SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

x  Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

o  Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from ______________to2009

Commission File Number 1-7908

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware 74-1753147
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

4400 Post Oak Pkwy Ste 2700 , Houston, Texas  77027
(Address of principal executive office & Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code (713) 881-3600

Indicate by  check mark  whether the  Registrant (1)  has filed  all reports  required to be filed  by Section 13 or  15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the  preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period  that the registrant  was required to  file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  YES x   NO  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes o  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 126-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one)

Large accelerated filero   Accelerated filero   Non-accelerated filerx   Smaller Reporting Companyo

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES  o   NO  x

A total of 4,217,596 shares of Common Stock were outstanding at November 1, 2008.10, 2009.




 
 

 

PART 1 – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share data)

 Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
 
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
REVENUES:                        
Marketing $3,466,429  $1,697,574  $1,264,609  $680,085  $1,391,453  $3,466,429  $562,834  $1,264,609 
Transportation 53,974  48,854  18,591  17,208   33,701   53,974   11,471   18,591 
Oil and gas  14,259   9,981   5,122   3,002   6,356   14,259   1,994   5,122 
 3,534,662  1,756,409  1,288,322  700,295   1,431,510   3,534,662   576,299   1,288,322 
COSTS AND EXPENSES:                                
Marketing  3,463,202  1,683,122  1,274,033  674,661   1,373,305   3,463,202   558,314   1,274,033 
Transportation 47,369  40,893  16,025  14,645   29,171   47,369   9,216   16,025 
Oil and gas operations 7,386  7,708  3,185  2,597   6,297   7,386   2,834   3,185 
Oil and gas property sale -  (12,078) -  - 
General and administrative 7,458  7,491  2,038  2,307   6,946   7,458   2,252   2,038 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization  9,157   7,038   3,085   2,272   7,517   9,157   2,537   3,085 
  3,534,572   1,734,174   1,298,366   696,482   1,423,236   3,534,572   575,153   1,298,366 
                                
Operating earnings (loss) 90  22,235  (10,044) 3,813 
Operating earnings  8,274   90   1,146   (10,044)
                
Other income (expense):                                
Interest income 879  1,266  308  443   138   879   82   308 
Interest expense  (136)  (75)  (91)  (12)  (23)  (136)  (15)  (91)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes 833  23,426  (9,827) 4,244 
Earnings before income tax  8,389   833   1,213   (9,827)
                                
Income tax provision (benefit)  73   8,373   (3,551)  1,389   3,146   73   574   (3,551)
                                
Net earnings (loss) $760  $15,053  $(6,276) $2,855 
Net earnings $5,243  $760  $639  $(6,276)
                                
EARNINGS PER SHARE:                                
Basic and diluted net earnings (loss)                
per common share $.18  $3.57  $(1.49) $.68 
Basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per common share $1.24  $.18  $.15  $(1.49)
                
                                
DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.




 
1

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
 September 30,  December 31,  September 30,  December 31, 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
 
ASSETS            
            
Current assets:            
Cash and cash equivalents $39,045  $23,697  $36,728  $18,208 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful                
accounts of $1,050 and $192, respectively 234,906  261,710 
accounts of $1,263 and $1,251, respectively  137,924   119,401 
Inventories 16,398  14,776   13,655   14,207 
Fair value contracts 4,287  5,388   3,090   8,697 
Income tax receivables 3,853  2,554 
Prepayments  4,006   3,768 
Income tax receivable  -   3,629 
Prepayments and other  9,679   5,224 
                
Total current assets  302,495   311,893   201,076   169,366 
                
Property and equipment 120,138  110,526   122,554   118,863 
Less – accumulated depreciation,                
depletion and amortization  (79,260)  (70,828)
Depletion and amortization  (88,563)  (83,277)
  40,878   39,698   33,991   35,586 
Other assets:                
Fair value contracts 353  1,563   483   - 
Deferred income tax asset  1,761   2,035 
Cash deposits and other  3,730   3,921   3,070   3,939 
 $347,456  $357,075  $240,381  $210,926 
                
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
                
Current liabilities:                
Accounts payable $243,498  $252,310  $143,734  $115,183 
Accounts payable – related party 127  84   83   89 
Fair value contracts 2,580  4,116   2,766   8,196 
Accrued and other liabilities 6,194  3,707   4,279   3,930 
Current deferred income taxes  1,097   1,104   686   409 
Total current liabilities 253,496  261,321   151,548   127,807 
                
Other liabilities:                
Fair value contracts  457   - 
Asset retirement obligations 1,230  1,153   1,289   1,260 
Deferred income taxes and other 2,262  4,063 
Fair value contracts  266   1,096 
Other long-term liabilities  83   98 
  257,254   267,633   153,377   129,165 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 5)                
                
Shareholders’ equity:                
Preferred stock - $1.00 par value, 960,000 shares                
authorized, none outstanding -  -   -   - 
Common stock - $.10 par value, 7,500,000 shares                
authorized, 4,217,596 shares outstanding 422  422   422   422 
Contributed capital 11,693  11,693   11,693   11,693 
Retained earnings  78,087   77,327   74,889   69,646 
Total shareholders’ equity  90,202   89,442   87,004   81,761 
 $347,456  $357,075  $240,381  $210,926 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
2

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
 Nine Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
 
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
 
CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATIONS:            
Net earnings $760  $15,053  $5,243  $760 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash                
provided by operating activities -                
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 9,157  7,038   7,517   9,157 
Loss (gain) on property disposals 383  (12,034)
Loss (gain) on property sales  (93)  383 
Dry hole costs incurred 1,860  2,847   365   1,860 
Impairment of oil and gas properties 1,293  633 
Impairment on oil and gas properties  2,761   1,293 
Provision for doubtful accounts 858  111   12   858 
Deferred income taxes  551   (1,793)
Net change in fair value contracts  151   (55)
Other, net (37) 301   296   (37)
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable  25,946  (11,760)  (18,535)  25,946 
Decrease (increase) in inventories (1,622) (5,581)  552   (1,622)
Net change in fair value contracts (55) (6)
Decrease (increase) in tax receivable (1,299) 904 
Decrease (increase) in income tax receivable  3,629   (1,299)
Decrease (increase) in prepayments (238) (2,382)  (4,455)  (238)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable (8,901) 13,757   28,636   (8,901)
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities 2,487  (4,644)  349   2,487 
Deferred income taxes  (1,793)  380 
                
Net cash provided by operating activities  28,799   4,617   26,979   28,799 
                
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Property and equipment additions (13,780) (12,104)  (9,505)  (13,780)
Insurance and tax refunds (deposits) 290  (424)
Insurance and excise tax refunds  587   290 
Proceeds from property sales 39  15,319   459   39 
Redemption of short-term investments 10,000  15,000   -   10,000 
Investment in short-term investments  (10,000)  (15,000)  -   (10,000)
                
Net cash (used in) investing activities  (13,451)  2,791   (8,459)  (13,451)
                
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
Net repayments under credit agreements  -   (3,000)
        
Net cash used in financing activities  -   (3,000)
        
Increase in cash and cash equivalents 15,348  4,408   18,520   15,348 
                
Cash at beginning of period  23,697   20,668   18,208   23,697 
                
Cash at end of period $39,045  $25,076 
        
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:        
        
Interest paid during the period $136  $79 
        
Income taxes paid during the period $2,319  $7,449 
        
Increase (decrease) in liabilities associated with         
property additions $(132) $(704)
C Cash at end of period $36,728  $39,045 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 
3

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 1 - Basis of Presentation

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited but, in the opinion of the Company's management, include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for the fair presentation of its financial position at September 30, 2008,2009, its results of operations for the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 and its cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 20082009 and 2007.2008. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations.  The impact on the accompanying financial statements of events occurring after September 30, 2009 has been evaluated through November 13, 2009.

Although the Company believes the disclosures made are adequate to make the information presented not misleading, it is suggested that these consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements, and the notes thereto, included in the Company's latest annual report on Form 10-K. The interim statement of operations is not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for a full year.

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

   Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Adams Resources & Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Company") after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts and transactions.  In order to conform to current year presentations, certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts in the Statement of Cashflows under “Provision for Doubtful Accounts”.

Nature of Operations

The Company is engaged in the business of crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products marketing, as well as tank truck transportation of liquid chemicals and oil and gas exploration and production.  Its primary area of operation is within a 1,000 mile radius of Houston, Texas.  The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Adams Resources & Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Company") after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts and transactions.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include any Treasury bill, commercial paper, money market fundfunds or federal funds with maturity of 90 days or less.  Depending on cash availability auction rateand market conditions, investments in municipal bonds and bond mutual funds may also be made from time to time depending on market conditions.time.  The Company invests in tax-free municipal securities in order to enhance the after-tax rate of return from short-term investments of cash.  The Company had no auction rate investments as ofin municipal bonds at September 30, 2008 and2009 or December 31, 2007.2008.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts receivable result from sales of crude oil, natural gas, and refined products as well as from trucking services. Marketing segment wholesale level sales of crude oil and natural gas comprise in excess of ninety percent of accounts receivable and under industry practices, such items are “settled” and paid in cash on the twentieth and twenty-fifth day, respectively, of the month following the transaction date.  For such receivables, an allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on specific account identification.  The balance of accounts receivable results from sales of refined petroleum products and trucking services.  For this component of receivables, the allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on a review of specific accounts combined with a review of the general status of the aging of all accounts.

