DENVER—Colorado officials are recommending pushing back adoption of some proposed oil and gas rules intended to protect wildlife to 2010.
State regulators are releasing what they call clarifications to the rules as the industry’s opposition grows.
Dave Neslin of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission says delaying the rules from late this year to 2010 would apply only to companies that consult with state officials or submit comprehensive development plans.
Conservationists say critical wildlife habitat needs to be protected in the face of record natural gas drilling.
A public hearing is set for Monday in Denver on the rules. They would implement laws requiring that more weight be given to public health, wildlife and the environment when approving oil and gas development.
