The largest natural gas field in the state could reopen this week after an explosion and fire that practically shut it down Feb. 6.

Occidental Petroleum Corp. said it is working with officials from the state Division of Occupational Safety and Health and other agencies to gain access to the Elk Hills field, conduct repairs and resume production.

The Los Angeles-based oil company said about one-half acre of the 75 square-mile oil and natural gas field in San Joaquin Valley was directly impacted. Occidental operates the field and holds a 78 percent interest.

Shares in Oxy were down 53 cents to $45.99 in midday trading Monday.