North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 23, Down Four From Month Ago

North Dakota's active drilling rig count held steady at 23 on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, with no additions, removals, or location changes reported since the previous day, according to live rig data.

The current count represents a decline of one rig compared to one week ago, when 24 rigs were active on June 30. The broader trend shows a more significant pullback, with the state's rig fleet down by four from the 27 rigs working one month ago on June 7.

The Bakken formation is North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, and the rig count is a key leading indicator for future production activity and service sector demand. A sustained rig count in the low-to-mid 20s suggests operators are maintaining a disciplined capital approach, focusing on core acreage and efficiency gains rather than aggressive expansion.

While day-to-day figures can be static, the monthly decline of four rigs points to a potential easing in drilling pace among some operators. This could reflect adjustments to commodity price volatility, budget cycles, or the timing of well completions. The count remains well below the boom-era peaks but is consistent with activity levels seen in recent years aimed at sustaining production from the mature basin.

For service companies and communities in the Williston Basin, the steady but lower rig count translates to a stable, if moderated, level of drilling-related work. Royalty owners in core producing areas continue to see development, albeit at a measured pace compared to higher activity periods.

The live data shows no rigs were added or released in the past 24 hours, indicating no immediate shifts in operator drilling plans. The focus for Bakken producers remains on maximizing returns from drilled wells through enhanced completion techniques and operational efficiency, which allows production to be maintained even with a moderated rig count.