Bakken Rig Count Holds at 32, Up 5 Rigs From Week Ago

North Dakota's active drilling rig count held steady at 32 on Sunday, August 16, 2026, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The count showed no change from the previous day, with no new rigs added, no rigs removed, and no rigs moving locations.

The current activity level represents a significant increase from just one week ago. The state's rig count is up by five rigs compared to the 27 rigs reported on August 9, 2026.

The longer-term trend also shows a strengthening in drilling activity over the past month. The current count of 32 rigs is up by seven from the 25 rigs active on July 17, 2026.

The rig count is a closely watched leading indicator for future oil production in the Bakken formation. An increase in active drilling rigs typically signals that operators are investing in new well development, which will lead to new production coming online in the following months.

The sustained higher count over the past week suggests operators may be responding to stable or favorable market conditions. The Bakken formation is North Dakota's primary oil-producing region and a key part of the U.S. shale portfolio.

While the daily figure was unchanged, the week-over-week and month-over-week gains highlight a period of increased operational activity. Rig movements can be volatile day-to-day, making the multi-week trends more significant for assessing industry sentiment.

The Williston Basin, which contains the Bakken, has seen rig counts fluctuate within a range over the past year as companies balance capital discipline with the need to maintain production. The current level of 32 rigs indicates a measured but positive pace of development.

Further analysis of permit approvals and well completion data would provide additional context for whether this elevated rig count will translate into a sustained rise in output. For now, the data points to a firming of drilling operations as the summer progresses.