Quantum Energy Partners formed a new E&P focusing in the Rocky Mountain region with an initial capital commitment of more than $200 million, the Houston-based private-equity firm said May 24.

Middle Fork Energy Partners LLC, headquartered in Denver, seeks to acquire, develop and operate properties in the Rockies where the company's founders—Christopher L. Valdez and Jeffrey E. Wojahn—have a demonstrated track record of execution, according to the company release.

Valdez, who leads the company as CEO, most recently served as vice president of marketing and planning for Vantage Energy LLC, a Quantum portfolio company. Prior to Vantage, Valdez served in a variety of roles at Encana Corp.'s (NYSE: ECA) U.S. affiliate, including as vice president of planning and asset manager for the Piceance Basin area.

Wojahn, Middle Fork's executive chairman, has more than 30 years of oil and gas industry leadership experience, including leading Encana USA as its president from 2006 to 2013, the release said.

"The Middle Fork team has a deep technical understanding, comprehensive commercial appreciation and a proven operational track record of success in developing assets in the Rockies. We see great opportunity in partnering with Quantum to acquire and develop assets in this underappreciated region," Valdez said in a statement.

Middle Fork's other leadership roles have been filled with individuals who worked closely with Valdez and Wojahn at prior companies, the release said, and include:

  • Ty Harrison, CFO;
  • Frank Merendino, senior vice president of operations;
  • Worth Carlin, vice president of land; and
  • Rob Zaback, vice president of development.

Quantum has managed, together with its affiliates, more than $13 billion in equity commitments since inception, the release said.