4


Inventories

Crude oil and petroleum product inventories are carried at the lower of average cost or market.market price. Petroleum products inventory includes gasoline, lubricating oils and other petroleum products purchased for resale.  Petroleum products and crude oil inventory is valued at average cost.  Components of inventory are as follows (in thousands):

 September 30,  December 31, 
 
2008
  
2007
  September 30,  December 31, 
       
2009
  
2008
 
Crude oil $13,706  $12,437  $12,042  $11,710 
Petroleum products  2,692   2,339   1,613   2,497 
                
 $16,398  $14,776  $13,655  $14,207 

4


Prepayments

The components of prepayments and other are as follows (in thousands):

  September 30,  December 31, 
  
2009
  
2008
 
       
Cash collateral deposits for commodity purchases $5,504  $2,082 
Insurance premiums  2,670   1,985 
Natural gas pipeline imbalances  751   369 
Rents, license and other  754   788 
         
  $9,679  $5,224 

Property and Equipment

Expenditures for major renewals and betterments are capitalized, and expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.  Interest costs incurred in connection with major capital expenditures are capitalized and amortized over the lives of the related assets. When properties are retired or sold, the related cost and accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization ("DD&A") is removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is reflected in earnings.

Oil and gas exploration and development expenditures are accounted for in accordance with the successful efforts method of accounting.  Direct costs of acquiring developed or undeveloped leasehold acreage, including lease bonus, brokerage and other fees, are capitalized. Exploratory drilling costs are initially capitalized until the properties are evaluated and determined to be either productive or nonproductive.  Such evaluations are made on a quarterly basis.  If an exploratory well is determined to be nonproductive, the capitalized costs of drilling the well are charged to expense. Costs incurred to drill and complete development wells, including dry holes, are capitalized.  As of September 30, 2008,2009, the Company had no unevaluated or suspended exploratory drilling costs.

Producing oil and gas leases, equipment and intangible drilling costs are depleted or amortized over the estimated recoverableproved reserves using the units-of-production method.  Other property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated average useful lives of three to fifteen years for marketing, three to fifteen years for transportation and ten to twenty years for all others.

The Company periodically reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever there is evidence that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable.  This consists of comparing the carrying value of the asset with the asset’s expected future undiscounted cash flows without interest costs.  Estimates of expected future cash flows represent management’s best estimate based on reasonable and supportable assumptions.  Proved oil and gas properties are reviewed for impairment on a field-by-field basis.  Any impairment recognized is permanent and may not be restored.  Producing oil and gas properties are reviewed quarterly for impairment triggers on a field-by-field basis. For properties requiring impairment, the fair value is estimated based on an internal discounted cash-flow model.  Cash flows are developed based on estimated future production and prices and then discounted using an internal rate of return consistent with that used by the Company in evaluating cash flows for other assets of a similar nature.  For the nine-month periods ended September 30, 20082009 and 2007,2008 there were $517,000 and zero impairment provisions totaling zero and $11,000, respectively, on producing oil and gas properties. In addition,properties, respectively.  Such provisions also totaled $295,000 and zero for the three-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Fair value measurements for producing oil and gas properties for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2009 summarized as follows (in thousands):

5



  
Producing Properties
Evaluated for Fair
Value Impairment
 
    
Net book value at December 31, 2008 $518 
     
Property additions  43 
Depletion taken  (44)
Impairment valuation loss  (517)
     
Fair value at September 30, 2009 $- 
     


All fair value measurements for producing oil and gas properties are based on Level 3 – Significant Unobservable Inputs (see Fair Value Measurements below).

On a quarterly basis, management also evaluates the carrying value of non-producing propertiesoil and unevaluatedgas properties and may deem them impaired for lack of drilling activity. Accordingly, impairment provisions on non-producing properties totaling $1,293,000$2,244,000 and $622,000$1,293,000 were recorded for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Such provisions totaled $1,570,000 and 2007, respectively.  Impairment provisions on non-producing properties totaled $421,000 and $225,000 for the three-month periods ended September 30, 20082009 and 2007, respectively.


5


Other Assets2008.  For non-producing properties, impairments are determined based on management’s knowledge of current geological evaluations, drilling results and activity in the area and intent to drill as it relates to the remaining term of the underlying oil and gas leasehold interest.

OtherCash deposits and other assets primarily consist of cash deposits associated with the Company’s business activities.  

The Company has established certain deposits to support its participation in its liability insurance program and such deposits totaled $2,751,000 and $3,040,000 as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.  In addition, the Company maintains certain deposits to support the collection and remittance of state crude oil severance taxes.  Suchtaxes and other state collateral deposits.  In addition, the Company has accounts and notes receivable from certain customers that are expected to be collected over a long-term period.  Components of cash deposits totaled $131,000 and $333,000other assets are as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.follows (in thousands):

  September 30,  December 31, 
  
2009
  
2008
 
Insurance collateral deposits $2,189  $2,794 
State collateral deposits  297   279 
Accounts and notes receivable  273   503 
Materials and supplies  311   363 
  $3,070  $3,939 

Revenue Recognition

Commodity purchasespurchase and sale contracts utilized by the Company’s marketing businesses qualify as derivative instruments under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.”

Allinstruments.  Further, all natural gas, as well as certain specifically identified crude oil purchase and sale contracts, are designated as trading activities under the guidance provided by SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Debt and Equity Securities.”activities.  From the time of contract origination, such trading activity contracts are marked-to-market under SFAS No. 133 and recorded on a net revenue basis in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) 02-03 “Issues Involved in Accounting for Derivative Contracts Held for Trading Purposes and Contracts Involved in Energy Trading and Risk Management Activities.”statements.

6


Substantially all crude oil and refined products purchase and sale contracts qualify and are designated as non-trading activities and the Company accordingly elects the normal purchases and sales exception under SFAS No. 133.methodology for such activity.  For normal purchase and sale activities, the Company’s customers are invoiced monthly based upon contractually agreed upon terms andwith revenue is recognized in the month in which the physical product is delivered to the customer.  Such sales are recorded gross in the financial statements based onbecause the guidance provided by EITF 99-19, “Reporting Revenue Gross asCompany takes title to and has risk of loss for the products, is the primary obligor for the purchase, establishes the sale price independently with a Principal versus Net as an Agent.”third party, and maintains credit risk associated with the sale of the product.

Certain crude oil contracts may be with a single counterparty to provide for similar quantities of crude oil to be bought and sold at two different locations.  These contracts are entered into for a variety of reasons, including effecting the transportation of the commodity, to minimize credit exposure, andand/or to meet the competitive demands of the customer.  Consistent with the requirements of EITF 04-13, “Accounting for Purchases and Sales of Inventory with the Same Counterparty,” theseSuch buy/sell arrangements are reflected on a net revenue basis in the accompanying financial statements.

Transportation customers are invoiced, and the related revenue is recognized, as the service is provided.  Oil and gas revenue from the Company’s interests in producing wells is recognized as title and physical possession of the oil and gas passes to the purchaser.

Banking Relationships

In August 2009, the Company entered into a Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank to provide a $40 million letter of credit facility.  Pursuant to the Wells Fargo agreement, the Company discontinued its previous working capital lines of credit with Bank of America.  The Wells Fargo facility provides for the issuance of up to $40 million of letters of credit to support the Company’s crude oil and natural gas marketing businesses based on the eligible accounts receivable within those operations.  Letters of credit outstanding totaled $19.9 million as of September 30, 2009.  The letter of credit facility places certain restrictions on the Company’s Gulfmark Energy, Inc. and Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd. subsidiaries.  Such restrictions included the maintenance of a combined 1.1 to 1.0 current ratio and the maintenance of positive net earnings as defined among other restrictions.  Management believes the Company is currently in compliance with all such covenants.

Statement of Cash Flows

Interest paid totaled $23,000 and $136,000 during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Income taxes paid during these same periods totaled $549,000 and $2,319,000, respectively.  The Company also received a $2,000,000 income tax refund during the first nine months of 2009.  Non-cash investing activities for property and equipment in accounts payable were $439,000 and $267,000 as of September 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively and $561,000 as of December 31, 2008.  There were no significant non-cash financing activities in any of the periods reported.

Earnings Per Share

The Company computes and presents earnings per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share”, which requires the presentation of basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share for potentially dilutive securities. Earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive common stock shares outstanding during the period. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was 4,217,596 for the three-month2009 and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.2008.  There were no potentially dilutive securities during those periods in 2008 and 2007.periods.


6


Share-Based Payments

During the periods presented herein, the Company had no stock-based employee compensation plans, nor any other share-based payment arrangements.

