The number of rigs actively exploring or producing oil and natural gas in North Dakota was 82 as of Tuesday, relatively stable from a week ago, state data show. The state government reported 82 rigs in active service as of Tuesday, down one from May 18. The rig count, a reflection of the health of the exploration and production side of the sector, is at its lowest level since January 2010, but holding steady for North Dakota. Rig counts in the state fell from 93 at the middle of April to 84 by the end of that month. Low oil prices means less cash for energy companies to spend on exploration and production. Oil field services company Baker Hughes reported 885 rigs in active service in the United States in its weekly count last week, down three from the previous week. North Dakota […]