Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3)
File No. 333-125417
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Up to 235,836 Shares
Delta Petroleum Corporation
Common Stock
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The selling shareholders may use this prospectus in connection with sales
of up to 235,836 shares of our common stock.
Trading Symbol
NASDAQ National Market
"DPTR"
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Consider carefully the risk factors beginning on page 8 of this prospectus.
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The selling shareholders may sell the common stock at prices and on terms
determined by the market, in negotiated transactions or through underwriters.
We will not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares by the selling
shareholders.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if
this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is
a criminal offense.
The date of this prospectus is June 21, 2005.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
We are subject to the information requirements of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended, and in accordance therewith file reports and other
information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such reports and
other information filed by us can be inspected and copied at the public
reference facilities of the Commission at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Requests for copies should be
directed to the Commission's Public Reference Section, Judiciary Plaza, 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the Commission at
1-800-SEC-0330 for more information on the public reference rooms. The
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports,
proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants,
including us, that file electronically.
We have filed with the Commission a Registration Statement on Form S-3
(together with all exhibits, amendments and supplements, the "Registration
Statement") of which this prospectus constitutes a part, under the Securities
Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). This prospectus does not
contain all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement,
certain parts of which are omitted in accordance with the rules of the
Commission. For further information pertaining to us, reference is made to
the Registration Statement. Statements contained in this prospectus or any
document incorporated herein by reference concerning the provisions of
documents are necessarily summaries of such documents, and each such statement
is qualified in its entirety by reference to the copy of the applicable
document filed with the Commission. Copies of the Registration Statement are
on file at the offices of the Commission, and may be inspected without charge
at the offices of the Commission, the addresses of which are set forth above,
and copies may be obtained from the Commission at prescribed rates. The
Registration Statement has been filed electronically through the Commission's
Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval System and may be obtained
through the Commission's Web site (http://www.sec.gov).
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
The following documents that we have filed with the Commission shall be
deemed to be incorporated in this prospectus and to be a part hereof from the
date of the filing of such documents:
1. Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended June 30, 2004,
filed on September 13, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
2. Amendment No. 1 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
June 30, 2004, filed on Form 10-K/A on October 28, 2004, Exchange Act
reporting number 0-16203.
3. Amendment No. 2 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended
June 30, 2004, filed on Form 10-K/A on March 8, 2005, Exchange Act
reporting number 0-16203.
4. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2004,
filed on November 9, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
5. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2004,
filed on February 9, 2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
6. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2005,
filed on May 10, 2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
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7. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated May 5, 2005, filed on May 11,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
8. Current Report on Form 8-K/A, dated January 21, 2005 filed on April 6,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
9. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March 23, 2005, filed on March 29,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
10. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March 15, 2005, filed on March 21,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
11. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March 9, 2005 filed on March 15,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
12. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March 3, 2005, filed on March 4,
2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
13. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 28, 2005 (reporting
information under Items 8.01 and 9.01) filed on February 28, 2005,
Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
14. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated January 21, 2005, filed on January
24, 2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
15. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated January 21, 2005, filed on January
21, 2005, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
16. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated December 28, 2004, filed on December
28, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
17. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 19, 2004, filed on November
19, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
18. Definitive Proxy Materials on Schedule 14A, filed on November 22,
2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
19. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 5, 2004, filed on November
12, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
20. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 4, 2004, filed on November
10, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203, except for information
disclosed under Item 2.02.
21. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated October 26, 2004, filed on October
29, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
22. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 29, 2004, filed on October
1, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
23. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 25, 2004, filed on August 26,
2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
24. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 6, 2004, filed on August 6,
2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
25. Current Report on Form 8-K/A, dated June 29, 2004, filed on September
13, 2004, Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
26. Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 29, 2004, filed on July 8, 2004,
Exchange Act reporting number 0-16203.
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27. The description of our common stock contained in our Registration
Statement on Form 10 filed September 9, 1987, Exchange Act reporting
number 0-16203.
28. All documents filed by us, subsequent to the date of this prospectus,
under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, prior to the termination of the offering described
herein.
Any statement contained in a document incorporated by reference herein
shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for all purposes to the extent
that a statement contained in this prospectus or in any other subsequently
filed document which is also incorporated herein by reference modifies or
replaces such statement. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall
not be deemed, except as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of
this prospectus. Unless specifically stated to the contrary, none of the
information that we disclose under Items 2.02 or 7.01 of any Current Report on
Form 8-K that we may from time to time furnish to the SEC will be incorporated
by reference into, or otherwise included in, this prospectus.
We will provide without charge to each person, including any beneficial
owner, to whom this prospectus is delivered, on written or oral request of
such person, a copy of any or all documents incorporated by reference in this
prospectus. Requests for such copies should be directed to Aleron H. Larson,
Jr., Delta Petroleum Corporation, Suite 4300, 370 17th Street, Denver,
Colorado 80202, or (303) 293-9133.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM
ACT OF 1995 AND OTHER FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS
We are including the following discussion to inform our existing and
potential security holders generally of some of the risks and uncertainties
that can affect us and to take advantage of the "safe harbor" protection for
forward-looking statements afforded under federal securities laws. From time
to time, our management or persons acting on our behalf make forward-looking
statements to inform existing and potential security holders about us. These
statements may include projections and estimates concerning the timing and
success of specific projects and our future (1) income, (2) oil and gas
production, (3) oil and gas reserves and reserve replacement and (4) capital
spending. Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by words such
as "estimate," "project," "predict," "believe," "expect," "anticipate,"
"plan," "goal" or other words that convey the uncertainty of future events or
outcomes. Sometimes we will specifically describe a statement as being a
forward-looking statement. In addition, except for the historical information
contained in this prospectus, the matters discussed in this prospectus are
forward-looking statements. These statements by their nature are subject to
certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions and will be influenced by various
factors. Should any of the assumptions underlying a forward-looking statement
prove incorrect, actual results could vary materially.
We believe the factors discussed below are important factors that could
cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in a forward-
looking statement made herein or elsewhere by us or on our behalf. The factors
listed below are not necessarily all of the important factors. Unpredictable
or unknown factors not discussed herein could also have material adverse
effects on actual results of matters that are the subject of forward-looking
statements. We do not intend to update our description of important factors
each time a potential important factor arises. We advise our shareholders that
they should (1) be aware that important factors not described below could
affect the accuracy of our forward-looking statements and (2) use caution and
common sense when analyzing our forward-looking statements in this document or
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elsewhere, and all of such forward-looking statements are qualified by this
cautionary statement.