7


Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. Examples of significant estimates used in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounting for depreciation, depletion and amortization, revenue accruals, oil and gas property impairments, the provision for bad debts, insurance related accruals, income taxes, contingencies and valuation of fair value contracts.

Use of derivative instruments

The Company’s marketing segment is involved in the purchase and sale of crude oil and natural gas.  The Company seeks to make a profit by procuring such commodities as they are produced and then delivering such products to the end users or intermediate use marketplace.  As is typical for the industry, such transactions are made pursuant to the terms of forward month commodity purchase and/or sale contracts.  These contracts meet the definition of a derivative instrument and therefore, the Company accounts for such contracts at fair value, unless the normal purchase and sale exception is elected.  The Company’s objective of entering into commodity contracts is not to manage commodity price risk nor is the objective to trade or speculate on commodity prices.  Rather, such underlying contracts are standard for the industry and are the governing document for the Company’s crude oil and natural gas wholesale distribution businesses.  The accounting methodology utilized by the Company for its commodity contracts is further discussed below under the caption “Fair Value Measurements”.

None of the Company’s derivative instruments have been designated as hedging instruments and the estimated fair value of forward month commodity contracts (derivatives) is reflected in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

  
Balance Sheet Location and Amount
 
  Current  Other  Current  Other 
  
Assets
  
Assets
  
Liabilities
  
Liabilities
 
Asset Derivatives            
- Fair Value Commodity            
Contracts at Gross Valuation $3,303  $483  $-  $- 
                 
Liability Derivatives                
- Fair Value Commodity                
Contracts at Gross Valuation  -   -   2,979   457 
                 
Less Counterparty Offsets  (213)  -   (213)  - 
                 
As Reported Fair Value Contracts $3,090  $483  $2,766  $457 

The Company only enters into commodity contracts with credit worthy counterparties or obtains collateral support for such activities.  No credit loss provision applies to the Company’s forward commodity contract valuations.  As of September 30, 2009, the Company is not holding nor has it posted any collateral to support its forward month fair value derivative activity. The Company is not subject to any credit-risk related trigger events.

8


Forward month commodity contracts (derivatives) are reflected in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

 Statement of Operations   
 
Location
 
(Loss)
 
     
- Fair value commodity contracts
Revenues – marketing
 $(151

The fair value commodity contracts loss represents a non-cash reduction of earnings and is reflected as such under the caption “Net change in fair value contracts” in the accompanying Unaudited Statement of Cash Flows.

Commodity contracts (derivatives) are reflected in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the three months ended September 30, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

Statement of Operations
Location
(Loss)
- Fair value commodity contracts
Revenues - marketing
$-0-

Fair Value Measurements

The carrying amount reported in the balance sheetUnaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximates fair value because of the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments.

Fair value contracts consist of derivative financial instruments as defined under SFAS No. 133 and such contracts are recorded as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value.  Changes in fair value are recognized immediately in earnings unless the derivatives qualify for, and the Company elects, cash flow hedge accounting.  The Company had no contracts designated for hedge accounting under SFAS No. 133 during any current reporting periods.

SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” defines fairFair value establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures related to fair value measurements.  SFAS No. 157 clarifies that fair value should beestimates are based on assumptions that market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability and establishesthe Company uses a fair value hierarchy of three levels that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions.  Currently, for all items presented herein, the Company utilizes a market approach to valuing its contracts.  On a contract by contract, forward month by forward month basis, the Company obtains observable market data for valuing its contracts.  The data utilized falls into a fair value hierarchy as defined by SFAS No. 157.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable data.  The fair value hierarchy is summarized as follows:

 Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that may be accessed at the measurement date.  Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.  The Company utilizes the New York Mercantile Exchange “NYMEX” for its Level 1 valuations.

 Level 2 – (a) quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, (b) quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities but in markets that are not actively traded or in which little information is released to the public, (c) observable inputs other than quoted prices and (d) inputs derived from observable market data.

 Level 3 – Unobservable market data inputs for assets or liabilities.

 
79

 

The Company adopted SFAS No. 157 effective January 1, 2008 and such adoption did not have a material impact on asset or liability values.  As of September 30, 2008,2009, the Company’s fair value assets and liabilities are summarized and categorized as follows (in thousands):

  
Market Data Inputs
    
  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3    
  
Quoted Prices
  
Observable
  
Unobservable
  
Total
 
Derivatives            
- Current assets $893  $3,394  $-  $4,287 
-  Long-term assets  47   306   -   353 
- Current liabilities  (538)  (2,042)  -   (2,580)
- Long-term liabilities  -   (266)  -   (266)
Net Value $402  $1,392  $-  $1,794 

The Company’s fair value contracts give rise to market risk, which represents the potential loss that may result from a change in the market value of a particular commitment.  The Company monitors and manages its exposure to market risk to ensure compliance with the Company’s risk management policies. Such policies are regularly assessed to ensure their appropriateness given management’s objectives, strategies and current market conditions.
  
Market Data Inputs
    
  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3    
  
Quoted Prices
  
Observable
  
Unobservable
  
Total
 
Derivatives            
- Current assets $554  $2,536  $-  $3,090 
- Long-term assets  14   469   -   483 
- Current liabilities  -   (2,766)  -   (2,766)
- Long-term liabilities  -   (457)  -   (457)
Net Value $568  $(218) $-  $350 

When determining fair value measurements, the Company makes credit valuation adjustments to reflect both its own nonperformance risk and its counterparty’s nonperformance risk.  When adjusting the fair value of derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, and guarantees are considered.  Credit valuation adjustments utilizesutilize Level 3 inputs, such as credit scores to evaluate the likelihood of default by the Company or its counterparties.  As of September 30, 2008,2009, credit valuation adjustments were not significant to the overall valuation of the Company’s fair value contracts.  As a result, applicable fair value assets and liabilities in their entirety are classified in Levels 1 orLevel 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset Retirement Obligations

The Company records a long-term liability for the estimated retirement costs associated with certain tangible long-lived assets.  The estimated fair value of such asset retirement obligations are recorded in the period in which they are incurred and the corresponding cost capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The liability is accreted to its then present value each period, and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. If the liability is settled for an amount other than the recorded amount, a gain or loss is recognized.

In addition to an accrual for asset retirement obligations, the Company maintains $75,000 in escrow cash, which is legally restricted for the potential purpose of settling asset retirement costs in accordance with certain state regulations.  Such cash deposits are included in other assets in the accompanying balance sheet.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2007,December 2008, the Securities and Exchange Commission released Final Rule, Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting to revise the existing Regulation S-K and Regulation S-X reporting requirements to align with current industry practices and technological advances.  The new disclosure requirements include provisions that permit the use of new technologies to determine proved reserves if those technologies have been demonstrated empirically to lead to reliable conclusions about reserve volumes.  In addition, the new disclosure requirements require a company to (a) disclose its internal control over reserves estimation and report the independence and qualification of its reserves preparer or auditor, (b) file reports when a third party is relied upon to prepare reserves estimates or conducts a reserve audit and (c) report oil and gas reserves using an average price based upon the prior 12-month period rather than period-end prices.  The disclosures required by this ruling will become effective for the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

As of September 30, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board “FASB” issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”.  SFAS No. 159 provides an entity with the option to measure certain assets and liabilities and other items at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings as those changes occur.  The provisions of SFAS No. 159 do not affect the fair value measurement of derivative financial instruments under SFAS No. 133 as shown above.  The provisions of SFAS No. 159Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) which became effective beginning January 1, 2008.  Management did not electfor the fair value optionCompany.  The ASC is now the source of authoritative U.S. accounting and reporting standards for any eligible financial assetsnongovernmental entities, in addition to guidance issued by the SEC.  No changes to accounting standards or liabilities not already carried at fair value.

8


In March 2008,guidance resulted from the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instrumentsissuance of the ASC.  Any references to accounting guidance in current and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133,” as amended and interpreted.  SFAS No. 161 changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities.  Entities are required to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and its related interpretations and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.  SFAS No. 161 is effective forfuture financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008.  Early adoption is permitted.  The Company is currently evaluatingwill be to the impact the adoption of SFAS No. 161 will have on its financial statements.applicable ASC sections.

In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” (“FSP FAS No. 157-2”). This Staff Position amends SFAS No. 157 to delay the effective date of SFAS No. 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities until fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. The Company is currently assessing the impact of applying FSP FAS No. 157-2 to its non-financial assets and liabilities.  Future financial statements are expected to include enhanced disclosures with respect to fair value measurements.


