Drilling activity continues to trend upward, posting a second consecutive weekly gain. Oilfield services firm Baker Hughes said Friday its U.S. rig count rose four rigs to 586 rigs for the week.

Environmentalists are worried the state — known for a lax approach to regulation — is not prepared for the added responsibility of regulating certain carbon capture projects.

The Odessa American is the leading source of local news, information, entertainment and sports for the Permian Basin.