8-K

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): May 2, 2006

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	000-22433	75-2692967
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)	(Commission File Number)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)

6300 Bridgepoint Parkway
Building Two, Suite 500
Austin, Texas  78730

(Address, including zip code, of principal executive offices)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (512) 427-3300

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report.)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

o Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

o Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

o Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

o Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-4(c))

Item 2.02   Results of Operation and Financial Condition.

          Registrant is furnishing its press release dated May 2, 2006, which announces apparent discoveries, other completions and provides operational update.  The text of the press release is furnished as attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1. 

          Registrant is furnishing its press release dated May 2, 2006, which announces its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2006.  The text of that press release is attached to this Report as Exhibit 99.2 and is incorporated by reference herein.

          With the filing of this report on Form 8-K and the issuance of the attached press release, we are also updating our corporate presentation, which can be found on our website at www.bexp3d.com.  We caution you that the information provided in our corporate presentation is given as of May 2, 2006 based on currently available information, and that we are not undertaking any obligation to update our estimates as conditions change or other information becomes available.

Item 7.01   Regulation FD Disclosure.

          Registrant is furnishing its press release dated May 2, 2006, which announces apparent discoveries, other completions and provides operational update.  The text of the press release is furnished as attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1. 

           Registrant is furnishing its press release dated May 2, 2006. which announces the Registrant’s financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2006.  The press release also provides its forecast and estimates for the second quarter 2006.  The text of the press release is furnished as attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2.

Item 9.01  Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d)	Exhibit 99.1	Press release dated May 2, 2006.
(d)	Exhibit 99.2	Press release dated May 2, 2006.

2

SIGNATURE

          Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

	BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY
Date:   May 3, 2006
	By:	/s/ EUGENE B. SHEPHERD, JR.
		Eugene B. Shepherd, Jr.
		Executive Vice President &
		Chief Financial Officer

3

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Item Number	Exhibit
99.1*	Press Release dated May 2, 2006.
99.2*	Press Release dated May 2, 2006.

4

EX-99.1

Exhibit 99.1

Brigham Exploration Announces Apparent South Louisiana Discovery, Other Completions and Provides Operational Update

          AUSTIN, Texas, May 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Brigham Exploration Company (Nasdaq: BEXP) announces successful wells, including an apparent discovery in its Bayou Postillion Project in South Louisiana.  Brigham also provided an update of its operational activities.

          SIGNIFICANT WELLS RECENTLY COMPLETED, COMPLETING, DRILLING OR PREPARING TO DRILL

Well	Objective		Category		WI%			NRI			Status / Comments
Cotten Land #1		Oligocene		Dev/Exp		41	%		29	%		Completing with approximately 34’ apparent pay roughly 324’ high to 10 MMcfed well
Dawson #3		Vicksburg		Dev		100	%		76	%		Completing @ early rate of 3.5 MMcfed with shallower apparent pay to be added
Wyse #2		Lwr Frio		Dev		50	%		40	%		Completing from 39’ apparent pay, currently testing @ 0.3 MMcfed
Hobart 59-2		Gr. Wash		Dev		99	%		80	%		Completing with comparable pay to recent wells that commenced @ 4-5 MMcfed
Sartwelle #4		Frio		Exp/Dev		75	%		53	%		Completed mid-March @ 2.6 MMcfed, currently 2.5 MMcfed
Palmer #11		Vicksburg		Dev		100	%		80	%		Completed upper intervals @ 5.3 MMcfed, will be commingled with lower pay zones
Pitre-Todd Ent. #1		Hackberry		Exp		25	%		19	%		Well plugged and abandoned
Mills Ranch #1-99S		Hunton		Dev		93	%		63	%		Drilling in apparent Hunton @ 20,535’, results expected in late May or early June
Mills Ranch 96 #1		Hunton		Dev		69	%		57	%		Drilling @ 11,600’, targeting Hunton @ 24,500’, results expected in September
Dawson #4		Vicksburg		Dev		100	%		76	%		Drilling @ 2,800’, est. total depth of 12,100’, results expected in June
Trull B #3		Lwr Frio		Exp		75	%		55	%		1st 2006 high reserve potential well drilling @ 6,600’, results expected late May
Field 18-19 1-H		Bakken		Exp		100	%		79	%		Drilling @ 1,000’, 1st of 3 sequential horizontal wells, results expected in June
Derek #3		Douglas		Dev		96	%		77	%		Planned May spud of 1st of numerous potential wells offsetting recent producer
C. Broadcasting #1		Yegua, etc.		Exp		33	%		25	%		Planned June spud of S. Louisiana multi pay bright spot test of Leuthen Prospect
Gambino #1		Cris I.		Exp		25	%		19	%		Planned early June spud of S. Louisiana prospect
Turtle Ridge #1		Lwr Frio		Exp		75	%		56	%		Planned early June spud of high potential General Lee test, results expected in July
Kinder Canal Co. #1		Yegua, etc.		Exp		33	%		25	%		Planned July spud of S. Louisiana bright spot test of Plassey Prospect
Krejci #1-29		Mowry		Exp		50	%		40	%		Planned July spud of 1st of 4 Powder River Basin Horizontal Mowry and Muddy tests

