. This guaranty
may not be revoked by any Guarantor and shall continue to be effective with
respect to the Obligations arising or created after any attempted revocation by
such Guarantor and shall remain in full force and effect until the Obligations
are paid in full and the Commitments are terminated, notwithstanding that from
time to time prior thereto no Obligations may be outstanding. The Borrower and
the Lenders may modify, alter, rearrange, extend for any period and/or renew
from time to time, the Obligations, and the Lenders may waive any Default or
Events of Default without notice to any Guarantor and in such event each
Guarantor will remain fully bound hereunder on the Obligations. This guaranty
shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any
time any payment of the Obligations is rescinded or must otherwise be returned
by any of the Lenders upon the insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of the
Borrower or otherwise, all as though such payment had not been made. This
guaranty may be enforced by the Administrative Agent and any subsequent holder
of any of the Obligations and shall not be discharged by the assignment or
negotiation of all or part of the Obligations. Each Guarantor hereby expressly
waives presentment, demand, notice of non-payment, protest and notice of
protest and dishonor, notice of Default or Event of Default, and also notice of
acceptance of this guaranty, acceptance on the part of the Lenders being
conclusively presumed by the Lenders&#146; request for this guaranty and the
Guarantors&#146; being party to this Agreement.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Agent&#146;s
Rights</u>. Each Guarantor authorizes the Administrative Agent, without notice
or demand and without affecting any Guarantor&#146;s liability hereunder, to take
and hold security for the payment of its obligations under this Article VIII
and/or the Obligations, and exchange, enforce, waive and release any such
security; and to apply such security and direct the order or manner of sale
thereof as the Administrative Agent in its discretion may determine, and to
obtain a guaranty of the Obligations from any one or more Persons and at any
time or times to enforce, waive, rearrange, modify, limit or release any of
such other Persons from their obligations under such guaranties.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Guarantor&#146;s
Waivers</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>General</u>. Each Guarantor waives
any right to require any of the Lenders to (i) proceed against the Borrower or
any other person liable on the Obligations, (ii) enforce any of their rights
against any other guarantor of the Obligations, (iii) proceed or enforce any of
their</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">69</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=75,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=332975,FOLIO='69',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">rights against or exhaust any
security given to secure the Obligations, (iv) have the Borrower joined with
any Guarantor in any suit arising out of this Article VIII and/or the
Obligations, or (v) pursue any other remedy in the Lenders&#146; powers whatsoever.
The Lenders shall not be required to mitigate damages or take any action to
reduce, collect or enforce the Obligations. Guarantor waives any defense
arising by reason of any disability, lack of corporate authority or power, or
other defense of the Borrower or any other guarantor of the Obligations, and
shall remain liable hereon regardless of whether the Borrower or any other
guarantor be found not liable thereon for any reason. Whether and when to
exercise any of the remedies of the Lenders under any of the Loan Documents
shall be in the sole and absolute discretion of the Administrative Agent, and
no delay by the Administrative Agent in enforcing any remedy, including delay
in conducting a foreclosure sale, shall be a defense to any Guarantor&#146;s
liability under this Article VIII.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Subrogation</u>. Until the
Obligations have been paid in full, each Guarantor waives all rights of
subrogation or reimbursement against the Borrower, whether arising by contract
or operation of law (including, without limitation, any such right arising
under any federal or state bankruptcy or insolvency laws) and waives any right
to enforce any remedy which the Lenders now have or may hereafter have against
the Borrower, and waives any benefit or any right to participate in any security
now or hereafter held by the Administrative Agent or any Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Maturity
of Obligations, Payment</u>. Each Guarantor agrees that if the maturity of any
of the Obligations is accelerated by bankruptcy or otherwise, such maturity
shall also be deemed accelerated for the purpose of this Article VIII without
demand or notice to any Guarantor. Each Guarantor will, forthwith upon notice
from the Administrative Agent, jointly and severally pay to the Administrative
Agent the amount due and unpaid by the Borrower and guaranteed hereby. The
failure of the Administrative Agent to give this notice shall not in any way
release any Guarantor hereunder.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Agent&#146;s
Expenses</u>. If any Guarantor fails to pay the Obligations after notice from
the Administrative Agent of the Borrower&#146;s failure to pay any Obligations at
maturity, and if the Administrative Agent obtains the services of an attorney
for collection of amounts owing by any Guarantor hereunder, or obtaining advice
of counsel in respect of any of their rights under this Article VIII, or if
suit is filed to enforce this Article VIII, or if proceedings are had in any
bankruptcy, probate, receivership or other judicial proceedings for the
establishment or collection of any amount owing by any Guarantor hereunder, or
if any amount owing by any Guarantor hereunder is collected through such
proceedings, each Guarantor jointly and severally agrees to pay to the
Administrative Agent the Administrative Agent&#146;s reasonable attorneys&#146; fees.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liability</u>.&#160; It is expressly agreed that the liability of
each Guarantor for the payment of the Obligations guaranteed hereby shall be
primary and not secondary.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Events
and Circumstances Not Reducing or Discharging any Guarantor&#146;s Obligations</u>.
Each Guarantor hereby consents and agrees to each of the following to the
fullest extent permitted by law, and agrees that each Guarantor&#146;s obligations
under this Article VIII shall not be released, diminished, impaired, reduced or
adversely affected by any of the</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">70</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=76,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=430466,FOLIO='70',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">following, and waives any
rights (including without limitation rights to notice) which each Guarantor
might otherwise have as a result of or in connection with any of the following:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Modifications, etc</u>. Any
renewal, extension, modification, increase, decrease, alteration or
rearrangement of all or any part of the Obligations, or of the Notes, or this
Agreement or any instrument executed in connection therewith, or any contract
or understanding between the Borrower and any of the Lenders, or any other
Person, pertaining to the Obligations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Adjustment, etc</u>. Any
adjustment, indulgence, forbearance or compromise that might be granted or
given by any of the Lenders to the Borrower or any Guarantor or any Person
liable on the Obligations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Condition of the Borrower or any
Guarantor</u>. The insolvency, bankruptcy arrangement, adjustment, composition,
liquidation, disability, dissolution, death or lack of power of the Borrower or
any Guarantor or any other Person at any time liable for the payment of all or
part of the Obligations; or any dissolution of the Borrower or any Guarantor,
or any sale, lease or transfer of any or all of the assets of the Borrower or
any Guarantor, or any changes in the shareholders, partners, or members of the
Borrower or any Guarantor; or any reorganization of the Borrower or any
Guarantor;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Invalidity of Obligations</u>. The
invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of all or any part of the
Obligations, or any document or agreement executed in connection with the
Obligations, for any reason whatsoever, including without limitation the fact
that the Obligations, or any part thereof, exceed the amount permitted by law,
the act of creating the Obligations or any part thereof is ultra vires, the
officers or representatives executing the documents or otherwise creating the
Obligations acted in excess of their authority, the Obligations violate
applicable usury laws, the Borrower has valid defenses, claims or offsets (whether
at law, in equity or by agreement) which render the Obligations wholly or
partially uncollectible from the Borrower, the creation, performance or
repayment of the Obligations (or the execution, delivery and performance of any
document or instrument representing part of the Obligations or executed in
connection with the Obligations, or given to secure the repayment of the
Obligations) is illegal, uncollectible, legally impossible or unenforceable, or
this Agreement or other documents or instruments pertaining to the Obligations
have been forged or otherwise are irregular or not genuine or authentic;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Release of Obligors</u>. Any full
or partial release of the liability of the Borrower on the Obligations or any
part thereof, of any co-guarantors, or any other Person now or hereafter
liable, whether directly or indirectly, jointly, severally, or jointly and
severally, to pay, perform, guarantee or assure the payment of the Obligations
or any part thereof, it being recognized, acknowledged and agreed by any Guarantor
that such Guarantor may be required to pay the Obligations in full without
assistance or support of any other Person, and no Guarantor has been induced to
enter into this Article VIII on the basis of a contemplation, belief,
understanding or agreement that other parties other than the Borrower will be
liable to perform the Obligations, or the Lenders will look to other parties to
perform the Obligations.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Security</u>. The taking or
accepting of any other security, collateral or guaranty, or other assurance of
payment, for all or any part of the Obligations;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">71</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=77,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1024426,FOLIO='71',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Release of Collateral etc.</u> Any
release, surrender, exchange, subordination, deterioration, waste, loss or
impairment (including without limitation negligent, willful, unreasonable or
unjustifiable impairment) of any collateral, property or security, at any time
existing in connection with, or assuring or securing payment of, all or any
part of the Obligations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Care and Diligence</u>. The
failure of the Lenders or any other Person to exercise diligence or reasonable
care in the preservation, protection, enforcement, sale or other handling or
treatment of all or any part of such collateral, property or security;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Status of Liens</u>. The fact
that any collateral, security, security interest or lien contemplated or
intended to be given, created or granted as security for the repayment of the
Obligations shall not be properly perfected or created, or shall prove to be
unenforceable or subordinate to any other security interest or lien, it being
recognized and agreed by each Guarantor that no Guarantor is entering into this
Article VIII in reliance on, or in contemplation of the benefits of, the
validity, enforceability, collectibility or value of any of the collateral for
the Obligations;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payments Rescinded</u>. Any
payment by the Borrower to the Lenders is held to constitute a preference under
the bankruptcy laws, or for any reason the Lenders are required to refund such
payment or pay such amount to the Borrower or someone else; or</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(k)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other Actions Taken or Omitted</u>.&#160; Any other action taken or omitted to be
taken with respect to this Agreement, the Obligations, or the security and
collateral therefor, whether or not such action or omission prejudices any
Guarantor or increases the likelihood that any Guarantor will be required to
pay the Obligations pursuant to the terms hereof, it being the unambiguous and
unequivocal intention of each Guarantor that each Guarantor shall be obligated
to joint and severally pay the Obligations when due, notwithstanding any
occurrence, circumstance, event, action, or omission whatsoever, whether
contemplated or uncontemplated, and whether or not otherwise or particularly
described herein, except for the full and final payment and satisfaction of the
Obligations.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Subordination
of All Guarantor Claims</u>. As used herein, the term &#147;Guarantor Claims&#148; shall
mean all debts and liabilities of the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the
Borrower to any Guarantor, whether such debts and liabilities now exist or are
hereafter incurred or arise, or whether the obligation of the Borrower or such
Subsidiary thereon be direct, contingent, primary, secondary, several, joint
and several, or otherwise, and irrespective of whether such debts or
liabilities be evidenced by note, contract, open account, or otherwise, and
irrespective of the person or persons in whose favor such debts or liabilities
may, at their inception, have been, or may hereafter be created, or the manner in
which they have been or may hereafter be acquired by any Guarantor. The
Guarantor Claims shall include without limitation all rights and claims of any
Guarantor against the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower arising as a
result of subrogation or otherwise as a result of such Guarantor&#146;s payment of
all or a portion of the Obligations. Until the Obligations shall be paid and
satisfied in full and each Guarantor shall have performed all of its
obligations hereunder, no Guarantor shall receive or collect, directly or
indirectly, from the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower or any other</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">72</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=78,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=681091,FOLIO='72',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">party any amount upon the
Guarantor Claims during the occurrence and continuance of an Event of Default.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Claims
in Bankruptcy</u>. In the event of receivership, bankruptcy, reorganization,
arrangement, debtor&#146;s relief, or other insolvency proceedings involving the
Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower, as debtor, the Lenders shall have
the right to prove their claim in any proceeding, so as to establish their
rights hereunder and receive directly from the receiver, trustee or other court
custodian, dividends and payments which would otherwise be payable upon
Guarantor Claims.&#160; Each Guarantor hereby
assigns such dividends and payments to the Lenders. Should the Administrative
Agent or any Lender receive, for application upon the Obligations, any such
dividend or payment which is otherwise payable to any Guarantor, and which, as
between the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower and any Guarantor, shall
constitute a credit upon the Guarantor Claims, then upon payment in full of the
Obligations, such Guarantor shall become subrogated to the rights of the
Lenders to the extent that such payments to the Lenders on the Guarantor Claims
have contributed toward the liquidation of the Obligations, and such
subrogation shall be with respect to that proportion of the Obligations which
would have been unpaid if the Administrative Agent or a Lender had not received
dividends or payments upon the Guarantor Claims.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.11</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Payments
Held in Trust</u>.&#160; In the event that
notwithstanding Sections 8.09 and 8.10 above, any Guarantor should receive any
funds, payments, claims or distributions which is prohibited by such Sections,
such Guarantor agrees to hold in trust for the Lenders an amount equal to the
amount of all funds, payments, claims or distributions so received, and agrees
that it shall have absolutely no dominion over the amount of such funds,
payments, claims or distributions except to pay them promptly to the
Administrative Agent, and each Guarantor covenants promptly to pay the same to
the Administrative Agent.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.12</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liens
Subordinate</u>. Each Guarantor agrees that any liens, security interests, judgment
liens, charges or other encumbrances upon the Borrower&#146;s or any Subsidiary of
the Borrower&#146;s assets securing payment of the Guarantor Claims shall be and
remain inferior and subordinate to any liens, security interests, judgment
liens, charges or other encumbrances upon the Borrower&#146;s or any Subsidiary of
the Borrower&#146;s assets securing payment of the Obligations, regardless of
whether such encumbrances in favor of any Guarantor, the Administrative Agent
or the Lenders presently exist or are hereafter created or attach.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section8_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.13</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Guarantor&#146;s
Enforcement Rights</u>. Without the prior written consent of the Lenders, no
Guarantor shall (a) exercise or enforce any creditor&#146;s right it may have
against the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower, or (b) foreclose,
repossess, sequester or otherwise take steps or institute any action or
proceeding (judicial or otherwise, including without limitation the
commencement of or joinder in any liquidation, bankruptcy, rearrangement,
debtor&#146;s relief or insolvency proceeding) to enforce any lien, mortgages, deeds
of trust, security interest, collateral rights, judgments or other encumbrances
on assets of the Borrower or any Subsidiary of the Borrower held by Guarantor.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">73</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=79,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=298335,FOLIO='73',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleIxTheAdministrativeAgentAnd"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE IX<br>
<br>
THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT AND THE ISSUING LENDER</font></b></a></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Authorization
and Action</u>.&#160; Each Lender hereby
appoints and authorizes the Administrative Agent to take such action as agent
on its behalf and to exercise such powers under this Agreement as are delegated
to the Administrative Agent by the terms hereof and of the other Loan
Documents, together with such powers as are reasonably incidental thereto.&#160; As to any matters not expressly provided for
by this Agreement or any other Loan Document (including, without limitation,
enforcement or collection of the Notes), the Administrative Agent shall not be
required to exercise any discretion or take any action, but shall be required
to act or to refrain from acting (and shall be fully protected in so acting or
refraining from acting) upon the instructions of the Majority Lenders, and such
instructions shall be binding upon all Lenders and all holders of Notes; <u>provided</u>,
however, that the Administrative Agent shall not be required to take any action
which exposes the Administrative Agent to personal liability or which is
contrary to this Agreement, any other Loan Document, or applicable law.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Administrative Agent&#146;s Reliance, Etc</u>.&#160; Neither
the Administrative Agent nor any of its directors, officers, agents, or
employees shall be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken <b><font style="font-weight:bold;">(<font style="text-transform:uppercase;">including the Administrative Agent&#146;s own
negligence</font>)</font></b> by it or them under or in connection with this
Agreement or the other Loan Documents, except for its or their own gross
negligence or willful misconduct.&#160;
Without limitation of the generality of the foregoing, the
Administrative Agent:&#160; (a) may treat the
payee of any Note as the holder thereof until the Administrative Agent receives
written notice of the assignment or transfer thereof signed by such payee and
in form satisfactory to the Administrative Agent; (b) may consult with legal
counsel (including counsel for any Credit Party), independent public
accountants, and other experts selected by it and shall not be liable for any
action taken or omitted to be taken in good faith by it in accordance with the
advice of such counsel, accountants, or experts; (c) makes no warranty or
representation to any Lender and shall not be responsible to any Lender for any
statements, warranties, or representations made in or in connection with this
Agreement or the other Loan Documents; (d) shall not, except with respect to
Administrative Agent&#146;s receipt of payments due hereunder, have any duty to
ascertain or to inquire as to the performance or observance of any of the
terms, covenants or conditions of this Agreement or any other Loan Document on
the part of any Credit Party or to inspect the property (including the books
and records) of any Credit Party; (e) shall not be responsible to any Lender
for the due execution, legality, validity, enforceability, genuineness,
sufficiency, or value of this Agreement or any other Loan Document; and (f)
shall incur no liability under or in respect of this Agreement or any other
Loan Document by acting upon any notice, consent, certificate, or other
instrument or writing (which may be by telecopier or telex) believed by it to
be genuine and signed or sent by the proper party or parties.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>The
Administrative Agent and Its Affiliates</u>.&#160;
With respect to its Commitments, the Advances made by it and the Notes
issued to it, the Administrative Agent shall have the same rights and powers
under this Agreement as any other Lender and may exercise the same as though it
were not the Administrative Agent.&#160; The
term &#147;Lender&#148; or &#147;Lenders&#148; shall, unless otherwise expressly indicated, include
the Administrative Agent in its individual capacity.&#160; The Administrative Agent and its Affiliates may accept deposits
from, lend</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">74</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=80,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1002290,FOLIO='74',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">money to, act as trustee under
indentures of, and generally engage in any kind of business with, any Credit
Party, and any Person who may do business with or own securities of any Credit
Party, all as if the Administrative Agent were not an agent hereunder and
without any duty to account therefor to the Lenders.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Lender
Credit Decision</u>.&#160; Each Lender
acknowledges that it has, independently and without reliance upon the
Administrative Agent or any other Lender and based on the Financial Statements
and such other documents and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its
own credit analysis and decision to enter into this Agreement.&#160; Each Lender also acknowledges that it shall,
independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent or any other
Lender and based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate
at the time, continue to make its own credit decisions in taking or not taking
action under this Agreement.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section<font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> 9.05</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><u>Indemnification</u>.&#160; <b><font style="font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">The Lenders severally agree
to indemnify the Administrative Agent and the Issuing Lender and each Affiliate
thereof and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents (to the
extent not reimbursed by the Credit Parties), according to their respective Pro
Rata Shares from and against any and all liabilities, obligations, losses,
damages, penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses, or
disbursements of any kind or nature whatsoever which may be imposed on,
incurred by, or asserted against the Administrative Agent and the Issuing
Lender in any way relating to or arising out of this Agreement or any action
taken or omitted by the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Lender under this
Agreement or any other Loan Document (including the Administrative Agent&#146;s and
the Issuing Lender&#146;s own negligence), and including, without limitation,
environmental liabilities, provided that no Lender shall be liable for any
portion of such liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, penalties, actions,
judgments, suits, costs, expenses, or disbursements resulting from the
Administrative Agent&#146;s or the Issuing Lender&#146;s gross negligence or willful
misconduct.&#160; Without limitation of the
foregoing, each Lender agrees to reimburse the Administrative Agent and the
Issuing Lender promptly upon demand for its ratable share of any out-of-pocket
expenses (including counsel fees) incurred by the Administrative Agent or the
Issuing Lender in connection with the preparation, execution, delivery,
administration, modification, amendment, or enforcement (whether through
negotiations, legal proceedings, or otherwise) of, or legal advice in respect
of rights or responsibilities under, this Agreement or any other Loan Document,
to the extent that the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Lender is not
reimbursed for such by the Credit Parties, provided that no Lender shall be
liable for any portion of such out-of-pocket expenses (including counsel fees)
incurred by the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Bank as a result of the Administrative
Agent&#146;s or the Issuing Lender&#146;s gross negligence or willful misconduct.</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Successor
Administrative Agent and Issuing Lender</u>.&#160;
The Administrative Agent or the Issuing Lender may resign at any time by
giving written notice thereof to the Lenders and the Borrower and may be
removed at any time with or without cause by the Majority Lenders upon receipt
of written notice from the Majority Lenders to such effect.&#160; Upon</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">75</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=81,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=525805,FOLIO='75',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">receipt of notice of any such
resignation or removal, the Majority Lenders shall have the right to appoint a
successor Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender with, if any Event of Default
has not occurred and is not continuing, the consent of the Borrower, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.&#160;
If no successor Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender shall have been
so appointed by the Majority Lenders with the consent of the Borrower, and
shall have accepted such appointment, within 30 days after the resigning Administrative
Agent&#146;s or Issuing Lender&#146;s giving of notice of resignation or the Majority
Lenders&#146; removal of the resigning Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender, then
the resigning Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender may, on behalf of the
Lenders and the Borrower, appoint a successor Administrative Agent or Issuing
Lender, which shall be, in the case of a successor agent, a Lender or any other
commercial bank organized under the laws of the United States of America or of
any State thereof and having a combined capital and surplus of at least
$500,000,000.00 and, in the case of the Issuing Lender, a Lender.&#160; Upon the acceptance of any appointment as
Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender by a successor Administrative Agent or
Issuing Lender, such successor Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender shall
thereupon succeed to and become vested with all the rights, powers, privileges,
and duties of the resigning Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender, and the
resigning Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender shall be discharged from its
duties and obligations under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents,
except that the resigning Issuing Lender shall remain the Issuing Lender with
respect to any Letters of Credit outstanding on the Closing Date of its resignation
or removal and the provisions affecting the Issuing Lender with respect to such
Letters of Credit shall inure to the benefit of the resigning Issuing Lender
until the termination of all such Letters of Credit.&#160; After any resigning Administrative Agent&#146;s or Issuing Lender&#146;s
resignation or removal hereunder as Administrative Agent or Issuing Lender, the
provisions of this Article IX shall inure to its benefit as to any actions
taken or omitted to be taken by it while it was Administrative Agent or Issuing
Lender under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.07</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Other
Agents</u>.&#160; None of the Lead Arranger,
the Co-Arranger, the Documentation Agent or the Syndication Agent, in such
respective capacities, shall have any duties or responsibilities, or incur any
liabilities, under this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section9_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 9.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Collateral
Matters</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Administrative Agent is
authorized on behalf of the Lenders, without the necessity of any notice to or
further consent from the Lenders, from time to time, to take any actions with
respect to any Collateral or Security Instruments which may be necessary to
perfect and maintain Acceptable Security Interests in and Liens upon the
Collateral granted pursuant to the Security Instruments.&#160; The Administrative Agent is further
authorized on behalf of the Lenders, without the necessity of any notice to or
further consent from the Lenders, from time to time, to take any action in
exigent circumstances as may be reasonably necessary to preserve any rights or
privileges of the Lenders under the Loan Documents or applicable Legal
Requirements.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Each of the Lenders irrevocably
authorizes the Administrative Agent to release any Lien granted to or held by
the Administrative Agent upon any Collateral (i) upon termination of the
Commitments and payment in full of all outstanding Advances and all other
Obligations payable under this Agreement and under any other Loan Document;
(ii) constituting property</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">76</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=82,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=152186,FOLIO='76',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">sold or to be sold or disposed
of as part of or in connection with any disposition permitted under this
Agreement or the other Loan Documents; (iii) constituting property in which any
Credit Party owned no interest at the time the Lien was granted or at any time
thereafter; (iv) constituting Oil and Gas Properties to which no Proven
Reserves are attributed that currently encumbered under the Mortgage
Amendments; (v) if approved, authorized or ratified in writing by the Majority
Lenders or all the Lenders, as the case may be, as required by Section 10.01 or
(vi) as otherwise permitted by this Agreement.&#160;
Upon the request of the Administrative Agent at any time, the Lenders
will confirm in writing the Administrative Agent&#146;s authority to release
particular types or items of Collateral pursuant to this Section 9.08.&#160; The Administrative Agent hereby agrees, from
time to time upon the prior written request of the Borrower, to execute and
deliver such releases and/or termination documents as may be necessary to effectively
release any and all of the Liens granted to or held by the Administrative Agent
upon any Collateral described in this Section 9.08(b).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The powers conferred on the
Administrative Agent under this Agreement and the other Security Instruments are
solely to protect its interest in the Collateral and shall not impose any duty
upon it to exercise any such powers.&#160;
Except for the reasonable care of any Collateral in its possession and
the accounting for monies or other property actually received by it hereunder,
the Administrative Agent shall have no duty as to any Collateral or as to the
taking of any necessary steps to preserve rights against prior parties or any
other rights pertaining to any Collateral.&#160;
The Administrative Agent shall be deemed to have exercised reasonable
care as to the custody and preservation of the Collateral in its possession if
the Collateral is accorded treatment substantially equal to that which the
Administrative Agent accords its own property, provided that the Administrative
Agent shall have no responsibility for taking any necessary steps to preserve
rights against any parties with respect to any Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><a name="ArticleXMiscellaneous"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:none;">ARTICLE X<br>
<br>
MISCELLANEOUS</font></b></a></p>

