North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 34 After Day of Churn

North Dakota's active drilling rig count remained unchanged at 34 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, following a day of significant operator movement that saw two new rigs commence operations and two rigs release, according to live rig data.

Two new drilling rigs were added to the state's tally. Silver Hill Energy Operating, LLC spud a well using the NABORS B27 rig in Burke County at location 159-93-20. HUNT OIL COMPANY also commenced drilling in Burke County with the T&S DRILLING 1 rig at location 160-90-31. Both new operations are focused on the Bakken formation within the Williston Basin.

Offsetting these additions, two rigs were released from service. XTO ENERGY INC released the H & P 429 rig from its location at 153-96-3 in McKenzie County. Similarly, HESS BAKKEN INVESTMENTS II, LLC released the ENSIGN 532 rig from its McKenzie County site at 152-95-15.

In addition to the starts and releases, one rig changed locations. KODA RESOURCES OPERATING, LLC moved its STONEHAM 16 rig to a new site in Divide County at location 161-101-31, indicating continued operator interest in the northwestern edges of the Bakken play.

The overall rig count of 34 shows stability in the near term, matching the level reported one week ago on September 9, 2026. Compared to one month ago on August 17, 2026, when the state reported 33 active rigs, the current count represents a net gain of one rig. This suggests a cautiously steady pace of drilling activity among Bakken operators.

Rig count is a closely watched leading indicator for future oil production in the region. The current activity level, concentrated in core counties like McKenzie and Burke while extending into Divide, reflects ongoing development of the Bakken and Three Forks formations. The day's churn—with two rigs entering and two leaving—is typical of the continuous cycle of well completion and new pad development that characterizes the basin.