The Louisiana Office of Conservation is developing new rules allowing for the limited re-use of waste water from oil and natural gas exploration and production operations for drilling operations in the Haynesville Shale area.

There’s been a gradual makeover taking shape at the state Department of Natural Resources under the leadership of Governor Kathleen Blanco’s appointee Secretary Scott Angelle. The agency has a wide range of programs and services that include environmental regulations, energy conservation, and coastal restoration and management.

State DNR Secretary Scott Angelle made available today this report on the department’s performance in accessing and evaluating impacts and damages as a consequence from Hurricane Katrina. “I have seen some of the disruption, some of the damage to our coast, but it is just still too early to gauge realistic impacts to our resources from Katrina,” Angelle said. Angelle was able to fly-over some of the impacted coastal areas struck by Katrina, several days ago, but then was called to report to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee in the nation’s Capitol on September 7th.

“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.