November 2025 Director’s Cut – September 2025 Production

North Dakota’s oil production remained resilient in September, averaging 1,165,903 barrels per day—1.38% above the state’s revenue forecast of 1,150,000 barrels per day. The figures represent a modest 0.43% decline from August’s production of 1,170,890 barrels per day.

The Bakken and Three Forks formations continue to dominate the state’s energy landscape, accounting for 97.5% of total oil production. Natural gas production also saw slight growth, increasing 1.27% from August to reach 107.4 billion cubic feet in September.

Director Nathan Anderson and Pipeline Authority Executive Director Justin Kringstad presented the monthly update, highlighting both production trends and infrastructure developments across the state’s energy sector.

Activity levels remain stable with 28 active drilling rigs currently operating in North Dakota, while the state issued 84 new drilling permits in October. The number of producing wells decreased by 49 month-over-month to 19,558, though this follows an all-time high of 19,607 producing wells recorded in August.

Gas capture rates showed a slight decline to 95.3% statewide, remaining above the Commission’s 91% target established in November 2020. Pipeline infrastructure continues to move approximately 82% of the state’s oil production, with rail transport accounting for an estimated 14% and local refining comprising 4%.

With oil prices hovering around $60 per barrel for WTI crude and natural gas at $4.50 per MMBtu, North Dakota’s energy sector continues navigating market dynamics while maintaining production levels near recent highs.

Watch the full presentation below, View the presentation slides here.