Initially lauded as a beacon of an energy-independent North America, the Bakken shale play has lost much of its luster in the wake of plummeting oil prices and its geographic isolation.

Thanks to competing light-oil plays closer to the Gulf Coast refining hub, Bakken crude is finding more marketability with refiners on the East and West coasts. As a result, shipping by rail is the preferred method of delivery.

Tags: Bakken Shale Holdings