Historically, natural gas and crude oil prices have been volatile. These
prices rise and fall based on changes in market demand and changes in the
political, regulatory and economic climate and other factors that affect
commodities markets generally and are outside of our control. Deviations in
the market prices of both crude oil and natural gas and the effects of
acquisitions, dispositions and exploratory development activities may have a
significant effect on the quantities and future values of reserves.
Projecting future rates of oil and gas production is inherently
imprecise. Producing oil and gas reservoirs generally have declining
production rates.
All of our reserve information is based on estimates. Reservoir
engineering is a subjective process of estimating underground accumulations of
oil and natural gas that cannot be measured in an exact way. There are
numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved natural gas
and oil reserves.
Changes in the legal and/or regulatory environment could have a material
adverse effect on our future results of operations and financial condition.
Our ability to explore for and economically produce and sell our oil and gas
production is affected and could possibly be restrained by a number of legal
and regulatory factors, particularly with respect to our offshore California
properties.
Our drilling operations are subject to various risks common in the
industry, including cratering, explosions, fires and uncontrollable flows of
oil, gas or well fluids.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
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Prospectus Summary .................................................... 7
Risk Factors........................................................... 8
Use of Proceeds ....................................................... 20
Determination of Offering Price ....................................... 20
Recent Material Changes in our Business ............................... 20
Selling Shareholders .................................................. 21
Plan of Distribution .................................................. 21
Description of Securities ............................................. 23
Interests of Named Experts and Counsel ................................ 23
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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
The following is a summary of the pertinent information regarding this
offering. This summary is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed
information and financial statements and related notes incorporated by
reference into this prospectus.
Delta
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Delta Petroleum Corporation ("Delta," the "Company," "we" or "us") is a
Colorado corporation organized on December 21, 1984. We maintain our
principal executive offices at 370 Seventeenth Street, Suite 4300, Denver,
Colorado 80202, and our telephone number is (303) 293-9133. Our common stock
is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol "DPTR."
We are engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and
production of oil and gas properties. As of June 30, 2004, we had varying
interests in 554 gross (247.8 net) productive wells located in thirteen states
and offshore California. These do not include varying small interests in 666
gross (5.2 net) wells located primarily in Texas which are owned by our
subsidiary Piper Petroleum Company. We also have interests in five federal
units and one lease offshore California near Santa Barbara along with a
financial interest in a nearby producing offshore federal unit. At June 30,
2004, we estimated onshore proved reserves to be approximately 11,378,000
barrels of oil and 88.5 billion cubic feet of gas, of which approximately
6,240,000 barrels of oil and 55.8 billion cubic feet of gas were proved
developed reserves. At June 30, 2004, we estimated offshore proved reserves to
be approximately 1,827,000 barrels of oil, of which approximately 695,000
barrels were proved developed reserves. Our reserve estimates change
continuously and are evaluated by us on an annual basis. Deviations in the
market prices of both crude oil and natural gas and the effects of
acquisitions, dispositions and exploratory development activities may have a
significant effect on the quantities and future values of our reserves.
The Offering
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Securities Offered Up to 235,836 shares of our common stock offered
by the selling shareholders.
Offering Price The shares being offered pursuant to this prospectus
are being offered by the selling shareholders from
time to time at the then current market price.
Common Stock 41,587,000 shares of common stock $.01 par value were
Outstanding outstanding as of May 5, 2005.
Dividend Policy We do not anticipate paying dividends on our common
stock in the foreseeable future.
Use of Proceeds The shares offered pursuant to this prospectus are
being sold by the selling shareholders and we will
not receive any proceeds of the offering.
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RISK FACTORS
Prospective investors should consider carefully, in addition to the other
information in this prospectus, the following:
RISKS RELATED TO OUR BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY
OIL AND NATURAL GAS PRICES ARE VOLATILE AND A DECREASE COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT
OUR REVENUES, CASH FLOWS AND PROFITABILITY.
Our revenues, profitability and future rate of growth depend substantially
upon the market prices of oil and natural gas, which fluctuate widely.
Sustained declines in oil and gas prices may adversely affect our financial
condition, liquidity and results of operations. Factors that can cause market
prices of oil and natural gas to fluctuate include:
- relatively minor changes in the supply of and demand for oil and
natural gas;
- market uncertainty;
- the level of consumer product demands;
- weather conditions;
- U.S. and foreign governmental regulations;
- the price and availability of alternative fuels;
- political and economic conditions in oil producing countries,
particularly those in the Middle East, including actions by the
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries;
- the foreign supply of oil and natural gas; and
- the price of oil and gas imports, consumer preferences and overall
U.S. and foreign economic conditions.
We are not able to predict future oil and natural gas prices. At various
times, excess domestic and imported supplies have depressed oil and gas
prices. Lower prices may reduce the amount of oil and natural gas that we can
produce economically and may also require us to write down the carrying value
of our oil and gas properties. Substantially all of our oil and natural gas
sales are made in the spot market or pursuant to contracts based on spot
market prices, not long-term fixed price contracts. Any substantial or
extended decline in the prices of or demand for oil or natural gas would have
a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of
operations.
WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO REPLACE PRODUCTION WITH NEW RESERVES.
Our reserves will decline significantly as they are produced unless we acquire
properties with proved reserves or conduct successful development and
exploration drilling activities. Our future oil and natural gas production is
highly dependent upon our level of success in finding or acquiring additional
reserves that are economically feasible and developing existing proved
reserves, which we may not be successful in doing.
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IF OIL OR NATURAL GAS PRICES DECREASE OR EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS
ARE UNSUCCESSFUL, WE MAY BE REQUIRED TO TAKE WRITE DOWNS.
In the past, we have been required to write down the carrying value of our oil
and gas properties, and there is a risk that we will be required to take
additional writedowns in the future which would reduce our earnings and
stockholders' equity. A write down could occur when oil and gas prices are low
or if we have substantial downward adjustments to our estimated proved
reserves, increases in our estimates of development costs or deterioration in
our exploration and development results.
