The U.S. oil and natural gas rig count dropped on unit lower to finish the week ended Aug. 12 at 763 as Marcellus Shale activity slowed, according to data released by Baker Hughes Co.

Despite a net three-rig increase in oil-directed drilling, the overall domestic rig count fell on declines of one natural gas unit and three miscellaneous units, Natural Gas Intelligence reported. However, the 763 total is an increase from the 501 active rigs a year prior.

The Marcellus Shale dropped three rigs week-over-week, totaling 35 active rigs Aug. 12. Like the overall rig count, the slight decline is still ahead of last year, sitting at 35 active rigs. During the same time period in 2021, the Marcellus supported 29 active rigs.

The Utica Shale added one rig last week.

Learn more: Natural Gas Intelligence > Marcellus Activity Slows as U.S. Drilling Total Falls in Latest Baker Count