          GULF COAST LOUISIANA MIOCENE TREND JOINT VENTURES

          Bayou Postillion Project, Iberia Parish -- Brigham is currently completing its first Bayou Postillion well, the Cotten Land Corp. #1.  The Cotten Land #1 encountered approximately 34 feet of apparent pay approximately 324 feet high to an offsetting producer. The structurally down dip well was completed in August of 2005 at 10 MMcfe per day, and at last report was continuing to produce at that rate.  Brigham retains a 41% after casing point interest in the Cotten Land Corp. #1.

          The Bayou Postillion Project was generated by Penn Virginia (NYSE: PVA) from the interpretation of an extensive 3-D seismic inventory acquired in the region in recent years.  Bayou Postillion is one of Brigham’s two joint ventures with Penn Virginia, the other being Mystic Bayou, to develop 3-D delineated projects in the Miocene and Upper Oligocene trends of Southern Louisiana.  Brigham is also involved in two other joint ventures with a private operator in the same trend.  Brigham views these South Louisiana projects as a logical extension of its Gulf Coast Frio trend, given that the company will utilize its geophysical, geological and operational expertise to explore potential reservoirs in similar geologic settings to that of the Frio in the onshore Texas Gulf Coast.

          Bud Brigham, the Chairman, President and CEO, stated, “We are very encouraged by the results of the Cotten Land Corp. #1.  We expect to production test the well in the next several weeks, with production to sales expected in 30 to 60 days.  With success, there are other adjacent fault blocks that could subsequently be tested.  Also in southern Louisiana, we will commence two bright spot exploration tests in June and July as part of our joint ventures with a private operator, and the first well in Mystic Bayou with Penn Virginia in October.”

          Gulf Coast Vicksburg Trend

          Triple Crown Field Wells -- Brigham recently completed the Dawson #3 in the Upper Vicksburg 9800’ sands at an initial rate of approximately 3.3 MMcf of natural gas and 34 barrels of condensate (3.5 MMcfe) per day. Approximately 49 feet of pay was encountered in the currently producing 9800’ sands, with an additional 19 feet of apparent pay behind pipe in the shallower “Brigham” sand.  Brigham plans to perforate, stimulate and commingle the Brigham sands with the currently producing 9800’ sands in the near future. The Dawson #3 offsets Brigham’s recent Dawson #2 and Sullivan C-31 completions, which subsequent to the perforation and stimulation of the Brigham sand produced at initial rates of 9.3 and 10.1 MMcfe per day, respectively.

          Subsequent to drilling the Dawson #3, Brigham commenced another Triple Crown Field well, the Dawson #4, with results expected in June.  Brigham retains 100% working interests in both the Dawson #3 and Dawson #4 wells, subject to a 16.5% back in at 100% payout, and an additional 16.5% back-in after 200% payout.  Brigham plans to commence at least one more high working interest Triple Crown Field well during the second half of 2006.

