North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 33 for Second Consecutive Day

North Dakota's active drilling rig count remained unchanged at 33 on Sunday, October 11, 2026, according to live data from Bakken Wire. No rigs were added, removed, or moved location since the previous day.

The current count reflects a continued period of stability at a reduced level of drilling activity. The state's rig fleet is down by two units compared to one week ago, when 35 rigs were active on October 4. Compared to one month ago, on September 11, the count is down by one rig from a total of 34.

The Bakken formation is North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, and the rig count is a closely watched leading indicator of future production activity and capital expenditure by operators. A rig count in the low 30s represents a significant reduction from the boom-era highs of over 200 rigs but has been typical for the region in recent years under current commodity price and operational efficiency conditions.

The lack of day-to-day movement suggests operators have locked in their near-term drilling programs. With no rigs reported as moving location, it indicates that current drilling operations are focused on completing existing well pads or developing planned sections, rather than mobilizing to new areas.

Sustained activity at this level suggests a focus on capital discipline and generating free cash flow among Bakken operators, rather than aggressive production growth. The efficiency of modern drilling rigs, capable of drilling longer lateral wells faster, means that fewer rigs are required to maintain a certain level of production compared to a decade ago.

The slight downward trend over the past month, from 34 to 33 rigs, could reflect normal program adjustments by individual operators or a minor response to fluctuations in near-term oil prices. The two-rig drop from the previous week will be monitored to see if it represents the start of a new trend or a temporary adjustment.

For royalty owners and service companies in the Williston Basin, a steady rig count in the low 30s suggests a stable, if not expanding, demand for drilling, completion, and well services in the near term. The focus for production gains will likely continue to come from enhanced completion techniques and high-grading of drilling inventory, rather than a surge in the number of active drilling rigs.