Bakken Rig Count Stalls at 26 Amid Surging Oil Prices

North Dakota's active drilling rig count held steady at 26 this week, a level indicative of restrained production growth in the Bakken formation, even as crude oil prices surged. According to Bakken Wire's live data, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude closed at $78.11 per barrel on July 13, 2026, marking a significant daily gain of $6.70 (9.38%). Brent crude similarly rose to $83.36.

The current rig count represents a fraction of the historical fleet seen during previous boom periods in the Williston Basin. Industry analysts often view the rig count as a leading indicator for future oil production, as new wells are required to offset the natural decline of existing ones. The sustained low number suggests operators are maintaining capital discipline, focusing on efficiency and existing infrastructure rather than launching aggressive new drilling campaigns.

The price surge provides a favorable revenue environment for Bakken producers. However, the local Bakken crude differential, the discount at which Bakken oil trades compared to WTI, was reported at -$3.42. This discount impacts the net realized price for North Dakota operators.

Historically, a sustained increase in rig count follows a prolonged period of higher, stable prices that justify increased capital expenditure. The single-day price jump, while substantial, may not immediately alter drilling plans which are typically set over longer-term budgeting cycles. Operators continue to prioritize shareholder returns and debt reduction over volume growth.

For royalty owners and state revenue, the current dynamic suggests near-term production levels will likely remain flat or see only modest increases. Production from the existing, highly productive wells will continue to generate cash flow, but the lack of new well starts limits the basin's upside potential. The focus for many companies remains on maximizing output from their core acreage with fewer rigs.

The natural gas price, reported at $2.89, remains a secondary consideration for Bakken operators, whose economics are primarily driven by crude.

The outlook for Bakken production hinges on whether the current higher price environment persists. If prices stabilize near current levels, some operators may gradually increase activity later in the year. For now, the rig count signals a continued phase of cautious, measured operations in North Dakota's oil fields.