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    Canada

    July 31, 2026

    Oil and gas rig drilling strengthens in US and Canada

    Written by Brett Linton

    Drilling activity increased in both the US and Canada this week to new multi-month highs, according to recently released rig count data from Baker Hughes.

    US rig counts rose by one this week to 588 rigs, matching the mid-July count for a 15-month high. Activity has steadily increased over the last two months. Drilling is up substantially compared to this time last year, with 48 more rigs currently in operation.

    Brett Linton

    Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

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