North Dakota Drilling Rigs Drop to 2009 Level

WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) — State data show the number of oil drilling rigs in North Dakota is at the lowest level since 2009.

The state Department of Mineral Resources says there were 75 rigs drilling in western North Dakota's oil patch on Monday. That's 112 fewer than one year ago. There were 214 rigs drilling on the same day in 2012.

The Williston Herald reports the drop occurs as companies are pumping less crude amid oil prices that have plummeting more than 40 percent since last year.

Department of Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms predicted last month that production would hover around 1 million barrels a day until prices rebound.

Officials say each active oil rig represents about 40 direct jobs and 80 indirect jobs in the state.