CB, I hate to disagree but several key players have stated all the big shale plays (Haynesville, Fayetteville, Marcellus & Barnett) are economic at $4.00/MMBtu). This is reason drilling capital is being shifted from other regions (Rockies, Mid-Continent, Permian Basin) to the big shale plays. There is sufficient pipeline capacity for the shale plays thru 2010 when additional projects will be required.
Also don't forget, with all of the units being designated there are likely to be LOTS more of those proven super-volume "proven" horizontal shale wells.
I'm sticking with my prediction. I've been in the business as a geologist for over 35 years, not that it makes me an expert. I do follow the nat gas business fairly well because I mainly drill for nat gas in S Louisiana. Did you know that only 30% of Barnett wells are profitable at $6.50.
Thanks a lot Les and Parker, I checked out both maps. The price trend chart was interesting too. Gas does seem to be on a gradual, upward trend. I don't remember that big spike in the fall of '05, but then I wasn't paying close attention, I didn't have any minerals at the time.