BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) Energy regulators say North Dakota set a new record high for the number of barrels of oil produced per day in November, but the number of rigs has since decreased.
The state produced over 1.18 million barrels a day in November, about 2,571 more barrels than in September, the last time a record high was reached. November figures are the latest available because oil production numbers typically lag at least two months.
However, the drilling rig count has dropped from 188 in November to 156 as of Wednesday, the lowest number since October 2010. The state reached an all-time high count in May 2012 with 218 rigs.
Department of Natural Resource Director Lynn Helms says the price of oil ``is by far the biggest driver'' behind the slowdown.