FARGO — One of North Dakota’s largest oil producers, Continental Resources, is halting drilling, a move tied to low oil prices. Economists say the decision signals more than just a drop in oil prices; it raises questions about whether companies can meet long-term productivity and profit goals at today’s costs. ADVERTISEMENT"When prices fall, companies don’t necessarily lose money, but they start comparing where their dollars work best," said David Flynn, an economics professor at the University of North Dakota. Although short-term impacts remain uncertain, economists say the pause is likely to have economic consequences. The longer the pause continues, the more likely workers and revenue could leave the state, making it harder to rebound when prices rise again.