Oil industry leaders optimistic about North Dakota's future

Photo by: Jim Blecha - North Dakota Studies
Photo by: Jim Blecha - North Dakota Studies

(Bismarck, ND) -- Oil industry leaders say they are optimistic about North Dakota's future as oil prices continue to rise.  

The state is coming off a hard year in the industry as North Dakota slipped to the nation's third largest oil producer behind Texas and New Mexico. North Dakota Petroleum Council President Ron Ness says strong oil prices are good for the state.  

Oil prices nationally are at a seven-year high as demand increases and concerns about supply continue.