Note 3 – Segment Reporting

The Company is primarily engaged in the business of marketing crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products; tank truck transportation of liquid chemicals; and oil and gas exploration and production.  All accounting policies of each segment are consistent with the Company’s accounting policies.  Information concerning the Company’s various business activities is summarized as follows (in thousands):

- Nine Month Comparison

     Segment  Depreciation  Property and 
     Operating  Depletion and  Equipment 
  Revenues  Earnings (loss)  Amortization  Additions 
Period Ended September 30, 2008            
Marketing            
- Crude Oil $3,282,421  $224  $1,479  $4,660 
- Natural gas  8,511   1,833   122   12 
- Refined products  175,497   (862)  431   114 
Marketing Total  3,466,429   1,195   2,032   4,786 
Transportation  53,974   3,746   2,859   508 
Oil and gas  14,259   2,607   4,266   8,486 
  $3,534,662  $7,548  $9,157  $13,780 
Period Ended September 30, 2007                
Marketing                
- Crude Oil $1,565,456  $9,759  $473  $608 
- Natural gas  9,051   3,020   120   105 
- Refined products  123,067   755   325   411 
Marketing Total  1,697,574   13,534   918   1,124 
Transportation  48,854   4,695   3,266   255 
Oil and gas  9,981   11,497   2,854   7,878 
  $1,756,409  $29,726  $7,038  $9,257 


 
910

 

- Nine Month Comparison
     Segment  Depreciation  Property and 
     Operating  Depletion and  Equipment 
  Revenues  Earnings  Amortization  Additions 
Period Ended September 30, 2009            
Marketing            
- Crude Oil $1,304,092  $13,425  $1,527  $724 
- Natural gas  10,310   2,197   124   - 
- Refined products  77,051   477   398   177 
Marketing Total  1,391,453   16,099   2,049   901 
Transportation  33,701   1,678   2,852   2,593 
Oil and gas  6,356   (2,557)  2,616   6,011 
  $1,431,510  $15,220  $7,517  $9,505 
Period Ended September 30, 2008                
Marketing                
- Crude Oil $3,282,421  $224  $1,479  $4,660 
- Natural gas  8,511   1,833   122   12 
- Refined products  175,497   (862)  431   114 
Marketing Total  3,466,429   1,195   2,032   4,786 
Transportation  53,974   3,746   2,859   508 
Oil and gas  14,259   2,607   4,266   8,486 
  $3,534,662  $7,548  $9,157  $13,780 


- Three Month Comparison
    Segment  Depreciation  Property and     Segment  Depreciation  Property and 
    Operating  Depletion and  Equipment     Operating  Depletion and  Equipment 
 
Revenues
  
Earnings
  
Amortization
  
Additions
 
Period Ended September 30, 2009            
Marketing            
- Crude Oil $530,981  $3,582  $496  $74 
- Natural gas  3,112   192   41   - 
- Refined products  28,741   78   131   - 
Marketing Total  562,834   3,852   668   74 
Transportation  11,471   1,244   1,011   800 
Oil and gas  1,994   (1,698)  858   1,351 
 
Revenues
  
Earnings (loss)
  
Amortization
  
Additions
  $576,299  $3,398  $2,537  $2,225 
Period Ended September 30, 2008                            
Marketing                            
- Crude Oil $1,198,779  $(11,010) $577  $33  $1,198,779  $(11,010) $577  $33 
- Natural gas 2,507  551  41  12   2,507   551   41   12 
- Refined products  63,323   280   137   35   63,323   280   137   35 
Marketing Total 1,264,609  (10,179) 755  80   1,264,609   (10,179)  755   80 
Transportation 18,591  1,615  951  111   18,591   1,615   951   111 
Oil and gas  5,122   558   1,379   4,005   5,122   558   1,379   4,005 
 $1,288,322  $(8,006) $3,085  $4,196  $1,288,322  $(8,006) $3,085  $4,196 
Period Ended September 30, 2007                
Marketing                
- Crude Oil $632,729  $4,098  $166  $181 
- Natural gas 2,383  528  50  53 
- Refined products  44,973   469   113   143 
Marketing Total 680,085  5,095  329  377 
Transportation 17,208  1,536  1,027  96 
Oil and gas  3,002   (511)  916   1,654 
 $700,295  $6,120  $2,272  $2,127 


11
Identifiable assets by industry segment are as follows (in thousands):
  September 30,  December 31, 
  
2008
  
2007
 
Marketing      
- Crude oil $191,739  $186,163 
- Natural gas  41,165   74,585 
- Refined products  19,382   21,844 
Marketing Total  252,286   282,592 
Transportation  19,155   18,282 
Oil and gas  27,430   25,267 
Other  48,585   30,934 
  $347,456  $357,075 

Intersegment sales are insignificant.  Other identifiable assets are primarily corporate cash, accounts receivable, and properties not identified with any specific segment of the Company’s business.  All sales by the Company occurred in the United States.

Segment operating earnings reflect revenues net of operating costs and depreciation, depletion and amortization.  Segment earnings reconcile to earnings from continuing operations before income taxes as follows (in thousands):
  Nine months ended  Three months ended 
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
Segment operating earnings $15,220  $7,548  $3,398  $(8,006)
- General and administrative  (6,946)  (7,458)  (2,252)  (2,038)
Operating earnings (loss)  8,274   90   1,146   (10,044)
- Interest income  138   879   82   308 
- Interest expense  (23)  (136)  (15)  (91)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes $8,389  $833  $1,213  $(9,827)

  Nine Months ended  Three months ended 
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
  
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
 
Segment operating earnings (loss) $7,548  $29,726  $(8,006) $6,120 
- General and administrative  (7,458)  (7,491)  (2,038)  (2,307)
Operating earnings  90   22,235   (10,044)  3,813 
- Interest income  879   1,266   308   443 
- Interest expense  (136)  (75)  (91)  (12)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes $833  $23,426  $(9,827) $4,244 
Identifiable assets by industry segment are as follows (in thousands):
  September 30,  December 31, 
  
2009
  
2008
 
Marketing      
- Crude oil $124,605  $85,774 
- Natural gas  26,340   46,599 
- Refined products  10,754   13,037 
Marketing Total  161,699   145,410 
Transportation  13,566   14,915 
Oil and gas  21,123   21,904 
Other  43,993   28,697 
  $240,381  $210,926 

10Intersegment sales are insignificant.  Other identifiable assets are primarily corporate cash, and assets not identified with any specific segment of the Company’s business.  All sales by the Company occurred in the United States.


Note 4 - Transactions with Affiliates

Mr. K. S. Adams, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and certain of his family partnerships and affiliates have participated as working interest owners with the Company’s subsidiary, Adams Resources Exploration Corporation.  Mr. Adams and such affiliates participate on terms similar to those afforded other non-affiliated working interest owners. In recent years, such related party transactions generally result after the Company has first identified oil and gas prospects of interest.  Typically the available dollar commitment to participate in such transactions is greater than the amount management is comfortable putting at risk.  In such event, the Company first determines the percentage of the transaction it wants to obtain, which allows a related party to participate in the investment to the extent there is excess available.  In those instances where there was no excess availability there has been no related party participation.  Similarly, related parties are not required to participate, nor is the Company obligated to offer any such participation to a related or other party.  When such related party transactions occur, they are individually reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee comprised of the independent directors on the Company’s Board of Directors.  For the first nine months of 20082009 and 2007,2008, the Company’s investment commitments totaled approximately $5.5$5.3 million and $5.9$5.5 million, respectively, in those oil and gas projects where a related party was also participating in such investments.  As of September 30, 20082009 and December 31, 2007,2008, the Company owed a combined net total of $127,000$83,000 and $84,000,$89,000, respectively, to these related parties.  In connection with the operation of certain oil and gas properties, the Company also charges such related parties for administrative overhead primarily as prescribed by the Council of Petroleum Accountants Society (“COPAS”) Bulletin 5.  Such overhead recoveries totaled $99,000$111,000 and $94,000$99,000 in the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, respectively.


David B. Hurst, Secretary of the Company, is a partner in the law firm of Chaffin & Hurst.  The Company has been represented by Chaffin & Hurst since 1974 and plans to use the services of that firm in the future.  Chaffin & Hurst currently leases office space from the Company.  Transactions with Chaffin & Hurst are on the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with unrelated entities.
12


The Company also enters into certain transactions in the normal course of business with other affiliated entities including direct cost reimbursement for shared phone and secretarial services.  For the nine-month period ended September 30, 20082009 and 2007,2008, the affiliated entities charged the Company $42,000$53,546 and $74,000,$42,000, respectively, of expense reimbursement and the Company charged the affiliates $73,000$98,000 and $56,000,$73,000, respectively, for such expense reimbursements.


Note 5 - Commitments and Contingencies

In March 2004, a suit styled Le Petit Chateau De Luxe, et. al. vs Great Southern Oil & Gas Co., et. al. was filed in the Civil District Court for Orleans Parish, Louisiana against the Company and its subsidiary, Adams Resources Exploration Corporation, among other defendants.  The suit alleges that certain property in Acadia Parish, Louisiana was environmentally contaminated by oil and gas exploration and production activities during the 1970s and 1980s.  An alleged amount of damage has not been specified.  Management believes the Company has consistently conducted its oil and gas exploration and production activities in accordance with all environmental rules and regulations in effect at the time of operation.  Management notified its insurance carrier about this claim, and thus far the insurance carrier has declined to offer coverage.  The Company and its insurance carrier have entered in to a tolling agreement to temporarily set aside the claims pending resolution of the underlying matter.  In any event, management does not believe the outcome of this matter will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

11



Under certain of the Company’s automobile and workers compensation insurance policies, the Company can either receive a return of premium paid or be assessed for additional premiums up to pre-established limits.  Additionally, in certain instances under the policies, the risk of insured losses is shared with a group of similarly situated entities.  As of September 30, 2008,2009, management has appropriately recognized estimated expenses and liabilityliabilities related to these policies.the program.  Estimated loss accruals for potentially unknown losses are developed using actual loss histories and other relevant information.