          Home Run Field Well -- Brigham previously announced the completion of the Palmer #11 from the lowest 28 feet of apparent pay in the Vicksburg at an initial rate of approximately 2.9 MMcf of natural gas and 174 barrels of condensate (3.9 MMcfe) per day.  Brigham subsequently set a temporary bridge plug, perforated and stimulated the upper 70 feet of shallower Vicksburg pay, which recently commenced production at an initial rate of 4.3 MMcf of natural gas and 163 barrels of condensate (5.3 MMcfe) per day.  Brigham retains a 100% working interest in the Palmer #11 subject to a 66% back-in at 350% payout. Brigham currently plans to drill at least one additional well in the Home Run Field during the second half of 2006.

          Bud Brigham stated, “We continue to enjoy strong results in the Vicksburg, as evidenced by our Palmer #11 and Dawson #3 completions.  With two wells already on line this year, and three more high working interest wells planned to reach total depth by late August, the Vicksburg drilling thus far appears to be delivering the growth in production and proved developed reserve we had hoped for.  Given our momentum in this area, we may consider drilling additional wells later in the year.”

          Gulf Coast Frio Trend

          Bouldin Lake Field Development Well -- Brigham is currently completing the Wyse #2, which encountered approximately 39 feet of Lower Frio pay approximately 240 feet high to the Wyse #1, and approximately 565 feet high to the Grisham #1.  Subsequent to fracture stimulation, the lower 32 feet of pay was production tested at an initial rate of approximately 0.9 MMcf of natural gas and 40 barrels of oil (1.2 MMcfe) per day, though it was recently testing at a rate of approximately 0.3 MMcf of natural gas and 5 barrels of oil (0.3 MMcfe) per day.

          Bud Brigham stated, “We’re currently bringing on line the Wyse #2, and given that the porosities are lower than the Wyse #1 and the Grisham #1 the well is performing below our expectations.  We are also checking for possible sediment fill that may be obstructing the perforations.  We will continue to evaluate the performance of the well to determine what, if any, additional operations can be implemented to improve the wells productivity.”

          Sartwelle #4 Discovery Update -- As previously announced, Brigham commenced production in March from the Sartwelle #4 at an initial rate of approximately 1.3 MMcf of natural gas and 220 barrels of oil (2.6 MMcfe) per day.  The Sartwelle #4 is currently producing approximately 1.3 MMcf of natural gas and 204 barrels of oil (2.5 MMcfe) per day.  Given that the well continues to perform well, Brigham currently plans to test an adjacent fault block with the Sartwelle #5 during the fourth quarter.  Brigham operates the Sartwelle #4 with a 75% working interest, with Royale Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROYL) as a project participant with a 25% working interest.

          High Reserve Potential Tests -- In the same area, Brigham is currently drilling its first 2006 high reserve potential test, the Trull B #3.  The Trull B #3 targets an estimated 445 acre Middle Frio structure with an unrisked reserve potential of approximately 26 Bcfe.  Results are expected in June, at which time Brigham plans to commence its second high reserve potential test, the Turtle Ridge #1.  The Turtle Ridge #1 targets an estimated 500 acre Lower Frio structure with an unrisked reserve potential of approximately 25 Bcfe.  Results for the Turtle Ridge #1 are expected in August.  Brigham operates both the Trull B #3 and the Turtle Ridge #1 wells with a 75% working interest.  Royale Energy, Inc. is also a participant in the Trull B #3 with a 25% working interest, and has the opportunity to participate with a 25% working interest in the Turtle Ridge #1.

          Bud Brigham stated, “We are pleased with the performance of the Sartwelle #4 thus far.  As a result, we are currently planning to drill another adjacent fault block later this year, providing the potential to prove up new reserves for the company.  As we previously stated, the unrisked reserve potential for the 1,100 acre complex, inclusive of the Sartwelle #4 fault block, is approximately 27 Bcfe.  We’re also very excited to be drilling the Trull B #3 in the same area, which will be followed by the Turtle Ridge #1.  The Trull B #3 and the Turtle Ridge wells expose us to a combined unrisked reserve potential of approximately 51 Bcfe gross, or 29 Bcfe net.  However, the risk for both of these high reserve potential wells is somewhat mitigated by offsetting wells that tested productive in at least one of the targeted horizons.”