<p style="font-weight:bold;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;text-transform:uppercase;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_01"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.01</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendments, Etc</u>.&#160; No
amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement, the Notes, or any other
Loan Document, nor consent to any departure by any Credit Party therefrom,
shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed
by the Majority Lenders and the Borrower, and then such waiver or consent shall
be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for
which given; <u>provided</u>, however, that:</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; no amendment, waiver, or consent
shall, unless in writing and signed by all of the Lenders and the Borrower, do
any of the following:</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; waive any of the conditions
specified in Section 3.01 or 3.02;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; increase the Commitments of the
Lenders;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; change the percentage of Lenders which
shall be required for the Lenders or any of them to take any action hereunder
or under any other Loan Document;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; amend Section 2.11 or this Section
10.01;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">77</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=83,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=184815,FOLIO='77',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; amend the definition of &#147;Majority
Lenders&#148;;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; release any Guarantor from its
obligations under Article VIII of this Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; permit any Credit Party to enter into
any merger or consolidation with or into any other Person, except as permitted
by Section 6.04, or amend Section 6.04;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(viii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; release any Collateral, except for
releases of Collateral in connection with dispositions permitted by this
Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ix)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; increase the Borrowing Base;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(x)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; reduce the principal of, or interest
on, the Notes or any fees or other amounts payable hereunder or under any other
Loan Document to or for the benefit of the Lenders;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; postpone any date fixed for any
payment of principal of, or interest on, the Notes or any fees or other amounts
payable hereunder or extend the Maturity Date or the Commitment Termination
Date; or</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(xii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; amend or waive any provision of, nor
consent to any departure by any party thereto from, the Intercreditor and
Subordination Agreement;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; no amendment, waiver, or consent
shall, unless in writing and signed by the Majority Lenders, decrease the
Borrowing Base; and</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; no amendment, waiver or consent
shall, unless in writing and signed by the Administrative Agent or the Issuing
Lender in addition to the Lenders required above to take such action, affect
the rights or duties of the Administrative Agent or the Issuing Lender, as the
case may be, under this Agreement or any other Loan Document.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notwithstanding any of the
foregoing provisions of this Section 10.01, the Administrative Agent may
release Collateral relating to sales or transfers of property permitted under
this Agreement or any other Loan Document; <i><font style="font-style:italic;">provided,
however</font></i>, in no event shall Administrative Agent release all or
substantially all of the Collateral without the prior written consent of each
of the Lenders.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_02"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.02</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notices,
Etc</u>.&#160; All notices and other
communications shall be in writing (including, without limitation, telecopy or
telex) and mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, telecopied,
telexed, hand delivered, or delivered by a nationally recognized overnight
courier, at the address for the appropriate party specified in <u>Schedule 1</u>
or at such other address as shall be designated by such party in a written
notice to the other parties.&#160; All such
notices and communications shall, when so mailed, telecopied, telexed, or hand
delivered or delivered by a nationally recognized overnight courier, be
effective when received if mailed, when telecopy transmission is completed,
when confirmed by telex answer-back, or when delivered by such messenger or
courier, respectively, except that notices and communications to the
Administrative Agent pursuant to Article II, IX or X shall not be effective
until received by the Administrative Agent.</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">78</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=84,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=167575,FOLIO='78',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_03"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.03</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No
Waiver; Remedies</u>.&#160; No failure on the
part of any Lender, the Administrative Agent, or the Issuing Lender to
exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right hereunder or under any Note
shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of
any such right preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise
of any other right.&#160; The remedies herein
provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_04"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.04</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Costs
and Expenses</u>.&#160; The Borrower agrees
to pay on demand (a) all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses of the
Arrangers and the Agents in connection with the preparation, execution,
delivery, administration, modification, and amendment of this Agreement, the
Notes, and the other Loan Documents including, without limitation, the
reasonable fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel for the Administrative
Agent with respect to advising the Administrative Agent as to its rights and
responsibilities under this Agreement, and (b) all out-of-pocket
costs and expenses, if any, of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, and
each Lender (including, without limitation, reasonable counsel fees and
expenses of the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, and each Lender) in
connection with the enforcement (whether through negotiations, legal
proceedings, or otherwise) of this Agreement, the Notes, and the other Loan
Documents.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_05"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.05</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Binding
Effect</u>.&#160; This Agreement shall become
effective when it shall have been executed by each of the Credit Parties and
the Administrative Agent, and when the Administrative Agent shall have, as to
each Lender, either received a counterpart hereof executed by such Lender or
been notified by such Lender that such Lender has executed it and thereafter
shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Credit Parties, the
Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, and each Lender and their respective
successors and assigns, except that the Borrower shall not have the right to
assign its rights or delegate its duties under this Agreement or any interest
in this Agreement without the prior written consent of each Lender.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_06"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.06</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Lender
Assignments and Participations</u>.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Assignments</u>.&#160; Any Lender may assign to one or more banks
or other entities all or any portion of its rights and obligations under this
Agreement (including, without limitation, all or a portion of its Commitments,
the Advances owing to it, the Notes held by it, and the participation interest
in the Letter of Credit Obligations held by it); <u>provided</u>, however, that
(i) the amount of the Commitments and Advances of such Lender being assigned
pursuant to each such assignment (determined as of the date of the Assignment
and Acceptance with respect to such assignment) shall be, if to an entity other
than a Lender, not less than $5,000,000.00, (ii) each such assignment shall be to
an Eligible Assignee, (iii) the parties to each such assignment shall execute
and deliver to the Administrative Agent, for its acceptance and recording in
the Register, an Assignment and Acceptance, together with the Notes subject to
such assignment, and (iv) each Eligible Assignee (other than an Eligible
Assignee that is a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender) shall pay to the
Administrative Agent a $3,500 administrative fee.&#160; Any such assignment need not be ratable as among the
Facilities.&#160; Upon such execution,
delivery, acceptance and recording, from and after the effective date specified
in each Assignment and Acceptance, which effective date shall be at least three
Business Days after the execution thereof unless otherwise waived by the
Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, (A) the assignee thereunder shall
be a party hereto for all purposes and, to the extent that rights and
obligations</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">79</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=85,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=298290,FOLIO='79',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">hereunder have been assigned to
it pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, have the rights and obligations
of a Lender hereunder and (B) such Lender thereunder shall, to the extent that
rights and obligations hereunder have been assigned by it pursuant to such
Assignment and Acceptance, relinquish its rights and be released from its
obligations under this Agreement (and, in the case of an Assignment and
Acceptance covering all or the remaining portion of such Lender&#146;s rights and
obligations under this Agreement, such Lender shall cease to be a party hereto).</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Term of Assignments</u>.&#160; By executing and delivering an Assignment
and Acceptance, the Lender thereunder and the assignee thereunder confirm to
and agree with each other and the other parties hereto as follows:&#160; (i) other than as provided in such Assignment
and Acceptance, such Lender makes no representation or warranty and assumes no
responsibility with respect to any statements, warranties or representations
made in or in connection with this Agreement or the execution, legality,
validity, enforceability, genuineness, sufficiency of value of this Agreement
or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant hereto; (ii) such Lender
makes no representation or warranty and assumes no responsibility with respect
to the financial condition of any Credit Party or the performance or observance
by the Borrower or its Subsidiaries of any of their obligations under this
Agreement or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant hereto; (iii)
such assignee confirms that it has received a copy of this Agreement, together
with copies of the most recently delivered financial statements pursuant to
Section 5.06 and such other documents and information as it has deemed
appropriate to make its own credit analysis and decision to enter into such
Assignment and Acceptance; (iv) such assignee will, independently and without
reliance upon the Administrative Agent, such Lender or any other Lender and
based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate at the
time, continue to make its own credit decisions in taking or not taking action
under this Agreement; (v) such assignee appoints and authorizes the
Administrative Agent to take such action as agent on its behalf and to exercise
such powers under this Agreement as are delegated to the Administrative Agent
by the terms hereof, together with such powers as are reasonably incidental
thereto; and (vi) such assignee agrees that it will perform in accordance with
their terms all of the obligations which by the terms of this Agreement are
required to be performed by it as a Lender.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>The Register</u>.&#160; The Administrative Agent shall maintain at
its address referred to in Section 10.02 a copy of each Assignment and
Acceptance delivered to and accepted by it and a register for the recordation
of the names and addresses of the Lenders and the Commitments of, and principal
amount of the Advances owing to, each Lender from time to time (the &#147;<u>Register</u>&#148;).&#160; The entries in the Register shall be
conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error, and each of the
Credit Parties, the Administrative Agent, the Issuing Lender, and the Lenders
may treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Register as a Lender
hereunder for all purposes of this Agreement.&#160;
The Register shall be available for inspection by the Borrower or any
Lender at any reasonable time and from time to time upon reasonable prior
notice.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Procedures</u>.&#160; Upon its receipt of an Assignment and
Acceptance executed by a Lender and an Eligible Assignee, together with the
Notes subject to such assignment, the Administrative Agent shall, if such
Assignment and Acceptance has been completed and is in substantially the form
of the attached <u>Exhibit A</u>, (i) accept such Assignment and Acceptance,
(ii) record the information contained therein in the Register, and (iii) give
prompt notice thereof to </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">80</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=86,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=671507,FOLIO='80',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">the Borrower.&#160; Within five Business Days after its receipt
of such notice, the Borrower shall execute and deliver to the Administrative
Agent in exchange for the surrendered Notes (A) if such Eligible Assignee has
acquired a Commitment, a new Note to the order of such Eligible Assignee in an
amount equal to such Commitment assumed by it pursuant to such Assignment and
Acceptance and (B) if such Lender has retained any Commitment hereunder, a new
Note to the order of such Lender in an amount equal to the Commitment retained
by it hereunder.&#160; Such new Note shall be
dated the effective date of such Assignment and Acceptance and shall otherwise
be in substantially the form of the attached <u>Exhibit E</u>.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Participations</u>.&#160; Each Lender may sell participations to one
or more banks or other entities in or to all or a portion of its rights and
obligations under this Agreement (including, without limitation, all or a
portion of its Commitments, the Advances owing to it, its participation
interest in the Letter of Credit Obligations, and the Notes held by it); <u>provided</u>,
however, that (i) such Lender&#146;s obligations under this Agreement (including,
without limitation, its Commitments to the Borrower hereunder) shall remain
unchanged, (ii) such Lender shall remain solely responsible to the other
parties hereto for the performance of such obligations, (iii) such Lender shall
remain the holder of any such Notes for all purposes of this Agreement, (iv)
the Credit Parties, the Administrative Agent, and the Issuing Lender and the
other Lenders shall continue to deal solely and directly with such Lender in
connection with such Lender&#146;s rights and obligations under this Agreement, and
(v) such Lender shall not require the participant&#146;s consent to any matter under
this Agreement, except for change in the principal amount of the Notes,
reductions in fees or interest, releasing all or substantially all of any
Collateral or Brigham Exploration or the General Partner as a Guarantor,
permitting any Credit Party to enter into any merger or consolidation with or
into any other (except as permitted hereby),&#160;
postponement of any date fixed for any payment of principal of, or
interest on, the Notes or any fees or other amounts payable hereunder, or
extensions of either the Maturity Date or the Commitment Termination Date.&#160; The Borrower hereby agrees that participants
shall have the same rights under Sections 2.12, 2.13, 2.14, and 11.07 as a
Lender to the extent of their respective participations.</font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_07"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section <font style="text-transform:uppercase;">10.07</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><u>Indemnification</u>.&#160; <b><font style="font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">The Borrower shall indemnify
the Arrangers, the Agents, the Lenders, the Issuing Lender, and each Affiliate
thereof and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents from,
and discharge, release, and hold each of them harmless against, any and all
losses, liabilities, claims, or damages which may be imposed on, incurred by,
or asserted against them in any way relating to or arising out of this
Agreement or any action taken or omitted by them under this Agreement or any
other Loan Document (including any such losses, liabilities, claims, damages,
or expense incurred by reason of the person being indemnified&#146;s own negligence
or strict liability) and including without limitation Environmental
Liabilities, but excluding any such losses, liabilities, claims, damages, or
expenses incurred by reason of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of
the person to be indemnified.</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_08"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.08</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Execution
in Counterparts</u>.&#160; This Agreement may
be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties hereto in
separate counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an
original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same
agreement.</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">81</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=87,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=716042,FOLIO='81',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_09"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.09</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Survival
of Representations, Etc</u>.&#160; All
representations and warranties contained in this Agreement or made in writing
by or on behalf of the Borrower in connection herewith shall survive the
execution and delivery of this Agreement and the Loan Documents, the making of
the Advances and any investigation made by or on behalf of the Lenders, none of
which investigations shall diminish any Lender&#146;s right to rely on such
representations and warranties.&#160; All
obligations of the Borrower provided for in Sections 2.12, 2.13, 2.14(c),
10.04, and 10.07 and all of the obligations of the Lenders in Section 10.05
shall survive any termination of this Agreement and repayment in full of the
Obligations.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_10"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.10</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Severability</u>.&#160; In case one or more provisions of this
Agreement or the other Loan Documents shall be invalid, illegal or
unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law, the validity, legality,
and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein or therein
shall not be affected or impaired thereby.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_11"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section<font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> 10.11</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <b><u><font style="font-weight:bold;">Governing
Law</font></u>.&#160; Except as otherwise
expressly stated in any Security Instrument, this Agreement, the Notes and the
other Loan Documents shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in
accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.&#160; Each Letter of Credit shall be governed by either (a) the Uniform
Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (1993 Revision), International
Chamber of Commerce Publication No.&#160; 500
(or any successor to such publication) or (b) the International Standby
Practices 1998, Institute of International Banking Law &amp; Practice (or any
successor to such publication).</b></font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_12"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section <font style="text-transform:uppercase;">10.12</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <b><u><font style="font-weight:bold;">Submission
To Jurisdiction; Waivers</font></u>.&#160;
The Borrower hereby irrevocably and unconditionally:</b></font></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">(A)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; submits for
itself and its Property in any legal action or proceeding relating to this
Agreement and the other Loan Documents to which it is a party, or for
recognition and enforcement of any judgment in respect thereof, to the
non-exclusive general jurisdiction of the Courts of the State of New York, the
courts of the United States of America for the Southern District of New York,
and appellate courts from any thereof;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; consents
that any such action or proceeding may be brought in such courts and waives any
objection that it may now or hereafter have to the venue of any such action or
proceeding in any such court or that such action or proceeding was brought in
an inconvenient court and agrees not to plead or claim the same;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; agrees that
service of process in any such action or proceeding may be effected by mailing
a copy thereof by registered or certified mail (or any substantially similar
form of mail), postage prepaid, to the Borrower at its address set forth in subsection
10.02 or at such other address of which the Administrative Agent shall have
been notified pursuant thereto;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">82</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=88,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=71254,FOLIO='82',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; agrees that
nothing herein shall affect the right to effect service of process in any other
manner permitted by law or shall limit the right to sue in any other
jurisdiction; and</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; waives, to
the maximum extent not prohibited by law, any right it may have to claim or
recover in any legal action or proceeding referred to in this subsection any
special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages.</font></b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_13"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section<font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> 10.13</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> </font><b><u><font style="font-weight:bold;">WAIVER OF
JURY TRIAL</font></u>.&#160; EACH OF THE
CREDIT PARTIES, THE LENDERS, THE ISSUING LENDER, THE ARRANGERS AND THE AGENTS
HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT HAS BEEN REPRESENTED BY AND HAS CONSULTED WITH
COUNSEL OF ITS CHOICE, AND HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY, INTENTIONALLY, AND
IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LEGAL
PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, ANY OTHER LOAN
DOCUMENT, OR ANY OF THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY OR THEREBY.</b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_14"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section<font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> 10.14</font></font></a><font style="text-transform:uppercase;"> </font><b><u><font style="font-weight:bold;">ORAL
AGREEMENTS</font></u>.&#160; THIS AGREEMENT
AND THE LOAN DOCUMENTS REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES AND MAY
NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL
AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES.&#160; THERE ARE NO
UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS AMONG THE PARTIES HERETO.</b></p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_15"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.15</font></a> <u>Dissemination
of Information</u>.&#160; Each of the Agents and the Lenders agrees to
maintain the confidentiality of the Information (as defined below), except that
Information may be disclosed (a) to its Affiliates&#146; directors, officers,
employees and agents, including accountants, legal counsel and other advisors
(it being understood that the Persons to whom such disclosure is made will be
informed of the confidential nature of such Information and instructed to keep
such Information confidential); (b) to the extent requested by any Governmental
Authority in connection with banking regulations or supervision; (c) to the
extent required by applicable Legal Requirements or by any subpoena or similar
legal process; (d) to any other party to this Agreement; (e) to the extent
required, in connection with the exercise of any remedies hereunder or any suit,
action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or the enforcement of rights
hereunder; (f) subject to an agreement for the benefit of the Credit Parties
containing provisions substantially the same as those of this Section 10.15 or
any other confidentiality obligation referred to herein, to (i) any participant
or Eligible Assignee or any other Person acquiring an interest in the Loan
Documents (each a &#147;<u>Transferee</u>&#148;) and any prospective Transferee or (ii)
any direct or indirect contractual counterparty or prospective counterparty (or
such contractual counterparty&#146;s or prospective counterparty&#146;s professional
advisor) to any credit derivative transaction relating to obligations of Credit
Parties; (g) with the prior written consent of the Borrower; or (h) to the
extent such Information (i) becomes publicly available other than as a result
of a breach of this Section or (ii) becomes available to any Agent or Lender on
a nonconfidential basis from a source other than any Credit Party.&#160; In addition, any Agent or any Lender may
disclose the existence of this Agreement and information about this Agreement
to market data collectors, similar service providers to the lending industry,
and service providers to the Agents and the Lenders in connection with the
administration and management of this Agreement, the other Loan Documents, and
the Advances.&#160; For the purposes of this
Section, &#147;Information&#148; means all information received from, or on behalf of,
any Credit Parties relating to any Credit Party or their business, other than
any such information that is </p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">83</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=89,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=708613,FOLIO='83',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">available to any Agent or any
Lender on a nonconfidential basis prior to disclosure by any Credit Party;
provided that, in the case of information received from any Credit Party after
the date hereof, such information is clearly identified in writing at the time
of delivery as confidential; <u>provided</u>, <u>however</u>, that
notwithstanding the foregoing, each Engineering Report shall be deemed to be
confidential regardless of whether such Engineering Report is identified in
writing at the time of delivery as confidential.&#160; Any Person required to maintain the confidentiality of
Information as provided in this Section shall be considered to have complied
with its obligation to do so if such Person has exercised the same degree of
care to maintain the confidentiality of such Information as such Person would
accord to its own confidential information.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_16"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.16</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Production
Proceeds</u>.&#160; Notwithstanding that, by
the terms of the various Security Instruments, the Credit Parties are and will
be assigning to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders all of the &#147;Production
Proceeds&#148; (as defined therein) accruing to the Property covered thereby, so
long as no Event of Default has occurred the Credit Parties may continue to
receive from the purchasers of production all such Production Proceeds,
subject, however, to the Liens created under the Security Instruments, which
Liens are hereby affirmed and ratified.&#160;
Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent and
the Lenders may exercise all rights and remedies granted under the Security
Instruments, including the right to obtain possession of all Production
Proceeds then held by the Credit Parties or to receive directly from the
purchasers of production all other Production Proceeds.&#160; In no case shall any failure, whether
intentional or inadvertent, by the Administrative Agent or the Lenders to
collect directly any such Production Proceeds constitute in any way a waiver,
remission or release of any of their rights under the Security Instruments, nor
shall any release of any Production Proceeds by the Administrative Agent or the
Lenders to the Credit Parties constitute a waiver, remission, or release of any
other Production Proceeds or of any rights of the Administrative Agent or the
Lenders to collect other Production Proceeds thereafter.</p>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><a name="Section10_17"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 10.17</font></a>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendment
and Restatement</u>.&#160; The Borrower, the
Agents and the Lenders have agreed that this Agreement is an amendment and
restatement of the Existing Senior Credit Agreement in its entirety and the
terms and provisions hereof supersede the terms and provisions thereof, and
this Agreement is not a new or substitute credit agreement or novation of the
Existing Senior Credit Agreement.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">84</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=90,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=283940,FOLIO='84',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">EXECUTED as of
the date first above written.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BORROWER</font></u>:</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL
  &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brigham,
  Inc., its General Partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Warren
  J. Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Warren J.
  Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Secretary</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">GUARANTORS</font></u>:</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM
  EXPLORATION COMPANY</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Warren
  J. Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Warren J.
  Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Secretary</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM,
  INC.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Warren
  J. Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Warren J.
  Ludlow</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Secretary</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ADMINISTRATIVE
  AGENT</font></u>:</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SOCIETE
  GENERALE</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Lead Arranger, Administrative Agent and as Issuing Lender</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.92%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Cary
  Hughes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Cary Hughes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="49%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:49.08%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Director</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="10%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:10.28%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 2.5in;text-align:left;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">85</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=91,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=39210,FOLIO='85',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>

<u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=92,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=817528,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font></u>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:3.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">LENDERS:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SOCIETE
  GENERALE</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.48%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.14%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Cary Hughes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.48%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.14%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Cary Hughes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="25%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:25.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.18%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.48%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.14%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Director</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 3.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=93,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1015384,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">THE ROYAL
  BANK OF SCOTLAND plc</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.5%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Phillip
  Ballard</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.52%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.5%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Phillip
  Ballard</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.52%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:50.0%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.5%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.98%;">
  <p align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;text-align:left;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Senior Vice
  President</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.52%;">
  <p align="left" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="left" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:left;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=94,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=521577,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.16%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BANK OF
  AMERICA, N.A.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.16%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.16%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.48%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.68%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Steven A. Mackenzie</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Steven A. Mackenzie</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.82%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Vice President</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="123" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="237" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="25" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="1" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="336" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=95,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=873603,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">HIBERNIA
  NATIONAL BANK</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ David R. Reid</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.32%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.68%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">David R. Reid</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.32%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.68%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Senior Vice President</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="123" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="238" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="24" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="1" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="336" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=96,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=227893,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">NATEXIS BANQUE POPULAIRES</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.16%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.84%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Donovan C. Broussard</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.16%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.84%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Donovan C. Broussard</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.16%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.84%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Vice President and Manager</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">/s/ Louis P. Laville, III</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Louis P. Laville, III</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="17%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:17.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:32.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:46.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 20.0pt;page-break-after:avoid;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Vice President and Manager</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="123" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="238" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="22" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="1" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="338" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;page-break-after:avoid;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

</div>


<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=97,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=226297,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 09:17 2003' -->

<div style="font-family:'Times New Roman';">

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT A</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE</font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Dated&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Reference is
made to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of March 21,
2003 (as the same may be amended or modified from time-to-time, the &#147;Credit
Agreement&#148;) among Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership
(the &#147;Borrower&#148;), Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation, Brigham,
Inc., a Nevada corporation, the lenders party thereto (the &#147;Lenders&#148;), and
Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent (&#147;Administrative Agent&#148;) and as
issuing lender (&#147;Issuing Lender&#148;) for the Lenders.&#160; Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Assignment and
Acceptance shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Pursuant to
the terms of the Credit Agreement,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
wishes to assign and delegate &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;%(1) of
its rights and obligations under the Credit Agreement.&#160; Therefore,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
(&#147;Assignor&#148;), &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
(&#147;Assignee&#148;), and the Administrative Agent agree as follows:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Assignor hereby sells and
assigns and delegates to the Assignee, and the Assignee hereby purchases and
assumes from the Assignor, without recourse to the Assignor and without
representation or warranty except for the representations and warranties
specifically set forth in clauses (i) and (ii) of Section 2, a
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;% interest in and to all of the
Assignor&#146;s rights and obligations under the Credit Agreement as of the
Effective Date (as defined below), including, without limitation, such
percentage interest in the Assignor&#146;s Commitment, the Advances owing to the
Assignor, the Assignor&#146;s Letter of Credit Exposure, and the Note held by the
Assignor.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Assignor (i) represents and
warrants that, prior to executing this Assignment and Acceptance, its
Commitment is
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
the aggregate outstanding principal amount of Advances owed to it by the
Borrower is
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
and its Pro Rata Share of the Letter of Credit Exposure is
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;;
(ii) represents and warrants that it is the legal and beneficial owner of the
interest being assigned by it hereunder and that such interest is free and
clear of any adverse claim; (iii) makes no representation or warranty and
assumes no responsibility with respect to any statements, warranties, or
representations made in, or in connection with, the Credit Agreement or any
other Loan Document or the execution, legality, validity, enforceability,
genuineness, sufficiency, or value of the Credit Agreement or any other Loan
Document or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant thereto; (iv)
makes no representation or warranty and assumes no responsibility with respect
to the financial condition of any Credit Party or the performance or observance
by any Credit Party of any of its respective obligations under the Credit
Agreement or any other Loan Document or any other instrument or document
furnished pursuant thereto; and (v) attaches the Note referred to in paragraph
1 above and requests that the Administrative Agent exchange such Note for a new
Note dated</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="1" width="25%" noshade color="black" align="left">