We account for our crude oil and natural gas exploration and development
activities utilizing the successful efforts method of accounting. Under this
method, costs of productive exploratory wells, development dry holes and
productive wells and undeveloped leases are capitalized. Oil and gas lease
acquisition costs are also capitalized. Exploratory drilling costs are
initially capitalized, but charged to expense if and when the well is
determined not to have found reserves in commercial quantities. If the
carrying amount of our oil and gas properties exceeds the estimated
undiscounted future net cash flows, we will adjust the carrying amount of the
oil and gas properties to their fair value.
We review our oil and gas properties for impairment whenever events and
circumstances indicate a decline in the recoverability of their carrying
value. Once incurred, a write down of oil and gas properties is not reversible
at a later date even if gas or oil prices increase. Given the complexities
associated with oil and gas reserve estimates and the history of price
volatility in the oil and gas markets, events may arise that would require us
to record an impairment of the recorded carrying values associated with our
oil and gas properties. As a result of our review, we recognized an impairment
of $1.5 million for fiscal 2002. Any such future charge will reduce our
earnings and stockholders' equity.
WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO FUND OUR PLANNED CAPITAL EXPENDITURES.
We spend and will continue to spend a substantial amount of capital for the
acquisition, exploration, exploitation, development and production of oil and
gas reserves. Our exploration and development capital budget ranges from $80.0
to $90.0 million for fiscal 2005. If low oil and natural gas prices, lack of
adequate gathering or transportation facilities, operating difficulties or
other factors, many of which are beyond our control, cause our revenues and
cash flows from operating activities to decrease, we may be limited in our
ability to spend the capital necessary to complete our capital expenditures
program. In addition, if our borrowing base under our senior credit facility
is re-determined to a lower amount, this could adversely affect our ability to
fund our planned capital expenditures. After utilizing our available sources
of financing, we may be forced to raise additional equity or debt proceeds to
fund such expenditures. Additional equity or debt financing or cash flow
provided by operations may not be available to meet our capital expenditure
requirements.
THE EXPLORATION, DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES INVOLVE
SUBSTANTIAL RISKS THAT MAY RESULT IN A TOTAL LOSS OF INVESTMENT.
The business of exploring for and, to a lesser extent, developing and
operating oil and gas properties involves a high degree of business and
financial risk, and thus a substantial risk of investment loss that even a
combination of experience, knowledge and careful evaluation may not be able to
overcome. Oil and gas drilling and production activities may be shortened,
delayed or canceled as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are
beyond our control. These factors include:
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- unexpected drilling conditions;
- pressure or irregularities in formations;
- equipment failures or accidents;
- weather conditions;
- shortages in experienced labor; and
- shortages or delays in the delivery of equipment.
As of June 30, 2004, approximately 42% of our proved reserves were undeveloped
and had a book value of $86.7 million. The cost to develop these reserves is
estimated to be approximately $67.0 million. In addition, we have $49 million
of capitalized costs on properties with no proved reserves. We may drill wells
that are unproductive or, although productive, do not produce oil and/or gas
in economic quantities. Acquisition and completion decisions generally are
based on subjective judgments and assumptions that are speculative. It is
impossible to predict with certainty the production potential of a particular
property or well. Furthermore, a successful completion of a well does not
ensure a profitable return on the investment. A variety of geological,
operational, or market-related factors, including, but not limited to, unusual
or unexpected geological formations, pressures, equipment failures or
accidents, fires, explosions, blowouts, cratering, pollution and other
environmental risks, shortages or delays in the availability of drilling rigs
and the delivery of equipment, loss of circulation of drilling fluids or other
conditions may substantially delay or prevent completion of any well or
otherwise prevent a property or well from being profitable. A productive well
may become uneconomic in the event water or other deleterious substances are
encountered which impair or prevent the production of oil and/or gas from the
well. In addition, production from any well may be unmarketable if it is
contaminated with water or other deleterious substances.
OUR INDUSTRY EXPERIENCES NUMEROUS OPERATING HAZARDS THAT COULD RESULT IN
SUBSTANTIAL LOSSES.
The exploration, development and operation of oil and gas properties also
involve a variety of operating risks including the risk of fire, explosions,
blowouts, cratering, pipe failure, abnormally pressured formations, natural
disasters, acts of terrorism or vandalism, and environmental hazards,
including oil spills, gas leaks, pipeline ruptures or discharges of toxic
gases. These industry-operating risks can result in injury or loss of life,
severe damage to or destruction of property, natural resources and equipment,
pollution or other environmental damage, clean-up responsibilities, regulatory
investigation and penalties, and suspension of operations which could result
in substantial losses.
We maintain insurance against some, but not all, of the risks described above.
Such insurance may not be adequate to cover losses or liabilities. Also, we
cannot predict the continued availability of insurance at premium levels that
justify its purchase. The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 and the
changes in the insurance markets attributable to those attacks have made some
types of insurance more difficult to obtain. We have been unable to secure the
level and types of insurance we would otherwise have secured prior to the
terrorist attacks. We may not be able to maintain insurance in the future at
rates we consider reasonable. The occurrence of a significant event that is
not fully insured or indemnified against could materially and adversely affect
our financial condition and operations.
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OUR LEVEL OF INDEBTEDNESS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR ABILITY TO RAISE
ADDITIONAL CAPITAL TO FUND OUR OPERATIONS, LIMIT OUR ABILITY TO REACT TO
CHANGES IN THE ECONOMY OR OUR INDUSTRY AND PREVENT US FROM MEETING OUR
OBLIGATIONS UNDER OUR SENIOR UNSECURED NOTES.
As of March 31, 2005, our total outstanding long term liabilities were
$182,592,000. Our degree of leverage could have important consequences for
you, including the following:
- it may limit our ability to obtain additional debt or equity
financing for working capital, capital expenditures, further
exploration, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general
corporate or other purposes;
- a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations will be
dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on our
indebtedness and will not be available for other purposes,
including our operations, capital expenditures and future business
opportunities;
- the debt service requirements of other indebtedness in the future
could make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial
obligations;
- certain of our borrowings, including borrowings under our senior
credit facility, are at variable rates of interest, exposing us to
the risk of increased interest rates;
- it may limit our ability to adjust to changing market conditions
and place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our
competitors that have less debt; and
- we may be vulnerable in a downturn in general economic conditions
or in our business, or we may be unable to carry out capital
spending and exploration activities that are important to our
growth.