          ANADARKO BASIN DOUGLAS PLAY

          New High Working Interest Douglas Activity -- In southern Hemphill County of the Texas Panhandle, approximately eight miles from Brigham’s Hobart Granite Wash drilling, Brigham is currently preparing to commence the Derek 12-3 with a 96% working interest.  The Derek 12-3 offsets a recently drilled discovery that commenced production at an initial rate of 640 Mcfe per day and is expected to ultimately produce 1.0 to 1.5 Bcfe.  Brigham owns approximately 2,400 net acres in the area, and with success up to 10 potential locations could be drilled.  Results for the Derek 12-3 are expected in late May.

          WILLISTON BASIN BAKKEN PLAY UPDATE

          In November 2005 Brigham announced the acquisition of approximately 46,000 net acres in the Bakken play located in 126 sections in northwestern North Dakota.  Brigham acquired a 100% working interest in the Bakken formation within the acreage.  Subsequent to that transaction Brigham began adding to its acreage position.  The company expects to have acquired an additional 30,000 acres in Montana and North Dakota by early in the third quarter, in which Brigham’s rights will not be limited to the Bakken formation.

          Commencement of 1st of Three Consecutive Bakken Wells -- Brigham has commenced the Field 18-19 1-H, the first of its three horizontal Bakken wells currently planned for 2006.  Brigham plans to drill the Field 18-19 1-H to a true vertical depth of approximately 10,600 feet with a projected lateral extension of 9,000 feet.  Results for the Field 18-19 1-H are expected in June, at which time Brigham plans to commence its second horizontal Bakken test.

          Bud Brigham stated, “We continue to be encouraged by the activity of other operators in the area.  In addition to the three consecutive Bakken wells we plan to drill, it appears that other operators will drill 17 to 25 additional horizontal Bakken wells in the area by year-end.  We’ve also been encouraged by recent horizontal drilling for other objectives, such as the Madison formation, which may provide additional opportunities on our recently acquired acreage.”

          2006 OPERATIONAL STATISTICS

          Thus far in 2006 Brigham has spud 16 wells, retaining an average working interest of approximately 68%.  Six of these wells have been completed, three have been plugged and seven are currently drilling.  Brigham’s gross and net completion rate thus far in 2006 is 67% and 72% respectively.

          About Brigham Exploration

          Brigham Exploration Company is a leading independent exploration and production company that applies 3-D seismic imaging and other advanced technologies to systematically explore and develop onshore domestic natural gas and oil provinces. For more information about Brigham Exploration, please visit our website at http://www.bexp3d.com or contact Investor Relations at 512-427-3444.

          Forward Looking Statement Disclosure

          Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this news release are forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are based upon current expectations. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward looking statements include risks inherent in exploratory drilling activities, the timing and extent of changes in commodity prices, unforeseen engineering and mechanical or technological difficulties in drilling wells, availability of drilling rigs, land issues, federal and state regulatory developments and other risks more fully described in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward looking statements contained in this release, including any forecasts and estimates, are based on management’s outlook only as of the date of this release, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise these forward looking statements, whether as a result of subsequent developments or otherwise.

           Contact:

           John Turner, Director of Finance & Business Development
           (512) 427-3300

SOURCE  Brigham Exploration Company
          -0-                                                            05/02/2006
          /CONTACT:     John Turner, Director of Finance & Business Development of
Brigham Exploration Company, +1-512-427-3300/
          /Web site:  http://www.bexp3d.com /

EX-99.2

Exhibit 99.2

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2006 RESULTS

          AUSTIN, Texas, May 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Brigham Exploration Company (Nasdaq: BEXP) today announced its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2006.

