The WV Development Office is involved in almost every economic development activity or function for the State. Business recruitment expansion and promotion in the state, is conducted by the WVDO within most industries. The chemical industry has a long history in WV. Much of the early polymer research and development was done in the state. Many chemical plants are located along the waterways of the state. With the further development of the Marcellus Shale fields, the chemical industry is expected to experience a period of growth throughout the state.