The volume of oil produced in New Mexico increased by nearly a quarter during the last fiscal year, but a review has found that the volume of industry-related spills jumped by more than 60 percent.
The findings are part of the state Oil Conservation Division's annual performance report card, which is prepared by legislative analysts.
Mangers with the agency say the growth of both production and the volume of spills could be the result of new technology that brings more oil and associated waste to the surface.
They also say older infrastructure in New Mexico's oil fields — from pipelines and storage tanks to production facilities — is more susceptible to leaks and spills.
The agency also reported a 22 percent increase in inspections during the last fiscal year.
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