          Highlights from our performance from the first quarter of 2006 include:

*	20% growth in first quarter production to 35.9 MMcfe per day over first quarter 2005 production;
*	63% growth in operating income to $9.7 million over operating income in the first quarter 2005 of $6 million; and
*	93% growth in net income to $5.9 million in the first quarter of 2006 over $3 million in the first quarter of 2005.

          FIRST QUARTER 2006 RESULTS

          Our net daily production volumes for the first quarter of 2006 were 35.9 MMcfe, up 20% when compared to our volumes in last year’s first quarter.  Revenues from the sale of oil and natural gas for the first quarter of 2006 were up 54% when compared to that in the first quarter last year.  A $1.56 per Mcfe increase in the average sales price we received from the sale of our oil and natural gas and the increase in our first quarter 2006 production volumes increased our first quarter 2006 revenue by $5.4 million and $3.1 million, respectively.

          During the first quarter of 2006, our average realized price for oil, which included a $0.43 loss associated with the settlement of derivative contracts, was $61.03 per barrel. This compares to an average realized price of $43.74 and a loss of $4.59 in the first quarter last year.  Our average realized price for natural gas during the first quarter of 2006 was $7.38 per Mcf and included a $0.05 gain associated with the settlement of derivative contracts.  This compares to an average realized price of $5.80 and a loss of less than $0.01 in last year’s first quarter.

          Our production costs for the first quarter of 2006 were 28% higher and on a unit basis were 7% higher than our production costs in the first quarter last year.  This increase in our production costs includes a 48% increase in our O&M expenses.  Approximately 65% of the increase in our O&M expenses was associated with new wells that were not producing in the first quarter last year, while 32% was due to O&M expense recognized in the first quarter to account for actual fourth quarter cash expense that came in higher that what was estimated at year end 2005.  Higher commodity prices led to an 86% increase in our ad valorem taxes and a 43% increase in our production taxes.

          Our general and administrative expenses for the first quarter 2006 were $0.51 per Mcfe and were up $0.10 on a per unit basis when compared to the first quarter of last year.  Our general and administrative expense for the first quarter 2006 included $182,000 ($0.06 per Mcfe) of non-cash charge for stock-based compensation expense associated with our adoption of FAS 123(R).

          Our depletion expense for the first quarter 2006 was $10.3 million ($3.17 per Mcfe) compared to $6.5 million ($2.39 per Mcfe) in the first quarter of last year.  Approximately $2.5 million of the increase in our first quarter 2006 depletion expense was due to an increase in our depletion rate, while the remaining $1.3 million of the increase was due to an increase in our production volumes.

          Our net interest expense for the first quarter of 2006 was $1.1 million compared to $741,000 in the first quarter of last year.  The increase in our net interest expense was primarily due to an increase in the amounts borrowed under both our senior and subordinated credit agreements, combined with an increase in the interest rate that we paid on those borrowings due to an increase in Libor.  Our weighted average debt outstanding for the first quarter 2006 was $81.6 million compared to $61.5 million in the first quarter of last year.

          We recorded deferred income tax expenses of $3.5 million in the first quarter of this year, compared to deferred income tax expenses of $1.7 million in the first quarter last year.  Our reported net income for the first quarter of 2006 was $5.9 million ($0.13 per diluted share) versus net income of $3 million ($0.07 per diluted share) for the first quarter last year.

          For the first quarter of 2006, net cash provided by operating activities funded approximately 78% of our cash used by investing activities and we borrowed an additional $11.2 million of debt, net of repayments, under our senior credit agreement.

          At March 31, 2006, we had $7.8 million in cash, total assets of $410 million and a debt to book capitalization ratio of 25%.

          Our capital expenditures for oil and natural gas activities for the first quarter of 2006 were up 68% when compared to last year’s first quarter.  Our net capital expenditures for oil and natural gas activities in the first quarter of 2006 and 2005 were as follows:

	Three Months Ended December 31,
	2006		2005
	(in thousands)
Drilling	$	30,807	$	17,458
Land and seismic		7,172		4,815
Capitalized costs		2,057		1,601
Capitalized FAS 143 ARO		105		26
Total capital expenditures	$	40,141	$	23,900

          SECOND QUARTER 2006 FORECAST

          The following forecasts our second quarter 2006 results are forward looking statements subject to the risks and uncertainties identified in the “Forward Looking Statements Disclosure” at the end of this release.

