RE:RE:Rig countsYou are right--these days they drill off pads with multiple lateral penetrations (deviated) coming off that pad. This technology has constantly improved so yes fewer rigs but more production. Its also good for the environment in that you disturb less of the natural habitat.
The real issue is that the sweet spots (organic content and silica rich rocks good for fracking) are declining in number so as time goes along there will be fewer high quality targets.
The number of DUCS has also declined.