From time to time as incidentincidental to its operations, the Company becomes involved in various lawsuits and/or disputes.  Primarily as an operator of an extensive trucking fleet, the Company may beis a party to motor vehicle accidents, worker compensation claims orand other items of general liability as would be typical for the industry.  Except as disclosed herein, managementManagement of the Company is presently unaware of any claims against the Company that are either outside the scope of insurance coverage, or that may exceed the level of insurance coverage, and could potentially represent a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.


Item 2.                      MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Results of Operations

 -Marketing

Marketing segment revenues, operating earnings and depreciation were as follows (in thousands):

 Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
 
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
Revenues                        
Crude oil $3,282,421  $1,565,456  $1,198,779  $632,729  $1,304,092  $3,282,421  $530,981  $1,198,779 
Natural gas 8,511  9,051  2,507  2,383   10,310   8,511   3,112   2,507 
Refined products  175,497   123,067   63,323   44,973   77,051   175,497   28,741   63,323 
Total $3,466,429  $1,697,574  $1,264,609  $680,085  $1,391,453  $3,466,429  $562,834  $1,264,609 
                                
Operating Earnings (loss)                                
Crude oil $224  $9,759  $(11,010) $4,098  $13,425  $224  $3,582  $(11,010)
Natural gas 1,833  3,020  551  528   2,197   1,833   192   551 
Refined products  (862)  755   280   469   477   (862)  78   280 
Total $1,195  $13,534  $(10,179) $5,095  $16,099  $1,195  $3,852  $(10,179)
                                
Depreciation                                
Crude oil $1,479  $473  $577  $166  $1,527  $1,479  $496  $577 
Natural gas 122  120  41  50   124   122   41   41 
Refined products  431   325   137   113   398   431   131   137 
Total $2,032  $918  $755  $329  $2,049  $2,032  $668  $755 


 
1213

 

Supplemental volume and price information is as follows:

 Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
 
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
Field Level Purchase Volumes – Per day (1)
                        
Crude oil – barrels 66,900  60,950  70,900  60,750   66,200   66,900   64,100   70,900 
Natural gas – mmbtu’s  429,800  418,450  395,900  380,650   383,000   429,000   369,000   395,000 
                                
Average Purchase Price                                
Crude oil – per barrel $115.14  $63.56  $116.88  $74.29  $53.14  $115.14  $65.41  $116.88 
Natural Gas – per mmbtu’s $9.31  $6.79  $9.18  $6.05  $3.63  $9.31  $3.12  $9.18 

_____________________________

(1) Reflects the volume purchased from third parties at the oil and gas field level.

Crude oil revenues approximately doubledwere reduced for the comparative current period because of significantly lower average crude oil prices as shown in the current year due to significantly increased commoditytable above.  While comparative overall 2009 crude oil prices through September 30, 2009 were reduced, the direction of change in prices was generally increasing during major portionsthe period.  The average acquisition price of crude oil moved from the $41 per barrel level at the beginning of the year.  Crudeyear to $69 per barrel for the September 2009 average purchase price.  This event produced an inventory liquidation gain of $4,912,000 for the first nine months of 2009.  An opposite event occurred in 2008 as crude oil prices rosedeclined from the $90 per barrel level at year-end 2007 to the $140 per barrel levelrange in June 2008 with a subsequent steep decline during September and OctoberJanuary 2008 to the $70$77 per barrel range.  The effect of fluctuating prices was to causerange in September 2008 producing a $3,100,000 inventory liquidation gains duringloss.  For the first half of 2008 as prices rose, with inventory liquidation and valuation losses occurring during thecomparative third quarter as the market price declined.  Net inventory driven losses for the full first nine months ofperiod in 2008, crude oil prices were $3.1 million,falling dramatically with a $11.6 million inventory valuation loss occurring during the third quarter.  Included in the third quarter loss wasthree-month period.  This compares to a $4.8 million lower of cost or market write-down as$849,000 inventory liquidation gain for the three-month period ended September 30, 2009.  As of September 30, 2008 when prices dropped $27 per barrel in October 2008.   The Company’s inventory holdings result from shipments in transit and as of September 30, 2008,2009 the Company held 178,774172,965 barrels of crude oil inventory valued at $76.67an average price of $69.62 per barrel.  Should the declining price trend continue, additional inventory driven losses will be incurred.  The opposite pricing scenario occurred in 2007 as rising crude oil prices produced inventory liquidation gains of $3.1 million and $1.5 million during the nine and three-month periods ending September 30, 2007, respectively.

Excluding the impact of inventory values as discussed above, crude oil operating earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 would have been $3,324,000 and $6,659,000, respectively.  For the three month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 crude oil operating earnings excluding the impact of inventory values would have been $590,000 and $2,598,000, respectively.  Earnings from operations excluding inventory items were reduced during 2008 relative to 2007 primarily as a result of escalated prices for diesel fuel consumed in the trucking function of this business.  Diesel fuel expense for the nine and three-month periods ended September 30, 2008 were $5.8 million and $2.4 million, respectively, compared to $3.7 million and $1.1 million during the nine and three-month periods ended September 30, 2007, respectively.  Should crude oil prices settle at lower levels, the Company will experience substantial savings on future diesel fuel costs.

13


Natural gas sales are reported net of underlying natural gas purchase costs and thus reflect gross margin.margins.  As shown above, operatingsuch margins were reduced throughconsistent between the first nine monthsperiods except during the third quarter of 2008 relative to 2007.  During the current year, the marketplace has not provided the normal level of opportunities to enhance margins by meeting short-term day-to-day demand needs.  The current condition results, in part, from 20082009 when mild weather patterns not stimulating localized demand spikes.  Excluding temporary volume reductions caused by third quarter 2008 hurricane activity inacross the Gulf of Mexico, the Company continuesnation served to add purchase volumes while still attempting to enhance per unitsuppress price volatility and hence margins.

RefinedLast year, the refined products revenues increased during 2008 consistent with increased commodity prices partially offset by reduced volumes assegment operating loss occurred because the Company has reduced its sales activity with less credit worthy accounts.  Refined product driven operating earnings are reduced during 2008 as the Company increased the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable through a bad debt chargerate of $750,000.  The Company has a number of construction industry customers experiencing significantly increased fuel costs coupled with a downturnincrease in the housing development market.  Since there is an elevated likelihoodcrude oil driven supply cost of this classmotor fuel exceeded the rate of customer experiencing financial insolvency,increase in the market value of such fuels.  As a result, per unit margins narrowed and did not cover fixed operating expenses. Also, the Company’s bad debt provision was increased accordingly. Also, adversely impacting results was a supplier’s failuresupplier of biodiesel fuel failed to deliver biodiesel fuel as scheduled product resulting in a direct loss to the Company of approximately $400,000 during the first quarter of 2008.$400,000.  The product was contracted to the Company at a fixed price and the Company had entered into an offsetting price protection agreement (a swap).  Although the underlying material did not ship as planned,scheduled, the Company honored its swap commitment producing the resulting loss. Subsequently, the Company has revised the terms of its biodiesel fuel supply contracts to shift the price risk to the supplier in order to avoid the recurrence of such items.  Also during the third quarter of 2008, refined product prices were declining which, as typically occurs, improved unit margins  in the 2008 period as the rate of reduction in product supply acquisition costs exceeded the rate of reduction in end-market wholesale prices.

Historically, prices received for crude oil and natural gas and refinedas well as derivative products have been volatile and unpredictable with price volatility expected to continue.  See also discussion under Item 3 – Commodity Price Risk.


