The Louisiana Mineral Board collected $48.7 million this month, surpassing last month’s record payment of $35.8 million. According to Mineral Board Chairman and Department of Natural Resources Secretary Scott Angelle, “it appears that with the Haynesville Shale discovery underway, several major companies are validating their intentions to develop and produce natural gas in a big way. The state’s energy production figures look to be on the upswing this year.”

Louisiana’s energy industry has been setting the pace for the nation as the overall domestic energy industry recovers from the economic challenges of the past 18 months– evidenced by energy companies investing their money and moving their drilling rigs into Louisiana at an ever-increasing rate.

Weather often increases demand for heating oil and natural gas during cold winter months and can seriously affect demand for electricity during the summer cooling season. Weather also has distinct short term effects on the energy supply.

“Good afternoon. I am excited about spending my day with folks who share my passion for a strong domestic oil and gas industry. I bring greetings to you from Governor Jindal and the men and women of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources who are working each day to help find the energy to fuel this great nation while making sure we do it in an environmentally acceptable manner.