We may be able to incur substantially more debt in the future, which may
intensify the risks described in this Prospectus. The indenture governing our
7% senior notes and our senior credit facility do not prohibit us from doing
so. As of March 31, 2005, we had approximately $27 million outstanding under
our senior credit facility and additional availability of approximately $33
million.
A DEFAULT UNDER OUR SENIOR CREDIT FACILITY COULD CAUSE US TO LOSE OUR
PROPERTIES.
In order to obtain our senior credit facility, we granted first priority liens
to the lending banks on most of our oil and gas properties and the related
equipment, inventory, accounts and proceeds. Our senior credit facility
includes terms and covenants that place limitations on certain types of
activities, including restrictions or requirements with respect to additional
debt, liens, asset sales, hedging activities, investments, dividends, mergers
and acquisitions, and also includes financial covenants.
Under certain conditions amounts outstanding under our senior credit facility
may be accelerated. Bankruptcy and insolvency events with respect to us or
certain of our subsidiaries will result in an automatic acceleration of the
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indebtedness under the senior credit facility. Subject to notice and cure
periods in certain cases, other events of default under the senior credit
facility will result in acceleration of the indebtedness at the option of the
lending banks. Such other events of default include, among other things,
non-payment, breach of warranty, non-performance of obligations under the
senior credit facility (including financial covenants), default on other
indebtedness, certain pension plan events, certain adverse judgments, change
of control, and a failure of the liens securing the senior credit facility.
Any of these events could potentially cause us to lose substantially all of
our properties.
For so long as the revolving commitment is in existence, we will also be
required to comply with loan covenants that will limit our flexibility in
conducting our business and which could cause us significant problems in the
event of a downturn in the oil and gas market. If an event of default occurs
and continues after the expiration of any cure period that is provided for in
our senior credit facility, the entire principal amount due under it, all
accrued interest and any other liabilities that we might have to the lending
banks under the senior credit facility will all become immediately due and
payable, all without notice of default of any kind. The foregoing information
is provided to alert readers that there is risk associated with our existing
debt obligations. It is not intended to provide a summary of the terms of our
agreements with our lenders.
ACQUISITIONS ARE A PART OF OUR BUSINESS STRATEGY AND ARE SUBJECT TO THE RISKS
AND UNCERTAINTIES OF EVALUATING RECOVERABLE RESERVES AND POTENTIAL
LIABILITIES.
We could be subject to significant liabilities related to acquisitions by us.
The successful acquisition of producing properties requires an assessment of a
number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. These factors include
recoverable reserves, future oil and gas prices, operating costs and potential
environmental and other liabilities, title issues and other factors. It
generally is not feasible to review in detail every individual property
included in an acquisition. Ordinarily, a review is focused on higher valued
properties. Further, even a detailed review of all properties and records may
not reveal existing or potential problems, nor will it permit us to become
sufficiently familiar with the properties to assess fully their deficiencies
and capabilities. We do not always inspect every well we acquire, and
environmental problems, such as groundwater contamination, are not necessarily
observable even when an inspection is performed. We cannot assure you that our
recent and/or future acquisition activity will not result in disappointing
results.
In addition, there is intense competition for acquisition opportunities in our
industry. Competition for acquisitions may increase the cost of, or cause us
to refrain from, completing acquisitions. Our strategy of completing
acquisitions is dependent upon, among other things, our ability to obtain debt
and equity financing and, in some cases, regulatory approvals. Our ability to
pursue our acquisition strategy may be hindered if we are not able to obtain
financing or regulatory approvals.
Acquisitions often pose integration risks and difficulties. In connection with
recent and future acquisitions, the process of integrating acquired operations
into our existing operations may result in unforeseen operating difficulties
and may require significant management attention and financial resources that
would otherwise be available for the ongoing development or expansion of
existing operations. Possible future acquisitions could result in our
incurring additional debt, contingent liabilities and expenses, all of which
could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and operating
results.
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WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO OBTAIN ADEQUATE FINANCING TO EXECUTE OUR OPERATING
STRATEGY.
We have historically addressed our short and long-term liquidity needs through
the use of cash flow provided by operating activities, the use of bank credit
facilities and the issuance of equity securities. Without adequate financing,
we may not be able to successfully execute our operating strategy. We continue
to examine the following alternative sources of capital:
- bank borrowings or the issuance of debt securities; and
- the issuance of common stock, preferred stock or other equity
securities.
The availability of these sources of capital will depend upon a number of
factors, some of which are beyond our control. These factors include general
economic and financial market conditions, oil and natural gas prices and our
market value and operating performance. We may be unable to execute our
operating strategy if we cannot obtain adequate capital.
WE DEPEND ON KEY PERSONNEL.
We currently have only three employees that serve in senior management roles,
and the loss of any one of them could severely harm our business. In
particular, Roger A. Parker and John R. Wallace are responsible for the
operation of our oil and gas business and Kevin K. Nanke is our chief
financial officer. We do not have key man insurance on the lives of any of
these individuals, nor do we currently have employment agreements with any of
them. Furthermore, competition for experienced personnel is intense. If we
cannot retain our current personnel or attract additional experienced
personnel, our ability to compete could be adversely affected.
WE MAY NOT BE PERMITTED TO DEVELOP SOME OF OUR OFFSHORE CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES
OR, IF WE ARE PERMITTED, THE SUBSTANTIAL COST TO DEVELOP THESE PROPERTIES
COULD RESULT IN A REDUCTION OF OUR INTEREST IN THESE PROPERTIES OR CAUSE US TO
INCUR PENALTIES.
Certain of our offshore California undeveloped properties, in which we have
ownership interests ranging from 2.49% to 100.00%, are attributable to our
interests in four of our five federal units (plus one additional lease)
located offshore of California near Santa Barbara. These properties have a
cost basis of approximately $10.9 million. The development of these properties
is subject to extensive regulation and is currently the subject of litigation.
Pursuant to a ruling in California v. Norton, later affirmed by the Ninth
Circuit Court of Appeals, the U.S. Government is required to make a
consistency determination relating to the 1999 lease suspension requests under
a 1990 amendment to the Coastal Zone Management Act. In the event that there
is some future adverse ruling under the Coastal Zone Management Act that we
decide not to appeal or that we appeal without success, it is likely that some
or all of our interests in these leases would become impaired and written off
at that time. It is also possible that other events could occur during the
Coastal Zone Management Act review or appellate process that would cause our
interests in the leases to become impaired, and we will continuously evaluate
those factors as they occur.
