Is Montana doing all it can?

August 3, 2008

Editor’s note: This is the first of a continuing, periodic series of stories examining Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s record during his first term, as he seeks re-election for a second term. Each story will focus on a specific issue.

HELENA — In western North Dakota, oil production has been on a steady increase the past 18 months and new drilling permits may hit record highs this year.

Yet just across the border in Montana, despite sky-high prices for oil and natural gas, oil production has flattened out and the number of new drilling permits declined 20 percent last year.

By Mike Dennison

Full Story: http://www.mtstandard.com/articles/2008/08/03/state_top/20080803_state_top.txt