Californians used 7.4 percent less gasoline in February than the prior month, with consumption down at least that much versus the corresponding year-ago period, according to data released from the state's Board of Equalization.

Data indicates drivers in Calif., consumed 1.12 billion gallons of gasoline during February, a decrease of 90 million gallons from the month prior. While the gallons reflected in the February numbers are down 160 million gallons or 12.5 percent from the comparable 2008 period, BOE said the reduction is likely to be less.

"The actual decline may be closer to 89 million, a decline of 7.4 percent, because February 2008 figures include 71 million gallons in audit assessments," the release read. "The gallons included in the monthly consumption numbers are always net of audit assessments, but the February 2008 audit assessment was greater than most and may have skewed the actual amount of decline."

The February pump price averaged $2.27 gal, up 22cts from January but a drop of 29.7 percent from the average price of $3.23 during the comparable year-ago period. Gasoline sold at the lower price in February generated approximately $187 million in sales tax, an estimated $117.8 million less than was generated in February 2008.

February diesel fuel sold for use on roads in the state totaled 181.8 million gallons, 15.5 million gallons below prior month consumption and a drop of 42.2 million gallons or 18.8 percent from February 2008 levels, reflecting the impact of the recession that is associated with less freight movement on the state's roads and highways. At $2.26 gal, diesel prices in the state were 35.2 percent below February 2008's average price of $3.49 gal.

"Fuel prices appear to continue to be sensitive to economic conditions, including last year's price spikes and this year's downturn," said Betty T. Yee, chairwoman of the BOE. "The overall trends indicate Californians are embracing fuel savings, either through less driving or by driving fuel efficient vehicles."

The BOE, a publicly elected five member tax board, monitors gallons sold at the rack distribution level through tax receipts paid by fuel distributors. The BOE collects more than $53 billion annually in taxes and fees supporting state and local government services.