Data providing officials with greater forecasting tools for state planning  

(San Antonio)

Ongoing research at The University of Texas at San Antonio Institute for Economic Development is serving as the preeminent resource to state and local officials in forecasting the evolving economic impact of the Eagle Ford Shale. The Eagle Ford Shale is a 50 mile-wide by 400 mile-long formation that runs from the southern portion of Texas to the east. The formation produces natural gas, condensate, oil, and natural gas liquids, with margins more favorable than other shale plays.   In its most recent study, released this week, UTSA forecasted that development of oil and natural gas in the Eagle Ford Shale added more than $61 billion in total economic impact across a 20-county region in Central and South Texas during 2012. Additionally, it supported 116,000 jobs. In 2011, UTSA reported the region generated $25 billion in economic impact and supported 117,000 jobs. The study projects that the region will support 127,000 jobs and produce an economic impact of $89 billion for Texas in 2022.   This month’s study is the fifth examining the Eagle Ford Shale over the past year alone, making UTSA the leading source of information about the growth and impact of the South Texas region.   “The research conducted at UTSA provides us with valuable information, findings and recommendations related to the Eagle Ford Shale and its impact on Texas' economy," said Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo. "This research is a wonderful resource not only for state policymakers and business leaders, but also for all stakeholders who are working to create sustainable communities throughout the shale region. Equally important, it underscores the critical role of the higher education community in public service and economic development."   The UTSA Institute for Economic Development is dedicated to creating jobs, growing businesses and fostering economic development. Its 12 centers and programs provide professional business advising, technical training, research and strategic planning for entrepreneurs, business owners and community leaders. Programs serve San Antonio and the Texas-Mexico border area as well as regional, national and international stakeholders. Together with federal, state and local governments, and private businesses, the IED fosters economic and community development in support of UTSA's community engagement mission. “One of the key indicators of a Tier One university is its contribution to society,” said UTSA President Ricardo Romo. “The Institute for Economic Development has taken a leading role in assessing the impact of the Eagle Ford Shale. Its work is another example of UTSA’s commitment to become a top tier research institution.”   In October 2012, the Institute published Eagle Ford Shale Impact for Counties with Active Drilling and its Workforce Analysis for the Eagle Ford Shale. The pair of studies examined economic indicators resulting from the Eagle Ford oil and gas play.   In July 2012, the Institute released its Strategic Housing Analysis, in partnership with the UTSA College of Architecture and UTSA Center for Urban and Regional Planning Research. The study addressed the region’s need for affordable housing to create sustainable communities in South Texas. It also advised communities to create permanent housing, mixed-use housing, and temporary, mobile and rental units.   “It is our hope that this research helps state and local officials make informed decisions as the economic growth of this region continues to expand,” said Bob McKinley, UTSA AVP for Economic Development. For more information about the Center, visit www.ccbr.iedtexas.org.