DENVER—Whiting Petroleum President and CEO Brad Holly kicked off DUG Rockies by counting four reasons the Bakken is attractive: enhanced completions are delivering outstanding EURs; the wells generate strong free cash flow; services are available; and regulations are favorable.

He also told the crowd Whiting's Gen 4 Bakken completions feature 600 to 1,200 lbs/ft proppant, 200 to 300 ft stage spacing, 15 to 40 bbl/ft and 30 to 50 ft cluster spacing.

Holly said Whiting is looking at exiting the D-J Basin and focusing on the Bakken.

DUG Rockies takes place throughout the day. To follow speakers and to read what industry insiders are saying about the Bakken and Niobrara check back or follow @HartEnergConf on Twitter.