In addition, the cost to develop these properties will be substantial. The
cost to develop all of these offshore California properties in which we own an
interest, including delineation wells, environmental mitigation, development
wells, fixed platforms, fixed platform facilities, pipelines and power cables,
13
onshore facilities and platform removal over the life of the properties
(assumed to be 38 years), is estimated to be in excess of $3 billion. Our
share of such costs, based on our current ownership interest, is estimated to
be over $200 million. Operating expenses for the same properties over the same
period of time, including platform operating costs, well maintenance and
repair costs, oil, gas and water treating costs, lifting costs and pipeline
transportation costs, are estimated to be approximately $3.5 billion, with our
share, based on our current ownership interest, estimated to be approximately
$300 million. There will be additional costs of a currently undetermined
amount to develop the Rocky Point Unit. Each working interest owner will be
required to pay its proportionate share of these costs based upon the amount
of the interest that it owns. If we are unable to fund our share of these
costs or otherwise cover them through farmouts or other arrangements, then we
could either forfeit our interest in certain wells or properties or suffer
other penalties in the form of delayed or reduced revenues under our various
unit operating agreements, which could impact the ultimate realization of this
investment. The estimates discussed above may differ significantly from actual
results.
YOU SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON RESERVE INFORMATION BECAUSE IT IS ONLY
AN ESTIMATE.
There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of proved
reserves and cash flows from such reserves, including factors beyond our
control and the control of our independent reserve engineers, Ralph E. Davis
Associates, Inc. and Mannon Associates. Reserve engineering is a subjective
process of estimating underground accumulations of oil and gas that cannot be
measured in an exact manner. The accuracy of an estimate of quantities of oil
and gas reserves, or of cash flows attributable to such reserves, is a
function of the available data, assumptions regarding future oil and gas
prices, expenditures for future development and exploitation activities, and
engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. Reserves and future
cash flows may also be subject to material downward or upward revisions based
upon production history, development and exploitation activities, oil and gas
prices and regulatory changes. Actual future production, revenue, taxes,
development expenditures, operating expenses, quantities of recoverable
reserves and value of cash flows from those reserves may vary significantly
from our assumptions and estimates. In addition, reserve engineers may make
different estimates of reserves and cash flows based on the same available
data.
The estimated quantities of proved reserves and the discounted present value
of future net cash flows attributable to those reserves for the fiscal years
ended June 30, 2002, 2003 and 2004 included in our periodic reports filed with
the SEC were prepared by our reserve engineers in accordance with the rules of
the SEC, and are not intended to represent the fair market value of such
reserves. As required by the SEC, the estimated discounted present value of
future net cash flows from proved reserves is generally based on prices and
costs as of the date of the estimate, while actual future prices and costs may
be materially higher or lower. In addition, the 10% discount factor, which the
SEC requires to be used to calculate discounted future net revenues for
reporting purposes, is not necessarily the most appropriate discount factor
based on the cost of capital in effect from time to time and risks associated
with our business and the oil and gas industry in general.
WE ARE EXPOSED TO ADDITIONAL RISKS THROUGH OUR DRILLING BUSINESS.
We currently have a significant ownership interest in DHS Drilling Company
("DHS"), an affiliated entity that engages in the oil and gas drilling
business. Our operations through DHS could potentially subject us to many
additional hazards that are inherent to the drilling business, including, for
example, blowouts, cratering, fires, explosions, loss of well control, loss of
14
hole, damaged or lost drill strings and damage or loss from inclement weather.
No assurance can be given that our collective insurance will be sufficient to
protect it and us against liability for all consequences of well disasters,
personal injury, extensive fire damage or damage to the environment. No
assurance can be given that DHS will be able to maintain adequate insurance in
the future at rates it considers reasonable or that any particular types of
coverage will be available. The occurrence of events, including any of the
above-mentioned risks and hazards, that are not fully insured could subject
DHS to significant liability. It is also possible that we might sustain
significant losses through the operation of the drilling business even if none
of such events occurs.
HEDGING TRANSACTIONS MAY LIMIT OUR POTENTIAL GAINS.
In order to manage our exposure to price risks in the marketing of oil and
gas, we periodically enter into oil and gas price hedging arrangements,
typically costless collars. While intended to reduce the effects of volatile
oil and gas prices, such transactions, depending on the hedging instrument
used, may limit our potential gains if oil and gas prices were to rise
substantially over the price established by the hedge. In addition, such
transactions may expose us to the risk of financial loss in certain
circumstances, including instances in which:
- production is substantially less than expected;
- the counterparties to our futures contracts fail to perform under
the contracts; or
- a sudden, unexpected event materially impacts gas or oil prices.
WE MAY NOT RECEIVE PAYMENT FOR A PORTION OF OUR FUTURE PRODUCTION.
Our revenues are derived principally from uncollateralized sales to customers
in the oil and gas industry. The concentration of credit risk in a single
industry affects our overall exposure to credit risk because customers may be
similarly affected by changes in economic and other conditions. We do not
attempt to obtain credit protections such as letters of credit, guarantees or
prepayments from our purchasers. We are unable to predict, however, what
impact the financial difficulties of any of our purchasers may have on our
future results of operations and liquidity.
WE HAVE NO LONG-TERM CONTRACTS TO SELL OIL AND GAS.
We do not have any long-term supply or similar agreements with governments or
other authorities or entities for which we act as a producer. We are therefore
dependent upon our ability to sell oil and gas at the prevailing wellhead
market price. There can be no assurance that purchasers will be available or
that the prices they are willing to pay will remain stable.
THERE IS CURRENTLY A SHORTAGE OF AVAILABLE DRILLING RIGS AND EQUIPMENT WHICH
COULD CAUSE US TO EXPERIENCE HIGHER COSTS AND DELAYS THAT COULD ADVERSELY
AFFECT OUR OPERATIONS.
Although equipment and supplies used in our business are usually available
from multiple sources, there is currently a general shortage of drilling
equipment and supplies. We believe that these shortages are likely to
intensify. The costs and delivery times of equipment and supplies are
15
substantially greater now than in prior periods and are currently escalating.
