Nature of operations and summary of significant accounting policies (Unevaluated Oil and Natural Gas Properties) (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2017
Mar. 21, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Capitalized costs of unproved properties excluded from amortization        
Leasehold acquisitions $ 579,151      
Capitalized interest 54      
Wells and facilities in progress of completion 7,467      
Total unevaluated oil and natural gas properties excluded from amortization $ 586,672 $ 585,574    
Predecessor        
Capitalized costs of unproved properties excluded from amortization        
Leasehold acquisitions     $ 15,455  
Capitalized interest     1,894  
Wells and facilities in progress of completion     3,004  
Total unevaluated oil and natural gas properties excluded from amortization   $ 26,039 $ 20,353 $ 66,905