Optimism in West Texas is in short supply these days. But a look back at our recent history of energy booms and busts reveals a lesson in finding opportunity through adversity – and a possible path forward through difficult times.

An end to a hiring spree could mean less strain on infrastructure and lower home prices, but also less money coming into the region.

Once a playground for the area's residents, the town's sand dunes are in demand by oil companies that use the sand for hydrolic fracturing.

The Permian Basin has never been busier. More oil is being pumped than ever before, thanks to hydraulic fracking, and energy companies are making plans to stick around long-term. By most accounts, the region is booming. But, some analysts and community leaders believe the oil industry is entering into a more stable phase where the days of crazy booms and terrible busts may be a thing of the past.

Fears that closure of the famous Balmorhea State Park pool would hurt the local economy have been calmed by the influx of new oil workers.

An influx of people as a result of the booming energy industry in the area has strained roads, and services like health care and education.

The continuing downward trend may affect local economies from Houston to the West Texas oil fields.