In partial response to this trend, we have acquired a significant interest in
a drilling company to allow us to have priority access to drilling rigs. We
believe that our ownership interest in the drilling company will allow us to
have priority access to several large drilling rigs. We are also attempting to
establish arrangements with others to assure adequate availability of certain
other necessary drilling equipment and supplies on satisfactory terms, but
there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so. Accordingly, there
can be no assurance that we will not experience shortages of, or material
price increases in, drilling equipment and supplies, including drill pipe, in
the future. Any such shortages could delay and adversely affect our ability to
meet our drilling commitments.
THE MARKETABILITY OF OUR PRODUCTION DEPENDS MOSTLY UPON THE AVAILABILITY,
PROXIMITY AND CAPACITY OF GAS GATHERING SYSTEMS, PIPELINES AND PROCESSING
FACILITIES, WHICH ARE OWNED BY THIRD PARTIES.
The marketability of our production depends upon the availability, operation
and capacity of gas gathering systems, pipelines and processing facilities,
which are owned by third parties. The unavailability or lack of capacity of
these systems and facilities could result in the shut-in of producing wells or
the delay or discontinuance of development plans for properties. We currently
own several wells that are capable of producing but are currently shut-in
pending the construction of gas gathering systems, pipelines and processing
facilities. United States federal, state and foreign regulation of oil and gas
production and transportation, tax and energy policies, damage to or
destruction of pipelines, general economic conditions and changes in supply
and demand could adversely affect our ability to produce and market oil and
natural gas. If market factors changed dramatically, the financial impact on
us could be substantial. The availability of markets and the volatility of
product prices are beyond our control and represent a significant risk.
OUR INDUSTRY IS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE, MAKING OUR RESULTS UNCERTAIN.
We operate in the highly competitive areas of oil and gas exploration,
development and production. We compete for the purchase of leases from the
U.S. government and from other oil and gas companies. These leases include
exploration prospects as well as properties with proved reserves. We face
competition in every aspect of our business, including, but not limited to:
- acquiring reserves and leases;
- obtaining goods, services and employees needed to operate and
manage our business;
- access to the capital necessary to drill wells and acquire
properties; and
- marketing oil and natural gas.
Competitors include multinational oil companies, independent production
companies and individual producers and operators. Many of our competitors have
greater financial, technological and other resources than we do.
NEW TECHNOLOGIES MAY CAUSE OUR CURRENT EXPLORATION AND DRILLING METHODS TO
BECOME OBSOLETE, RESULTING IN AN ADVERSE EFFECT ON OUR PRODUCTION.
The oil and natural gas industry is subject to rapid and significant
advancements in technology, including the introduction of new products and
services using new technologies. As competitors use or develop new
16
technologies, we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage, and competitive
pressures may force us to implement new technologies at a substantial cost. In
addition, competitors may have greater financial, technical and personnel
resources that allow them to enjoy technological advantages and may in the
future allow them to implement new technologies before we can. We cannot be
certain that we will be able to implement technologies on a timely basis or at
a cost that is acceptable to us. One or more of the technologies that we
currently use or that we may implement in the future may become obsolete, and
we may be adversely affected.
TERRORIST ATTACKS AIMED AT OUR FACILITIES COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS.
The United States has been the target of terrorist attacks of unprecedented
scale. The U.S. government has issued warnings that U.S. energy assets may be
the future targets of terrorist organizations. These developments have
subjected our operations to increased risks. Any future terrorist attack at
our facilities, or those of our purchasers, could have a material adverse
effect on our business.
WE MAY INCUR SUBSTANTIAL COSTS TO COMPLY WITH THE VARIOUS U.S. FEDERAL, STATE
AND LOCAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS THAT AFFECT OUR OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS.
Our oil and gas operations are subject to stringent U.S. federal, state and
local laws and regulations relating to the release or disposal of materials
into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection or the
oil and gas industry generally. Legislation affecting the industry is under
constant review for amendment or expansion, frequently increasing our
regulatory burden. Compliance with such laws and regulations often increases
our cost of doing business and, in turn, decreases our profitability. Failure
to comply with these laws and regulations may result in the assessment of
administrative, civil and criminal penalties, the incurrence of investigatory
or remedial obligations, or the imposition of injunctive relief.
The environmental laws and regulations to which we are subject may:
- require applying for and receiving a permit before drilling
commences;
- restrict the types, quantities and concentration of substances that
can be released into the environment in connection with drilling
and production activities;
- limit or prohibit drilling activities on certain lands lying within
wilderness, wetlands and other protected areas; and
- impose substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from our
operations.
Changes in environmental laws and regulations occur frequently, and any
changes that result in more stringent or costly waste handling, storage,
transport, disposal or cleanup requirements could require us to make
significant expenditures to maintain compliance, and may otherwise have a
material adverse effect on our earnings, results of operations, competitive
position or financial condition. Over the years, we have owned or leased
numerous properties for oil and gas activities upon which petroleum
hydrocarbons or other materials may have been released by us or by predecessor
property owners or lessees who were not under our control. Under applicable
environmental laws and regulations, including CERCLA, RCRA and analogous state
laws, we could be held strictly liable for the removal or remediation of
17
previously released materials or property contamination at such locations
regardless of whether we were responsible for the release or if our operations
were standard in the industry at the time they were performed.
RISKS RELATED TO OUR STOCK
WE MAY ISSUE SHARES OF PREFERRED STOCK WITH GREATER RIGHTS THAN OUR COMMON
STOCK.
Although we have no current plans, arrangements, understandings or agreements
to issue any preferred stock, our articles of incorporation authorize our
board of directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock and set the
terms of the preferred stock without seeking any further approval from our
shareholders. Any preferred stock that is issued may rank ahead of our common
stock, in terms of dividends, liquidation rights and voting rights.
THERE MAY BE FUTURE DILUTION OF OUR COMMON STOCK.
To the extent options to purchase common stock under our employee and director
stock option plans are exercised, holders of our common stock will incur
dilution. Further, if we sell additional equity or convertible debt
securities, such sales could result in increased dilution to our shareholders.
