Economic development deals usually happen over a long period of time &8212; even the initial phase in which a city or county woos a company.

But Rentech Inc. moved quickly once it saw potential in Adams County for a coal-to-liquids fuel manufacturing plant, and our local economic development delegation deserves praise for their quick response and action.

Bringing the Rentech deal to fruition is still a long way off, but we appear to have state support for the project, which would be one of the first coal gasification plants of its kind in the nation.

That would put Natchez and Adams County at the cutting edge of new fuel technology at a time when world events are forcing all of us to rethink energy policy.

Not to mention, Rentech wants to invest $650 million to $750 million in a Natchez plant &8212; a massive investment the likes we haven&8217;t seen since International Paper moved here more than a half-century ago.

If all goes well, by the time production begins Rentech would employ about 200 people &8212; as well as create 1,500 construction jobs over three or four years in our community.

EDA chairman Woody Allen, county attorney Bob Latham and supervisors president Darryl Grennell deserve a pat on the back for their quick action in working with Rentech. We hope this deal means a brighter future for Natchez.