Bakken Rig Count Holds at 26 for Second Consecutive Week

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota's Bakken formation remained unchanged at 26 for the seventh consecutive day, according to live rig data monitored by Bakken Wire. The data, current as of Sunday, June 28, 2026, shows no new rigs added, none removed, and none moving location since the previous day.

This flat daily activity extends a pattern of short-term stability. The rig count has now held steady at 26 rigs for over a full week, matching the total reported on June 21.

Despite the recent week-long plateau, the current drilling activity level represents a decline compared to earlier in the season. The data shows the active fleet is down by four rigs from the 30 rigs reported just one month ago, on May 29, 2026.

The rig count is a closely watched leading indicator for future oil production in the Williston Basin. A stable count suggests operators are maintaining, but not expanding, their near-term drilling programs. The current level of 26 rigs is significantly lower than the boom-era peaks of over 200 rigs last decade but is consistent with the disciplined capital spending that has characterized the shale industry in recent years.

The lack of day-to-day movement in the rig tally often reflects a balance between completed wells and the spudding of new ones. With no rigs reported as moving location, it indicates active drilling is continuing at established sites rather than companies mobilizing equipment to new prospects.

The month-over-month decline of four rigs could reflect normal adjustments to drilling schedules, changes in operator budgets, or responses to prevailing commodity prices. A lower rig count typically points to a moderation in the pace of new well development, which can help manage basin-wide production growth.

For royalty owners and service companies, a steady rig count provides predictable near-term activity, though the reduced activity from a month ago may signal a more cautious operational tempo among producers. The focus for Bakken operators continues to be on drilling efficiency and generating free cash flow, with rig activity serving as a primary lever to control capital expenditures.

Bakken Wire will continue to monitor daily rig movements and provide updates on any changes to the basin's drilling footprint.