</font></div>


<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(1)&#160; Specify percentage in no more than 5 decimal points.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=98,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=48986,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;in the principal amount of
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
payable to the order of the Assignee and [a new Note dated
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;in
the principal amount of
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;payable
to the order of the Assignor.]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Assignee (i) confirms that it
has received a copy of the Credit Agreement, together with copies of the most
recent financial statements referred to in Section 5.06 thereof and such other
documents and information as it has deemed appropriate to make its own credit
analysis and decision to enter into this Assignment and Acceptance; (ii) agrees
that it will, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent,
the Assignor, or any other Lender and based on such documents and information
as it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own credit decisions
in taking or not taking action under the Credit Agreement or any other Loan
Document; (iii) appoints and authorizes the Administrative Agent to take such
action as agent on its behalf and to exercise such powers under the Credit
Agreement and any other Loan Document as are delegated to the Administrative
Agent by the terms thereof, together with such powers as are reasonably
incidental thereto; (iv) agrees that it will perform in accordance with their
terms all of the obligations which by the terms of the Credit Agreement or any
other Loan Document are required to be performed by it as a Lender; (v)
specifies as its Lending Office (and address for notices) the office set forth
beneath its name on the signature pages hereof; (vi) attaches the forms prescribed
by the Internal Revenue Service of the United States certifying as to the
Assignee&#146;s status for purposes of determining exemption from United States
withholding taxes with respect to all payments to be made to the Assignee under
the Credit Agreement and the Notes or such other documents as are necessary to
indicate that all such payments are subject to such rates at a rate reduced by
an applicable tax treaty(2), and (vii) represents that it is an Eligible
Assignee.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The effective date for this Assignment
and Acceptance shall be
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
(the &#147;Effective Date&#148;)(3) and following the execution of this Assignment and
Acceptance, the Administrative Agent will record it.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">5.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Upon such recording, and as of the
Effective Date, (i) the Assignee shall be a party to the Credit Agreement for
all purposes, and, to the extent provided in this Assignment and Acceptance,
have the rights and obligations of a Lender thereunder and (ii) the Assignor
shall, to the extent provided in this Assignment and Acceptance, relinquish its
rights and be released from its obligations under the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">6.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Upon such recording, from and after
the Effective Date, the Administrative Agent shall make all payments under the
Credit Agreement and the Note in respect of the interest assigned hereby
(including, without limitation, all payments of principal, interest, letter of
credit fees and commitment fees) to the Assignee.&#160; The Assignor and Assignee shall make all</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="1" width="25%" noshade color="black" align="left">

</font></div>


<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(2)&#160; If the Assignee is organized under the laws of a jurisdiction
outside the United States.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 17.55pt;text-indent:-17.55pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(3)&#160;
See Section 11.06 of the Credit Agreement.&#160; Such date shall be at least three Business Days after the date of
this Assignment and Acceptance, unless otherwise waived by the Administrative
Agent in its sole discretion.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=99,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=606946,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">appropriate adjustments in
payments under the Credit Agreement and the Note for periods prior to the
Effective Date directly between themselves.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">7.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; This Assignment and Acceptance
shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws
of the State of New York.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The parties
hereto have caused this Assignment and Acceptance to be duly executed as of the
date first above written.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[ASSIGNOR]</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="28%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:28.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="26%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:26.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="27%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:27.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Address: </font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Attention: </font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="23%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:23.54%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Telecopy No: (XXX) XXX-XXXX</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[ASSIGNEE]</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="28%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:28.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="26%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:26.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.78%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="27%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:27.56%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Lending Office</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Address: </font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="7%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:7.86%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Attention:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="23%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:23.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.46%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" colspan="8" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Telecopy No: (XXX) XXX-XXXX</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="11%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:11.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="407" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="27" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="15" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="169" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="1" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="81" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=100,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=872655,FOLIO='3',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Acknowledged [and approved](4) this
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; day of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">200&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SOCI&#201;T&#201; G&#201;N&#201;RALE,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as Administrative Agent</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="30%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:30.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="65%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:65.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.2%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="29%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:29.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="65%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:65.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.28%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="30%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:30.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="65%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:65.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="28" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="210" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="474" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[Approved this &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; day of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
200&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.74%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="34%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:34.2%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham, Inc., its general partner</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="34%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:34.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.66%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="30%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:30.54%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="28%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:28.68%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.58%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="29%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:29.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">](5)</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="34" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="26" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="207" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="440" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="1" width="25%" noshade color="black" align="left">

