By The Associated Press
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is adding its voice in support of the new age of natural gas drilling in West Virginia.
The business advocacy group's Institute for 21st Century Energy is launching a campaign to promote the development of shale deposits deep beneath the region.
The Marcellus shale deposit is considered to be one of the richest natural gas reserves in the world. The industry is also paying increasing attention to the Utica shale, even deeper underground.
Energy Institute President Karen Harbert said the Shale Works for Us campaign aims to build up support among state businesses and residents. It's also focusing on the potential jobs, investment and other economic activity.
Harbert said shale offers another opportunity for West Virginia to play a leading role in developing fossil fuels.