Canada’s rig count up by 48

The number of rotary rigs operating in the United States and Canada totaled 1,859 during the week ending Jan. 21, an increase of 53 rigs compared to the previous week and an increase of 196 rigs vs. the same period last year, according to rig monitor Baker Hughes.

Canada’s rig count accounted for most of the increase, rising by 48 from the previous week and increasing by 20 from the year-ago period.The number of rigs operating in the United States during the recent week stood at 1,263, up by five rigs from the prior week and up by 176 compared to the same period last year. Compared to the previous week only, land rigs increased by five to 1,141, while inland water rigs increased by four to 23. The offshore lost four rigs for a total of 99.

Of the total number of rigs operating in the United States during the recent week, 1,084 were drilling for natural gas and 177 for oil, while two rigs were being used for miscellaneous purposes. Of the total, 798 were vertical wells, 324 directional wells, and 141 horizontal wells.

Among the leading U.S. producing states, Texas posted the largest rig gain in the recent week, increasing by eight to 557 rigs. Oklahoma picked up five rigs for a total of 151, while Alaska picked up two rigs for a total of nine. Wyoming’s rig count declined by four to 74, while California’s decreased by three to 23. Colorado remained unchanged with 66 rigs, as well as Louisiana with 163 rigs.

—Ray Tyson