</font></div>


<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 17.55pt;text-indent:-17.55pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(4)&#160;
Approval of Administrative Agent required if Assignee is not a Lender or
an Affiliate of a Lender.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 17.55pt;text-indent:-17.55pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(5)&#160;
Provided no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing,
the consent of the Borrower is required if Assignee is not a Lender or an
Affiliate of a Lender.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=101,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=812846,FOLIO='4',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT B</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE</font></u></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">FOR THE
PERIOD
FROM&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
200&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;TO&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
200</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This
certificate dated as of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
is prepared pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated
as of March 21, 2003 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time
to time, the &#147;Credit Agreement&#148;) among Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware
limited partnership (&#147;Borrower&#148;), Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware
corporation, Brigham, Inc., a Nevada corpration, the lenders party thereto (the
&#147;Lenders&#148;), and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent for such Lenders (in
such capacity, the &#147;Administrative Agent&#148;).&#160;
Unless otherwise defined in this certificate, capitalized terms that are
defined in the Credit Agreement shall have the meanings assigned to them by the
Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham
Exploration hereby certifies (a) that no Default or Event of Default has
occurred or is continuing, (b) that all of the representations and warranties
made by each of the Credit Parties in the Credit Agreement and the other Loan
Documents are true and correct in all material respects as if made on this date
(unless such representations and warranties are stated to relate to a specific
earlier date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true
and correct in all material respect as of such earlier date), and (c) that as
of the date hereof, the following amounts and calculations were true and
correct:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="89%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:89.1%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.22&#160; <u>Current Ratio</u>.</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">consolidated current assets<br>
  of Brigham Exploration and its<br>
  consolidated Subsidiaries<br>
  (including the Unused Revolving<br>
  Commitment Amount as<br>
  of the date of calculation)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p align="right" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">consolidated current liabilities of<br>
  Brigham Exploration and its<br>
  consolidated Subsidiaries</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p align="center" style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Current Ratio = (a) divided by (b)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Minimum Current Ratio</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:24.4%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1.00 to 1.00</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Compliance</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="9%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:9.58%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Yes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="14%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:14.82%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">No</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.23&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>Interest Coverage Ratio</u>.</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Consolidated Net Income</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:22.88%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="24" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="13" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="54" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="13" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="369" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="12" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="10" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="52" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="95" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=102,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=354098,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="89%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:89.1%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Interest Expense</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">taxes, depreciation, amortization,<br>
  depletion, and other non-cash<br>
  charges</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">all non-cash income</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.0pt;text-indent:-10.0pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">EBITDA = (a) + (b) + (c)<br>
  &#150; (d)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Interest Coverage Ratio = (e) divided by (b)</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 30.25pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Minimum Current Ratio for twelve-<br>
  month period ending March 31, 2003</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:24.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2.75 to 1.00</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:6.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.08%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="59%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:59.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.32%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 29.5pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">For twelve-month period ending<br>
  June 30, 2003 and each twelve-month<br>
  period ending at the end of each fiscal<br>
  quarter thereafter</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="24%" colspan="4" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:24.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3.25 to 1.00</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="8%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:8.42%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:57.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.32%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="22%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:22.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="67%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:67.88%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Compliance</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="1%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:1.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:5.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Yes</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="18%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:18.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">No</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="24" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="13" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="43" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="11" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="11" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="369" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="12" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="10" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="5" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="21" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="121" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">IN WITNESS
THEREOF, I have hereto signed my name to this Compliance Certificate as an
officer of Brigham Exploration and not in my individual capacity as
of&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="91%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:91.6%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.3%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:6.1%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="34%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:34.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.06%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="35%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:35.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="389" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="28" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="5" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="231" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=103,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=269906,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT C</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">NOTICE OF BORROWING</font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[Date]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as Administrative
Agent</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">560 Lexington Avenue</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">New York, New York&#160; 10022</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Attention:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Ladies and Gentlemen:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The undersigned, Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (&#147;Borrower&#148;), refers to the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (as the same may be amended or modified from
time-to-time, the &#147;Credit Agreement,&#148; the defined terms of which are used in
this Notice of Borrowing unless otherwise defined in this Notice of Borrowing)
among the Borrower, Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation,
Brigham, Inc., a Nevada corporation, the lenders party thereto (the &#147;Lenders&#148;),
and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent (the &#147;Administrative Agent&#148;), and
hereby gives you irrevocable notice pursuant to Section 2.03(a) of the Credit
Agreement that the undersigned hereby requests a Borrowing, and in connection
with that request sets forth below the information relating to such Borrowing
(the &#147;Proposed Borrowing&#148;) as required by Section 2.03(a) of the Credit
Agreement:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Business Day of the Proposed
Borrowing is &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The aggregate amount of the Proposed
Borrowing is
$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [The Interest Period
for each Eurodollar Rate Advance made as part of the Proposed Borrowing is
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;month[s].]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The Borrower hereby certifies that the following statements are true on
the date hereof, and will be true on the date of the Proposed Borrowing:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)</font><font size="1" style="font-size:3.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font>the
representations and warranties contained in the Credit Agreement and each of
the other Loan Documents are true and correct in all material respects, on and
as of the date of the Proposed Borrowing, before and after giving effect to
such Proposed Borrowing and to the application of the proceeds therefrom, as
though made on the date of the Proposed Borrowing (unless such representations
and warranties are stated to relate to a specific earlier date, in which case
such</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=104,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=710867,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.5in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">representations and warranties shall be true and correct in all
material respect as of such earlier date);</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)</font><font size="1" style="font-size:3.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font>no
Default has occurred and is continuing, or would result from such Proposed
Borrowing or from the application of the proceeds therefrom; and</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)</font><font size="1" style="font-size:3.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font>after
giving effect to such Proposed Borrowing, no Borrowing Base Deficiency exists.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="43%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:43.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Very truly yours,</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="43%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:43.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="43%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:43.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="43%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:43.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:6.2%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham, Inc., its general partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:6.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="43%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:43.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.14%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:6.58%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="56%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:56.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.54%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="407" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="30" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="10" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="5" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="3" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="266" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=105,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=63463,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT D</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">NOTICE OF CONVERSION OR CONTINUATION</font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[Date]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">560 Lexington Avenue</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">New
York, New York&#160; 10022</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Attention:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Ladies and Gentlemen:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The undersigned, Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (the &#147;Borrower&#148;), refers to the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (as the same may be amended, modified, or
supplemented from time-to-time, the &#147;Credit Agreement&#148;, the defined terms of
which are used in this Notice of Conversion or Continuation unless otherwise
defined in this Notice of Conversion or Continuation) by and among the
Borrower, Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation, Brigham, Inc., a
Nevada corporation, the lenders party thereto (&#147;Lenders&#148;), and Soci&#233;t&#233;
G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent (&#147;Administrative Agent&#148;) for the Lenders, and
hereby gives you irrevocable notice pursuant to Section 2.03(b) of the Credit
Agreement that the undersigned hereby requests a [Conversion] [Continuation] of
outstanding Revolving Advances, and in connection with that request sets forth
below the information relating to such [Conversion][Continuation] (the
&#147;Proposed [Conversion][Continuation]&#148;) as required by Section 2.03(b) of the
Credit Agreement:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Business Day of
the Proposed [Conversion][Continuation] is
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The aggregate amount of the existing
Advance to be Converted or Continued is $
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
(&#147;Existing Advance&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Proposed
[Conversion][Continuation] consists of [a Conversion of the Existing Advance to
a [Base Rate Advance] [Eurodollar Rate Advance]] [a Continuation of the
Existing Advance as a Eurodollar Rate Advance].</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Interest Period for the Proposed
[Conversion][Continuation] is &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
month[s].]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The Borrower hereby certifies that the following statements are true on
the date hereof, and will be true on the date of the Proposed
[Conversion][Continuation]:</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=106,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=959451,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the representations and warranties
contained in the Credit Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents are true
and correct in all material respects on and as of the requested funding date of
this Proposed [Conversion][Continuation], before and after giving effect to
such Proposed [Conversion][Continuation] and to the application of the proceeds
from such Proposed [Conversion][Continuation], as though made on and as of such
date (unless such representations and warranties are stated to relate to a
specific earlier date, in which case such representations and warranties shall
be true and correct in all material respect as of such earlier date);</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; no Default has occurred and is
continuing or would result from such Proposed [Conversion][Continuation] or
from the application of the proceeds therefrom; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; after giving effect to such Proposed
[Conversion][Continuation], no Borrowing Base Deficiency exists.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Very truly yours,</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="6%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:6.46%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.92%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham, Inc., its general partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="45%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:45.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.38%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.02%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.54%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="39%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:39.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="54%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:54.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.64%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="40%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:40.74%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="394" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="24" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="9" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="6" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="281" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=107,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=184251,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT E</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">NOTE</font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">$&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="50%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:50.0%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">For value
received, the undersigned BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership (&#147;Borrower&#148;), hereby promises to pay to the order of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
(&#147;Payee&#148;) the principal amount of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
No/100 Dollars
($&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;)
or, if less, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Advances (as
defined in the Credit Agreement referred to below) made by the Payee to the
Borrower, together with interest on the unpaid principal amount of the Advances
from the date of such Advances until such principal amount is paid in full, at
such interest rates, and at such times, as are specified in the Credit
Agreement.&#160; The Borrower may make
prepayments on this Note in accordance with the terms of the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This Note is
one of the Revolving Notes referred to in, and is entitled to the benefits of,
and is subject to the terms of, the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003, (as the same may be amended or modified
from time to time, the &#147;Credit Agreement&#148;), among the Borrower, Brigham
Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation, Brigham, Inc., a Nevada corporation,
the lenders party thereto (the &#147;Lenders&#148;), and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as
administrative agent (the &#147;Administrative Agent&#148;) for the Lenders. Capitalized
terms used in this Note that are defined in the Credit Agreement and not
otherwise defined in this Note have the meanings assigned to such terms in the
Credit Agreement.&#160; The Credit Agreement,
among other things, (a) provides for the making of the Advances by the Payee to
the Borrower in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the
Dollar amount first above mentioned, the indebtedness of the Borrower resulting
from each such Advance being evidenced by this Note, and (b) contains
provisions for acceleration of the maturity of this Note upon the happening of
certain events stated in the Credit Agreement and for prepayments of principal
prior to the maturity of this Note upon the terms and conditions specified in
the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Both principal
and interest are payable in lawful money of the United States of America to the
Administrative Agent at 560 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10022 or such
other location or address specified by the Administrative Agent to the Borrower
in same day funds.&#160; The Payee shall
record payments of principal made under this Note, but no failure of the Payee
to make such recordings shall affect the Borrower&#146;s repayment obligations under
this Note.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This Note is
secured by the Security Instruments and guaranteed pursuant to Article VIII of
the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Except as
specifically provided in the Credit Agreement, the Borrower hereby waives
presentment, demand, protest, notice of intent to accelerate, notice of
acceleration, and any other notice of any kind.&#160; No failure to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=108,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1033670,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">rights hereunder on the part of
the holder of this Note shall operate as a waiver of such rights.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED
AND ENFORCED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">THIS NOTE AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS
REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY
EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE
PARTIES.</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS AMONG
THE PARTIES.</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:46.34%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:46.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.58%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="40%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:40.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham, Inc., its general partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:46.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="46%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:46.34%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.5%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.84%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.58%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="40%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:40.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="53%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:53.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.08%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.26%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="387" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="25" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="11" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="4" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="294" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=109,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=395328,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT F</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">AMENDED AND RESTATED MORTGAGE, DEED OF TRUST,
<br>
ASSIGNMENT OF PRODUCTION, SECURITY AGREEMENT, <br>
FIXTURE FILING, AND FINANCING STATEMENT</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">FROM</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.<br></font></b>a Delaware limited partnership,<br>
as grantor and mortgagor,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">TO</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">CARY HUGHES, <br></font></b>as Trustee</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">FOR THE BENEFIT OF</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SOCI&#201;T&#201; G&#201;N&#201;RALE,<br></font></b>as Administrative Agent,<br>
as beneficiary,</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">AND TO</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SOCI&#201;T&#201; G&#201;N&#201;RALE,<br></font></b>as Administrative Agent,<br>
as Mortgagee</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">NOTICE
TO MORTGAGOR:</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">A
POWER OF SALE HAS BEEN GRANTED IN THIS INSTRUMENT.&#160; WITH RESPECT TO PORTIONS OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE
STATE OF OKLAHOMA, SUCH POWER OF SALE IS GRANTED PURSUANT TO THE OKLAHOMA
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT (AS DEFINED BELOW). IN CERTAIN STATES, A POWER OF SALE
MAY ALLOW TRUSTEE OR MORTGAGEE, AS APPLICABLE, TO TAKE THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY
AND SELL IT WITHOUT GOING TO COURT IN A FORECLOSURE ACTION UPON THE OCCURRENCE
OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT BY MORTGAGOR UNDER THIS INSTRUMENT. THIS INSTRUMENT
CONTAINS AFTER-ACQUIRED PROPERTY PROVISIONS. THIS INSTRUMENT SECURES PAYMENT OF
FUTURE ADVANCES.&#160; THIS INSTRUMENT COVERS
ALL PRODUCTS AND PROCEEDS OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY.&#160; </font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">THIS
INSTRUMENT COVERS THE INTEREST OF MORTGAGOR IN MINERALS OR THE LIKE (INCLUDING
OIL AND GAS) BEFORE EXTRACTION AND THE SECURITY INTEREST CREATED BY THIS
INSTRUMENT ATTACHES TO SUCH MINERALS AS EXTRACTED AND TO ACCOUNTS RESULTING
FROM THE SALE THEREOF AT THE WELLHEAD. THIS INSTRUMENT COVERS MORTGAGOR&#146;S
INTEREST IN <u>FIXTURES</u>.&#160; THIS
FINANCING STATEMENT IS TO BE FILED FOR RECORD, AMONG OTHER PLACES, IN THE REAL
ESTATE RECORDS.</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">1</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=110,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=337376,FOLIO='1',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">AMENDED AND RESTATED MORTGAGE, DEED OF TRUST,<br>
ASSIGNMENT OF PRODUCTION, SECURITY AGREEMENT, <br>
FIXTURE FILING, AND FINANCING STATEMENT</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">THIS AMENDED
AND RESTATED MORTGAGE, DEED OF TRUST, ASSIGNMENT OF PRODUCTION, SECURITY
AGREEMENT, FIXTURE FILING, AND FINANCING STATEMENT (this&nbsp;&#148;<u>Mortgage</u>&#148;)
is made effective as of March &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
2003 (the &#147;<u>Effective Date</u>&#148;) by <b><font style="font-weight:bold;">BRIGHAM
OIL &amp; GAS, L.P</font></b>., a Delaware limited partnership, whose address
for notice is 6300 Bridge Point Parkway, Building 2, Suite 500, Austin, Texas
78730, as grantor and mortgagor (&#147;<u>Mortgagor</u>&#148;) to:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:12.0pt;">&#149;</font><font size="1" style="font-size:3.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><b><font style="font-weight:bold;">CARY HUGHES</font></b>, as Trustee, whose address for
notice is 1221 Avenue of the Americas , New York, New York 10020 (&#147;<u>Trustee</u>&#148;)
for the benefit of <b><font style="font-weight:bold;">SOCI&#201;T&#201; G&#201;N&#201;RALE</font></b>,
as beneficiary, whose address for notice is 1221 Avenue of the Americas&nbsp;,
New York, New York 10020, as Administrative Agent (together with any successor
administrative agents, &#147;<u>Administrative Agent</u>&#148;); and</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="3" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:12.0pt;">&#149;</font>&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Administrative
Agent, as mortgagee (&#147;<u>Mortgagee&#148;</u>),</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">in each case for the benefit of
the Administrative Agent and the Lenders.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">RECITALS:</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">A.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagor, Administrative Agent (as
Lead Arranger, Administrative Agent and Issuing Lender), The Royal Bank of
Scotland plc (&#147;<u>RBS</u>&#148;) (as Co-Arranger and Documentation Agent), Bank of
America, N.A. (&#147;<u>BOA</u>&#148;) (as Syndication Agent), and certain other lenders
are parties to that certain Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated
effective as of March
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
2003, and all supplements thereto and amendments or modifications thereof, and
all agreements, given in substitution therefore or in restatement, renewal or
extension thereof, in whole or in part (the &#147;<u>Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement</u>&#148;).&#160; Administrative
Agent, RBS, BOA and the other lenders party to the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement from time to time may be referred to periodically herein as,
individually, a &#147;Lender&#148; and, collectively, as the &#147;Lenders.&#148;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">B.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagor, the Lenders and the
Administrative Agent entered into the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement to refinance the indebtedness and obligations arising under that
certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated February 17, 2000 among
Mortgagor, Bank of Montreal (as agent) (&#147;BMO&#148;), and certain other lending
institutions (as lenders thereunder) </font>as amended by that certain First
Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of October 31, 2000
and that certain Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
dated as of December 31, 2001 (the &#147;<u>First Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement</u>&#148;).&#160; In connection with
that refinancing, all of the indebtedness and liens arising under the First
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement were or will be assigned to
Administrative Agent and the Lenders under the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement, so that all indebtedness and obligations arising under the Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement shall be secured by such liens and
security interests as were created pursuant to the First Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement and such other liens as provided for herein.&#160; The Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement constitutes for all
purposes an</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=111,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=334467,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">amendment and restatement of the First Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement and not a new or substitute agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">C.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement, Mortgagor has agreed to enter into this Mortgage.&#160; In addition, it is a condition to the
obligation of each Lender to make such Lender&#146;s initial Advance as part of the
initial Borrowing and the obligation of the Issuing Lender to issue the initial
Letter of Credit that this Mortgage be executed and delivered to Trustee and to
Mortgagee.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">D.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; This Mortgage constitutes for all
purposes an amendment and restatement of the security instruments more
particularly described on <u>Schedule I</u> attached hereto and made a part
hereof (collectively, the &#147;Original Mortgages&#148;) and not a new or substitute
security instrument</font>.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">NOW,
THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, in order to comply with the
terms, provisions, and conditions of the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, Mortgagor hereby enters into this
Mortgage on the following terms and conditions:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE I</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Granting Clause; Description of Indebtedness Secured</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Granting Clause</u>.&#160; In order to secure the payment of the
Indebtedness (as hereinafter defined in Section 1.03) and in order to secure
the performance of the covenants, obligations, agreements, warranties, and
undertakings herein contained, (x)&nbsp;with respect to any portion of the
Mortgaged Property (as hereinafter defined) that is located in or is subject to
the laws of the State of Texas or any other state pursuant to the law of which
a deed of trust is a lawful security instrument, Mortgagor does hereby GRANT,
BARGAIN, SELL, ASSIGN, PLEDGE, GIVE, MORTGAGE, WARRANT, SET OVER, TRANSFER,
HYPOTHECATE, and CONVEY unto Trustee and Trustee&#146;s successors and substitutes
in trust hereunder IN TRUST WITH POWER OF SALE, for the use and benefit of
Administrative Agent and the Lenders, all of Mortgagor&#146;s right, title, and
interest, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, in the real and personal
property, rights, titles, interests and estates described hereinafter (the &#147;<u>Trust
Estate Property</u>&#148;) and (y)&nbsp;with respect to any portion of the Mortgaged
Property (as hereinafter defined) that is located in or is subject to the laws
of the State of Oklahoma or any state pursuant to the law of which a deed of
trust is not a lawful security instrument, Mortgagor does hereby GRANT,
BARGAIN, SELL, ASSIGN, PLEDGE, GIVE, MORTGAGE, WARRANT, SET OVER, TRANSFER,
HYPOTHECATE, and CONVEY to Mortgagee for the use and benefit of Administrative
Agent and the Lenders all of Mortgagor&#146;s right, title, and interest, whether
now owned or hereafter acquired, in the real and personal property, rights,
titles, interests and estates described hereinafter (the &#147;<u>Non-Trust Estate
Property</u>&#148;) (the Trust Estate Property and the Non-Trust Estate Property are
herein collectively called the &#147;<u>Mortgaged Property</u>&#148;):</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All oil and gas
and/or oil, gas and mineral leases and leasehold interests, fee mineral
interests, term mineral interests, subleases, farmouts, royalties, overriding
royalties, net profits interests, production payments and similar interests or
estates</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=112,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=958132,FOLIO='3',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">described on <u>Exhibit
A</u> attached hereto or constituting interests in the lands described on <u>Exhibit
A</u> attached hereto, including, without limitation, any reversionary or
carried interests relating to any of the foregoing, together with any
instrument executed in amendment, correction, modification, confirmation,
renewal or extension of the same (collectively, the &#147;<u>Hydrocarbon Property</u>&#148;),
and including specifically, but without limitation, the undivided interests of
Mortgagor which are represented, warranted, and more particularly described on <u>Exhibit
A</u> hereto;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All rights, titles,
interests, estates, tenements, hereditaments, and appurtenances now owned or
existing or hereafter acquired by Mortgagor in and to:&#160; (i)&nbsp;all production units and drilling
and spacing units (and the property covered thereby) which may affect all or
any portion of the Hydrocarbon Property including those units now or hereafter
pooled or unitized with the Hydrocarbon Property; (ii)&nbsp;all presently
existing or future unitization, communitization, pooling agreements and
declarations of pooled units and the units created thereby, including, but not
limited to, pooling orders of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (together
with all other units created under orders, regulations, rules or other official
acts of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over any of the
Mortgaged Property and any units created solely among working interest owners
pursuant to operating agreements or otherwise) which may affect all or any
portion of the Hydrocarbon Property including, without limitation, those units,
if any, which may be described or referred to on attached <u>Exhibit A</u>;
(iii)&nbsp;all operating agreements, production sales or other contracts,
farmout agreements, farm-in agreements, area of mutual interest agreements,
joint development agreements, joint exploration agreements, equipment leases
and other agreements described or referred to in this Mortgage or which cover,
affect or relate to any of the Hydrocarbon Property or interests in the
Hydrocarbon Property described or referred to herein or on <u>Exhibit A</u> or
to the production, sale, purchase, exchange, processing, handling, storage,
transporting or marketing of the Hydrocarbons (hereinafter defined) from or
attributable to such Hydrocarbon Property or interests; and (iv) subject to
applicable restrictions on disclosure and/or transfer, all geological,
geophysical, engineering, accounting, title, legal, and other technical or
business data concerning the Mortgaged Property, the Hydrocarbons in which
Mortgagor can otherwise grant a security interest, and all books, files,
records, magnetic media, computer records, and other forms of recording or obtaining
access to such data;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All rights, titles,
interests and estates now owned or hereafter acquired by Mortgagor in and to
all oil, gas, coal seam gas, casinghead gas, drip gasoline, natural gasoline,
condensate, distillate, and all other liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons produced
or to be produced in conjunction therewith from a well bore and all products,
by-products, and other substances derived therefrom or the processing thereof,
and all other minerals and substances produced in conjunction with such
substances, including, but not limited to, sulfur, geothermal steam, water,
carbon dioxide, helium, and any and all minerals, ores, or substances of value
and the products and proceeds therefrom (collectively called the &#147;<u>Hydrocarbons</u>&#148;)
in and under and which may be produced and saved from or attributable to the
Hydrocarbon Property, the lands pooled or unitized therewith and Mortgagor&#146;s
interests therein, including all oil in tanks, gas in storage, and all rents,
issues, profits, proceeds, products, revenues and other income from or</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=113,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=596785,FOLIO='4',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">attributable
to the Hydrocarbon Property, the lands pooled or unitized therewith and
Mortgagor&#146;s interests therein which are subjected to the liens and security
interests of this Mortgage;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All tenements,
hereditaments, appurtenances and properties in anywise appertaining, belonging,
affixed or incidental to the Hydrocarbon Property or the rights, titles,
interests and estates described or referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) above,
which are now owned or which may hereafter be acquired by Mortgagor, including,
without limitation, any and all property, real or personal, now owned or
hereafter acquired and situated upon, used, held for use, or useful in
connection with the operating, working or development of any of such
Hydrocarbon Property or the lands pooled or unitized therewith (excluding
drilling rigs, trucks, automotive equipment or other personal property which
may be taken to the premises for the purpose of drilling a well or for other
similar temporary uses) and including any and all oil wells, gas wells,
injection wells or other wells, buildings, structures, field separators, liquid
extraction plants, plant compressors, pumps, pumping units, pipelines, sales and
flow lines, gathering systems, field gathering systems, salt water disposal
facilities, tanks and tank batteries, fixtures, valves, fittings, machinery and
parts, engines, boilers, meters, apparatus, equipment, appliances, tools,
implements, cables, wires, towers, casing, tubing and rods, surface leases,
rights-of-way, easements, servitudes, licenses and other surface and subsurface
rights together with all additions, substitutions, replacements, accessions and
