US rig count rises 4 this week to 408, up from record low

HOUSTON – The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. rose by four this week to 408, the first gain in months and halting a slide that pushed the count to record-low levels amid collapsed energy prices.

A year ago, 868 rigs were active.

Houston oilfield services company Baker Hughes Inc. said Friday 325 rigs sought oil and 82 explored for natural gas. One was listed as miscellaneous.

Among major oil- and gas-producing states, Texas and Alaska each gained three rigs. New Mexico was up two.

Oklahoma and Pennsylvania declined by two and Louisiana was down one.

Arkansas, California, Colorado, Kansas, North Dakota, Ohio, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming were unchanged.

The U.S. rig count peaked at 4,530 in 1981.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.

Leave a Reply

The Associated Press

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.