Oil and gas activity in Natchitoches Parish remained robust through the month of April, with eighty (80) new leases filed at the Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court office.

While a majority of the leasing activity continues to be concentrated in the western portion of the parish—stretching from the intersection of Interstate 49 and Highway 6 to the Sabine Parish line, and extending ten miles north toward the Spanish Lake bottoms—new developments are emerging.

A significant shift in recent activity includes the first signs of leasing on the east side of I-49. Additionally, while the primary focus remains west, energy companies are also expanding their footprint with new filings recorded south of LA Hwy 6.

In addition to the rise in lease filings, an upcoming public meeting has been scheduled for May 18 to discuss a proposed 3D seismic graphing project. The survey is expected to cover approximately 310 square miles, the majority of which is located within Natchitoches Parish.

The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, located at 5137 University Parkway.

Landowners who have been approached with lease offers or seismic survey requests are encouraged to consult with qualified legal counsel before signing any agreements, as these contracts can have long-term implications for mineral and surface rights.

A review of Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court records confirms the 80 leases filed in April 2026. The NPJ obtained this information directly from the parish’s online Public Records system.

Total Leases filed in calendar year 2025: 405
Total Leases filed in calendar year 2026 203