14


-           Transportation

Transportation segment revenues, earnings and depreciation are as follows (in thousands):

 Nine Months Ended     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended     Three Months Ended    
 
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase 
 
2008
  
2007
  
(Decrease)
  
2008
  
2007
  
(Decrease)
  
2009
  
2008
  
(Decrease)
  
2009
  
2008
  
(Decrease)
 
                                    
Revenues $53,974  $48,854   10.5% $18,591  $17,208   8.0% $33,701  $53,974   (37.5)% $11,471  $18,591   (38.3)%
                                                
Operating earnings $3,746  $4,695  (20.2)% $1,615  $1,536   5.1% $1,678  $3,746   (55.2)% $1,244  $1,615   (22.9)%
                                                
Depreciation $2,859  $3,266   (12.5)% $951  $1,027   (7.4)% $2,852  $2,859   (.2)% $1,011  $951   6.3%

TransportationRevenues and operating results turned downward for the transportation segment in 2009 due to reduced customer demand.  The Company’s customers are predominately the domestic United States petrochemical industry, and demand for such products is driven primarily by activity within the housing and automotive sectors.  The current national economic recession has severely and adversely impacted this segment of the Company’s business.  Customer demand is down approximately 30% and, to date, has shown only limited signs of recovery.  Typically, as revenues include various component parts,decline, operating earnings decline at a faster rate, as measured by percentage, due to the most significant being standard line haul charges, fuel adjustment charges and demurrage.  Line haulfixed cost components of operating costs.  In March 2009, the Company instituted cost cutting measures including a reduction in personnel levels in order to better align costs with the Company’s level of revenues.  As a result, the rate of decline in operating earnings slowed relative to the rate of decline in revenues increased slightlybeginning in the second quarter of 2009.  In addition during the first nine monthsthird quarter of 20082009 the Company earned an approximate $467,000 credit against its automobile and workers compensation insurance premiums.  Such premium credits served to $38.1 million versus $37.8 million inreduce operating expenses and were a direct result of reduced activity within the 2007 period as demand for the Company’s services generally remained strong.  Fuel adjustment billings increased to $10.5 million in the first nine months of 2008 compared to $5.5 million in the first nine months of 2007 for comparative additional 2008 revenue of $5 million.  However, actual fuel expense incurred increased by $6.3 million during the first nine months of 2008 to $14.5 million. The inability to fully pass along fuel increases during 2008 reduced operating earnings.

transportation segment.
14


-           Oil and Gas

Oil and gas segment revenues and operating earnings are primarily a function of crude oil and natural gas prices and volumes.  Comparative amounts for revenues, operating earnings and depreciation and depletion are as follows (in thousands):

 Nine Months Ended     Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended     Three Months Ended    
 
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase  
September 30,
  Increase 
 
2008
  
2007
  
(Decrease)
  
2008
  
2007
  
(Decrease)
  
2009
  
2008
  
(Decrease)
  
2009
  
2008
  
(Decrease)
 
Revenues $14,259  $9,981  42.9% $5,122  $3,002  70.6% $6,356  $14,259   (55.4)% $1,994  $5,122   (61.1)%
                                                
Operating earnings (loss)                         $(2,557) $2,607   (198.1)% $(1,698)  558   (404.3)%
- From production $2,607  $(581) n/c  $558  $(511) n/c 
- From property sales -  12,078  n/c  -  $-  n/c 
                                                
Depreciation and depletion $4,266  $2,854  49.5% $1,379  $916  50.5% $2,616  $4,266   (38.7)% $858  $1,379   (37.8)%


15


The revenue and earnings decline for the oil and gas segment is attributable to decreased crude oil and natural gas prices as shown in the tables below.  Depreciation and depletion expense is reduced in the current period because a significant decline in hydrocarbon prices at year-end December 31, 2008 caused producing property impairment provisions to be recorded.  Such charges reduced the level of capitalized costs for amortizing in the current period.

Production volumes and price information is as follows (in thousands):

  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
  
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
 
Crude Oil            
Volume – barrels  37,810   51,190   12,100   15,740 
Average price per barrel $114.96  $65.53  $120.12  $76.22 
                 
Natural gas                
Volume – mcf  913,800   890,000   325,100   248,000 
Average price per mcf $10.85  $7.45  $11.26  $7.26 

Increased current year oil and gas segment revenues resulted from increased commodity prices for both crude oil and natural gas.  Improved revenues led to improved operating earnings from production and more than offset the effect of increased depreciation and depletion expense during 2008.  Property sales did not recur in 2008 to date.  The current year increase in depreciation and depletion is primarily attributable to newly established production on certain fields where the current rate of production as well as capitalized finding costs were elevated relative to estimated proved reserves established for the property. Crude oil volumes are reduced in 2008 as a result of normal production declines while natural gas volumes have increased with favorable drilling results.
  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
Crude Oil            
Volume – barrels  39,148   37,810   11,521   12,100 
Average price per barrel $54.00  $114.96  $65.14  $120.12 
                 
Natural gas                
Volume – mcf  981,918   913,800   316,002   325,100 
Average price per mcf $4.32  $10.85  $3.94  $11.26 

Comparative exploration costs are summarized in the table below.  As shown, prospect impairment expense was increased in 2009 as certain adverse drilling results lead to unfavorable capitalized costs valuations.  Exploration cost components were as follows (in thousands):

 Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
 
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
  
September 30,
 
 
2008
  
2007
  
2008
  
2007
  
2009
  
2008
  
2009
  
2008
 
Dry hole expense $1,860  $2,847  $1,191  $1,471  $365  $1,860  $60  $1,191 
Prospect impairments 1,293  633  421  225   2,761   1,293   1,865   421 
Seismic and geological  653   1,399   131   234   676   653   172   131 
                                
Total $3,806  $4,879  $1,743  $1,930  $3,802  $3,806  $2,097  $1,743 


15


During the first nine months of 2008,2009, the Company participated in the drilling of twelve22 successful wells sixwith seven dry holes andholes.  Additionally, the Company has an interest in eightnine wells that were in process on September 30, 2008.2009.  Evaluation on the in-process wells is anticipated during the fourth quarter of 2008.2009.  Participation in the drilling of approximately 25five wells is planned for the remainder of 20082009 on the Company’s prospect acreage in Arkansas, Louisiana Texas and Wyoming, depending on rig availability.Texas.

In February 2007, the-           Outlook

The Company together withrecently announced its joint interest partners, was awarded a promote licensesuccessful participation in four wells in the United Kingdom North Sea Blocks 21-1b, 21-2bHaynesville Shale formation of Nacogdoches County, Texas.  These productive wells should boost fourth quarter 2009 natural gas volumes and 21-3d.revenues.  The Company holds a 30 percent equity interestmarketing and transportation segments are also forecast to be stable and profitable during the fourth quarter.  Absent declines in these blocks located in the Central Sector of the North Sea.  The Company has two years to confirm an exploration prospect and identify a partner to finance, on a promoted basis, the drilling of the first well on the Block.  The terms of the license do not include a well commitment.  The Company also acquired an approximate nine percent equity interest in a promote licensing right to Block 42-27b, located in the Southern Sector of the U.K. North Sea.  To date, the Company’s investment group has been unsuccessful in obtaining a partner to fund these two projects.

- Outlook

Presently, crude oil and natural gas commodity prices, are continuing a downward trend forupcoming year-end results should show improvement over the fourth quartercurrent level of 2008.  Such a continued event has an adverse effect on inventory carrying values and oil and gas segment operating earnings.  Within the marketing and transportation groups, however, reduced diesel fuel costs would act to mitigate some of the impact of this price trend.  The diversified nature of the Company’s lines of business and its avoidance of bank debt provides a degree of stability during uncertain periods.

16


Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s liquidity primarily derives from net cash generated from operations, whichprovided by operating activities and such amount was $26,979,000 and $28,799,000 and $4,617,000 for each of the nine monthsnine-month periods ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, and 2007, respectively.  Changes in cash from operations for these periods were primarily driven by changes in working capital.  Generally, these working capital changes are timing differences that occur in the ordinary course of business, and are not expected to have a significant impact on overall liquidity.  However, during the third quarter of 2008, the Company expanded its requirements for certain customers to prepay for product deliveries.  This acted to increase cash balances and reduced corresponding accounts receivable.  As of September 30, 20082009 and December 31, 20072008, the Company had no bank debt or other forms of debenture obligations.  Cash and cash equivalents totaled $39,045,000$36,728,000 as of September 30, 2008,2009, and such balances are maintained in order to meet the timing of day-to-day cash needs.  From time to time, the Company may also make cash prepayments to certain suppliers of crude oil and natural gas to the Company’s marketing operations.  Such prepayments totaled $5,504,000 as of September 30, 2009 and such amounts will be recouped during the current fourth quarter as the suppliers deliver product to the Company.  The Company also requires certain counterparties to post cash collateral with the Company in order to support their purchases from the Company.  Such cash collateral held by the Company totaled $4,754,000 as of September 30, 2009.  Working capital, the excess of current assets over current liabilities, totaled $48,999,000$49,528,000 as of September 30, 2008.2009.  Management believes current liquidity,cash balances, together with expected cash to be generated from future operations, will be sufficient to meet Company’s expected short-term and long-term liquidity needs.

The Company utilizes cash from operations to make discretionary investments in its oil and natural gas exploration, and marketing and transportation businesses, which comprise substantially all of the Company’s investing cash outflows for each of the past three years.periods in this filing.  The Company does not look to proceeds from property sales to fund its cash flow needs.  However, during May 2007, the Company did receive net proceeds of $14,954,000 related to the sale of oil and gas properties.  Such sale was made due to attractive pricing.  Currently, the Company does not plan to make significant dispositions of its oil and gas properties in the future, but certain oil and gas interests may be disposed of periodically as business conditions warrant.  Except for a total of $6.2$2.3 million in operating lease commitmentspayments for transportation equipment (see Footnote 9 ofand office lease space, the annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007) the Company’s future commitments and planned investments can be readily curtailed if operating cash flows contract.