attachments to any and all of the foregoing properties;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Any property that
may from time to time hereafter, by delivery or by writing of any kind, be
subjected to the lien and security interest hereof by Mortgagor or by anyone on
Mortgagor&#146;s behalf; and Trustee is hereby authorized to receive the same at any
time as additional security hereunder;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All of the rights,
titles, interests and estates of every nature whatsoever now owned or hereafter
acquired by Mortgagor in and to the Hydrocarbon Property, including, without
limitation, all such rights, titles, interests and estates as the same may be
enlarged by the discharge of any payments out of production or by the removal
of any charges or Permitted Encumbrances (as hereinafter defined in Section
3.01) to which any of such rights, titles, interests or estates are subject, or
otherwise; all rights of Mortgagor to liens and security interests securing
payment of proceeds from the sale of production from the Mortgaged Property,
including, but not limited to, those liens and security interests provided for
in Section 9.343 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, as amended from time
to time; together with any and all renewals and extensions of any of such liens
and security interests; all contracts and agreements supplemental to or
amendatory of or in substitution for the contracts and agreements described or
mentioned above, including, without limitation, any such contracts and
agreements comprising or giving rise to any portion of the Hydrocarbon
Property; and any and all additional interests of any kind hereafter acquired
by Mortgagor in and to such rights, titles, interests or estates;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All accounts,
contract rights, inventory, general intangibles, insurance contracts and
insurance proceeds constituting a part of, relating to or arising out of those</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">5</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=114,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1009465,FOLIO='5',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">portions of
the Mortgaged Property which are described in paragraphs (a) through (f) above
and all proceeds and products of all such portions of the Mortgaged Property
and payments in lieu of production (such as &#147;take or pay&#148; payments), whether
such proceeds or payments are goods, money, documents, instruments, chattel
paper, securities, accounts, general intangibles, fixtures, real property, or
other assets;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All payments
received in lieu of production from the Mortgaged Property (regardless of
whether such payments accrued, and/or the events which gave rise to such
payments occurred, on, before, or after the Effective Date), including, without
limitation, &#147;take or pay&#148; payments and similar payments, payments received in
settlement of or pursuant to a judgment rendered with respect to take or pay or
similar obligations or other obligations under a production sales contract,
payments received in buyout or buydown or other settlement of a production
sales contract, and payments received under a gas balancing or similar
agreement as a result of (or received otherwise in settlement of or pursuant to
a judgment rendered with respect to) rights held by Mortgagor as a result of
Mortgagor (and/or its predecessors in title) taking or having taken less
Hydrocarbons from lands covered by the Mortgaged Property (or lands pooled or
unitized therewith) than their ownership of the Mortgaged Property would
entitle Mortgagor to receive; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;  Any rights or interests
of Mortgagor under any present or future hedge or swap agreements, cap, floor,
collar, exchange, forward or other hedge or protection agreements or
transactions relating to Hydrocarbons, or any option with respect to such
agreement or transaction now existing or hereafter entered into by or on behalf
of Mortgagor.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the Trust
Estate Property unto Trustee for the benefit of Administrative Agent and the
Lenders, and Trustee&#146;s successors in trust and assigns forever, and the
Non-Trust Estate Property unto Mortgagee for the benefit of the Administrative
Agent and the Lenders, and Mortgagee&#146;s successors and assigns forever, in each
case upon the terms, provisions, and conditions set forth herein.&#160; Mortgagor does hereby bind itself, and its
successors and permitted assigns, to warrant and forever defend all and
singular the Mortgaged Property unto Trustee and Mortgagee against every Person
whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the same, or any part thereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">With respect to any Mortgaged Property
located in the state of Oklahoma, Mortgagor hereby grants to Mortgagee the
right and power to foreclose this Mortgage pursuant to the Oklahoma Power of
Sale Mortgage Foreclosure Act, 46 Oklahoma Statutes, &#167;40, <i><font style="font-style:italic;">et</font></i>.<i><font style="font-style:italic;"> seq</font></i>.
(the &#147;Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act&#148;) as presently in force and as may be
amended from time to time.</font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Grant of Security Interest</u>.&#160; To further secure the Indebtedness (as
hereinafter defined in Section 1.03), Mortgagor hereby grants to Mortgagee for
the benefit of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, subject to the
reservations and restrictions set forth herein below, a security interest in
and to the Mortgaged Property (whether now or hereafter acquired by operation
of law or otherwise) insofar as the Mortgaged Property consists of equipment,
accounts, contract rights, general intangibles (subject in the case of
geological and geophysical data (including without limitation raw data and
interpretations) contract rights and general</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">6</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=115,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=323164,FOLIO='6',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">intangibles to any existing
restrictions on disclosure and/or transfer), insurance contracts, insurance
proceeds, inventory, Hydrocarbons, fixtures and any and all other personal
property of any kind or character defined in and subject to the provisions of
the Uniform Commercial Code presently in effect in the jurisdiction in which
the Mortgaged Property is situated (&#147;<u>Applicable UCC</u>&#148;), including the
proceeds and products from any and all of such personal property, whether such
proceed or products are goods, money, documents, instruments, chattel paper,
securities, accounts, general intangibles, fixtures, real or immovable
property, personal or movable property, or other assets.&#160; In addition to all other rights and remedies
afforded to Mortgagee pursuant to this Mortgage, upon the happening of any
Event of Default, Mortgagee is and shall be entitled to all of the rights,
powers and remedies afforded a secured party by the Applicable UCC with
reference to the personal property and fixtures in which Mortgagee has been
granted a security interest herein, or Trustee or Mortgagee may proceed as to
both the real and personal property covered hereby in accordance with the
rights and remedies granted under this Mortgage in respect of the real property
covered hereby.&#160; Such rights, powers and
remedies shall be cumulative and in addition to those granted to Trustee or
Mortgagee under any other provision of this Mortgage or under any other
Security Instrument.&#160; Written notice
mailed to Mortgagor as provided herein at least ten (10) days prior to the date
of public sale of any part of the Mortgaged Property which is personal property
subject to the provisions of the Applicable UCC, or prior to the date after
which private sale of any such part of the Mortgaged Property will be made,
shall constitute reasonable notice.&#160; It
is Mortgagor&#146;s intention that the security interest granted pursuant to this
Mortgage encumber Mortgagor&#146;s interest in As-Extracted Collateral (as&nbsp;hereinafter
defined).&#160; For purposes of this
Mortgage, the term &#147;As-Extracted Collateral&#148; shall have the meaning ascribed to
such term in the Applicable UCC.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Indebtedness Secured</u>.&#160; This Mortgage is executed and delivered by
Mortgagor to secure and enforce the following (collectively, the &#147;<u>Indebtedness</u>&#148;):</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Full payment and
performance of all indebtedness and other obligations now or hereafter incurred
or arising pursuant to the provisions of the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Full payment and
performance of all promissory notes, letters of credit, or other evidences of
indebtedness issued from time to time pursuant to the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement, including, without limitation, those certain
promissory notes having a maturity date of &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
2006;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All indebtedness and
other obligations now or hereafter incurred or arising pursuant to the
guarantee by the Guarantors in favor of Administrative Agent and the Lenders
pursuant to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, pursuant to which
guarantee the Guarantors have guaranteed the prompt payment at maturity of the
Obligations (as defined in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Payment of and
performance of any and all present or future obligations of Mortgagor or any
Credit Party according to the terms of any present or future interest or
currency rate swap, rate cap, rate floor, rate collar, exchange transaction,
forward rate agreement, or other exchange or rate protection agreements or any
option with respect to any such transaction now existing or hereafter entered
into between Mortgagor or any</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">7</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=116,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=310022,FOLIO='7',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Credit Party,
on the one hand, and any party that was a Lender (or any Affiliate of a Lender)
at the time such transaction was entered into, on the other;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Payment of and
performance of any and all present or future obligations of Mortgagor or any
Credit Party according to the terms of any present or future swap agreements,
cap, floor, collar, exchange transaction, forward agreement, or other exchange
or protection agreements relating to Hydrocarbons, or any option with respect
to any such transaction now existing or hereafter entered into between
Mortgagor or any Credit Party, on the one hand, and any party that was a Lender
(or any Affiliate of a Lender) at the time such transaction was entered into,
on the other; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Without limiting
the generality of the foregoing, all post-petition interest, expenses, and
other duties and liabilities with respect to indebtedness or other obligations
described in the foregoing subsections (a) through (f) of this Section 1.03,
which would be owed but for the fact that such duties and liabilities are
unenforceable or not allowable due to the existence of a bankruptcy,
reorganization, or similar proceeding.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.04&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Fixture Filing, Etc.</u>&#160; Without in any manner limiting the
generality of any of the other provisions of this Mortgage: (i)&nbsp;some
portions of the goods described or to which reference is made herein are or are
to become fixtures on the land described or to which reference is made herein
or on attached <u>Exhibit A</u>; (ii)&nbsp;the security interests created
hereby under applicable provisions of the Applicable UCC will attach to
Hydrocarbons (minerals including oil and gas) or the accounts resulting from
the sale thereof at the wellhead or minehead located on the land described or
to which reference is made herein; and (iii)&nbsp;this Mortgage is to be filed
of record in the real estate records as a fixture filing with respect to all
fixtures comprising any part of the Mortgaged Property and as a financing
statement pursuant to the Applicable UCC with respect to any As-Extracted
Collateral and any other personal property comprising any part of the Mortgaged
Property.&#160; Mortgagor is the record owner
of the real estate or interests in the real estate comprised of the Mortgaged
Property.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.05&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Defined Terms; Interpretation</u>.&#160; Initially-capitalized terms not otherwise
specifically defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in
the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.&#160; All other rules of interpretation set forth in Section 1.05 of
the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement shall apply to this Mortgage
and are hereby incorporated herein by reference.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE II</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Assignment of Production</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Assignment</u>.&#160; Mortgagor has hereby absolutely and
unconditionally assigned, transferred, set over, and conveyed, and does hereby
absolutely and unconditionally assign, transfer, set over, and convey unto
Mortgagee, its successors and assigns, all of the Hydrocarbons and all products
obtained or processed therefrom, and the revenues and proceeds now and
hereafter attributable to the Hydrocarbons and said products and all payments
in lieu of the Hydrocarbons such as &#147;take or pay&#148; payments or settlements,
together with the immediate and continuing right to collect and receive all of
the foregoing (the &#147;Production Proceeds&#148;).&#160;
The</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">8</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=117,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=952071,FOLIO='8',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Hydrocarbons and products are
to be delivered into pipelines connected with the Mortgaged Property, or to the
purchaser thereof, to the credit of Mortgagee, free and clear of all taxes,
charges, costs, and expenses; and all such revenues and proceeds shall be paid
directly to Mortgagee, at its banking quarters in New York, New York with no
duty or obligation of any party paying the same to inquire into the rights of
Mortgagee to receive the same, what application is made thereof, or as to any
other matter.&#160; Mortgagor agrees to
perform all such acts, and to execute all such further assignments, transfers
and division orders, and other instruments as may be required or desired by
Mortgagee or any party in order to have said proceeds and revenues so paid to
Mortgagee.&#160; Mortgagee is fully
authorized to receive and receipt for said revenues and proceeds; to endorse
and cash any and all checks and drafts payable to the order of Mortgagor or
Mortgagee for the account of Mortgagor received from or in connection with said
revenues or proceeds and to hold the proceeds thereof in a bank account as
additional collateral securing the Indebtedness; and to execute transfer and
division orders in the name of Mortgagor, or otherwise, with warranties binding
Mortgagor.&#160; All proceeds received by
Mortgagee pursuant to this assignment shall be applied as provided in the other
Loan Documents.&#160; Mortgagee shall not be
liable for any delay, neglect, or failure to effect collection of any proceeds
or to take any other action in connection therewith or hereunder; but Mortgagee
shall have the right, at its election, in the name of Mortgagor or otherwise,
to prosecute and defend any and all actions or legal proceedings deemed
advisable by Mortgagee in order to collect such funds and to protect the interests
of Mortgagee, and/or Mortgagor, with all costs, expenses and attorneys&#146; fees
incurred in connection therewith being paid by Mortgagor.&#160; Mortgagor hereby appoints Mortgagee as its
attorney-in-fact to pursue any and all rights of Mortgagor to liens on and
security interests in the Hydrocarbons securing payment of proceeds of runs
attributable to the Hydrocarbons.&#160; In
addition to the rights granted to Trustee and/or Mortgagee in this Mortgage,
Mortgagor hereby further transfers and assigns to Mortgagee any and all such
liens, security interests, financing statements or similar interests of
Mortgagor attributable to its interest in the Hydrocarbons and proceeds of runs
therefrom arising under or created by said statutory provision, judicial
decision or otherwise.&#160; The power of
attorney granted to Mortgagee in this Section 2.01, being coupled with an
interest, shall be irrevocable so long as the Indebtedness or any part thereof
remains unpaid.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Rights Under Texas Act</u>.&#160; Mortgagor hereby grants, sells, assigns,
sets over and mortgages unto Mortgagee during the term hereof, all of
Mortgagor&#146;s rights and interests pursuant to the provisions of Section 9.343 of
the Texas Business and Commerce Code, hereby vesting in Mortgagee all of
Mortgagor&#146;s rights as an interest owner to the continuing security interest in
and lien upon the Mortgaged Property.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Modification of Payment
Obligations</u>.&#160; Nothing herein
contained shall modify or otherwise alter the obligation of Mortgagor to make
prompt payment of all principal and interest owing on the Indebtedness when and
as the same become due regardless of whether the proceeds of the Hydrocarbons
are sufficient to pay the same and the rights provided in accordance with the
foregoing assignment provision shall be cumulative of all other security of any
and every character now or hereafter existing to secure payment of the
Indebtedness.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.04&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Release from Liability;
Indemnification</u>.&#160; Administrative
Agent and its successors and assigns are hereby absolutely absolved from all
liability for failure to enforce collection of the proceeds from runs
attributable to the Hydrocarbons and from all other</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">9</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=118,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=730203,FOLIO='9',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">responsibility in connection
therewith, except the responsibility to account to Mortgagor for funds actually
received by Administrative Agent.&#160;
Mortgagor agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Administrative Agent,
including, for purposes of this paragraph, Administrative Agent&#146;s directors,
officers, partners, employees, and agents and any persons owned or controlled
by any affiliate of Administrative Agent, from and against all claims, demands,
liabilities, losses, damages (including, without limitation, consequential,
punitive, and special damages), causes of action, judgments, penalties, costs
and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including, without limitation,
reasonable attorneys&#146; fees and expenses) imposed upon, asserted against, or
incurred or paid by Administrative Agent by reason of the assertion that Administrative
Agent has received, either before or after payment in full of the Indebtedness,
funds from the production of Hydrocarbons.&#160;
The foregoing indemnities shall not terminate upon the expiration,
termination, or cancellation of the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement or this Mortgage, but shall survive such expiration, termination, or
cancellation, as well as any foreclosure of this Mortgage or any conveyance in
lieu of foreclosure, and the repayment of the Indebtedness and the discharge and
release of this Mortgage and any other documents evidencing and/or securing the
Indebtedness.&#160; <font style="text-transform:uppercase;">Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, it is the
intention of Mortgagor and Mortgagor hereby agrees that the foregoing
indemnities shall apply to each indemnified party with respect to all claims,
demands, liabilities, losses, damages (including, without limitation,
consequential, punitive, and special damages), causes of action, judgments,
penalties, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable
attorneys&#146; fees and expenses) which in whole or in part are caused by or arise
out of the negligence of any indemnified party.&#160; </font>Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, the indemnities
set forth in this Section 2.04 shall not apply to any particular indemnified
party (but shall apply to the other indemnified parties) to the extent the
subject of the indemnification is caused by or arises out of the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of such pericular indemnified party.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.05&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Absolute Obligation of Credit
Parties</u>.&#160; Nothing herein contained
shall detract from or limit the obligations of any Mortgagor or any other
Credit Party to make payment as required pursuant to the terms of the Loan
Documents, regardless of whether the assignment of production described in this
Article II is sufficient to pay same, and the rights under this Article II
shall be cumulative of all other rights of Administrative Agent and any other
Lender under the Loan Documents.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE III</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Representations, Warranties and Covenants</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">In order to
induce Administrative Agent and the Lenders to enter into the transactions
described in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, Mortgagor hereby
represents, warrants and covenants, to Trustee, Administrative Agent, each of
the Lenders, and to Mortgagee as follows:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Title</u>.&#160; To the extent of the undivided interests in
the wells specified on attached <u>Exhibit A</u>, Mortgagor is possessed of
such interests in the Mortgaged Property, and Mortgagor has, and Mortgagor
covenants to maintain, good and indefeasible title to the Mortgaged
Property.&#160; The Mortgaged Property is
free of any and all Liens (as defined in the</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">10</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=119,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=832295,FOLIO='10',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement) except Permitted Liens (as defined in the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement) and Liens, if any, described in <u>Exhibit A</u>
(collectively, the &#147;<u>Permitted Encumbrances</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Defend Title</u>.&#160; This Mortgage is, and always will be kept, a
direct first lien and security interest upon the Mortgaged Property subject
only to the Permitted Encumbrances, and, except for Permitted Encumbrances,
Mortgagor will not create or suffer to be created or permit to exist any lien,
security interest or charge prior or junior to or on a parity with the lien and
security interest of this Mortgage upon the Mortgaged Property or any part
thereof or upon the rents, issues, revenues, profits and other income
therefrom.&#160; Mortgagor hereby warrants
and Mortgagor does by these presents agree to forever defend the Mortgaged
Property against the claims and demands of all other persons whomsoever and to
maintain and preserve the lien created hereby so long as any of the
Indebtedness secured hereby remains unpaid.&#160;
Should an adverse claim be made against or a cloud develop upon the
title to any part of the Mortgaged Property, Mortgagor agrees it will
immediately defend against such adverse claim or take appropriate action to
remove such cloud at Mortgagor&#146;s cost and expense, and Mortgagor further agrees
that Trustee and/or Mortgagee may take such other action as they deem advisable
to protect and preserve their interests in the Mortgaged Property, and in such
event Mortgagor will indemnify Trustee and Mortgagee against any and all cost,
attorney&#146;s fees and other expenses which they may incur in defending against
any such adverse claim or taking action to remove any such cloud.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Not a Foreign Person</u>.&#160; Mortgagor is not a &#147;foreign person&#148; within
the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (hereinafter
called the &#147;<u>Code</u>&#148;), Sections&nbsp;1445 and 7701 (i.e. Mortgagor is not a
non-resident alien, foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust or
foreign estate as those terms are defined in the Code and any regulations
promulgated thereunder).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.04&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Existence; Power to Create Lien
and Security; Enforceable Obligations</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagor is duly
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the
jurisdiction of its formation and in good standing and qualified to do business
in each jurisdiction where its ownership or lease of any of the Mortgaged
Property or conduct of its business requires such qualification and where the
failure to so qualify could reasonably be expected to cause a Material Adverse
Change.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The execution,
delivery, and performance by Mortgagor of this Mortgage and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby (i) are within such
Mortgagor&#146;s powers, (ii) have been duly authorized by all necessary governing
action, (iii) do not contravene (A) Mortgagor&#146;s governance documents or (B) any
Legal Requirement or any material contractual restriction binding on or
affecting Mortgagor, and (iv) will not result in or require the creation or
imposition of any Lien upon any of the material Property of any Credit Party
prohibited by the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; This Mortgage has
been duly executed and delivered by Mortgagor.&#160;
This Mortgage is the legal, valid, and binding obligation of Mortgagor
enforceable against</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">11</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=120,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=397255,FOLIO='11',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Mortgagor in
accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by any
applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, or similar law
affecting creditors&#146; rights generally and by general principles of equity.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.05&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Net Revenue and Cost Bearing
Interest</u>.&#160; With respect to each well
listed on <u>Exhibit A</u> hereto which comprises a part of the Mortgaged
Property, Mortgagor&#146;s ownership of such Mortgaged Property does and will, with
respect to each such well (whether such well is presently unitized or is
presently producing on a lease basis) (a) entitle Mortgagor to receive (subject
to the terms and conditions of this Mortgage) a decimal share of the
Hydrocarbons produced from, or allocated to, such well equal to not less than
the decimal share set forth on <u>Exhibit A</u> in connection with such well
under the column on <u>Exhibit A</u> designated by the words &#147;Net Revenue
Interest&#148;, the abbreviation &#147;NRI&#148;, or words or abbreviations of similar import,
and (b) cause Mortgagor to be obligated to bear a decimal share of the cost of
exploration, development, and operation of such well not greater than the
decimal share set forth in <u>Exhibit A</u> in connection with such well under
the column on <u>Exhibit A</u> designated by the words &#147;Operating Interest&#148; or
&#147;Working Interest&#148;, the abbreviation &#147;WI&#148;, or words or abbreviations of similar
import (unless there is a corresponding increase in the Net Revenue
Interest).&#160; The shares of production
which Mortgagor is entitled to receive and the shares of expenses which
Mortgagor is obligated to bear are not, and will not be, subject to change
other than changes which (i) arise pursuant to non-consent provisions of
operating agreements in connection with operations proposed after the effective
date of this Mortgage, or (ii) are expressly described on <u>Exhibit A</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.06&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Rentals Paid; Leases in Effect</u>.&#160; Mortgagor shall maintain all leases and
agreements comprising or relating to the Mortgaged Property in compliance with
the requirements of the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.07&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Operation of Mortgaged Property</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Mortgaged
Property (and properties unitized therewith) is, and hereafter will be, maintained,
operated, and developed in compliance with the requirements of the Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; To the extent any
interest owned by Mortgagor in the Mortgaged Property is not a working
interest, Mortgagor covenants and agrees to take all reasonable action and to
exercise all reasonable rights and remedies as are available to Mortgagor to
cause the owner or owners of the working interest in such properties to comply
with the covenants and agreements set forth in this Mortgage.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; To the extent
Mortgagor&#146;s ownership of any particular well constituting the Mortgaged
Property is a working interest but such well is operated by a party other than
Mortgagor, Mortgagor agrees to take all such action and to exercise all rights
and remedies as are reasonably available to Mortgagor (including, without
limitation, all rights under any operating agreement) to cause the party who is
the operator of such well to comply with the covenants and agreements set forth
in this Mortgage.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">12</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=121,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=307852,FOLIO='12',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.08&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Abandonment, Sales</u>.&#160; Mortgagor will not sell, lease, assign,
transfer or otherwise dispose of or abandon any of the Mortgaged Property
except in compliance with the requirements of the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.09&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Agreement.&#160; In the event of foreclosure of this Mortgage, or other transfer
of title to the Mortgaged Property in extinguishment in whole or in part of the
Indebtedness, all right, title, and interest of Mortgagor in and to such
policies then in force concerning the Mortgaged Property and all proceeds
payable thereunder shall thereupon vest in the purchaser at such foreclosure or
Administrative Agent or other transferee in the event of such other transfer of
title.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.10&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Further Assurances</u>.&#160; Mortgagor shall, and shall cause each of its
Subsidiaries to, cure promptly any defects in the execution and delivery of
this Mortgage or any of the other Loan Documents.&#160; Mortgagor hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to file any
financing statements without Mortgagor&#146;s signature to the extent permitted by
applicable law in order to perfect or maintain the perfection of any security
interest granted under any of the Loan Documents.&#160; Mortgagor at its expense will, and will cause each of its
Subsidiaries to, promptly execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent upon
request all such other documents, agreements and instruments to comply with or
accomplish the covenants and agreements of Mortgagor or any other Credit Party
in this Mortgage or any other Loan Document, or to further evidence and more
fully describe the collateral intended as security for Obligations, or to
correct any omissions in the Loan Documents, or to state more fully the
security obligations set out in this Mortgage or in any of the other Loan
Documents, or to perfect, protect or preserve any Liens created pursuant to any
of the Loan Documents, or to make any recordings, to file any notices or obtain
any consents, all as may be necessary or appropriate in connection therewith or
to enable the Administrative Agent to exercise and enforce its rights and
remedies with respect to the Mortgaged Property.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.11&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Taxes</u>.&#160; Mortgagor shall do or cause to be done
everything necessary to preserve the lien hereof without expense to Trustee or
Mortgagee, including, without limitation, paying and discharging or causing to
be paid and discharged all taxes, charges, filing, registration and recording
fees relating to the recording of this Mortgage, including but not limited to
any mortgage tax payable in connection herewith.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.12&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Failure to Perform</u>.&#160; Mortgagor agrees that if Mortgagor, after
receipt from Mortgagee of written notice and demand,&#160; fails to perform any act or to take any action which Mortgagor is
required to perform or take hereunder or pay any money which Mortgagor is
required to pay hereunder, each of Mortgagee and Trustee in Mortgagor&#146;s name or
its or their own name may, but shall not be obligated to, perform or cause to
perform such act or take such action or pay such money, and any expenses so
incurred by either of them and any money so paid by either of them shall be a
demand obligation owing by Mortgagor to Mortgagee or Trustee, as the case may
be, and each of Mortgagee and Trustee, upon making such payment, shall be
subrogated to all of the rights of the Person receiving such payment.&#160; Each amount due and owing by Mortgagor to
each of Mortgagee and Trustee pursuant to this Mortgage shall bear interest
from the date of such expenditure or payment or other occurrence which gives
rise to such amount being owed to such Person until paid at post-default
interest rate described in the</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">13</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=122,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=1006452,FOLIO='13',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement, and all such amounts together with such interest thereon
shall be a part of the Indebtedness described in Section 1.03 hereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.13&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Waste</u>.&#160; Mortgagor shall not commit or permit any
waste, impairment, or deterioration of the Mortgaged Property or any part thereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE IV</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Rights and Remedies</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Event of Default</u>.&#160; An &#147;<u>Event of Default</u>&#148; under the
Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement shall be an Event of Default under
this Mortgage.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Foreclosure and Sale</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If an Event of Default
shall occur and be continuing, Mortgagee shall have the right and option to
proceed with foreclosure by proceeding or by directing Trustee, or his
successors or substitutes in trust, to proceed with foreclosure and to sell, to
the extent permitted by law, all or any portion of the Mortgaged Property at
one or more sales, as an entirety or in parcels, at such place or places in
otherwise such manner and upon such notice as may be required by law, or, in
the absence of any such requirement, as Mortgagee may deem appropriate, and to
make conveyance to the purchaser or purchasers.&#160; Where the Mortgaged Property is situated in more than one county,
notice as above provided shall be posted and filed in all such counties (if
such notices are required by law), and all such Mortgaged Property may be sold
in any such county and any such notice shall designate the county where such
Mortgaged Property is to be sold.&#160;
Nothing contained in this Section 4.02 shall be construed so as to limit
in any way Mortgagee&#146;s or Trustee&#146;s rights to sell the Mortgaged Property, or
any portion thereof, by private sale if, and to the extent that, such private
sale is permitted under the laws of the applicable jurisdiction or by public or
private sale after entry of a judgment by any court of competent jurisdiction
so ordering.&#160; Mortgagor hereby
irrevocably appoints Trustee to be the attorney of Mortgagor and in the name
and on behalf of Mortgagor to execute and deliver any deeds, transfers, conveyances,
assignments, assurances and notices which Mortgagor ought to execute and
deliver and do and perform any and all such acts and things which Mortgagor
ought to do and perform under the covenants herein contained and generally, to
use the name of Mortgagor in the exercise of all or any of the powers hereby
conferred on Trustee.&#160; At any such sale:
(i)&nbsp;whether made under the power herein contained or any other legal
enactment, or by virtue of any judicial proceedings or any other legal right,
remedy or recourse, it shall not be necessary for Mortgagee or Trustee to have
physically present, or to have constructive possession of, the Mortgaged
Property (Mortgagor hereby covenanting and agreeing to deliver to Mortgagee or
Trustee any portion of the Mortgaged Property not actually or constructively
possessed by Mortgagee or Trustee immediately upon demand by Mortgagee or
Trustee) and the title to and right of possession of any such property shall
pass to the purchaser thereof as completely as if the same had been actually
present and delivered to purchaser at such sale, (ii)&nbsp;each instrument of
conveyance executed by Mortgagee or Trustee shall contain a general warranty of
title, binding upon Mortgagor and its successors and assigns, (iii)&nbsp;each
and</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">14</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=123,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=143111,FOLIO='14',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">every recital
contained in any instrument of conveyance made by Mortgagee or Trustee shall
conclusively establish the truth and accuracy of the matters recited therein,
including, without limitation, nonpayment of the Indebtedness, advertisement
and conduct of such sale in the manner provided herein and otherwise by law and
appointment of any successor Trustee hereunder, (iv)&nbsp;any and all
prerequisites to the validity thereof shall be conclusively presumed to have
been performed, (v)&nbsp;the receipt of Mortgagee or Trustee or of such other
party or officer making the sale shall be a sufficient discharge to the
purchaser or purchasers for its purchase money and no such purchaser or
purchasers, or its assigns or personal representatives, shall thereafter be obligated
to see to the application of such purchase money, or be in any way answerable
for any loss, misapplication or nonapplication thereof, (vi)&nbsp;to the
fullest extent permitted by law, Mortgagor shall be completely and irrevocably
divested of all of its right, title, interest, claim and demand whatsoever,
either at law or in equity, in and to the property sold and such sale shall be
a perpetual bar both at law and in equity against Mortgagor, and against any
and all other persons claiming or to claim the property sold or any part
thereof, by, through or under Mortgagor, and (vii)&nbsp;to the extent and under
such circumstances as are permitted by law, Trustee, Mortgagee, or any Lender
may be a purchaser at any such sale, and shall have the right, after paying or accounting
for all costs of said sale or sales, to credit the amount of the bid upon the
amount of the Indebtedness held by such purchaser, if any (in the order of
priority set forth in Section 4.13 hereof) in lieu of cash payment.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; With respect to any
portion of the Mortgaged Property located in the state of Oklahoma and with
respect any foreclosure by Mortgagor pursuant to the power of sale granted to
Mortgagor in this Mortgage the following provisions of this Mortgage shall
apply:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The notices described
in Section 40 and certain following sections of the Oklahoma Mortgage
Foreclosure Act, shall be given as and when required therein;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All notices which
are required to be given to Mortgagor under the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure
Act may be given to Mortgagor at the address which is set forth in the first
paragraph of this Mortgage, or if such address has been changed in accordance
with the express requirements of this Mortgage related to such a change of
address, to that changed address;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagee may
purchase part or all of the Mortgaged Property at any such sale;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagor stipulates
that the total amounts owing under this Mortgage benefit, have benefited, and
will benefit Mortgagor substantially and are not unconscionable in amount, and
therefore the total amount of the Indebtedness, less the fair market value of
the Mortgaged Property sold pursuant to the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act,
and any prior indebtedness, shall be available as a deficiency judgment against
