Bakken Rig Count Climbs to 28, Up One with New Hess Rig

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota increased by one to 28 on Thursday, May 28, according to live rig data from Bakken Wire. This marks the highest reported rig count in over a month.

The sole addition was a rig operated by Hess Bakken Investments II, LLC. The company spudded a new well using the Ensign 532 drilling rig at location 156-98-2 in Williams County, the data shows. No rigs were released or moved locations in the last 24 hours.

The current activity level represents a continuation of a gradual recovery in the Bakken's drilling pace. Compared to one week ago, on May 21, the rig count has increased by three, from 25 active rigs. The growth is more pronounced over a longer timeframe, with six more rigs working today than were active one month ago on April 28, when the count stood at 22.

This sustained, incremental growth suggests operators are cautiously adding drilling capacity in response to stable or improved market conditions. The Bakken formation, a prolific shale play within the Williston Basin, remains a core operating area for many large independents and majors.

Rig count is a key leading indicator for future oil production in the state. An increase in drilling activity typically points to anticipated growth in output several months ahead, as new wells are completed and brought online. The current count of 28 rigs, while up significantly from recent lows, remains far below the historic peaks seen in the previous decade, reflecting a continued industry focus on capital discipline and efficiency.

The addition by Hess, a major Bakken operator, underscores the ongoing commitment of large-scale producers to the region. Hess has consistently maintained one of the most active drilling programs in North Dakota, focusing on its core holdings in Williams and McKenzie counties.

For service companies and local economies in the oil patch, each additional rig represents increased demand for labor, equipment, and supplies. The steady climb from 22 to 28 rigs over the past month is a positive signal for the sector's service and supply chain.

Market watchers and royalty owners will monitor whether this trend holds in the coming weeks, as operator budgets and commodity price forecasts influence drilling decisions. The next weekly rig count update will provide further insight into the trajectory of Bakken drilling activity.