Office of Conservation

Japanese officials learn about oil and gas in LA

Masaya Fukushima from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan and Masahiro Tachibana from the Houston office of Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corp. sat quietly taking notes and listening attentively during their visit to the Department of Natural Resources' Headquarters in Baton Rouge.

Commissioner of Conservation Jim Welsh and a few of his staff were speaking  about the state’s oil and gas history that dates back to the 1800’s. The officials  were particularly interested in the economic impact of years of mineral exploration and development in Louisiana, the top ranking crude oil producer (including offshore) in the United States.

Also giving presentations during the educational briefing were Pipeline Director Brent Campbell, Injection and Mining Geologist Kaycee Garrett, and Technology Assessment Asst. Director Bill Delmar.  The Commissioner oftentimes hosts traveling dignitaries and government officials, providing information on oil and gas rules and regulations.

The New Orleans Diplomacy Council and the U.S. Department of State helped coordinate the visit by Mr. Fukushima and Mr. Tachibana in January 2011.

L to R: Fukushima, Com. Welsh, Tachibana, & Tech. Assess. Asst. Director Bill Delmar