The number of rigs actively exploring for or producing oil and natural gas in North Dakota is rising, state data show, despite a slump in oil prices. State data show 29 rigs actively exploring for or producing oil and gas as of Monday , which according to data from Baker Hughes is an 11 percent increase from roughly one week ago. Rig counts serve as a loose barometer for the oil and gas industry and, while easing somewhat, markets are swinging back to the demand side in a sign of returning balance. Though volatile in the wake for the British vote to leave the European Union, crude oil prices have been at or near the upper $40 per barrel range […]