North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 27, Up 3 From May Levels

North Dakota's active drilling rig count remained steady at 27 on Friday, June 12, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The total showed no change from the previous day, with no new rigs added, no rigs removed, and no rigs moving location.

The current activity level represents a slight decline from one week ago, when the state reported 28 active rigs. However, the broader trend shows a modest increase in drilling activity compared to last month. The rig count is up by three from the 24 rigs reported on May 13.

The stability in the rig count occurs as North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley announced a final settlement in a longstanding lawsuit related to the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests. According to a Bing News report from June 11, Wrigley stated he has settled with the U.S. government over costs associated with the protests. The Dakota Access Pipeline is a critical piece of infrastructure for moving Bakken crude oil to market.

A steady rig count in the upper 20s reflects a period of cautious capital discipline among operators in the Williston Basin. While up from spring levels, the count remains far below the historical peaks seen in the previous decade. Each active rig represents significant investment and is a leading indicator for future oil production in the state.

The Bakken formation continues to be North Dakota's primary oil-producing region. Drilling efficiency and well productivity have increased dramatically over the years, allowing operators to maintain production levels with fewer rigs than in the past. The current count suggests operators are maintaining, but not aggressively expanding, their drilling programs.

Market conditions, crude oil prices, and takeaway capacity via pipelines like the Dakota Access are key factors influencing drilling decisions. The resolution of legal matters surrounding DAPL, as reported, may provide a more stable regulatory and operational backdrop for midstream infrastructure.

Bakken Wire will continue to monitor daily rig movements and provide context on trends affecting North Dakota's oil and gas industry.