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North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 26 Amid Two New Permits, Two Moves - Bakken Wire
Rig Report

North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 26 Amid Two New Permits, Two Moves

The state's active drilling fleet remains steady compared to last month, with Devon Energy and Murex Petroleum adding new units.

Bakken Wire Staff·🌅Afternoon Wire·

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota remained unchanged at 26 on Monday, July 13, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The stability follows a net gain of two new rigs and the relocation of two others.

Devon Energy Williston, L.L.C., and Murex Petroleum Corporation each permitted a new rig. Devon's "PRONGHORN 7" is slated for McKenzie County (151-102-27), while Murex's "H & P 515" is permitted in Williams County (157-95-29). Two rigs also changed locations: Iron Oil Operating, LLC moved its "NOBLE 4" rig to a site in Mountrail County (154-89-34), and Hess Bakken Investments II, LLC moved the "NABORS X-10" to another Mountrail County location (155-94-3).

The current count of 26 rigs represents a gain of three units compared to one week prior, on July 6, 2026, when 23 rigs were active. Compared to one month ago, on June 13, 2026, the rig count is unchanged, indicating a period of stability in drilling activity.

The steady rig count in North Dakota's Bakken formation comes amid broader global discussions on oil and gas development. According to a July 11 report from Rigzone, International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol urged the European Union to reconsider its moratorium on drilling for oil and gas in the Arctic. Such policy debates can influence long-term investment and development strategies for major producing regions worldwide, including the Williston Basin.

The addition of new rigs by operators like Devon Energy and Murex Petroleum signals continued, targeted investment in the Bakken's core counties. Mountrail County, a historical center of activity, saw the movement of two existing rigs, reflecting ongoing optimization of drilling programs.

The Bakken formation remains North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, and rig activity is a leading indicator of future production. The current stability in the rig count suggests operators are maintaining a consistent pace of development amid prevailing market conditions.

Source

Bakken Wire live rig data, Rigzone

rig countdrillingbakkennorth dakotadevon energymurex petroleumhessiron oil operatingmckenzie countywilliams countymountrail county

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