North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 27, Down Four from Last Week

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota held steady at 27 on Wednesday, June 10, according to live rig data from Bakken Wire. There was no change in the count from the previous day, with no new rigs added, none removed, and none moving location.

Despite the daily stability, the current rig count represents a decline from recent activity. The total is down four rigs from the count of 31 reported one week ago, on June 3, 2026.

However, the broader one-month trend shows an increase in drilling activity. Compared to one month ago, on May 11, 2026, the active rig fleet has grown by six rigs, rising from a base of 21.

The rig count is a closely watched leading indicator for oilfield service activity and future production in the Bakken formation, North Dakota's primary oil-producing region. A higher rig count typically signals increased capital investment by operators and greater demand for services like drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and well completion.

The recent dip from the one-week-high of 31 rigs may reflect short-term operational adjustments by producers, such as pausing drilling to complete existing wells or moving rigs between pads. The month-over-month gain aligns with a longer-term pattern of modest activity growth observed throughout the spring.

The current level of 27 rigs remains significantly below the historical peaks seen during previous boom cycles but is consistent with the disciplined capital spending environment that has characterized the shale industry in recent years. Operators in the Williston Basin continue to focus on drilling efficiency and generating free cash flow.

Bakken Wire will continue to monitor daily rig movements and provide updates on any significant changes.