          We currently expect second quarter 2006 production volumes to average between 35 and 39 MMcfe per day (79% natural gas).  For the second quarter of 2006, our lease operating expenses are projected to be $2.6 million ($0.74 to $0.83 per Mcfe), production taxes are projected to be approximately 5.3% of pre-hedge oil and gas revenues, and general and administrative expenses are projected to be $1.6 million ($0.45 to $0.50 per Mcfe).  Based on these production and cost estimates, assumed average NYMEX prices of $7.07 per MMBtu for natural gas and $73.28 per barrel for oil, and taking into account our current outstanding hedging contracts, we forecast that our second quarter revenue will be between $25.1 and $27.8 million and operating income will be between $9.3 and $10.7 million.

          In addition, we currently expect to grow production volumes in 2006 by 10% to 25% relative to our 2005 production. This would result in average daily production of between 36.4 and 41.4 MMcfe per day (79% natural gas) for 2006. 

          MANAGEMENT COMMENTS

          Gene Shepherd, Brigham’s Chief Financial Officer, commented, “Given our first quarter production volumes and assuming we realize the mid-point of our second quarter guidance, our production volumes through the first two quarters of 2006 would be running ahead of our 2005 volumes by roughly 22%, so we are currently on pace to be in the upper end of our full year guidance range.  With the steps that we have taken recently to strengthen the balance sheet, particularly our recently completed $125 million notes offering, we feel the company is in an excellent position to execute on its 2006 cap-ex plan.”

          CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

          Brigham management will host a conference call to discuss its operational and financial results for the first quarter 2006 with investors, analysts and other interested parties on Wednesday, May 3rd, at 9:00 a.m. Central time. To participate in the call, participants within the U.S. please dial 800-798-2884 and participants outside the U.S. please dial 617-614-6207. The participant passcode for the call is 75078300.  A telephone recording of the conference call will be available to interested parties approximately two hours after the call is completed through 11:59 p.m. EDT on Saturday, June 3rd, 2006.  To access the recording, domestic callers dial 888-286-8010 and international callers dial 617-801-6888.  The passcode for the conference call playback is 90091909. In addition, a live and archived web cast of the conference call will be available over the Internet at either http://www.bexp3d.com or http://www.streetevents.com.  A copy of this press release and other financial and statistical information about the periods covered by this press release and by the conference call that will take place on May 3rd, 2006, will be available on our website.  To access the press release, go to http://www.bexp3d.com and click on News Releases.  The file with a copy of the press release is named Brigham Exploration Reports First Quarter 2006 Results and is dated May 2nd, 2006.  To access the other financial and statistical information that will be covered by the conference call that will take place on May 3rd, 2006, go to http://www.bexp3d.com and click on Event Calendar.  The file with the other financial and statistical information is named Financial and Statistical Information for the First Quarter 2006 Conference Call and is dated May 3rd, 2006.

          ABOUT BRIGHAM EXPLORATION

          Brigham Exploration Company is an independent exploration and production company that applies 3-D seismic imaging and other advanced technologies to systematically explore and develop onshore domestic natural gas and oil provinces. For more information about Brigham Exploration, please visit our website at http://www.bexp3d.com or contact Investor Relations at 512-427-3444.

          FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS DISCLOSURE

          Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this news release are forward looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward looking statements including our growth strategies, our ability to successfully and economically explore for and develop oil and gas resources, anticipated trends in our business‚ our liquidity and ability to finance our exploration and development activities‚ market conditions in the oil and gas industry‚ our ability to make and integrate acquisitions, the impact of governmental regulation and other risks more fully described in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking are typically identified by use of terms such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate” and similar words, although some forward-looking statements may be expressed differently.  All forward looking statements contained in this release, including any forecasts and estimates, are based on management’s outlook only as of the date of this release, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise these forward looking statements, whether as a result of subsequent developments or otherwise.

