US rig count falls by 11

The number of rigs drilling in the US fell by 11 this week to 2008, according to data from Houston-based oilfield services outfit Baker Hughes.

Luke Johnson  22 December 2011 21:10 GMT

Oil rigs remained strong, adding five to total 120. That was up from 771 a year ago.

Gas rigs continued their downward trajectory, losing another 16 to total 802 – 129 fewer than a year ago.

North Dakota led all states by losing seven rigs for a total of 181.

Oklahoma, Louisiana and Colorado lost three rigs apiece for respective totals of 196, 148 and 77.

Other losing states included Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Arkansas and Alaska. They each lost one rig, for totals of 109, 27, 34 and 9, respectively.

New Mexico was the big gainer, adding for rigs to total 80.

Wyoming was not far behind, gaining three rigs for a total of 56.

Texas also added a rig for a total of 920 – up 174 from a year ago.

California remained flat on 50 rigs.

Published: 22 December 2011 21:10 GMT  | Last updated: 22 December 2011 21:10 GMT