(The Center Square) – The drop in U.S. crude oil production in May is "part of any normal business cycle," according to one New Mexico industry group.

Crude oil production in the U.S. dropped in May by 0.5 percent, the lowest level since February, Reuters reported. Production in New Mexico saw an even greater drop, falling by 0.7 percent.

"After incredible growth in the Permian Basin over the last few months, the small drop is related to weakening domestic demand, rising inventories and a drop in demand for oil as Americans drive less as summer comes to an end, plus the mounting fears of a recession," Joe Vigil, spokesman for the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association, said

.

He pointed out that the state recently saw big increases in oil production.

"The previous incredible growth greatly outweighs the small decline," Vigil said. "Growth and declines are part of any normal business cycle."

The economic impact of the May drop will be minimal, though, according to Vigil.

"New Mexico’s Oil and Gas industry continues to support thousands of New Mexico jobs and generates millions of dollars of economic output that funds our schools, first responders and vital infrastructure," he said. "New Mexico oil and gas workers continue to answer the call to meet energy demands and provide energy security for New Mexico and America."

However, over the longer term, excessive government regulations on the oil industry could reduce production, Vigil added.

"Excessive regulation reduces energy production," he said. "While we are committed to sustainable energy policies, we recognize that additional government regulations will have a negative impact on the industry. Our Industry’s efforts to reduce the environmental impact of our operations continues through new technologies, innovation and investment – not excessive government regulations. "

Production in the U.S. dropped in May even as demand for U.S. crude and petroleum products increased to the highest level since March, Reuters reported.

Crude oil production increased in some states in in May, such as North Dakota, which saw a 17.1 percent increase. At the same time, output in Texas dropped 1 percent to the lowest level since February, according to Reuters.