Mortgagor;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">15</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=124,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=722670,FOLIO='15',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The purchaser under
any sale of the Mortgaged Property conducted pursuant to the Oklahoma Mortgage
Foreclosure Act may seek and obtain a writ of assistance by application to the
District Court in the county in Oklahoma in which the portion of the Mortgaged
Property to be foreclosed upon is located, or the United States District Court
having venue for actions arising in such county;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Mortgagee may, at
its option, proceed with foreclosure under judicial proceedings instead of
exercising the rights of the power of sale granted by Mortgagor to Mortgagee in
this Mortgage;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All other terms,
conditions, procedures, and requirements of the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure
Act shall be followed;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(viii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; After the completion
of the sale as contemplated by the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act, the
purchaser shall have all of Mortgagor&#146;s right, title and interest in and to
Mortgaged Property sold pursuant to such sale, free and clear of all rights of
Mortgagor, and free and clear of all rights of any person with a priority which
is subordinate to the lien of this Mortgage, except any right which may be
reserved under the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ix)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Any recitation in
any notice, publication thereof, recordation thereof, or deed, of the existence
of an Event of Default, giving, publication, service and recordation of notice,
occurrence of the sale at the time and place set forth in such notice or any
postponement authorized and effective under the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure
Act, circumstances of sale and bidding, and compliance with the terms of the
Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act, shall be presumed to be statements of fact
and no person shall be required to investigate the truthfulness or accuracy of
any such recitation; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(x)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The proceeds of any
such sale shall be applied first to the costs, attorney fees, and expenses of
such sale, next to the payment of the Indebtedness; except that if such
application of proceeds conflicts with the requirements of the Oklahoma
Mortgage Foreclosure Act, the proceeds of such sale shall be applied as
provided under the Oklahoma Mortgage Foreclosure Act, but in such event, only
to the extent of any such conflict.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Substitute Trustees and Agents</u>.&#160; Trustee or his successor or substitute may
appoint or delegate any one or more persons as agent to perform any act or acts
necessary or incident to any sale held by Trustee, including the posting of
notices and the conduct of sale, but in the name and on behalf of Trustee, his
successor or substitute.&#160; If Trustee or
his successor or substitute shall have given notice of sale hereunder, any
successor or substitute trustee thereafter appointed may complete the sale and
the conveyance of the property pursuant thereto as if such notice had been
given by the successor or substitute trustee conducting the sale.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.04&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Judicial Foreclosure; Receivership</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If any of the
Indebtedness shall become due and payable and shall not be promptly paid,
Trustee or Mortgagee shall have the right and power to proceed by a suit</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">16</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=125,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=270732,FOLIO='16',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">or suits in
equity or at law, whether for the specific performance of any covenant or
agreement herein contained or in aid of the execution of any power herein
granted, or for any foreclosure hereunder or for the sale of the Mortgaged
Property under the judgment or decree of any court or courts of competent
jurisdiction, or for the appointment of a receiver pending any foreclosure
hereunder or the sale of the Mortgaged Property under the order of a court or
courts of competent jurisdiction or under executory or other legal process, or
for the enforcement of any other appropriate legal or equitable remedy.&#160; Any money advanced by Trustee and/or
Mortgagee in connection with any such receivership shall be a demand obligation
(which obligation Mortgagor hereby expressly promises to pay) owing by
Mortgagor to Trustee and/or Mortgagee and shall bear interest from the date of
making such advance by Trustee and/or Mortgagee until paid at the interest rate
applicable to periods following an Event of Default in the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; If an action is
filed to foreclose this Mortgage, or if Mortgagee or Trustee seeks to foreclose
this Mortgage by power of sale under the Oklahoma Power of Sale Mortgage
Foreclosure Act, Mortgagee or Trustee, as applicable, shall be entitled to the
immediate appointment of a receiver pursuant to 12 Oklahoma Statutes
&#167;1551(2)(c) without the necessity of further proof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.05&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Foreclosure for Installments</u>.&#160; Mortgagee shall also have the option to
proceed with foreclosure in satisfaction of any installments of the
Indebtedness which have not been paid when due either through the courts or by
directing Trustee or his successors in trust to proceed with foreclosure in
satisfaction of the matured but unpaid portion of the Indebtedness as if under
a full foreclosure, conducting the sale as herein provided and without
declaring the entire principal balance and accrued interest due; such sale may
be made subject to the unmatured portion of the Indebtedness, and any such sale
shall not in any manner affect the unmatured portion of the Indebtedness, but
as to such unmatured portion of the Indebtedness this Mortgage shall remain in
full force and effect just as though no sale had been made hereunder.&#160; It is further agreed that several sales may
be made hereunder without exhausting the right of sale for any unmatured part
of the Indebtedness, it being the purpose hereof to provide for a foreclosure
and sale of the security for any matured portion of the Indebtedness without
exhausting the power to foreclose and sell the Mortgaged Property for any
subsequently maturing portion of the Indebtedness.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.06&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Separate Sales</u>.&#160; The Mortgaged Property may be sold in one or
more parcels and in such manner and order as Mortgagee, in its sole discretion,
may elect, it being expressly understood and agreed that the right of sale
arising out of any Event of Default shall not be exhausted by any one or more
sales.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.07&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Occupancy After Foreclosure</u>.&#160; In the event there is a foreclosure sale
hereunder and at the time of such sale Mortgagor or Mortgagor&#146;s heirs,
devisees, representatives, successors or assigns or any other person claiming
any interest in the Mortgaged Property by, through or under Mortgagor, are
occupying or using the Mortgaged Property or any part thereof, each and all
shall immediately become the tenant of the purchaser at such sale, which tenancy
shall be a tenancy from day to day, terminable at the will of either the
landlord or tenant, or at a reasonable rental per day based upon the value of
the property occupied, such rental to be due</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">17</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=126,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=823021,FOLIO='17',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">daily to the purchaser; to the
extent permitted by applicable law, the purchaser at such sale shall,
notwithstanding any language herein apparently to the contrary, have the sole
option to demand immediate possession following the sale or to permit the occupants
to remain as tenants at will.&#160; In the
event the tenant fails to surrender possession of said property upon demand,
the purchaser shall be entitled to institute and maintain a summary action for
possession of the Mortgaged Property (such as an action for forcible entry and
detainer) in any court having jurisdiction.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.08&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Remedies Cumulative, Concurrent
and Nonexclusive</u>.&#160; Every right,
power and remedy herein given to Trustee or Mortgagee shall be cumulative and
in addition to every other right, power and remedy herein specifically given or
now or hereafter existing in equity, at law or by statute (including
specifically those granted by the Applicable UCC in effect and applicable to
the Mortgaged Property or any portion thereof) each and every right, power and
remedy whether specifically herein given or otherwise existing may be exercised
from time to time and so often and in such order as may be deemed expedient by
Trustee or Mortgagee, and the exercise, or the beginning of the exercise, of
any such right, power or remedy shall not be deemed a waiver of the right to
exercise, at the same time or thereafter any other right, power or remedy.&#160; No delay or omission by Trustee or Mortgagee
in the exercise of any right, power or remedy shall impair any such right,
power or remedy or operate as a waiver thereof or of any other right, power or
remedy then or thereafter existing.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.09&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>No Release of Obligations</u>.&#160; Neither Mortgagor, any Guarantor, any other
guarantor of the Indebtedness, nor any other person hereafter obligated for
payment of all or any part of the Indebtedness shall be relieved of such
obligation by reason of (a) the failure of Trustee or Mortgagee to comply with
any request of Mortgagor, or any guarantor or any other person so obligated to
foreclose the lien of this Mortgage or to enforce any provision hereunder or
under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement; (b) the release,
regardless of consideration, of the Mortgaged Property or any portion thereof
or interest therein or the addition of any other property to the Mortgaged
Property; (c) any agreement or stipulation between any subsequent owner of the
Mortgaged Property and Mortgagee extending, renewing, rearranging or in any
other way modifying the terms of this Mortgage without first having obtained
the consent of, given notice to or paid any consideration to Mortgagor, any
guarantor or such other person, and in such event Mortgagor, guarantor and all
such other persons shall continue to be liable to make payment according to the
terms of any such extension or modification agreement unless expressly released
and discharged in writing by Mortgagee; or (d) by any other act or occurrence
save and except the complete payment of the Indebtedness and the complete
fulfillment of all obligations hereunder or under the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.10&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Release of and Resort to Mortgaged
Property</u>.&#160; Mortgagee may release,
regardless of consideration, any part of the Mortgaged Property without, as to
the remainder, in any way impairing, affecting, subordinating or releasing the
lien or security interest created in or evidenced by this Mortgage or its
stature as a first and prior lien and security interest in and to the Mortgaged
Property, and without in any way releasing or diminishing the liability of any
person or entity liable for the repayment of the Indebtedness.&#160; For payment of the Indebtedness, Mortgagee
may resort to any other security therefor held by Mortgagee or Trustee in such
order and manner as Mortgagee may elect.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">18</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=127,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=932488,FOLIO='18',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.11&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Waiver of Redemption, Notice and
Marshalling of Assets, Etc</u>.&#160; To the
fullest extent permitted by law, Mortgagor hereby irrevocably and
unconditionally waives and releases (a) all benefits that might accrue to
Mortgagor by virtue of any present or future moratorium law or other law
exempting the Mortgaged Property from attachment, levy or sale on execution or
providing for any appraisement, valuation, stay of execution, exemption from
civil process, redemption or extension of time for payment and (b) any right to
a marshalling of assets or a sale in inverse order of alienation.&#160; If any law referred to in this Mortgage and
now in force, of which Mortgagor or its successor or successors might take
advantage despite the provisions hereof, shall hereafter be repealed or cease
to be in force, such law shall thereafter be deemed not to constitute any part
of the contract herein contained or to preclude the operation or application of
the provisions hereof.&#160; Provided,
however, that if the laws of any state do not permit the redemption period to
be waived, the redemption period is specifically reduced to the minimum amount
of time allowable by statute.&#160; With
respect to any portion of the Mortgaged Property located in the state of
Oklahoma, Mortgagee and Trustee hereby waive or do not waive appraisement, such
election to be made at or before entry of judgment in any action to foreclose
this Mortgage; <i><font style="font-style:italic;">provided, however</font></i>,
such waiver or non-waiver shall not affect Mortgagor&#146;s waiver of such rights,
which shall be absolute.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.12&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Discontinuance of Proceedings</u>&#160; In case Mortgagee shall have proceeded to
invoke any right, remedy or recourse permitted hereunder or under the Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and shall thereafter elect to discontinue
or abandon same for any reason, Mortgagee shall have the unqualified right so
to do and, in such an event, Mortgagor and Mortgagee shall be restored to their
former positions with respect to the Indebtedness, this Mortgage, the Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, the Mortgaged Property and otherwise,
and the rights, remedies, recourses and powers of Mortgagee shall continue as
if same had never been invoked.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.13&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Application of Proceeds</u>.&#160; The proceeds of any sale of the Mortgaged
Property or any part thereof and all other monies received by Trustee or
Mortgagee in any proceedings for the enforcement hereof or otherwise, whose
application has not elsewhere herein been specifically provided for, shall be
applied:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; first, to the
payment of all reasonable expenses incurred by Trustee or Mortgagee incident to
the enforcement of this Mortgage, the Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement or any of the Indebtedness (including, without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, expenses of any entry or taking of possession, of
any sale, of advertisement thereof, and of conveyances, and court costs,
compensation of agents and employees, legal fees and a reasonable commission to
Trustee acting), and to the payment of all other charges, reasonable expenses,
liabilities and advances incurred or made by Trustee or Mortgagee under this
Mortgage or in executing any trust or power hereunder;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; second to payment of
the Indebtedness in the order and manner required in the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; third, to Mortgagor
or as otherwise required by any Governmental Requirement.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">19</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=128,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=509358,FOLIO='19',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.14&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Resignation of Operator</u>.&#160; In addition to all rights and remedies under
this Mortgage, at law and in equity, if any Event of Default shall occur and
Trustee or Mortgagee shall exercise any possessory remedies under this Mortgage
with respect to any portion of the Hydrocarbon Property (or Mortgagor shall
transfer any Mortgaged Property &#147;in lieu of&#148; foreclosure), Mortgagee or Trustee
shall have the right to request that any operator of any Hydrocarbon Property
which is either Mortgagor or any Affiliate of Mortgagor to resign as operator
under the joint operating agreement applicable thereto, and no later than 60
days after receipt by Mortgagor of any such request, Mortgagor shall resign (or
cause such other party to resign) as operator of such Hydrocarbon Property.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.15&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Indemnity</u>.&#160; In connection with any action taken by
Trustee and/or Mortgagee pursuant to this Mortgage, Trustee and/or Mortgagee
and their officers, directors, employees, representatives, agents, attorneys,
accountants and experts (&#147;<u>Indemnified Parties</u>&#148;) shall not be liable for
any loss sustained by Mortgagor resulting from an assertion that Mortgagee has
received funds from the production of Hydrocarbons claimed by third persons or
any act or omission of any Indemnified Party in administering, managing,
operating or controlling the Mortgaged Property <u>I<b><font style="font-weight:bold;">NCLUDING SUCH LOSS WHICH MAY RESULT FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF AN INDEMNIFIED
PARTY</font></b></u><b><font style="font-weight:bold;">  </font></b>unless such
loss is caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of an Indemnified
Party, nor shall Trustee and/or Mortgagee be obligated to perform or discharge
any obligation, duty or liability of Mortgagor. Mortgagor shall and does hereby
agree to indemnify each Indemnified Party for, and to hold each Indemnified
Party harmless from, any and all liability, loss or damage which may or might
be incurred by any Indemnified Party by reason of this Mortgage or the exercise
of rights or remedies hereunder <b><u><font style="font-weight:bold;">INCLUDING
SUCH LIABILITY, LOSS, OR DAMAGE WHICH MAY RESULT FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF AN
INDEMNIFIED PARTY</font></u></b> unless such liability, loss, or damage is
caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of an Indemnified Party;
should Trustee and/or Mortgagee make any expenditure on account of any such
liability, loss or damage, the amount thereof, including costs, expenses and
reasonable attorneys&#146; fees, shall be a demand obligation (which obligation
Mortgagor hereby expressly promises to pay) owing by Mortgagor to Trustee
and/or Mortgagee and shall bear interest from the date expended until paid at
the Post-Default Rate, shall be a part of the Indebtedness and shall be secured
by this Mortgage and any other Security Instrument.&#160; Mortgagor hereby assents to, ratifies and confirms any and all
actions of Trustee and/or Mortgagee with respect to the Mortgaged Property
taken under, and in compliance with the terms of, this Mortgage.&#160; The liabilities of Mortgagor as set forth in
this Section 4.15 shall survive the termination of this Mortgage.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE V</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Trustee</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Duties, Rights, and Powers of
Trustee</u>.&#160; It shall be no part of the
duty of Trustee to see to any recording, filing or registration of this
Mortgage or any other instrument in addition or supplemental thereto, or to
give any notice thereof, or to see to the payment of or be under any duty in
respect of any tax or assessment or other governmental charge which may be
levied or assessed on the Mortgaged Property, or any part thereof, or against
Mortgagor, or to see to the performance or observance by Mortgagor of any of
the covenants and agreements</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">20</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=129,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=169102,FOLIO='20',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">contained herein.&#160; Trustee shall not be responsible for the
execution, acknowledgment or validity of this Mortgage or of any instrument in
addition or supplemental hereto or for the sufficiency of the security purported
to be created hereby, and makes no representation in respect thereof or in
respect of the rights of Mortgagee.&#160;
Trustee shall have the right to advise with counsel upon any matters
arising hereunder and shall be fully protected in relying as to legal matters
on the advice of counsel.&#160; Trustee shall
not incur any personal liability hereunder except for Trustee&#146;s own gross
negligence, bad faith and/or willful misconduct; and Trustee shall have the
right to rely on any instrument, document or signature authorizing or
supporting any action taken or proposed to be taken by him hereunder, believed
by him in good faith to be genuine.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Successor Trustee; Resignation by
Trustee</u>.&#160; Trustee may resign by
written notice addressed to Mortgagee or be removed at any time with or without
cause by an instrument in writing duly executed on behalf of Mortgagee.&#160; In case of the death, resignation or removal
of Trustee, a successor trustee may be appointed by Mortgagee by instrument of
substitution complying with any applicable requirements of law, or, in the
absence of any such requirement, without other formality than appointment and
designation in writing.&#160; Written notice
of such appointment and designation shall be given by Mortgagee to Mortgagor,
but the validity of any such appointment shall not be impaired or affected by
failure to give such notice or by any defect therein.&#160; Such appointment and designation shall be full evidence of the
right and authority to make the same and of all the facts therein recited, and,
upon the making of any such appointment and designation, this Mortgage shall
vest in the successor trustee all the estate and title in and to all of the
Mortgaged Property, and the successor trustee shall thereupon succeed to all of
the rights, powers, privileges, immunities and duties hereby conferred upon
Trustee named herein, and one such appointment and designation shall not
exhaust the right to appoint and designate a successor trustee hereunder but
such right may be exercised repeatedly as long as any Indebtedness remains
unpaid hereunder.&#160; To facilitate the
administration of the duties hereunder, Mortgagee may appoint multiple trustees
to serve in such capacity or in such jurisdictions as Mortgagee may designate.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Retention of Moneys</u>. &#160;All moneys received by Trustee shall, until
used or applied as herein provided, be held in trust for the purposes for which
they were received, but need not be segregated in any manner from any other
moneys (except to the extent required by law), and Trustee shall be under no
liability for interest on any moneys received by him hereunder.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">ARTICLE VI</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Miscellaneous</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.01&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Instrument Construed as Mortgage,
Etc.</u>&#160; With respect to any portions
of the Mortgaged Property located in any state or other jurisdiction the laws
of which do not provide for the use or enforcement of a deed of trust or the
office, rights and authority of Trustee as herein provided, the general
language of conveyance hereof to Trustee is intended and the same shall be
construed as words of mortgage unto and in favor of Mortgagee and the rights
and authority granted to Trustee herein may be enforced and asserted by
Mortgagee in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which such portion
of the Mortgaged Property is located and the same may be foreclosed at the
option of Mortgagee as to any or all such portions of the Mortgaged Property in
any manner permitted by the laws of the jurisdiction in which such </font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">21</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=130,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=963854,FOLIO='21',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">portions of the Mortgaged
Property is situated.&#160; This Mortgage may
be construed as a mortgage, deed of trust, chattel mortgage, conveyance,
assignment, security agreement, pledge, financing statement, hypothecation or
contract, or any one or more of them, in order fully to effectuate the lien
hereof and the purposes and agreements herein set forth.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.02&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Release of Mortgage</u>.&#160; If all Indebtedness secured hereby shall be
paid and the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement terminated, Mortgagee
shall forthwith cause satisfaction and discharge of this Mortgage to be entered
upon the record at the expense of Mortgagor and shall execute and deliver or
cause to be executed and delivered such instruments of satisfaction and
reassignment as Mortgagor may reasonably request.&#160; Otherwise, this Mortgage shall remain and continue in full force
and effect.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.03&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Severability</u>.&#160; If any provision hereof is invalid or
unenforceable in any jurisdiction, the other provisions hereof shall remain in
full force and effect in such jurisdiction and the remaining provisions hereof
shall be liberally construed in favor of Trustee and Mortgagee in order to
effectuate the provisions hereof, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any
provision hereof in any jurisdiction shall not affect the validity or
enforceability of any such provision in any other jurisdiction.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.04&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Successors and Assigns of Parties</u>.&#160; The term &#147;Lender&#148; as used herein shall mean
and include any legal owner, holder, assignee or pledgee of any of the
Indebtedness secured hereby.&#160; The terms
used to designate Trustee, Mortgagee and Mortgagor shall be deemed to include
the respective heirs, legal representatives, successors and assigns of such
parties.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.05&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Satisfaction of Prior Encumbrance</u>.&#160; To the extent that proceeds of the Second
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement are used to pay indebtedness secured by
any outstanding lien, security interest, charge or prior encumbrance against
the Mortgaged Property, such proceeds have been advanced by Mortgagee or any of
the other Lenders at Mortgagor&#146;s request, and Mortgagee shall be subrogated to
any and all rights, security interests and liens owned by any owner or holder
of such outstanding liens, security interests, charges or encumbrances, and it
is expressly understood that, in consideration of the payment of such other
indebtedness by Mortgagee or any of the other Lenders, Mortgagor hereby waives
and releases all demands and causes of action against Mortgagee or any of the
other Lenders for offsets and payments to, upon and in connection with the said
indebtedness.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.06&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Subrogation of Trustee</u>.&#160; This Mortgage is made with full substitution
and subrogation of Trustee and his successors in this trust and his and their
assigns in and to all covenants and warranties by others heretofore given or
made in respect of the Mortgaged Property or any part thereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.07&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Nature of Covenants</u>.&#160; The covenants and agreements herein
contained shall constitute covenants running with the land and interests covered
or affected hereby and shall be binding upon the heirs, legal representatives,
successors and assigns </font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.08&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Notices</u>.&#160; All notices and other communications shall
be in writing (including, without limitation, telecopy or telex) and mailed by
certified mail, return receipt</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">22</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=131,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=365250,FOLIO='22',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">requested, telecopied, telexed,
hand delivered, or delivered by a nationally recognized overnight courier, at
the address for the appropriate party specified in the first paragraph of this
Mortgage or at such other address as shall be designated by such party in a
written notice to the other parties.&#160;
All such notices and communications shall, when so mailed, telecopied,
telexed, or hand delivered or delivered by a nationally recognized overnight
courier, be effective when received if mailed, when telecopy transmission is
completed, when confirmed by telex answer-back, or when delivered by such
messenger or courier, respectively.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.09&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Counterparts</u>.&#160; This Mortgage is being executed in several
counterparts, all of which are identical, except that to facilitate
recordation, if the Mortgaged Property is situated in more than one county,
descriptions of only those portions of the Mortgaged Property located in the
county in which a particular counterpart is recorded shall be attached as <u>Exhibit
A</u> thereto. A complete <u>Exhibit A</u> will be attached to that certain
counterpart that is filed in the real property records of
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;County,
Texas.&#160; Each of such counterparts shall
for all purposes be deemed to be an original and all such counterparts shall
together constitute but one and the same instrument.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.10&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Exculpation Provisions</u>.&#160; Each of the parties hereto specifically
agrees that it has a duty to read this Mortgage; and agrees that it is charged
with notice and knowledge of the terms of this Mortgage; that it has in fact
read this Mortgage and is fully informed and has full notice and knowledge of
the terms, conditions and effects of this Mortgage; that it has been
represented by independent legal counsel of its choice throughout the
negotiations preceding its execution of this Mortgage; and has received the
advice of its attorney in entering into this Mortgage; and that it recognizes
that certain of the terms of this Mortgage result in one party assuming the
liability inherent in some aspects of the transaction and relieving the other
party of its responsibility for such liability.&#160; Each party hereto agrees and covenants that it will not contest
the validity or enforceability of any exculpatory provision of this Mortgage on
the basis that the party had no notice or knowledge of such provision or that
the provision is not &#147;conspicuous.&#148;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.11&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Security Agreement</u>.&#160; With respect to any portion of the Mortgaged
Property which constitutes fixtures or other property governed by the
Applicable UCC, this Mortgage shall constitute a security agreement between
Mortgagor, as the debtor, and Mortgagee, as the secured party.&#160; Cumulative of all other rights of Mortgagee
hereunder, Mortgagee shall have all of the rights conferred upon secured
parties by the Applicable UCC.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.12&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Ratification of Original
Mortgages; Effect of Mortgage</u>.&#160; The
conveyance and the granting of liens in the Original Mortgages is hereby
ratified, adopted, confirmed, and renewed.&#160;
In addition, as stated in the Recitals to this Mortgage, this Mortgage
constitutes for all purposes an amendment and restatement of the Original
Mortgages and not a new or substitute security instrument</font>.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.13&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Time of the Essence</u>.&#160; Time is of the essence in the performance of
each and every obligation under this Mortgage.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.14&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Authority of Administrative Agent</u>.&#160; The Lenders may, by agreement among them,
provide for and regulate the exercise of rights and remedies hereunder, but,
unless</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">23</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=132,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=735129,FOLIO='23',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and until modified to the
contrary in a writing signed by all such persons and recorded in the same
counties and parishes as this Mortgage is recorded, (i) all persons other than
Mortgagor and its affiliates shall be entitled to rely on the releases,
waivers, consents, approvals, notifications and other acts (including, without
limitation, appointment of substitute or successor trustee, or trustees,
hereunder and the bidding in of all or any part of the secured indebtedness
held by any one or more Lenders, whether the same be conducted under the
provisions hereof or otherwise) of Administrative Agent, without inquiry into
any such agreements or the existence of required consent or approval of any
Lender and without the joinder of any party other than Administrative Agent in
such releases, waivers, consents, approvals, notifications or other acts and
(ii) all notices, requests, consents, demands and other communications required
or permitted to be given hereunder may be given to Administrative Agent.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.15&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Waivers</u>.&#160; Subject to the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement, Administrative Agent may at any time and from time to time in
writing waive compliance by Mortgagor with any covenant herein made by
Mortgagor to the extent and in the manner specified in such writing, or consent
to Mortgagor&#146;s doing any act which hereunder Mortgagor is prohibited from
doing, or to Mortgagor&#146;s failing to do any act which hereunder Mortgagor is
required to do, to the extent and in the manner specified in such writing, or
release any part of the Mortgaged Property or any interest therein or any
Production Proceeds from the lien and security interest of this Mortgage, without
the joinder of Trustee.&#160; Any party
liable, either directly or indirectly, for the secured indebtedness or for any
covenant herein or in any other Loan Document may be released from all or any
part of such obligations without impairing or releasing the liability of any
other party.&#160; No such act shall in any
way impair any rights or powers hereunder except to the extent specifically
agreed to in such writing.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.16&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Compliance With Usury Laws</u>.&#160; It is the intent of Mortgagor, Trustee,
Mortgagee and all other parties to any of the Loan Documents to contract in
strict compliance with applicable usury law from time to time in effect.&#160; In furtherance thereof, it is stipulated and
agreed that none of the terms and provisions contained herein or in the other
Loan Documents shall ever be construed to create a contract to pay, for the
use, forbearance or detention of money, interest in excess of the maximum
amount of interest permitted to be collected, charged, taken, reserved, or
received by applicable law from time to time in effect.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.17&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>GOVERNING LAW</u>.&#160; T<font style="text-transform:uppercase;">his
Mortgage shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the
State of Texas, without giving effect to its laws relating to conflicts of
laws, except to the extent that the laws of any other jurisdiction mandatorily
govern the creation of, or the manner or procedure for enforcement of the lien
created by this Mortgage, provided that any rights or remedies herein provided
that shall be valid under the laws of the jurisdiction where proceedings for
the enforcement hereof shall be taken shall not be affected by the invalidity,
if any, of such rights or remedies under the laws of the State of Texas.</font></font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">24</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=133,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=212666,FOLIO='24',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">NOTICE
TO MORTGAGOR:</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><b><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">A
POWER OF SALE HAS BEEN GRANTED IN THIS INSTRUMENT.&#160; WITH RESPECT TO PORTIONS OF THE MORTGAGED PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE
STATE OF OKLAHOMA, SUCH POWER OF SALE IS GRANTED PURSUANT TO THE OKLAHOMA
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE ACT (AS DEFINED IN SECTION 1.01 OF THIS MORTGAGE). THIS
POWER OF SALE MAY ALLOW TRUSTEE OR MORTGAGEE, AS APPLICABLE, TO TAKE THE
MORTGAGED PROPERTY AND SELL IT WITHOUT GOING TO COURT IN A FORECLOSURE ACTION
UPON THE OCCURRENCE OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT BY MORTGAGOR UNDER THIS INSTRUMENT.
THIS INSTRUMENT CONTAINS AFTER-ACQUIRED PROPERTY PROVISIONS, SECURES PAYMENT OF
FUTURE ADVANCES, AND COVERS ALL PRODUCTS AND PROCEEDS OF MORTGAGED
PROPERTY.&#160; </font></u></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">IN WITNESS
HEREOF, Mortgagor has executed and delivered this Mortgage as of the day and
year first above written.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.9%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">MORTGAGOR:</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.9%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL
  &amp; GAS, L.P., a Delaware<br>
  limited partnership</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.9%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="35%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:35.2%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham,
  Inc., a Nevada corporation,<br>
  its General Partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="35%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:35.2%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="31%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:31.5%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.84%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="29%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:29.36%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="61%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:61.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.7%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="30%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:30.58%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="441" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="27" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="27" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="9" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="212" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Prepared by and after recording
return to:<br>
Bracewell &amp; Patterson, L.L.P.<br>
<sup>c</sup>/<sub>o</sub></font><font size="2" style="font-size:11.0pt;">  </font>Garrett B.
Spear-Smith<br>
711 Louisiana Street, Suite 2900<br>
Houston, Texas 77002</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">25</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=134,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=8130,FOLIO='25',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="25%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:25.06%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="81%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:81.6%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">STATE OF
  TEXAS</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.32%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#167;</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="81%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:81.6%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.32%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#167;</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="81%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:81.6%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">COUNTY OF</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="2%" valign="bottom" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:2.06%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="16%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:16.32%;">
