Bonanza Creek Energy Inc. and Extraction Oil & Gas Inc., have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger of equals. The combined company, to be named Civitas Resources Inc., will be a pure-play energy producer in Colorado’s Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with an aggregate enterprise value of approximately $2.6 billion.

“Successful E&P operators will be those who place a priority on disciplined capital deployment, deliver operational and cost excellence, maintain a relentless focus on shareholder value, and have governance standards that are aligned with the times,” said Eric Greager, president and chief executive officer of Bonanza Creek. “Bonanza Creek and Extraction each bring a demonstrated commitment to these principles, as well as shared organizational and community values. Together, as Civitas, we will embody an E&P business model ideally suited to deliver for all of our stakeholders.”

“We believe the combination of Bonanza Creek and Extraction will create one of the most durable, profitable, and progressive producers in the DJ Basin, with premium assets at the front end of the cost curve,” said Tom Tyree, chief executive officer of Extraction. “Collectively, we will create significant value for all stakeholders as we will become Colorado’s first net-zero oil and gas producer through the continuing reduction in operational emissions coupled with a multi-year investment in certified emissions offsets.”

JP Morgan Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins LLP is serving as legal advisor to Bonanza Creek. Petrie Partners Securities LLC is serving as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor to Extraction.