OUR MANAGEMENT CONTROLS A SIGNIFICANT PERCENTAGE OF OUR OUTSTANDING COMMON
STOCK AND THEIR INTERESTS MAY CONFLICT WITH THOSE OF OUR SHAREHOLDERS.
As of March 31, 2005, our directors and executive officers and their
respective affiliates collectively and beneficially owned approximately 24% of
our outstanding common stock. In addition, one of our affiliates, Castle
Energy Corporation, has agreed to vote in favor of all of management's
nominees for director and in favor of other matters recommended by our Board
of Directors at annual shareholder meetings. This concentration of voting
control gives our directors and executive officers and their respective
affiliates substantial influence over any matters that require a shareholder
vote, including, without limitation, the election of directors, even if their
interests may conflict with those of other shareholders. It could also have
the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control of or otherwise
discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us.
This could have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common
stock or prevent our shareholders from realizing a premium over the then
prevailing market prices for their shares of common stock.
SALES OF SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNTS OF OUR COMMON STOCK MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR
STOCK PRICE AND MAKE FUTURE OFFERINGS TO RAISE CAPITAL DIFFICULT.
Sales of a large number of shares of our common stock in the market or the
perception that sales may occur could adversely affect the trading price of
our common stock. As of May 5, 2005, 41,587,000 shares of our common stock
were outstanding, almost all of which currently are freely tradable, subject
to certain volume limitations and other requirements applicable to affiliates.
As of March 31, 2005, options to purchase up to a total of approximately 4.2
million shares of our common stock were outstanding.
We may issue additional restricted securities or register additional shares of
common stock under the Securities Act in the future for our use in connection
with future acquisitions. Pursuant to Securities Act Rule 145, the volume
limitations and certain other requirements of Rule 144 would apply to resales
of these shares by affiliates of the businesses that we acquire for a period
of one year from the date of their acquisition, but otherwise these
18
shares would be freely tradable by persons not affiliated with us unless we
contractually restrict their resale.
The availability for sale, or sale, of the shares of common stock eligible for
future sale could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
WE DO NOT EXPECT TO PAY DIVIDENDS ON OUR COMMON STOCK.
We do not expect to pay any dividends, in cash or otherwise, with respect to
our common stock in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain any earnings
for use in our business. In addition, the credit agreement relating to our
credit facility prohibits us from paying any dividends until the loan is
retired.
THE COMMON STOCK IS AN UNSECURED EQUITY INTEREST IN OUR COMPANY.
As an equity interest, the common stock will not be secured by any of our
assets. Therefore, in the event we are liquidated, the holders of the common
stock will receive a distribution only after all of our secured and unsecured
creditors have been paid in full. There can be no assurance that we will have
sufficient assets after paying our secured and unsecured creditors to make any
distribution to the holders of the common stock.
OUR SHAREHOLDERS DO NOT HAVE CUMULATIVE VOTING RIGHTS.
Holders of our common stock are not entitled to accumulate their votes for the
election of directors or otherwise. Accordingly, the holders of more than 50%
of our outstanding common stock will be able to elect all of our directors. As
of March 31, 2005, our directors and executive officers and their respective
affiliates collectively and beneficially owned approximately 24% of our
outstanding common stock.
OUR ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION HAVE PROVISIONS THAT DISCOURAGE CORPORATE
TAKEOVERS AND COULD PREVENT SHAREHOLDERS FROM REALIZING A PREMIUM ON THEIR
INVESTMENT.
Certain provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and the provisions of the
Colorado Business Corporation Act may discourage persons from considering
unsolicited tender offers or other unilateral takeover proposals. Such persons
might choose to negotiate with our Board of Directors rather than pursue
non-negotiated takeover attempts. As a result, these provisions could have the
effect of preventing shareholders from realizing a premium on their
investment.
Our Articles of Incorporation authorize our Board of Directors to issue
preferred stock without shareholder approval and to set the rights,
preferences and other designations, including voting rights of those shares,
as the Board may determine. Additional provisions include restrictions on
business combinations and the availability of authorized but unissued common
stock. These provisions may discourage transactions involving actual or
potential changes of control, including transactions that otherwise could
involve payment of a premium over prevailing market prices to shareholders for
their common stock.
19
USE OF PROCEEDS
The proceeds from the sale of the shares of common stock offered pursuant
to this prospectus will be received directly by the selling shareholders, and
we will not receive any proceeds from the sale of these shares.
DETERMINATION OF OFFERING PRICE
The shares registered herein are being sold by the selling shareholders,
and not by us, and are therefore being sold at the market price as of the date
of sale. Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market System
under the symbol "DPTR." On June 20, 2005, the reported closing price for our
common stock on the Nasdaq National Market System was $13.32.
RECENT MATERIAL CHANGES IN OUR BUSINESS
There have been no material changes in our business since June 30, 2004
that have not been reported in our reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, except as
follows:
Prior to March 21, 2005 we owned a fifty percent interest in Big Dog
Drilling Co., LLC ("Big Dog"), and Edward Mike Davis owned the remaining fifty
percent. On March 21, 2005 we purchased his ownership interest in Big Dog in
exchange for 100,000 shares of our common stock and our interest in Shark
Trucking Co., LLC. At the time of the transaction with Mr. Davis, Big Dog
owned two drilling rigs. On April 15, 2005, we contributed both of these rigs
to DHS Drilling Company ("DHS") in exchange for a 90% ownership interest in
that entity. On May 16, 2005, Chesapeake Energy Corporation made an equity
investment in DHS which resulted in our ownership interest being reduced to
49.5%.
DHS currently has four drilling rigs in operation that have depth ratings
of approximately 7,500 to 18,000 feet. Six additional rigs are in the process
of being acquired or assembled by DHS and are currently expected to become
operational during the summer and fall of 2005. We have the right to use all
of the rigs on a priority basis, although approximately half will initially
work for third party operators. At the outset, all of the rigs will operate in
the Rocky Mountain basins.
The officers of DHS include Bill Sauer, Jr., Harold Hastings and certain
officers of Delta. Bill Sauer, Jr. and Harold Hastings were most recently with
Sauer Drilling Company ("Sauer") during which time Sauer was primarily owned
by Tom Brown, Inc.
DHS operates out of Casper, Wyoming and its principal office is located
at 675 N. 3rd Avenue in Casper, Wyoming.
20
SELLING SHAREHOLDERS
The shares offered pursuant to this prospectus are being offered by the
selling shareholders.