  <p align="right" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:right;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&#167;</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">TEXAS</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This
instrument was acknowledged before me on March
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;, 2003 by
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
the&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;of
BRIGHAM, INC., a Nevada corporation, as general partner of BRIGHAM OIL &amp;
GAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, on behalf of such corporation,
acting as general partner of the limited partnership, on behalf of the limited
partnership.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="33%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:33.28%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="13%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:13.94%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notary
  Public in and for the</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">State of
  Texas</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notarial
  Seal:</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><u><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">OKLAHOMA</font></u></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Before me, a
Notary Public in and for said county and state, on this
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; day of
March, 2003, personally appeared
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;,
to me known to be the identical person who subscribed the name of the maker
thereof to the foregoing instrument as
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
of BRIGHAM, INC., a Nevada corporation, as general partner of BRIGHAM
OIL&nbsp;&amp; GAS, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, and acknowledged to
me that such person executed the same as such person&#146;s free and voluntary act
and deed, and as the free and voluntary act and deed of such corporation for
the uses and purposes therein set forth.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="33%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:33.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="13%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:13.98%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notary
  Public in and for the</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">State of
  Texas</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="52%" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:52.78%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="47%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in .7pt 0in .7pt;width:47.22%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Notarial
  Seal:</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">26</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=135,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=426537,FOLIO='26',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT A</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">TO</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">AMENDED AND RESTATED MORTGAGE, DEED OF TRUST,<br>
ASSIGNMENT OF PRODUCTION, SECURITY AGREEMENT, <br>
FIXTURE FILING, AND FINANCING STATEMENT</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This <u>Exhibit A</u> describes
the Hydrocarbon Property (as defined in the body of this instrument).&#160; This <u>Exhibit A</u> also sets forth a list
of certain of the wells located on the Hydrocarbon Property, together with
Mortgagor&#146;s representation as to the nature and quantum of Working Interest (as
defined below) and Net Revenue Interest (as defined below) owned by Mortgagor
with respect to those wells.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The designation &#147;Working
Interest&#148; or &#147;WI&#148; when used in this <u>Exhibit A</u> means the interest of Mortgagor
upon which is calculated Mortgagor&#146;s proportionate share of the costs,
expenses, and liabilities attributable to the oil, gas, and mineral leases
described herein.&#160; The designation &#147;Net
Revenue Interest&#148; or &#147;NRI&#148; or &#147;NRIO&#148; or &#147;NRIG&#148; when used in this <u>Exhibit A</u>
means the interest in the gross production of oil and gas and other minerals
from other properties subject to the oil, gas, and mineral leases to which
Mortgagor is entitled by virtue of its ownership of the Working Interest after
deducting all landowner royalties, overriding royalties, and similar interests
attributable to the Working Interest.&#160;
The designation &#147;Overriding Royalty Interest&#148; &#147;ORRI&#148; means an interest
in production which is free of any obligation for the expense of exploration,
development, and production, bearing only its pro rata share of severance,
production, and other similar taxes and, in instances where the document
creating the overriding royalty interest so provides, costs associated with
compression, dehydration, other treating or processing, or transportation of
production of oil, gas, or other minerals relating to the marketing of such
production.&#160; The designation &#147;Royalty
Interest&#148; or &#147;RI&#148; means an interest in production which results from an
ownership in the mineral fee estate or royalty estate in the relevant land and
which is free of any obligation for the expense of exploration, development,
and production, bearing only its pro rata share of severance,&#160; production, ad valorem, and other similar
taxes and, in instances where the document creating the royalty interest so
provides, costs associated with compression, dehydration, other treating or
processing or transportation of production of oil, gas, or other minerals
relating to the marketing of such production.&#160;
Each amount set forth as &#147;Working Interest&#148; or &#147;WI&#148; or &#147;Net Revenue
Interest&#148; or &#147;NRI&#148; or &#147;NRIO&#148; or &#147;NRIG&#148; is Mortgagor&#146;s minimum interest after
giving full effect to, among other things, all Permitted Liens (as defined in
the Credit Agreement).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Any reference in this <u>Exhibit
A</u> to wells or units is for warranty of interest, administrative
convenience, and identification and shall not limit or restrict the right,
title, interest, or properties covered by this Deed of Trust.&#160; All right, title, and interest of Mortgagor
in the properties described herein and in the Mortgaged Property (as defined in
the body of this instrument) is and shall be subject to this Mortgage,
regardless of the presence thereon of any interests, units, or wells not
described herein.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Unless otherwise expressly
provided, all recording references in this <u>Exhibit A</u> are references to
the official public records of real property in the county or counties (or
parish or parishes) in which the Mortgaged Property is located and in which
records documents relating to the Mortgaged Property are recorded, whether
Conveyance Records, Deed Records, Mortgage Records, Oil and Gas Records, Oil
and Gas Lease Records, or other records.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">27</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=136,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=313447,FOLIO='27',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">EXHIBIT G</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">FORM OF AMENDED
AND RESTATED PLEDGE AGREEMENT</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This Amended
and Restated Pledge Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (&#147;<u>Pledge Agreement</u>&#148;)
is between [Brigham Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation][Brigham, Inc.,
a Nevada corporation][Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership] (&#147;<u>Pledgor</u>&#148;), and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent
for the lenders party to the Credit Agreement described below (&#147;<u>Secured
Party</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">INTRODUCTION</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">A.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a
Delaware limited partnership (&#147;<u>Borrower</u>&#148;)] [Pledgor], the lenders party
thereto, and Bank of Montreal, as agent for such lenders (the &#147;<u>Existing
Agent</u>&#148;), were parties to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
dated February 17, 2000, as amended (the &#147;<u>Existing Credit Agreement</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">B.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; In order to secure the full and
punctual payment and performance of the obligations under the Existing Credit
Agreement and the other loan documents contemplated thereby, the Pledgor
executed and delivered the security instruments described on Schedule I attached
hereto (the &#147;<u>Existing Security Documents</u>&#148;) in favor of the Existing
Agent and has granted a continuing security interest in and to the Pledged
Collateral (as hereafter defined).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">C.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Secured Party has replaced the
Existing Agent as the administrative agent under the Existing Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">D.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [The Borrower] [Pledgor], [Brigham
Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation], [Brigham, Inc., a Nevada
corporation], the lenders named therein (the &#147;<u>Lenders</u>&#148;) and Secured
Party, as agent for the Lenders, have entered into the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (as amended, restated or
otherwise modified from time-to-time, the &#147;<u>Credit Agreement</u>&#148;), which,
among other things, amends and restates the Existing Credit Agreement in its
entirety.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[E.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Pledgor has guaranteed the
Obligations of Borrower under the Credit Agreement pursuant to Article VIII
thereof (the &#147;<u>Guaranty</u>&#148;).]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">F.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Under the Credit Agreement, it is a
condition to the making of Advances by the Lenders that [Pledgor][Borrower]
shall amend and restate the Existing Security Documents to secure its
[obligations under the Guaranty][Obligations under the Credit Agreement] by
entering into this Pledge Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Therefore,
Pledgor hereby agrees with Secured Party for its benefit and the ratable
benefit of the Lenders as follows:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Definitions</u>.&#160; All capitalized terms not otherwise defined
in this Pledge Agreement that are defined in the Credit Agreement shall have
the meaning assigned to such terms by the Credit Agreement.&#160; Any capitalized terms used in this Pledge
Agreement that are defined in Articles 8 or 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code as
adopted in the State of New York</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=137,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=277193,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(&#147;<u>UCC</u>&#148;) shall have the
meanings assigned to those terms by the UCC as of the date of this Pledge
Agreement, whether specified elsewhere in this Pledge Agreement or not.&#160; All other rules of interpretation set forth
in Section 1.05 of the Credit Agreement shall apply to this Pledge Agreement and
are hereby incorporated herein by reference.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Pledge</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Grant
of Pledge</u>.&#160; Pledgor hereby pledges
to Secured Party, and grants to Secured Party, for its benefit and the ratable
benefit of the Lenders, a continuing lien on and security interest in the
Pledged Collateral, as defined in Section 2(b) below.&#160; This Pledge Agreement shall secure all Obligations of Pledgor now
or hereafter existing under the Guaranty and the other Loan Documents to which
it is a party, including any extensions, modification, substitutions,
amendments, and renewals thereof, whether for principal, interest, fees,
expenses, indemnifications or otherwise, in each case including the payment of
amounts which would become due but for the operation of the automatic stay
under Section 362(a) of the United States Bankruptcy Code,
11&nbsp;U.S.C.&nbsp;&#167;&#167;&nbsp;101 <i><font style="font-style:italic;">et&nbsp;seq</font></i>.,
as amended.&#160; All such obligations shall
be referred to in this Pledge Agreement as the &#147;<u>Secured Obligations</u>&#148;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Pledged
Collateral</u>.&#160; &#147;Pledged Collateral&#148;
shall mean all of Pledgor&#146;s right, title, and interest in the following,
whether now owned or hereafter acquired:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all
of the membership interests listed in the attached Schedule II issued to
Pledgor (the &#147;<u>Membership Interests</u>&#148;), all such additional membership
interests of any issuer of such interests hereafter acquired by Pledgor, the
certificates representing the Membership Interests, if any, and all such
additional membership interests, all of Pledgor&#146;s rights, privileges,
authority, and powers as a member of the issuer of such Membership Interests
under the applicable [Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement][Limited
Liability Company Regulations] of such issuer and all rights to money or
Property which Pledgor now has or hereafter acquires in respect of the
Membership Interests,&#160; including,
without limitation, (A) any Proceeds from a sale by or on behalf of Pledgor of
any of the Membership Interests, and (B) any distributions, dividends, cash,
instruments and other Property from time-to-time received or otherwise
distributed in respect of the Membership Interests, whether regular, special or
made in connection with the partial or total liquidation of the issuer and
whether attributable to profits, the return of any contribution or investment
or otherwise attributable to the Membership Interests or the ownership thereof
other than distributions received by Pledgor in compliance with the Loan
Documents (collectively, the &#147;<u>Membership Interests distributions</u>&#148;);</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all
of the general and limited partnership interests listed in the attached
Schedule II issued to Pledgor (the &#147;<u>Partnership Interests</u>&#148;), all such
additional limited or general partnership interests of any issuer of such
Partnership Interests hereafter acquired by Pledgor, all of Pledgor&#146;s rights,
privileges, authority, and powers as a limited or general partner of the issuer
of such Partnership Interests under the applicable [Limited Partnership</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=138,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=558762,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Agreement][Partnership
Agreement] of such issuer, and all rights to money or Property which Pledgor
now has or hereafter acquires in respect of the Partnership Interests,&#160; including, without limitation, (A) any
Proceeds from a sale by or on behalf of Pledgor of any of the Partnership
Interests, and (B) any distributions, dividends, cash, instruments and other
Property from time-to-time received or otherwise distributed in respect of the
Partnership Interests, whether regular, special or made in connection with the
partial or total liquidation of the issuer and whether attributable to profits,
the return of any contribution or investment or otherwise attributable to the
Partnership Interests or the ownership thereof other than distributions
received by Pledgor in compliance with the Loan Documents (collectively, the &#147;<u>Partnership
Interest distributions</u>&#148;; together with the Membership Interest
distributions, the &#147;<u>distributions</u>&#148;); and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all
of the shares of stock listed in the attached Schedule II issued to Pledgor
(the &#147;Pledged Shares&#148;), all such additional shares of stock of any issuer of
such Pledged Shares hereafter issued to Pledgor, the certificates representing
the Pledged Shares and all such additional shares, all of Pledgor&#146;s rights,
privileges, authority, and powers as a shareholder of the issuer of such
Pledged Shares under the applicable [Articles][Certificate] of Incorporation
and Bylaws of such issuer and all rights to money or Property which Pledgor now
has or hereafter acquires in respect of the Pledged Shares, including, without
limitation, (A) any Proceeds from a sale by or on behalf of Pledgor of any of
the Pledged Shares, and (B) any distributions, dividends, cash, instruments and
other Property from time-to-time received or otherwise distributed in respect
of the Pledged Shares, whether regular, special or made in connection with the
partial or total liquidation of the issuer and whether attributable to profits,
the return of any contribution or investment or otherwise attributable to the
Pledged Shares or the ownership thereof other than distributions received by
Pledgor in compliance with the Loan Documents (collectively, the &#147;Pledged
Shares distributions&#148;; together with the Membership Interest distributions and
the Partnership Interest distributions, the &#147;distributions&#148;); and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; all
additions and accessions to, substitutions and replacements of, and all
products and proceeds from the Pledged Collateral described in paragraphs (i),
(ii) and (iii) of this Section 2(b).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Delivery
of Pledged Collateral</u>.&#160; All
certificates or instruments, if any, representing the Pledged Collateral shall
be delivered to Secured Party and shall be in suitable form for transfer by
delivery, or shall be accompanied by duly executed instruments of transfer or
assignment in blank, all in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to
Secured Party.&#160; After the occurrence and
during the continuance of an Event of Default, Secured Party shall have the
right, upon prior written notice to Pledgor, to transfer to or to register in
the name of Secured Party or any of its nominees any of the Pledged Collateral,
subject to the rights specified in Section 2(d).&#160; In addition, after the occurrence and during the continuance of
an Event of Default, Secured Party shall have the right at any time to exchange
the certificates or instruments representing the Pledged Collateral for
certificates or instruments of smaller or larger denominations.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=139,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=102409,FOLIO='3',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Rights
Retained by Pledgor</u>.&#160;
Notwithstanding the pledge in Section 2(a), so long as no Event of
Default shall have occurred and remain uncured:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; and,
if an Event of Default shall have occurred and remain uncured, until such time
thereafter as such voting and other consensual rights have been terminated
pursuant to Section 5 hereof, Pledgor shall be entitled to exercise any voting
and other consensual rights pertaining to the Pledged Collateral for any
purpose not inconsistent with the terms of this Pledge Agreement or the Credit
Agreement; provided, however, that Pledgor shall not exercise or shall refrain
from exercising any such right if such action would have a materially adverse
effect on the value of the Pledged Collateral;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; except
as otherwise provided in the Credit Agreement, Pledgor shall be entitled to
receive and retain any dividends and other distributions paid on or in respect
of the Pledged Collateral and the Proceeds of any sale of the Pledged
Collateral and all payments of principal and interest on loans and advances
made by Pledgor to the issuer of the Pledged Collateral; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; at
and after such time as voting and other consensual rights have been terminated
pursuant to Section 5 hereof, Pledgor shall execute and deliver (or cause to be
executed and delivered) to Secured Party all proxies and other instruments as
Secured Party may reasonably request to (A) enable Secured Party to exercise
the voting and other rights which Pledgor is entitled to exercise pursuant to
subsection (i) of this Section 2(d), and (B) to receive the dividends or other
distributions and Proceeds of sale of the Pledged Collateral and payments of
principal and interest which Pledgor is authorized to receive and retain
pursuant to paragraph (ii) of this Section 2(d).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Pledgor&#146;s
Representations and Warranties</u>.&#160;
Pledgor represents and warrants to Secured Party and the Lenders as follows:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The
Pledged Collateral listed on the attached Schedule II has been duly authorized
and validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Pledgor
is the legal and beneficial owner of the Pledged Collateral free and clear of
any Lien or option, except for (i) the security interest created by this Pledge
Agreement and (ii) other Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; No
authorization, authentication, approval, or other action by, and no notice to
or filing with, any Governmental Authority or regulatory body is required
either (i) for the pledge by Pledgor of the Pledged Collateral pursuant to this
Pledge Agreement or for the execution, delivery, or performance of this Pledge
Agreement by Pledgor (except to the extent that financing statements are
required under the UCC to be filed in order to maintain a perfected security
interest) or (ii) for the exercise by Secured Party or any Lender of the voting
or other rights provided for in this Pledge Agreement or the remedies in
respect of the Pledged Collateral pursuant to this Pledge Agreement (except</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=140,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=135778,FOLIO='4',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">as may be required in connection with such disposition by laws
affecting the offering and sale of securities generally).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Pledgor
has the full right, power and authority to deliver, pledge, assign and transfer
the Pledged Collateral to Secured Party.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [The
[Membership Interests][Partnership Interests] listed on the attached Schedule
II constitute [100][1]% of the issued and outstanding [membership][general partnership]
interests of the respective issuer thereof and all [Membership
Interests][Partnership Interests] in which Pledgor has any ownership
interest.][The Pledged Shares listed on the attached Schedule II constitute
100% of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the respective
issuer thereof and of the Pledged Shares in which Pledgor has any ownership
interests.]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The
name of Pledgor set forth in the first paragraph of this Pledge Agreement is
the exact legal name of Pledgor.&#160; The
legal address of Pledgor and the address of its principal place of business and
chief executive office is 6300 Bridge Point Parkway, Building 2, Suite 500, Austin, Texas 78730.&#160; Pledgor keeps all records and documents
relating to the Pledged Collateral at such address or with Nevada Corporate
Management, Inc., 3773 Howard Hughes Parkway, Suite 300, North Las Vegas,
Nevada 89109.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Pledgor&#146;s
Covenants</u>.&#160; During the term of this
Pledge Agreement and until all of the Secured Obligations have been fully and finally
paid and discharged in full, Pledgor covenants and agrees with Secured Party
that:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Protect
Collateral; Further Assurances</u>.&#160;
Pledgor will warrant and defend the rights and title herein granted unto
Secured Party in and to the Pledged Collateral (and all right, title, and
interest represented by the Pledged Collateral) against the claims and demands
of all Persons whomsoever.&#160; Pledgor
agrees that, at the expense of Pledgor, Pledgor will promptly execute and
deliver all further instruments and documents, and take all further action,
that may be reasonably necessary and that Secured Party or any Lender may
reasonably request, in order to perfect and protect any security interest
granted or purported to be granted hereby or to enable Secured Party or any
Lender to exercise and enforce its rights and remedies hereunder with respect
to any Pledged Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Transfer,
Other Liens, and Additional Shares</u>.&#160;
Pledgor agrees that it will not (i) sell or otherwise dispose of, or
grant any option with respect to, any of the Pledged Collateral or (ii) create
or permit to exist any Lien upon or with respect to any of the Pledged
Collateral, except for (A) the Liens and security interest under this Pledge
Agreement and (B) other Permitted Liens.&#160;
Pledgor agrees that it will (1) cause each issuer of the Pledged
Collateral not to issue any other membership interests, partnership interests,
capital stock or other securities in addition to or in substitution for the
Pledged Collateral issued by such issuer, except to Pledgor and (2) pledge
hereunder, immediately upon its acquisition (directly or indirectly) thereof,
any additional membership interests, partnership interests, capital stock or
other securities of an issuer of the Pledged</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">5</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=141,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=515450,FOLIO='5',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Collateral.&#160; Pledgor shall not
approve any amendment or modification of any of the Pledged Collateral unless
it shall have given at least ten Business Days&#146; prior written notice (or such
lesser period as may be agreed by Secured Party in writing) to, and such
amendment or modification would not be materially adverse to the interests of
the Lenders.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Jurisdiction
of Formation; Name Change</u>.&#160; Pledgor
shall not (i) amend, supplement, modify or restate its articles or certificate
of incorporation, bylaws, limited liability company agreements, or other
equivalent organizational documents if such amendment, supplement, modification
or restatement would be materially adverse to the interests of the Lenders, or
(ii) unless the Pledgor shall have given Secured Party at least ten Business
Days&#146; prior written notice (or such lesser period as may be agreed by Secured
Party in writing), amend its name or change its jurisdiction of incorporation,
organization or formation.&#160; Promptly
upon the request of Secured Party, Pledgor shall take all such action as
Secured Party shall reasonably request to maintain the security interest of
Secured Party in the Pledged Collateral granted hereby at all time fully
perfected and in full force and effect.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Remedies
upon Default</u>.&#160; If any Event of
Default shall have occurred and be continuing:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>UCC
Remedies</u>.&#160; To the extent permitted
by law, Secured Party may exercise in respect of the Pledged Collateral, in
addition to other rights and remedies provided for in this Pledge Agreement or
otherwise available to it, all the rights and remedies of a secured party under
the UCC (whether or not the UCC applies to the affected Pledged
Collateral).&#160; This Pledge Agreement shall
not be construed to authorize the Secured Party to take any action prohibited
by the UCC or to constitute a waiver by the Pledgor of any right that the UCC
does not permit the Pledgor to waive.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Dividends
and Other Rights</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All
rights of Pledgor to exercise the voting and other consensual rights which it
would otherwise be entitled to exercise pursuant to Section 2(d)(i) may be
exercised by Secured Party if Secured Party so elects and gives written notice
of such election to Pledgor and all rights of Pledgor to receive the dividends and
other distributions on or in respect of the Pledged Collateral and the proceeds
of sale of the Pledged Collateral which it would otherwise be authorized to
receive and retain pursuant to Section 2(d)(ii) shall cease at such time as
such written notice is deemed effective pursuant to the provisions of the
Credit Agreement related to effectiveness of notices.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; All
dividends and other distributions on or in respect of the Pledged Collateral
and the proceeds of sale of the Pledged Collateral that are thereafter received
by Pledgor shall be received in trust for the benefit of Secured Party, shall
be segregated from other funds of Pledgor, and shall be promptly paid over to
Secured Party as Pledged Collateral in the same form as so received (with any necessary
indorsement).</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">6</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=142,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=508348,FOLIO='6',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Sale
of Pledged Collateral</u>. Secured Party may sell all or part of the Pledged
Collateral at public or private sale, at any of Secured Party&#146;s offices or
elsewhere, for cash, on credit, or for future delivery, and upon such other
terms as Secured Party may deem commercially reasonable in accordance with
applicable laws.&#160; Pledgor agrees that to
the extent permitted by law such sales may be made without notice.&#160; If notice is required by law, Pledgor hereby
deems 10 days&#146; advance notice of the time and place of any public sale or the
time after which any private sale is to be made reasonable notification,
recognizing that if the Pledged Collateral threatens to decline speedily in value
or is of a type customarily sold on a recognized market shorter notice may be
reasonable.&#160; Secured Party shall not be
obligated to make any sale of the Pledged Collateral regardless of notice of
sale having been given.&#160; Secured Party
may adjourn any public or private sale from time-to-time by announcement at the
time and place fixed therefor, and such sale may, without further notice, be
made at the time and place to which it was so adjourned.&#160; Pledgor shall cooperate fully with Secured
Party in all respects in selling or realizing upon all or any part of the
Pledged Collateral.&#160; In addition,
Pledgor shall fully comply with the securities laws of the United States, the
State of [Delaware][Nevada], and other states and take such actions as may be
necessary to permit Secured Party to sell or otherwise dispose of any
securities representing the Pledged Collateral in compliance with such laws.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Exempt
Sale</u>.&#160; If, in the opinion of Secured
Party, there is any question that a public or semipublic sale or distribution
of any Pledged Collateral will violate any state or federal securities law,
Secured Party in its discretion (i) may offer and sell securities privately to
purchasers who will agree to take them for investment purposes and not with a
view to distribution and who will agree to imposition of restrictive legends on
the certificates representing the security, or (ii) may sell such securities in
an intrastate offering under Section 3(a)(11) of the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, and no sale so made in good faith by Secured Party shall be deemed to
be not &#147;commercially reasonable&#148; solely because so made.&#160; Pledgor shall cooperate fully with Secured
Party in all reasonable respects in selling or realizing upon all or any part
of the Pledged Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Application
of Collateral</u>. The proceeds of any sale, or other realization upon all or
any part of the Collateral pledged by Pledgor shall be applied by Secured Party
as set forth in Section 7.06 of the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Cumulative
Remedies</u>.&#160; Each right, power and
remedy herein specifically granted to Secured Party or otherwise available to
it shall be cumulative, and shall be in addition to every other right, power
and remedy herein specifically given or now or hereafter existing at law, in
equity, or otherwise, and each such right, power and remedy, whether
specifically granted herein or otherwise existing, may be exercised at any time
and from time-to-time as often and in such order as may be deemed expedient by
Secured Party in its sole discretion.&#160;
No failure on the part of Secured Party to exercise, and no delay in
exercising, and no course of dealing with respect to, any such right, power or
remedy, shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial
exercise of any such rights, power or remedy preclude any other or further
exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">7</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=143,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=135299,FOLIO='7',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured
Party as Attorney-in-Fact for Pledgor</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured
Party Appointed Attorney-in-Fact</u>.&#160; Pledgor
hereby irrevocably appoints Secured Party as Pledgor&#146;s attorney-in-fact, with
full authority after the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of
Default to act for Pledgor and in the name of Pledgor, and, in Secured Party&#146;s
discretion, subject to Pledgor&#146;s revocable rights specified in Section 2(d), to
take any action and to execute any instrument which Secured Party may deem
necessary or advisable to accomplish the purposes of this Pledge Agreement,
including, without limitation, to receive, indorse, and collect all instruments
made payable to Pledgor representing the proceeds of the sale of the Pledged
Collateral, or any distribution in respect of the Pledged Collateral and to
give full discharge for the same.&#160;
Pledgor hereby acknowledges, consents and agrees that the power of
attorney granted pursuant to this Section is irrevocable and coupled with an
interest.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured
Party May Perform</u>. Secured Party may from time-to-time, at its option and
expense, perform any act which Pledgor agrees hereunder to perform and which
Pledgor shall fail to perform after being requested in writing so to perform
(it being understood that no such request need be given after the occurrence
and during the continuance of any Event of Default and after notice thereof by
Secured Party to Pledgor) and Secured Party may from time-to-time take any
other action which Secured Party reasonably deems necessary for the
maintenance, preservation or protection of any of the Pledged Collateral or of
its security interest therein.&#160; Secured
Party shall be obligated to provide notice to Pledgor of any action taken
hereunder by telecopy or by registered mail.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured
Party Has No Duty</u>.&#160; The powers
conferred on Secured Party hereunder are solely to protect its interest in the
Pledged Collateral and shall not impose any duty on it to exercise any such
powers.&#160; Except for reasonable care of
any Pledged Collateral in its possession and the accounting for moneys actually
received by it hereunder, Secured Party shall have no duty as to any Pledged
Collateral or responsibility for taking any necessary steps to preserve rights
against prior parties or any other rights pertaining to any Pledged Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reasonable
Care</u>.&#160; Secured Party shall be deemed
to have exercised reasonable care in the custody and preservation of the
Pledged Collateral in its possession if the Pledged Collateral is accorded
treatment substantially equal to that which Secured Party accords its own
property, it being understood that Secured Party shall have no responsibility
for (i) ascertaining or taking action with respect to calls, conversions,
exchanges, maturities, tenders, or other matters relative to any Pledged
Collateral, whether or not Secured Party has or is deemed to have knowledge of
such matters, or (ii) taking any necessary steps to preserve rights against any
parties with respect to any Pledged Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Miscellaneous</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Expenses</u>.&#160; Pledgor will upon demand pay to Secured
Party for its benefit and the benefit of the Lenders the amount of any
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">8</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=144,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=744272,FOLIO='8',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">including the reasonable fees and disbursements of its counsel and of
any experts, which Secured Party and the Lenders may incur in connection with
(i) the custody, preservation, use, or operation of, or the sale, collection,
or other realization of, any of the Pledged Collateral, (ii) the exercise or
enforcement of any of the rights of Secured Party or any Lender hereunder, and
(iii) the failure by Pledgor to perform or observe any of the provisions
hereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendments,
Etc</u>.&#160; No amendment or waiver of any
provision of this Pledge Agreement nor consent to any departure by Pledgor
herefrom shall be effective unless made in writing and authenticated by Pledgor
and Secured Party.&#160; In addition, no such
amendment or waiver shall be effective unless given or entered into with the
necessary approvals of the Lenders as required in the Credit Agreement.&#160; Any such waiver or consent, whether by
Secured Party or Secured Party and the Lenders shall be effective only in the
specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Addresses
for Notices</u>.&#160; All notices and other
communications provided for hereunder shall be in the manner and to the
addresses set forth in the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Continuing
Security Interest; Transfer of Interest</u>.&#160;
This Pledge Agreement shall create a continuing security interest in the
Pledged Collateral and, unless expressly released by Secured Party, shall (i)
remain in full force and effect until payment in full and termination of the
Secured Obligations, (ii) be binding upon Pledgor, Secured Party, the Lenders
and their successors, and assigns, and (iii) inure, together with the rights
and remedies of Secured Party hereunder, to the benefit of and be binding upon,
Secured Party, the Lenders and their respective successors, transferees, and
assigns.&#160; Upon the payment in full and
termination of the Secured Obligations, the security interest granted hereby
shall terminate and all rights to the Pledged Collateral shall revert to
Pledgor to the extent such Pledged Collateral shall not have been sold or
otherwise applied pursuant to the terms hereof.&#160; Without limiting the generality of the foregoing clause, when any
Lender assigns or otherwise transfers any interest held by it under the Credit
Agreement or other Loan Document to any other Person pursuant to the terms of
the Credit Agreement or other Loan Document, that other Person shall thereupon
become vested with all the benefits held by such Lender under this Pledge
Agreement.&#160; Upon any such termination,
Secured Party will, at Pledgor&#146;s expense, deliver all Pledged Collateral to
Pledgor, execute and deliver to Pledgor such documents as Pledgor shall
reasonably request and take any other actions reasonably requested to evidence
or effect such termination.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Waivers</u>.&#160; Pledgor hereby waives:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; promptness,
diligence, notice of acceptance, and any other notice with respect to any of
the Secured Obligations and this Pledge Agreement;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any
requirement that Secured Party or any Lender protect, secure, perfect, or
insure any Lien or any Property subject thereto or exhaust any right or</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">9</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=145,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=613121,FOLIO='9',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">take any action against Pledgor, any other Guarantor, Borrower or any
other Person or any collateral; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; any
duty on the part of Secured Party to disclose to Pledgor any matter, fact, or
thing relating to the business, operation, or condition of Pledgor, any other
Guarantor, Borrower and their respective assets now known or hereafter known by
such Person.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Severability</u>.&#160; Wherever possible each provision of this
Pledge Agreement shall be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and
valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Pledge Agreement shall
be prohibited by or invalid under such law, such provision shall be ineffective
to the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without invalidating the
remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Pledge Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Choice
of Law</u>.&#160; This Pledge Agreement shall
be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the
state of New York, except to the extent that the validity or perfection of the
security interests hereunder, or remedies hereunder, in respect of any
particular Collateral are governed by the laws of a jurisdiction other than the
state of New York.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(h)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Counterparts</u>.&#160; For the convenience of the parties, this
