Regulator Over California's Oilfield Permits Resigns

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - A top California oil and gas regulator has resigned amid questions about oilfield contamination of the state's water supplies.

RELATED: California Reviews Oil-Industry Injections Into Aquifers

Mark Nechedom, head of the Department of Conservation, submitted his resignation Wednesday, and the state confirmed it Thursday.

Nechedom gave no reason in his resignation letter, but spoke of directing the department during a "difficult time."

RELATED: California Allowed Oilfield Discharge In Protected Water, Risking Drinking Water Contamination

Nechedom's three-year term at the department saw a federal investigation into improper state permitting of oil-industry operations in what were supposed to be off-limits water aquifers.

State officials had no immediate comment Thursday.