Contact:
	John Turner, Director of Finance & Business Development
	(512) 427-3300

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY
SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2006			2005
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Revenues:
Oil and natural gas sales	$	25,796		$	16,703
Other		(22	)		43
	$	25,774		$	16,746
Costs and expenses:
Lease operating		2,730			2,218
Production taxes		1,144			802
General and administrative		1,642			1,098
Depletion of natural gas and oil properties		10,256			6,453
Depreciation and amortization		242			182
Accretion of discount on ARO		70			39
	$	16,084		$	10,792
Operating income	$	9,690		$	5,954
Interest expense, net		(1,089	)		(741	)
Interest income		106			39
Other income (expense) (a)		679			(531	)
Income before income taxes	$	9,386		$	4,721
Income tax expense		(3,511	)		(1,673	)
Net income	$	5,875		$	3,048
Net income to common per share:
Basic	$	0.13		$	0.07
Diluted	$	0.13		$	0.07
Wt. Avg. common shares outstanding:
Basic		44,986			42,124
Diluted		45,579			43,166
(a)  Includes non-cash gains/(losses) related to our derivative contracts:	$	715		$	(606	)

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY
PRODUCTION, SALES PRICES AND OTHER FINANCIAL DATA

	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2006			2005
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Avg. net daily production:
Natural gas (MMcf)		28.3			22.2
Oil (Bbls)		1,278			1,308
Equivalent natural gas (MMcfe) (6:1)		35.9			30.0
Total net production:
Natural gas (MMcf)		2,545			1,994
Oil (MBbls)		115			118
Equivalent natural gas (MMcfe) (6:1)		3,235			2,700
% Natural gas		79	%		74	%
Sales prices (Before hedging):
Natural gas ($/Mcf)	$	7.33		$	5.80
Oil ($/Bbl)		61.46			48.33
Equivalent natural gas ($/Mcfe) (6:1)		7.95			6.39
Realized prices (Post hedging):
Natural gas ($/Mcf) (a)	$	7.38		$	5.80
Oil ($/Bbl) (a)		61.03			43.74
Equivalent natural gas ($/Mcfe) (6:1) (a)		7.97			6.19
(a) Includes the effects of hedging gains (losses) of:
Natural gas ($/Mcf)	$	0.05		$	(0.00	)
Oil ($/Bbl)		(0.43	)		(4.59	)

SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)

	March 31, 2006		December 31, 2005
		(unaudited)
Assets:
Current assets	$	28,259	$	28,325
Natural gas and oil properties, net (full cost method)		377,214		347,329
Other property and equipment, net		1,011		1,027
Other non-current assets		3,500		3,746
Total assets	$	409,984	$	380,427
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Current liabilities	$	43,364	$	37,467
Senior credit agreement		44,300		33,100
Senior subordinated notes		30,000		30,000
Redeemable preferred stock, Series A		10,101		10,101
Deferred income tax liability		27,115		23,563
Other non-current liabilities		4,678		4,556
Total liabilities	$	159,558	$	138,787
Stockholders’ equity		250,426		241,640
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	409,984	$	380,427

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY
SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2006			2005
	(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	5,875		$	3,048
Depletion, depreciation and amortization		10,498			6,635
Accretion of discount on ARO		70			39
Interest paid through issuance of additional redeemable preferred stock		—			188
Amortization of deferred loan fees		119			126
Market value adjustments for derivatives instruments		(715	)		606
Deferred income tax expense		3,511			1,673
Stock-based compensation		364			—
Other non-cash loss		42			12
Changes in working capital and other items		6,424			(6,083	)
Cash flows provided by operating activities	$	26,188		$	6,244
Cash flows used by investing activities		(33,492	)		(20,644	)
Cash flows provided by financing activities		11,082			16,760
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	$	3,778		$	2,360

