
North Dakota Rig Count Rises to 29 with New Devon Energy Rig
The state's active drilling fleet grew by one rig on Tuesday, continuing a steady upward trend over the past month.
The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota increased to 29 on Tuesday, August 11, according to live data from Bakken Wire. The count rose by one rig from the previous day, with no rigs removed or relocated.
The new addition is the NOBLE 4 rig, operated by Devon Energy Williston, L.L.C. The rig is located at site 152-101-23 in McKenzie County, the core county of the Bakken formation.
This latest increase continues a pattern of gradual growth for the state's drilling activity. One week ago, on August 4, the active rig count stood at 28. The current total of 29 rigs represents a net gain of five rigs compared to one month ago, when 24 rigs were active on July 12.
The steady climb in North Dakota contrasts with a broader regional trend reported on Tuesday. According to Rigzone, North America as a whole dropped three rigs week-on-week, breaking a streak of additions, based on Baker Hughes' latest North America rotary rig count.
The sustained increase in North Dakota's rig count over the past month signals continued investment by operators in the Bakken play. Each active rig represents a significant capital commitment and is a leading indicator of future oil production.
McKenzie County has consistently hosted the majority of the state's drilling activity. The placement of Devon Energy's new rig there aligns with ongoing development in the formation's most productive areas.
The current level of 29 rigs remains below historical peaks seen during previous boom cycles but reflects a stabilized operational environment focused on capital discipline and core acreage.
Source
Bakken Wire live rig data, Rigzone


