Bakken Rig Count Rises to 35, Up 6 from August

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota increased by one to 35 on Saturday, September 5, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The gain marks a partial recovery from a slight dip earlier in the week.

The sole new rig reported was the NABORS B27, operated by Silver Hill Energy Operating, LLC. The rig is located at permit 159-93-6 in Burke County in the northwestern region of the state. No rigs were released or moved locations on Saturday.

The current count of 35 rigs represents a decrease of one rig compared to the total of 36 active one week ago, on August 29, 2026. However, the broader trend shows a significant increase from the activity levels seen in early August. The rig count is up by six from the 29 rigs reported one month ago, on August 6.

The steady climb over the past month reflects a period of increased operational tempo for Bakken producers following summer months. Rig activity is a closely watched leading indicator for future oil production in the Williston Basin.

Burke County, where the new Silver Hill rig is located, is a core part of the Bakken formation's oil-producing region. Operator activity there contributes directly to the state's overall output.

The rig count remains a key metric for service companies, royalty owners, and local economies in western North Dakota. Fluctuations in the count signal changes in drilling capital expenditure and near-term well completion activity.

Market analysts typically monitor these weekly and monthly trends to gauge producer sentiment and response to prevailing oil prices. The current level of activity suggests a maintained, moderate pace of development in the nation's third-largest oil-producing state.

Further updates on rig movements and the weekly statewide count will be provided as data becomes available.