Bakken Rig Count Holds at 23 for Second Straight Week

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota's Bakken formation remained unchanged at 23 on Thursday, May 7, according to live rig data monitored by Bakken Wire. No rigs were added, removed, or moved locations since the previous day's report.

This marks the second consecutive week the state's rig count has held steady at 23 active units. Data from one week ago, on April 30, 2026, also showed an identical count of 23 rigs.

The current activity level represents a slight decline from the pace seen earlier in the spring. Compared to one month ago, on April 7, 2026, the rig count is down by two rigs from the 25 that were active at that time.

The Bakken formation, North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, relies on consistent drilling to offset the steep production declines typical of shale wells. Rig count is a closely watched leading indicator of near-term production activity and capital expenditure by operators in the Williston Basin.

A stable rig count can signal that operators are maintaining, but not expanding, their drilling programs in the current commodity price and operating cost environment. The count of 23 rigs is a key data point for service companies, royalty owners, and local economies in the oil-producing counties.

While daily rig movements can be volatile, the sustained level over the past week suggests a period of consolidation in drilling activity. Analysts often compare current rig levels to historical averages to gauge industry sentiment and the pace of development in the play.

The next significant move in the rig count will provide further evidence of whether operators are opting to hold steady, pare back, or cautiously add drilling activity as the second quarter of 2026 progresses.