Selling Shareholders
- --------------------
The table below includes information regarding ownership of our common
stock by the selling shareholders and the number of shares that may be sold
under this prospectus. There are no material relationships with the selling
shareholders other than those discussed herein.
Shares Shares
Beneficially Owned Beneficially Owned
Prior to the Offering After the Offering(1)
---------------------- Shares -----------------------
Percent Offered Percent
Selling Shareholders Number of Class Hereby Number of Class
- -------------------- ------------ -------- --------- ------------- --------
Edward Mike Davis 1,453,787 3.5% 100,000 1,293,787 3.1%
Edward Mike Davis, LLC(2) 1,453,787 3.5% 60,000 1,293,787 3.1%
John F. Kelly 14,167 Nil 4,167 10,000 Nil
Martin R. Gottlob 13,334 Nil 8,334 5,000 Nil
E. Kevin Beacom 18,334 Nil 8,334 10,000 Nil
JS Bell, LLC(3) 46,667 0.1% 46,667 -0- --
David L. Kunovic 14,334 Nil 8,334 6,000 Nil
_____________________
(1) Assumes that the selling shareholders will sell all of the shares of common
stock offered pursuant to this prospectus. We cannot assure you that the selling
shareholders will sell all or any of these shares.
(2) Edward Mike Davis, LLC is an entity that is owned and controlled solely by
Edward Mike Davis. The number of shares shown as beneficially owned includes all
shares beneficially owned by Mr. Davis.
(3) JS Bell, LLC is an entity that is owned and controlled solely by Joy S. Bell.
The number of shares shown as beneficially owned includes all shares beneficially
owned by Ms. Bell.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
The selling shareholders and their respective successors, which term
includes their transferees, pledgees or donees or their successors, may sell
the common stock directly to one or more purchasers (including pledgees) or
through brokers, dealers or underwriters who may act solely as agents or may
acquire common stock as principals, at market prices prevailing at the time of
sale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices, at negotiated prices
or at fixed prices, which may be changed. The selling shareholders may effect
the distribution of the common stock in one or more of the following methods:
- ordinary brokers' transactions, which may include long or short
sales;
21
- transactions involving cross or block trades or otherwise on the
open market;
- purchases by brokers, dealers or underwriters as principal and
resale by such purchasers for their own accounts under this
prospectus;
- "at the market" to or through market makers or into an existing
market for the common stock;
- in other ways not involving market makers or established trading
markets, including direct sales to purchasers or sales effected
through agents;
- through transactions in options, swaps or other derivatives
(whether exchange listed or otherwise); or
- any combination of the above, or by any other legally available
means.
In addition, the selling shareholders or their respective successors in
interest may enter into hedging transactions with broker-dealers who may
engage in short sales of common stock in the course of hedging the positions
they assume with the selling shareholders. The selling shareholders or their
respective successors in interest may also enter into option or other
transactions with broker-dealers that require delivery by such broker-dealers
of the common stock, which common stock may be resold thereafter under this
prospectus.
Brokers, dealers, underwriters or agents participating in the
distribution of the common stock may receive compensation in the form of
discounts, concessions or commissions from the selling shareholders and/or the
purchasers of common stock for whom such broker-dealers may act as agent or to
whom they may sell as principal, or both (which compensation as to a
particular broker-dealer may be in excess of customary commissions).
Any securities covered by this prospectus that qualify for sale under
Rule 144 under the Securities Act may be sold under that Rule rather than
under this prospectus.
We cannot assure you that the selling shareholders will sell any or all
of the shares of common stock offered by the selling shareholders.
In order to comply with the securities laws of certain states, if
applicable, the selling shareholders will sell the common stock in
jurisdictions only through registered or licensed brokers or dealers. In
addition, in certain states, the selling shareholders may not sell the common
stock unless the shares of common stock have been registered or qualified for
sale in the applicable state or an exemption from the registration or
qualification requirement is available and is complied with.
22
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES
COMMON STOCK
- ------------
We are authorized to issue 300,000,000 shares of our $.01 par value
common stock, of which 41,587,000 shares were issued and outstanding as of May
5, 2005. Holders of common stock are entitled to cast one vote for each share
held of record on all matters presented to shareholders. Shareholders do not
have cumulative rights; hence, the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding
common stock can elect all directors.
Holders of common stock are entitled to receive such dividends as may be
declared by the Board of Directors out of funds legally available therefor
and, in the event of liquidation, to share pro rata in any distribution of our
assets after payment of all liabilities. We do not anticipate that any
dividends on common stock will be declared or paid in the foreseeable future.
Holders of common stock do not have any rights of redemption or conversion or
preemptive rights to subscribe to additional shares if issued by us. All of
the outstanding shares of our common stock are fully paid and nonassessable.
INTERESTS OF NAMED EXPERTS AND COUNSEL
EXPERTS
- -------
The consolidated balance sheets of Delta Petroleum Corporation as of June
30, 2004 and 2003, and the related consolidated statements of operations,
stockholders' equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the
years in the three-year period ended June 30, 2004; the statement of oil and
gas revenue and direct lease operating expenses of the Alpine assets for the
fiscal years ended June 30, 2004, 2003 and 2002; and the statement of oil and
gas revenue and direct lease operating expenses of the Manti assets for the
fiscal years ended June 30, 2004, 2003 and 2002, incorporated herein by
reference, have been incorporated herein in reliance upon the reports of KPMG
LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, upon the authority of
said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
The audit report covering the June 30, 2004 Consolidated Financial
Statements of Delta Petroleum Corporation refers to the adoption of Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement
Obligations, as of July 1, 2002.
LEGAL MATTERS
- -------------
The validity of the issuance of the common stock offered pursuant to this
prospectus will be passed upon for us by Krys Boyle, P.C., Denver, Colorado.
RESERVE ENGINEERS
- -----------------
Certain information incorporated by reference in this prospectus
regarding estimated quantities of oil and natural gas reserves associated with
our oil and gas properties, the future net revenues from those reserves and
their present value is based on estimates of the reserves and present values
prepared by or derived from estimates prepared by Ralph E. Davis Associates,
Inc. or Mannon Associates, independent reserve engineers. The reserve
information is incorporated by reference herein in reliance upon the authority
of said firms as experts with respect to such reports.
23