Bakken Rig Count Holds Steady at 35, Up 25% From August

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota remained unchanged at 35 for Sunday, September 6, 2026, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The count showed no new additions, removals, or location moves compared to the previous day.

While flat day-over-day, the current activity level represents a notable increase from one month prior. On August 7, 2026, the state reported 28 active rigs, meaning the count has risen by seven rigs, or 25%, over the past four weeks.

The weekly trend shows a minor contraction. The rig count is down by one unit from the 36 rigs reported on August 30, 2026.

A rig count of 35 places activity well above the historic lows seen during industry downturns but below the peak boom-year levels that exceeded 200. The current figure reflects a measured pace of development focused on core Bakken and Three Forks formations within the Williston Basin.

The stability in the rig count suggests operators are maintaining disciplined capital programs. Major Bakken producers typically adjust rig deployments in response to oil price signals, operational efficiency targets, and inventory management.

Steady activity supports the state's oil production, which requires continuous drilling to offset the high decline rates of shale wells. North Dakota remains the nation's second-largest oil-producing state, behind only Texas.

The monthly gain of seven rigs indicates a recent uptick in operator confidence or the execution of planned drilling campaigns for the quarter. Such movements are closely watched by service companies, royalty owners, and state officials for economic implications.

Further weekly or monthly data will clarify whether the current level represents a new plateau or a temporary pause in the recent upward trend. Market analysts monitor the rig count as a leading indicator for future production and employment in the state's oil and gas sector.