Carson gas prices up 11 cents to $2.87

RENO (AP) - Northern Nevada gas prices increased more than the statewide average in last month, according to AAA.

Carson City's gas prices rose 11 cents to $2.87 per gallon and Reno a dime to $2.93. Sparks prices were up 13 cents to $2.94.

Nevada gas prices rose

4 cents over the past month to a statewide average of $2.83, although prices mostly held steady around Las Vegas and in some cases even declined a bit.

The statewide average is 66 cents higher than at this time a year ago, AAA Nevada spokesman Michael Geeser said.

The national average has increased 12 cents since the beginning of February, but is still 7 cents cheaper than in Nevada at $2.76.

Geeser said oil prices have been pushed higher partly because refineries are switching over to summer blended fuels. Investors also are counting on the potential for increased vehicle travel as the weather improves.

He said it is important to remember, however, that prices are still somewhat restrained by weak fundamentals. Supplies remain in good shape while demand remains low, which should likely help keep prices from moving dramatically higher in the short term, he said.

Las Vegas held steady at $2.75. Henderson's average is now $2.76 and North Las Vegas $2.74, both down 2 cents from a month ago.

Nevada is tied with the District of Columbia for the sixth-highest price in the nation.