SUMMARY PER MCFE DATA

	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2006			2005
		(unaudited)			(unaudited)
Revenues:
Natural gas and oil sales	$	7.97		$	6.19
Other revenue		(0.01	)		0.02
	$	7.96		$	6.21
Costs and expenses:
Lease operating		0.84			0.82
Production taxes		0.35			0.30
General and administrative		0.51			0.41
Depletion of natural gas and oil properties		3.17			2.39
Depreciation and amortization		0.07			0.07
Accretion of discount on ARO		0.02			0.01
	$	4.96		$	4.00
Operating income	$	3.00		$	2.21
Interest expense, net (a)		(0.30	)		(0.26	)
Other income (expense) (b)		(0.01	)		0.03
Adjusted income before taxes	$	2.69		$	1.98

(a)	Calculated as interest expense minus interest income divided by production for period.
(b)	Excludes non-cash gains/(losses) associated with market value adjustments for derivative contracts.

BRIGHAM EXPLORATION COMPANY
SUMMARY OF COMMODITY PRICE HEDGES OUTSTANDING AS OF MAY 2, 2006
(unaudited)

			Hedge Strategy		Q2		2006 Q3		Q4
Natural Gas Collars:
Daily volumes		MMBtu/d			8,242		6,848		7,935
Floor (Purchased put)	$	/MMBtu	Cash flow	$	8.000	$	8.000	$	8.000
Cap (Written call)	$	/MMBtu	Cash flow	$	15.894	$	15.950	$	20.854
Natural Gas Three Way Costless Collars:
Daily volumes		MMBtu/d			4,286		4,239		1,413
Floor (Purchased put)	$	/MMBtu	Cash flow	$	8.040	$	8.040	$	8.040
Cap (Written call)	$	/MMBtu	Cash flow	$	9.590	$	9.590	$	9.590
Written put	$	/MMBtu	Undesignated	$	6.650	$	6.650	$	6.650
Oil Collars:
Daily volumes		Bbls/d			412		228		293
Floor (Purchased put)	$	/Bbl	Cash flow	$	52.11	$	50.00	$	50.00
Cap (Written call)	$	/Bbl	Cash flow	$	75.34	$	75.60	$	77.50
Oil Three Way Costless Collars:
Daily volumes		Bbls/d			82		163		—
Floor (Purchased put)	$	/Bbl	Cash flow	$	63.00	$	63.00		—
Cap (Written call)	$	/Bbl	Cash flow	$	75.25	$	75.65		—
Written put	$	/Bbl	Undesignated	$	48.00	$	48.00		—

	2007								2008
	Q1		Q2		Q3		Q4		Q1
Natural Gas Collars:
Daily volumes		8,333		2,637		2,609		870		—
Floor (Purchased put)	$	8.000	$	7.125	$	7.125	$	7.125		—
Cap (Written call)		23.512	$	15.350	$	15.350	$	15.350		—
Natural Gas Three Way Costless Collars:
Daily volumes		—		—		—		—		—
Floor (Purchased put)		—		—		—		—		—
Cap (Written call)		—		—		—		—		—
Written put		—		—		—		—		—
Oil Collars:
Daily volumes		267		231		228		98		99
Floor (Purchased put)	$	50.00	$	51.71		51.71		56.00		56.00
Cap (Written call)	$	78.25	$	84.64		84.64		89.95		89.95
Oil Three Way Costless Collars:
Daily volumes		—		—		—		—		—
Floor (Purchased put)		—		—		—		—		—
Cap (Written call)		—		—		—		—		—
Written put		—		—		—		—		—

Note: Hedged volumes and prices reflected in this table represent average contract amounts for the quarterly periods presented; natural gas hedge prices and crude oil hedge contract prices are based on NYMEX pricing.

SOURCE  Brigham Exploration Company
          -0-                                                            05/02/2006
          /CONTACT:  John Turner, Director of Finance & Business Development of Brigham Exploration Company, +1-512-427-3300/
          /Web site:  http://www.bexp3d.com /
          (BEXP)