The recent recognition of the Shreveport-Bossier area by the Daily Beast, a national New York-based news and opinion website affiliated with Newsweek, as one of the top 25 best destinations for recent college graduates is a prime example of how exploration of the Haynesville Shale brings economic benefits to the area and the state that go far beyond just the people working directly for the energy industry.

Activity in the Haynesville Shale, noted by the U.S. Energy Information Administration this past winter as the top-producing U.S. natural gas play, began in 2008 and 2009, at roughly the same time that the rest of the nation was feeling the impact of the depths of recessionary conditions.

With Haynesville Shale activity came new jobs in oil and gas — from expanded field and pipeline operations to the opening and expansion of offices and support-industry facilities — as well as new wealth for property owners and increased funding for local government. With that growth comes opportunities in other industries to feed more customers, sell more cars, trucks and homes, rent more property and do more business in many sectors. But this growth and investment could not have been possible without the support of area legislators, chambers of commerce, local governments, law enforcement, water districts, school boards and educators, landowners, industry and community leaders.

As we continue to watch the area climb the national rankings, remember to thank those leaders for the hard work, determination and collaboration that has made Shreveport-Bossier the metropolitan area it is.

Scott A. Angelle

Secretary, Department of Natural Resources

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