16



Capital expenditures during the first nine months of 20082009 included $5,294,000$3,494,000 for marketing and transportation equipment additions and $8,486,000$6,011,000 in property additions associated with oil and gas exploration and production activities.  Included in marketing equipment additions was approximately $4 million expended to acquire forty-four used truck-tractor trailer combinations for use in the Company’s crude oil marketing business in Michigan, West Texas and New Mexico.  For the remainder of 2008,2009, the Company anticipates expending approximately $5an additional approximate $8 million on oil and gas exploration projects to be funded from operating cash flow and available working capital.  In addition, approximately $1 million$960,000 will be expended during the final quarter of 2009 toward the purchase of 48 tractors scheduled to come off lease financing and an additional equipment purchases withinapproximate $4.8 million for the Company’s marketing and transportation businessespurchase of 44 new tractor replacements with funding for such purchase from available cash flow.

Historically, the Company has paidpays an annual dividend in the fourth quarter of each year, and the Board of DirectorsCompany has declared a $.50 per common share or $2,108,000$2,109,000 dividend to be payable to shareholders of record as of December 2, 2008.1, 2009.  The most significant item affecting future increases or decreases in liquidity is earnings from operations and such earnings are dependent on the success of future operations (see Item 1A Risk Factors ofin the annual report ofAnnual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007)2008).  While the Company has available bank lines of credit (see below), management has no current intention to utilize such lines of credit or issue additional equity.


- Banking Relationships

The Company’s primary bank loanIn August 2009, the Company entered into a Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank to provide a $40 million letter of credit facility.  Pursuant to the Wells Fargo agreement, with Bank of America provides for two separatethe Company discontinued its previous working capital lines of credit with interest at the bank’s prime rate minus ¼Bank of one percent.America.  The working capital loanWells Fargo facility provides for borrowingsthe issuance of up to $5$40 million of letters of credit to support the Company’s crude oil and natural gas marketing businesses based on 80 percent ofthe eligible accounts receivable and 50 percentwithin those operations.  Letters of eligible inventories.  Available capacity under the line is calculated monthly and as of September 30, 2008 was established at $5 million.  The oil and gas production loan provides for flexible borrowings subject to a borrowing base established semi-annually by the bank.  The borrowing base was established at $5credit outstanding totaled $19.9 million as of September 30, 2008.  The line of credit loans are scheduled to expire on October 31, 2009, with the then present balance outstanding converting to a term loan payable in eight equal quarterly installments.  As of September 30, 2008, there was no bank debt outstanding under the Company’s two revolving credit facilities.

The Bank of America loan agreement, among other things, places certain restrictions with respect to additional borrowings and the purchase or sale of assets, as well as requiring the Company to comply with certain financial covenants, including maintaining a 1.0 to 1.0 ratio of consolidated current assets to consolidated current liabilities, maintaining a 3.0 to 1.0 ratio of pre-tax net income to interest expense, and consolidated net worth in excess of $60,909,000.  Should the Company’s net worth fall below this threshold, the Company may be restricted from payment of additional cash dividends on its common stock. The Company believes it is in compliance with these restrictions.

The Company’s Gulfmark subsidiary maintains a separate banking relationship with BNP Paribas in order to support its crude oil purchasing activities.  In addition to providing up to $60 million in letters of credit, the facility also finances up to $6 million of crude oil inventory and certain accounts receivable associated with crude oil sales.  Such financing is provided on a demand note basis with interest at the bank’s prime rate plus one percent.  As of September 30, 2008, the Company had $6 million of eligible borrowing capacity under this facility and no working capital advances were outstanding.  Letters of credit outstanding under this facility totaled approximately $34.5 million as of September 30, 2008.2009.  The letter of credit and demand note facilities are secured by substantially all of Gulfmark’sfacility places certain restrictions on the Company’s Gulfmark Energy, Inc. and Adams Resources Marketing’s (“ARM”) assets. Under this facility, BNP Paribas hasMarketing, Ltd. subsidiaries.  Such restrictions included the rightmaintenance of a combined 1.1 to discontinue1.0 current ratio and the issuancemaintenance of letters of credit without prior notification topositive net earnings as defined among other restrictions.  Management believes the Company.Company is currently in compliance with all such covenants.

 
17

 

The Company’s ARM subsidiary also maintains a separate banking relationship with BNP Paribas in order to support its natural gas purchasing activities. In addition to providing up to $30 million in letters of credit, the facility finances up to $4 million of general working capital needs.  Such financing is provided on a demand note basis with interest at the bank’s prime rate plus one percent.  No working capital advances were outstanding under this facility as of September 30, 2008.  Letters of credit outstanding under this facility totaled approximately $4.6 million as of September 30, 2008.  The letter of credit and demand note facilities are secured by substantially all of Gulfmark’s and ARM’s assets.  Under this facility, BNP Paribas has the right to discontinue the issuance of letters of credit without prior notification to the Company.

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

-Fair Value Accounting

As an integral part of its marketing operation, the Company enters into certain forward commodity contracts that are requiredThere has been no material changes to be recorded at fair value in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” and related accounting pronouncements.  Management believes this required accounting, known as mark-to-market accounting, creates variations in reported earnings and the reported earnings trend.  Under mark-to-market accounting, significant levels of earnings are recognized in the period of contract initiation rather than the period when the service is provided and title passes from supplier to customer.  As it affects the Company’s operation, management believes mark-to-market accounting impacts reported earnings“Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates” disclosures that have occurred since the presentation of financial condition in three important ways.

1.  Gross margins, derived from certain aspects of the Company’s ongoing business, are recorded in the period in which contracts are executed.  Meanwhile, personnel and other costs associated with servicing accounts as well as substantially all risks associated with the execution of contracts are expensed as incurred during the period of physical product flow and title passage.

2.  Mark-to-market earnings are calculated based on stated contract volumes. A significant risk associated with the Company’s business is the conversion of stated contract or planned volumes into actual physical commodity movement volumes without a loss of margin.  Again the planned profit from such commodity contracts is bunched and front-ended into the period of contract execution while the risk of loss associated with the difference between actual versus planned production or usage volumes falls in a subsequent period.

3.  Cash flows, by their nature, match physical movements and passage of title. Mark-to-market accounting, on the other hand, creates a divergence between reported earnings and cash flows.  Management believes this complicates and confuses the picture of stated financial conditions and liquidity.

The Company attempts to mitigate the identified risks by only entering into contracts where current market quotes in actively traded, liquid markets are available to determine the fair value of contracts.  In addition, substantially all of the Company’s forward contracts are less than 18 months in duration.  However, the reader is cautioned to develop a full understanding of how fair value or mark-to-market accounting creates reported results that differ from those presented under conventional accrual accounting.

18



-           Trade Accounts

Accounts receivable and accounts payable typically represent the single most significant assets and liabilities of the Company.  Particularly within the Company’s energy marketing and oil and gas exploration and production operations, there is a high degree of interdependence with and reliance upon third parties (including transaction counterparties) to provide adequate information for the proper recording of amounts receivable or payable.  Substantially all such third parties are larger firms providing the Company with the source documents for recording trade activity.  It is commonplace for these entities to retroactively adjust or correct such documents.  This typically requires the Company to absorb, benefit from, or pass along such corrections to another third party.

Due to the volume and the complexity of transactions and the high degree of interdependence with third parties, this is a difficult area to control and manage.  The Company manages this process by participating in a monthly settlement process with each of its counterparties.  Ongoing account balances are monitored monthly and the Company attempts to gain the cooperation of such counterparties to reconcile outstanding balances.  The Company also places great emphasis on collecting cash balances due and paying only bonafide properly supported claims.  In addition, the Company maintains and monitors its bad debt allowance.  Nevertheless a degree of risk always remains due to the customs and practices of the industry.


-           Oil and Gas Reserve Estimate

The value of capitalized costs of oil and gas exploration and production related assets are dependent on underlying oil and gas reserve estimates.  Reserve estimates are based on many subjective factors.  The accuracy of reserve estimates depends on the quantity and quality of geological data, production performance data and reservoir engineering data, changing prices, as well as the skill and judgment of petroleum engineers in interpreting such data.  The process of estimating reserves requires frequent revision of estimates (usually on an annual basis) as additional information becomes available. Calculation of estimated future oil and gas revenues are also based on estimates as to the timing of oil and gas production, and there is no assurance that the actual timing of production will conform to or approximate such estimates. Also, certain assumptions must be made with respect to pricing. The Company’s estimates assume prices will remain constant from the date of the engineer’s estimates, except for changes reflected under natural gas sales contracts.  There can be no assurance that actual future prices will not vary as industry conditions, governmental regulation, political conditions, economic conditions, weather conditions, market uncertainty and other factors impact the market price for oil and gas.

