Rigging our resources.

• Author: Steffens, Michelle
• Position: Alaska Trends

The Baker Hughes North American Rotary Rig Count is a weekly measure of all operational rotary rigs in the United States and Canada. A rotary rig is a machine that drills into the ground to create a new well intended for exploration and development of oil or natural gas. A rig is active from the moment it breaks ground ("spuds") until the well reaches the target depth ("T.D."). Rotary rigs are used to drill through land, inland waters and offshore locations.

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Several factors influence the number of active rotary rigs at a given time. Advances in technology allow drilling companies to maximize efficiency through increased production by using fewer wells in more strategic locations. Weather patterns influence when and where drilling may occur. Rig activity also depends on the drill companies' seasonal spending patterns and contractual...