Pledge Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which for
all purposes shall be deemed to be an original, and all such counterparts shall
together constitute but one and the same Pledge Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reinstatement</u>.&#160; If, at any time after payment in full by
Pledgor of all Secured Obligations and termination of Secured Party&#146;s security
interest, any payments on the Secured Obligations previously made by Pledgor or
any other person must be disgorged by Secured Party for any reason whatsoever,
including, without limitation, the insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of
Pledgor or such Person, this Pledge Agreement and Secured Party&#146;s security
interests herein shall be reinstated as to all disgorged payments as though
such payments had not been made, and Pledgor shall sign and deliver to Secured
Party all documents, and shall do such other acts and things, as may be
necessary to reinstate and perfect Secured Party&#146;s security interest.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(j)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendment
and Restatement</u>.&#160; This Pledge
Agreement amends and restates in its entirety the Existing Security Documents,
and all of the terms hereof shall supersede the terms and provisions
thereof.&#160; This Pledge Agreement renews
and extends all Liens existing by virtue of the Existing Security Documents,
but the terms, provisions and conditions of such Liens shall hereafter be
governed in all respects by this Pledge Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">10</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=146,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=544993,FOLIO='10',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Executed as of
the date first above written.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.68%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM, INC.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.68%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">BRIGHAM OIL &amp; GAS, L.P.</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bringham, Inc., its General
  Partner</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.68%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SOCIETE GENERALE, as Administrative Agent</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="42%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:42.62%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="38%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:38.64%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.66%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="57%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:57.38%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.94%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.68%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="414" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="29" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="264" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=147,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=390122,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">SCHEDULE I</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">EXISTING
SECURITY DOCUMENTS</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=148,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=199952,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;text-transform:uppercase;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">SCHEDULE II</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;text-transform:uppercase;">PLEDGED
COLLATERAL</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=149,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=51115,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXHIBIT H</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">FORM OF AMENDED AND RESTATED SECURITY
AGREEMENT</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">This Amended
and Restated Security Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (&#147;<u>Security
Agreement</u>&#148;) is by and between [Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a Delaware
limited partnership][insert name and jurisdiction of formation of subsidiary of
other grantor] (&#147;Grantor&#148;), and Soci&#233;t&#233; G&#233;n&#233;rale, as administrative agent for
the Lenders party to the Credit Agreement described below (&#147;<u>Secured Party</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">INTRODUCTION</font></b></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">A.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [Brigham Oil &amp; Gas, L.P., a
Delaware limited partnership (&#147;<u>Borrower</u>&#148;)] [Grantor], the lenders party
thereto, and Bank of Montreal, as agent for such lenders (the &#147;<u>Existing
Agent</u>&#148;), were parties to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
dated February 17, 2000, as amended (the &#147;<u>Existing Credit Agreement</u>&#148;).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">B.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; In order to secure the full and
punctual payment and performance of the obligations under the Existing Credit
Agreement and the other loan documents contemplated thereby, the Grantor
executed and delivered the security instruments described on Schedule I
attached hereto (the &#147;<u>Existing Security Documents</u>&#148;) in favor of the
Existing Agent and has granted a continuing security interest in and to the
Collateral (as hereafter defined).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">C.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; The Secured Party has replaced the
Existing Agent as the administrative agent under the Existing Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">D.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; [The Borrower] [Grantor], [Brigham
Exploration Company, a Delaware corporation], [Brigham, Inc., a Nevada
corporation], the lenders named therein (the &#147;<u>Lenders</u>&#148;) and Secured
Party, as agent for the Lenders, have entered into the Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement dated as of March 21, 2003 (as amended, restated or
otherwise modified from time-to-time, the &#147;<u>Credit Agreement</u>&#148;), which,
among other things, amends and restates the Existing Credit Agreement in its
entirety.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[E.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Grantor has guaranteed the
Obligations of Borrower under the Credit Agreement pursuant to Article VIII
thereof (the &#147;<u>Guaranty</u>&#148;).]</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">F.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Under the Credit Agreement, it is a
condition to the making of Advances by the Lenders that [Grantor][Borrower]
shall amend and restate the Existing Security Documents to secure its
[obligations under the Guaranty][Obligations under the Credit Agreement] by
entering into this Pledge Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Therefore,
Grantor hereby agrees with Secured Party for its benefit and the ratable
benefit of the Lenders as follows:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 1.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Definitions</u>.&#160; All capitalized terms not otherwise defined
in this Security Agreement that are defined in the Credit Agreement shall have
the meaning assigned to such terms by the Credit Agreement.&#160; Any capitalized terms used in this Security
Agreement that are defined in Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code as
adopted in the State of New York</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=150,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=363157,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(&#147;<u>UCC</u>&#148;) shall have the
meanings assigned to those terms by the UCC as of the date of this Security
Agreement, whether specified elsewhere in this Security Agreement or not.&#160; All other rules of interpretation set forth
in Section 1.05 of the Credit Agreement shall apply to this Pledge Agreement
and are hereby incorporated herein by reference.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 2.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Security Interest</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Grant of Security
Interest</u>.&#160; Grantor hereby grants to
Secured Party for its benefit and the ratable benefit of the Lenders a lien on
and security interest in the Collateral (as defined in Section 2(b) below) to
secure the performance and payment of all Obligations of Grantor now or
hereafter existing under the [Credit Agreement, the Notes][the Guaranty] and
the other Loan Documents to which it is a party, including any extensions,
modifications, substitutions, amendments and renewals thereof, whether for
principal, interest, fees, expenses, indemnification, or otherwise, in each
case including the payment of amounts which would become due but for the
operation of the automatic stay under Section 362(a) of the United States
Bankruptcy Code, 11&nbsp;U.S.C.&nbsp;&#167;&#167;&nbsp;101 <i><font style="font-style:italic;">et&nbsp;seq</font></i>., as amended..&#160;
All such obligations shall be referred to in this Security Agreement as
the &#147;<u>Secured Obligations</u>&#148;.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.5in;text-indent:-.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Collateral.</u>&#160; &#147;Collateral&#148; shall mean all of Grantor&#146;s
right, title, and interest in the following, whether now owned or hereafter
acquired:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Accounts</u>.&#160; All Accounts and all other rights to payment
owing or to be owing to Grantor, including all Instruments, Documents and
Chattel Paper that represent any right of Grantor to payment for Property sold
or leased or for services rendered, whether or not it has been earned by
performance (all such Accounts, Instruments, Documents and Chattel Paper being
the &#147;<u>Receivables</u>&#148;);</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Equipment</u>.&#160; All Equipment, and all parts thereof and all
accessions and additions thereto;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>General
Intangibles</u>.&#160; All General
Intangibles or contract rights relating to, or existing in connection with, the
other Collateral (all such General Intangibles and contract rights being the &#147;<u>General
Intangibles</u>&#148;);</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Inventory</u>.&#160; All Inventory, including, without
limitation, all Goods, whether such Goods are in possession of Grantor or of a
bailee or other Person for sale, lease, storage, transit, processing, use or
otherwise;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Records</u>.&#160; All ledger sheets, files, Records, and
documents relating to the foregoing Collateral; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(vi)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Proceeds</u>.&#160; All Proceeds of the foregoing Collateral
and, to the extent not otherwise included, all payments under any insurance,
indemnity, warranty, or guaranty of or for the foregoing Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 3.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Representations and Warranties</u>.&#160; Grantor hereby represents and warrants the
following to Secured Party and the Lenders:</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">2</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=151,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=382296,FOLIO='2',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Ownership of
Collateral; Liens</u>.&#160; Grantor is, and
will be the record and beneficial owner of all Collateral pledged by Grantor
free and clear of any Lien, except for Liens created hereby or other Permitted
Liens.&#160; No effective financing statement
or other instrument similar in effect covering all or any part of the
Collateral is, or will be on file in any recording office, except such as may
be filed in connection with this Security Agreement or in connection with other
Permitted Liens or for which satisfactory releases have been received by
Secured Party.&#160; The execution, delivery
and performance by Grantor of this Security Agreement and the grant of the
security interest in the Collateral to Secured Party are within Grantor&#146;s powers
and have been duly authorized by all necessary governing action.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Authorization and
Approvals</u>.&#160; No consent, order,
authorization, or approval or other action by, and no notice to or filing with,
any Governmental Authority (other than the filing of financing statements) or
any other Person is required for (i) the due execution, delivery and
performance by Grantor of this Security Agreement, (ii) the grant by Grantor of
the security interest in the Collateral granted by this Security Agreement,
(iii) the perfection of such security interest or (iv) the exercise by Secured
Party or any Lender of its rights and remedies under this Security Agreement
(except as may be required in connection with such disposition by laws
affecting the offering and sale of securities generally).</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Lien Priority and
Perfection</u>.&#160; On the Closing Date
this Security Agreement will create valid and continuing security interests in
the Collateral, securing the payment of the Secured Obligations.&#160; Upon the filing of financing statements in
the office(s) set forth on Schedule II attached hereto, the security interests
granted to Secured Party hereunder will constitute valid first-priority
perfected security interests in all Collateral with respect to which a security
interest can be perfected by the filing of a financing statement, subject only
to Permitted Liens.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Legal Name;
Address; Location of Records</u>.&#160; The
name of Grantor set forth in the first paragraph of this Security Agreement is
the exact legal name of Grantor.&#160; The
legal address of Grantor and the address of Grantor&#146;s principal place of
business and chief executive office is 6300 Bridge Point Parkway, Building 2,
Suite 500, Austin, Texas 78730.&#160; Grantor
keeps all records and documents relating to the Collateral at such address.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 4.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Grantor Covenants</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Further
Assurances</u>.&#160; Grantor agrees that at
any time, at Grantor&#146;s expense, Grantor will promptly execute and deliver all
further instruments and documents, and take all further action, that may be
reasonably necessary or that Secured Party or any Lender may reasonably
request, in order to perfect and protect any security interest granted or
purported to be granted hereby or to enable Secured Party or any Lender to
exercise and enforce its rights and remedies hereunder with respect to any
Collateral.&#160; Without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, Grantor will at Secured Party&#146;s request:</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">3</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=152,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=439160,FOLIO='3',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; with respect to any
of the Collateral that is evidenced by a promissory note or other Instrument or
by Chattel Paper and if, in the case of any such instrument, its value exceeds
$100,000, deliver and pledge to the Administrative Agent such note, Instrument
or Chattel Paper, duly indorsed and accompanied by duly executed instruments of
transfer or assignment, all in form and substance satisfactory to the
Administrative Agent; and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; file (or authorize
the filing of) such financing or continuation statements, or amendments
thereto, and such other instruments or notices as may be reasonably necessary,
or as Secured Party may reasonably request, in order to perfect and preserve
the security interests granted or purported to be granted hereby.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Insurance.</u></font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Grantor shall, at
its own expense, maintain, or cause to be maintained, insurance with respect to
the Collateral owned by Grantor in such amounts, against such risks, in such
form, and with such insurers, as the Credit Agreement requires.&#160; Further, Grantor shall deliver certificates
of insurance as the Credit Agreement requires.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; During the
continuance of any Event of Default, all loss casualty insurance payments in
respect to such Collateral shall be paid to and applied by Secured Party as
specified in the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Jurisdiction of
Formation; Name Change</u>.&#160; Grantor
shall not (i) amend, supplement, modify or restate its articles or certificate
of incorporation, bylaws, limited liability company agreements, or other
equivalent organizational documents if such amendment, supplement, modification
or restatement would be materially adverse to the interests of the Lenders, or
(ii) unless the Grantor shall have given Secured Party at least ten Business
Days&#146; prior written notice (or such lesser period as may be agreed by Secured
Party in writing), amend its name or change its jurisdiction of incorporation,
organization or formation.&#160; Promptly
upon the request of Secured Party, Grantor shall take all such action as
Secured Party shall reasonably request to maintain the security interest of
Secured Party in the Collateral granted hereby at all time fully perfected and
in full force and effect.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Right of
Inspection</u>.&#160; Grantor will hold and
preserve, at its own cost and expense satisfactory and complete records of the
Collateral, including, but not limited to, Instruments, Documents, Chattel
Paper, contracts, and Records with respect to the Receivables.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Liability Under
Contracts and Receivables</u>.&#160;
Notwithstanding anything in this Security Agreement to the contrary,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the execution of
this Security Agreement shall not release Grantor from its obligations and
duties under the contracts and agreements and Receivables included in the
Collateral to the extent set forth therein,</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">4</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=153,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=919751,FOLIO='4',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the exercise by
Secured Party of any of its rights hereunder shall not release Grantor from any
of its duties or obligations under the contracts and agreements and the
Receivables included in the Collateral, and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Secured Party shall
not have any obligation or liability under the contracts and agreements and the
Receivables included in the Collateral by reason of the execution and delivery
of this Security Agreement, nor shall Secured Party be obligated to perform any
of the obligations or duties of Grantor thereunder or to take any action to
collect or enforce any claim for payment assigned hereunder.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Transfer of
Certain Collateral; Release of Certain Security Interest</u>.&#160; Grantor agrees that it shall not sell,
assign, or otherwise dispose of any Collateral except as otherwise permitted
under the Credit Agreement. &#160;Secured
Party shall promptly, at Grantor&#146;s expense, execute and deliver all further
instruments and documents, and take all further action that Grantor may
reasonably request in order to release its security interest in any Collateral
that is disposed of in accordance with the terms of the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Receivables</u>.&#160; Grantor agrees that it will use commercially
reasonable efforts to ensure that each Receivable:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; is and will be, in
all material respects, the genuine, legal, valid, and binding obligations of
the Account Debtor in respect thereof, representing an unsatisfied obligation
of such Account Debtor (except to the extent compromised or settled in the
ordinary course of business),</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; is and will be, in
all material respects, enforceable in accordance with its terms, is not and
will not be subject to any setoffs, defenses, taxes, counterclaims, except in
the ordinary course of business,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; is and will be, in
all material respects, in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements, whether
federal, state, local or foreign, and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; that if evidenced by
Chattel Paper, will not require the consent of the account debtor in respect
thereof in connection with its assignment hereunder.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 5.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Remedies</u>.&#160; If any Event of Default shall have occurred
and be continuing:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>UCC Remedies</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; To the extent
permitted by law, Secured Party may exercise in respect of the Collateral, in
addition to other rights and remedies provided for in this Security Agreement
or otherwise available to it, all the rights and remedies of a secured party
under the UCC (whether or not the UCC applies to the affected Collateral).&#160; This Security Agreement shall not be
construed to authorize the Secured Party to take any action prohibited by the
UCC or to constitute a waiver by the Grantor of any right that the UCC does not
permit the Grantor to waive.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">5</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=154,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=683216,FOLIO='5',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Upon written notice
to Grantor, all payments received by Grantor under or in connection with or in
respect of the Collateral shall be deposited with Secured Party.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Assembly of
Collateral</u>.&#160; Secured Party may, in
its reasonable discretion, require Grantor to, at Grantor&#146;s expense, promptly
assemble all or part of the Collateral in such locations as Grantor and Secured
Party may agree at such time and that is reasonably convenient to both parties,
and make it available to Secured Party at such locations.&#160; Secured Party may occupy any premises owned
or leased by Grantor where the Collateral or any part thereof is assembled for
a reasonable period in order to effectuate its rights and remedies hereunder or
under law, without obligation to Grantor in respect of such occupation.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Sale of
Collateral</u>.&#160; Secured Party may sell
all or part of the Collateral at a public or private sale, at any of Secured
Party&#146;s offices or elsewhere, for cash, on credit, or for future delivery, and
upon such other terms as Secured Party may deem commercially reasonable.&#160; Secured Party shall give Grantor 10 days
advance notice of the time and place of any public sale or the time after which
any private sale is to be made reasonable notification, recognizing that if the
Collateral is perishable or threatens to decline speedily in value or is of a
type customarily sold on a recognized market shorter notice may be
reasonable.&#160; Secured Party shall not be
obligated to make any sale of Collateral regardless of notice of sale having
been given.&#160; Secured Party may adjourn
any public or private sale from time to time by announcement at the time and
place fixed therefor, and such sale may, without further notice, be made at the
time and place to which it was so adjourned.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Contract Rights</u>.&#160; Secured Party may exercise any rights and
remedies of Grantor under or in connection with the Instruments, Documents,
Chattel Paper, or contracts which represent Receivables, the General
Intangibles, or otherwise relate to the Collateral, including, without
limitation, any rights of Grantor to demand or otherwise require payment of any
amount under, or performance of any provisions of, the Instruments, Documents,
Chattel Paper, or contracts which represent Receivables or the General
Intangibles.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Receivables</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; Secured Party may,
or may direct Grantor to, take any action Secured Party deems necessary or
advisable to enforce collection of the Receivables including, without
limitation, notifying the Account Debtors or obligors under any Receivables of
the assignment of such Receivables to Secured Party and directing such Account
Debtors or obligors to make payment of all amounts due or to become due
directly to Secured Party.&#160; Upon such
notification and direction, and at the expense of Grantor, Secured Party may
enforce collection of any such Receivables, and adjust, settle, or compromise
the amount or payment thereof in the same manner and to the same extent as
Grantor might have done.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">6</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=155,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=832241,FOLIO='6',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; After receipt by
Grantor of the notice referred to in subparagraph (i) above, all amounts and
Proceeds (including Instruments) received by Grantor in respect of the
Receivables shall be received in trust for the benefit of Secured Party
hereunder, shall be segregated from other funds of Grantor, and shall promptly
be paid over to Secured Party in the same form as so received (with any
necessary indorsement) to be held as Collateral.&#160; Grantor shall not adjust, settle, or compromise the amount or
payment of any Receivable, or release wholly or partly any Account Debtor or
obligor thereof, or allow any credit or discount thereon other than in the
ordinary course of business and consistent with past practices.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 6.</font><font size="1" style="font-size:8.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><u>Application of
Collateral</u>.&#160; The proceeds of any
sale, or other realization upon all or any part of the Collateral pledged by
Grantor shall be applied by Secured Party in the order set forth in Section
7.06 of the Credit Agreement.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 7.</font><font size="1" style="font-size:8.0pt;">&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; </font><u>Secured Party as
Attorney-in-Fact for Grantor</u>.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Attorney-In-Fact</u>.&#160; Grantor hereby irrevocably appoints Secured
Party as Grantor&#146;s attorney-in-fact, with full authority after the occurrence
and during the continuance of an Event of Default to act for Grantor and in the
name of Grantor to, in Secured Party&#146;s discretion:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; file one or more
financing or continuation statements, and amendments thereto, relative to all or
any part of the Collateral;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; to obtain and
adjust insurance as required pursuant to Section 5.02 of the Credit Agreement
to the extent Grantor has failed to provide such insurance;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; to receive,
indorse, and collect any drafts or other Instruments, Documents, and Chattel
Paper which are part of the Collateral pledged by Grantor;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iv)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; to take or cause to
be taken, all actions necessary to perform or comply or cause performance or
compliance with the terms of this Security Agreement, including, without
limitation, actions to pay or discharge taxes and Liens levied or placed on or
threatened against the Collateral;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(v)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; to ask, demand,
collect, sue for, recover, compromise, receive, and give acquittance and
receipts for moneys due and to become due under or in respect of any of the
Collateral pledged by Grantor and to file any claims or take any action or
institute any proceedings which Secured Party may deem necessary or desirable
for the collection of any of such Collateral or otherwise to enforce the rights
of Secured Party with respect to any of such Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">The power of
attorney granted hereby is coupled with an interest and is irrevocable.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">7</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=156,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=709279,FOLIO='7',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured Party May
Perform</u>.&#160; Secured Party may from
time-to-time, at its option and expense, perform any act which Grantor agrees
hereunder to perform and which Grantor shall fail to perform after being
requested in writing so to perform (it being understood that no such request
need be given after the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of
Default) and Secured Party may from time-to-time take any other action which
Secured Party reasonably deems necessary for the maintenance, preservation or
protection of any of the Collateral or of its security interest therein.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Secured Party Has
No Duty</u>.&#160; The powers conferred on
Secured Party hereunder are solely to protect its interest in the Collateral
and shall not impose any duty on it to exercise any such powers.&#160; Except for reasonable care of any Collateral
in its possession and the accounting for moneys actually received by it
hereunder, Secured Party shall have no duty as to any Collateral or
responsibility for taking any necessary steps to preserve rights against prior
parties or any other rights pertaining to any Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Reasonable Care</u>.&#160; Secured Party shall be deemed to have
exercised reasonable care in the custody and preservation of the Collateral in
its possession if the Collateral is accorded treatment substantially equal to
that which Secured Party accords its own Property, it being understood that
Secured Party shall have no responsibility for taking any necessary steps to
preserve rights against any parties with respect to any Collateral.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Section 8.&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Miscellaneous</u>.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(a)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Expenses</u>.&#160; Grantor will upon demand pay to Secured
Party for its benefit and the benefit of the Lenders the amount of any
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including the reasonable fees and
disbursements of its counsel and of any experts, which Secured Party and the
Lenders may incur in connection with:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the custody,
preservation, use, or operation of, or the sale, collection, or other
realization of, any of the Collateral,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the exercise or
enforcement of any of the rights of Secured Party or any Lender hereunder, and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; the failure by
Grantor to perform or observe any of the provisions hereof.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(b)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendments; Etc</u>.&#160; No amendment or waiver of any provision of
this Security Agreement nor consent to any departure by Grantor herefrom shall
be effective unless made in writing and authenticated by Grantor and Secured
Party.&#160; In addition, no such amendment
or waiver shall be effective unless given or entered into with the necessary
approvals of the Lenders as required in the Credit Agreement.&#160; Any such waiver or consent, whether by
Secured Party or Secured Party and the Lenders shall be effective only in the
specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">8</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=157,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=545724,FOLIO='8',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(c)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Addresses for
Notices</u>.&#160; All notices and other
communications provided for hereunder shall be made in the manner and to the
addresses set forth in the Credit Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(d)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Continuing
Security Interest; Transfer of Interest</u>.&#160;
This Security Agreement shall create a continuing security interest in
the Collateral and, unless expressly released by Secured Party, shall:</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(i)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; remain in full
force and effect until payment in full and termination of the Secured
Obligations,</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(ii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; be binding upon
Grantor, Secured Party, the Lenders and their successors, and assigns, and</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt 1.0in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(iii)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; inure, together
with the rights and remedies of Secured Party, hereunder, to the benefit of
Secured Party, the Lenders and their respective successors, transferees, and
assigns.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Upon the
payment in full and termination of the Secured Obligations, the security
interest granted hereby shall terminate and all rights to the Collateral
pledged by Grantor shall revert to Grantor to the extent such Collateral shall
not have been sold or otherwise applied pursuant to the terms hereof.&#160; Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing clause, when any Lender assigns or otherwise transfers any interest
held by it under the Credit Agreement or other Loan Document to any other
Person pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement or other Loan Document,
that other Person shall thereupon become vested with all the benefits held by
such Lender under this Security Agreement.&#160;
Upon any such termination, Secured Party will, at Grantor&#146;s expense, execute
and deliver to Grantor such documents as Grantor shall reasonably request and
take any other actions reasonably requested to evidence or effect such
termination.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(e)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Severability</u>.&#160; Wherever possible each provision of this
Security Agreement shall be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and
valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Security Agreement
shall be prohibited by or invalid under such law, such provision shall be
ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without
invalidating the remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of
this Security Agreement.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(f)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Choice of Law</u>.&#160; This Security Agreement shall be governed by
and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the state of New
York, except to the extent that the validity or perfection of the security
interests hereunder, or remedies hereunder, in respect of any particular
Collateral are governed by the laws of a jurisdiction other than the state of
New York.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt .5in;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">(g)&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <u>Amendment and
Restatement</u>.&#160; This Security
Agreement amends and restates in its entirety the Existing Security Documents,
and all of the terms hereof shall supersede the terms and provisions
thereof.&#160; This Security Agreement renews
and extends all Liens existing by virtue of the Existing Security Documents,
but the terms, provisions</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">9</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=158,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=878056,FOLIO='9',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">and conditions
of such Liens shall hereafter be governed in all respects by this Security
Agreement.</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">10</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=159,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=639258,FOLIO='10',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">IN WITNESS
WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Security Agreement to be duly
executed as of the date first above written.</font></p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-indent:.5in;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100.0%;">
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">GRANTOR:</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">[BRIGHAM OIL
  &amp; GAS, L.P., a Delaware<br>
  limited partnership</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.96%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Brigham,
  Inc., its general partner]</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.48%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="34%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:34.48%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.42%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="32%" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:32.52%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.38%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="33%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:33.58%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SECURED
  PARTY:</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">SOCI&#201;T&#201;
  G&#201;N&#201;RALE, as Administrative<br>
  Agent for the ratable benefit of the Lenders</font></p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="41%" colspan="7" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:41.76%;">
  <p style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="3%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:3.8%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">By:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="6" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.96%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="5%" colspan="3" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:5.52%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Name:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="36%" colspan="4" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:36.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
  <td width="58%" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:58.24%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
  <td width="4%" colspan="2" valign="top" style="padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:4.66%;">
  <p style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">Title:</font></p>
  </td>
  <td width="37%" colspan="5" valign="top" style="border:none;border-bottom:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;width:37.1%;">
  <p style="font-size:1.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;">&nbsp;</p>
  </td>
 </tr>
 <tr height="0">
  <td width="420" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="27" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="6" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="6" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="13" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="6" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="7" style="border:none;"></td>
  <td width="235" style="border:none;"></td>
 </tr>
</table>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">11</font></p>


<div style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="left">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=160,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=817530,FOLIO='11',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SCHEDULE I</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">EXISTING SECURITY DOCUMENTS</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=161,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=760468,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

<p align="center" style="font-size:10.0pt;margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">SCHEDULE II</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">&nbsp;</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><b><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;">UCC FILING LOCATIONS</font></b></p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">&nbsp;</font></p>


<div align="center" style="margin:0in 0in .0001pt;text-align:center;"><font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">

<hr size="2" width="100%" noshade color="gray" align="center">

</font></div>

<font size="2" face="Times New Roman" style="font-size:10.0pt;">
<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=162,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=797582,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<br clear="all" style="page-break-before:always;">
</font>

</div>


<!-- ZEQ.=1,SEQ=163,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9",CHK=774214,FOLIO='',FILE="DISK021:[03DFW2.03DFW1282.EDGAR]EX10-53_2_1282.CHC",USER="JBAKER",CD='Mar 31 13:09 2003' -->
<BR>
<!-- SEQ=,FILE='QUICKLINK',USER=JBAKER,SEQ=,EFW="2106364",CP="BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY",DN="9" -->
<!-- TOCEXISTFLAG -->
</BODY>
</HTML>

</TEXT>
</DOCUMENT>
