WASHINGTON - The Obama administration on Wednesday decried a ruling by a federal judge that blocks rules for hydraulic fracturing, saying the decision prevents regulators from using "21st-century standards" to ensure that oil and gas operations are conducted safely on public lands. Jessica Kershaw, a spokeswoman for the Interior Department, said "modernized fracking requirements" imposed by Interior Secretary Sally Jewell reflect best industry practices and are aimed at ensuring adequate [Read more]

HOUSTON - The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. rose by four this week to 408, the first gain in months and halting a slide that pushed the count to record-low levels amid collapsed energy prices.A year ago, 868 rigs were active.Houston oilfield services company Baker Hughes Inc. said Friday 325 rigs sought oil and 82 explored for natural gas. One was listed as miscellaneous.Among major oil- and gas-producing states, Texas and Alaska each gained three rigs. New Mexico [Read more]

DENVER - Colorado is imposing heftier fines on energy companies as the state struggles to resolve conflicts between growing cities and big oilfields at their doorstep, an Associated Press analysis shows.Regulators say the tougher penalties for breaking health, safety and environmental rules are prompting energy companies to be more careful. Others say it's too early to call them a success.The higher fines kicked in a year ago after lawmakers said Colorado's existing penalties were too light. The [Read more]

EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — A phased return of more than 80,000 residents of the fire-damaged oil sands city Fort McMurray will begin Wednesday as planned, Alberta's premier announced Tuesday. Rachel Notley said that the wildfire is no longer an imminent threat to the city and critical infrastructure has been repaired. The massive wildfire destroyed about 2,400 structures almost a month ago in Fort McMurray but 90 percent of the city remains intact. Residents of three neighborhoods won't be able [Read more]