North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 29 for Second Consecutive Day

North Dakota's active drilling rig count remained unchanged at 29 on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The figure showed no day-over-day movement, with no new rigs added, removed, or relocated.

The current level represents a slight increase from one week ago, when the state reported 28 active rigs on August 4. The more significant trend is visible over the past month, with the rig count rising by five from the 24 rigs active on July 12.

A rig count in the upper 20s reflects sustained investment in the Bakken formation, North Dakota's primary oil-producing region. Drilling rigs are a leading indicator of future oil production, and their activity level is closely watched by operators, service companies, and royalty owners across the Williston Basin.

The stability in the count suggests operators are maintaining their current drilling programs without significant immediate adjustments. While individual rigs may be moving between pads or completing wells, the overall fleet size has held steady in recent days following a period of growth earlier in the summer.

The month-over-month increase of five rigs aligns with a period of relatively stable oil prices, which can support capital spending for drilling. The current level, however, remains below historical peaks seen in previous boom cycles, indicating a continued focus on capital discipline and efficiency among operators.

The rig count is a key metric for the state's oilfield service sector, encompassing everything from hydraulic fracturing crews and well servicing to trucking and logistics. Activity at this level supports a steady demand for services and employment in the region.

Further movements in the count will depend on individual company budgets, commodity price trajectories, and the ongoing pace of well completions. Bakken Wire will continue to monitor and report daily changes in drilling activity.