The Company follows the successful efforts method of accounting, so only costs (including development dry hole costs) associated with producing oil and gas wells are capitalized.  Estimated oil and gas reserve quantities are the basis for the rate of amortization under the Company’s units of production method for depreciating, depleting and amortizing of oil and gas properties. Estimated oil and gas reserve values also provide the standard for the Company’s periodic review of oil and gas properties for impairment.

19


-           Contingencies

In March 2004, a suit styled Le Petit Chateau De Luxe, et. al. vs Great Southern Oil & Gas Co., et. al. was filed in the Civil District Court for Orleans Parish, Louisiana against the Company and its subsidiary, Adams Resources Exploration Corporation, among other defendants.  The suit alleges that certain property in Acadia Parish, Louisiana was environmentally contaminated by oil and gas exploration and production activities during the 1970s and 1980s.  An alleged amount of damage has not been specified.  Management believes the Company has consistently conducted its oil and gas exploration and production activities in accordance with all environmental rules and regulations in effect at the time of operation.  Management notified its insurance carrier about this claim, and thus far the insurance carrier has declined to offer coverage.  The Company and its insurance carrier have entered into a tolling agreement to temporarily set aside the claim pending resolution of the underlying matter.  In any event, management does not believe the outcome of this matter will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

From time to time, as incident to its operations, the Company becomes involved in various accidents, lawsuits and/or disputes.  Primarily as an operator of an extensive trucking fleet, the Company may be a party to motor vehicle accidents, worker compensation claims or other items of general liability as would be typical for the industry.  In addition, the Company has extensive operations that must comply with a wide variety of tax laws, environmental laws and labor laws, among others.  Should an incident occur, management would evaluate the claim based on its nature, the facts and circumstances and the applicability of insurance coverage.  To the extent management believes that such event may impact the financial condition of the Company, management will estimate the monetary value of the claim and make appropriate accruals or disclosure asdisclosures provided in the guidelines of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 5, “AccountingCompany’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for Contingencies”.the year ended December 31, 2008.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The Company is exposedThere has been no material changes to market risk, including adverse changes in interest rates and commodity prices.

-Interest Rate Risk

The Company’s long-term debt facility constitutes floating rate debt.  As a result, the Company’s annual interest costs fluctuate based on interest rate changes.  Because“Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” that have occurred since the interest rate ondisclosures provided in the Company’s long-term debt is a floating rate, the fair value approximates carrying value.  The Company had no long-term debt as of September 30, 2008.  A hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in the floating rate would not have had a material effectAnnual Report on the Company’s results of operationsForm 10-K for the three-month periodyear ended September 30,December 31, 2008.

-Commodity Price Risk

The Company’s major market risk exposure is in the pricing applicable to its marketing and production of crude oil and natural gas.  Realized pricing is primarily driven by the prevailing spot prices applicable to oil and gas. Commodity price risk in the Company’s marketing operations represents the potential loss that may result from a change in the market value of an asset or a commitment.  From time to time, the Company enters into forward contracts to minimize or hedge the impact of market fluctuations on its purchases of crude oil and natural gas. The Company may also enter into price support contracts with certain customers to secure a floor price on the purchase of certain supply. In each instance, the Company locks in a separate matching price support contract with a third party in order to minimize the risk of these financial instruments.  Substantially all forward contracts fall within a six-month to one-year term with no contracts extending longer than three years in duration. The Company monitors all commitments, positions and endeavors to maintain a balanced portfolio.

20


Certain forward contracts are recorded at fair value, depending on management’s assessments of numerous accounting standards and positions that comply with generally accepted accounting principles. The fair value of such contracts is reflected on the balance sheet as fair value assets and liabilities. The revaluation of fair value contracts is recognized on a net basis in the Company’s results of operations.  See discussion under “Fair Value Contracts” in Note 1 to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Historically, prices received for oil and gas sales have been volatile and unpredictable with price volatility expected to continue.  From January 1, 2008 through September 30, 2008 average natural gas marketing segment sales price realizations ranged from a monthly low of $7.14 per mmbtu to a monthly high of $11.84 per mmbtu.  Average crude oil prices ranged from a monthly low of $93.29 per barrel to a monthly high of $135.00 per barrel during the same period.  During October 2008, average crude oil prices for the month declined to approximately $70 per barrel.  A hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in average natural gas and crude oil prices, assuming no changes in volume levels, would have reduced earnings before income taxes by approximately $2,797,000 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008.


Forward-Looking Statements—SafeStatements –Safe Harbor Provisions

This quarterly report for the period ended September 30, 20082009 contains certain forward-looking statements intended to be covered by the safe harbors provided under Federal securities law and regulation.regulations.  To the extent such statements are not recitations of historical fact, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties.  In particular, statements included herein and/or in the Company’s latest annual report on Form 10-K under the captions (a) Production and Reserve Information, (b) Regulatory Status and Potential Environmental Liability, (c) Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (b) Liquidity and Capital Resources, (c)(d) Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates, (d)(e) Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk, (e) Fair Value Measurements(f) Income Taxes, (g) Concentration of Credit Risk, (h) Price Risk Management Activities, and (f)(i) Commitments and Contingencies, among others, contain forward-looking statements.  Where the Company expresses an expectation or belief ofregarding future results orof events, such expression is made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis in fact.  However, there can be no assurance that such expectation or belief will actually result or be achieved.

A numberWith the uncertainties of forward looking statements in mind, the reader should consider the risks discussed elsewhere in this report and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time and the important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated.  Such factors include, among others, (a) general economic conditions, (b) fluctuations in hydrocarbon prices and margins, (c) variations between crude oil and natural gas contract volumes and actual delivery volumes, (d) unanticipated environmental liabilities or regulatory changes, (e) counterparty credit default, (f) inability to obtain bank and/or trade credit support, (g) availability and cost of insurance, (h) changes in tax laws, (i) the availability of capital, (j) changes in regulations, (k) results of current items of litigation, (l) uninsured items of litigation or losses, (m) uncertainty in reserve estimates and cash flows, (n) ability to replace oil and gas reserves, (o) security issues related to drivers and terminal facilities, (p) commodity price volatility, (q) demand for chemical based trucking operations and (r) successful completion of drilling activity.  For more information, see the discussion under Forward-Looking Statementsdescribed in the annual reportCompany’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.
       Except for2008, under “Item 1A Risk Factor” that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of the discussion set forth below, there have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Item 1A of Part I in the annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.  The risk factor set forth below has been updated to provide additional information.

21


Worldwide economic developments could damage operations and materially reduce  profitability and cash flows.Company.

Recent disruptions in the credit markets and concerns about global economic growth have had a significant adverse impact on global financial markets and commodity prices, both of which may have contributed to a decline in the Company’s stock price and corresponding market capitalization.  Further commodity price decreases in the fourth quarter could result in reduced earnings.  Since the Company has no bank debt obligations nor covenants tied to its stock price, recent declines in the Company’s stock price do not affect the Company’s liquidity or overall financial condition.  Should the capital and credit markets continue to experience volatility and the availability of funds remains limited, the Company’s customers and suppliers may incur increased costs associated with issuing commercial paper and/or other debt instruments and this, in turn, could adversely affect the Company’s ability to secure supply and make profitable sales.

Item 4.  Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely discussions regarding required disclosure.  As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company'sCompany’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)).procedures. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective.effective as of September 30, 2009.

During the three month period ended September 30, 2008, thereChanges in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal controlscontrol over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-13(f) and 15d-15(f) ofduring the Exchange Act)fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 
2218

 


PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION


Item 1.

In March 2004, a suit styled Le Petit Chateau De Luxe, et. al. vs Great Southern Oil & Gas Co., et. al. was filed in the Civil District Court for Orleans Parish, Louisiana against the Company and its subsidiary, Adams Resources Exploration Corporation, among other defendants.  The suit alleges that certain property in Acadia Parish, Louisiana was environmentally contaminated by oil and gas exploration and production activities during the 1970s and 1980s.  An alleged amount of damage has not been specified.  Management believes the Company has consistently conducted its oil and gas exploration and production activities in accordance with all environmental rules and regulations in effect at the time of operation.  Management notified its insurance carrier about this claim, and thus far the insurance carrier has declined to offer coverage.  The Company and its insurance carrier have entered into a tolling agreement to temporarily set aside the claim pending resolution of the underlying matter.  In any event, management does not believe the outcome of this matter will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

From time to time as incident to its operations, the Company becomes involved in various lawsuits and/or disputes.  Primarily as an operator of an extensive trucking fleet, the Company may be a party to motor vehicle accidents, worker compensation claims or other items of general liability as would be typical for the industry.  Except as disclosed herein, managementManagement of the Company is presently unaware of any claims against the Company that are either outside the scope of insurance coverage, or that may exceed the level of insurance coverage, or that may exceed the level of insurance coverage, and could potentially represent a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 Item 1A. - There have beenare no material changes in the Company’s risk factors from those disclosed in the 2007Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K except as follows:for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Worldwide economic developments could damage operations and materially reduce  profitability and cash flows.

Recent disruptions in the credit markets and concerns about global economic growth have had a significant adverse impact on global financial markets and commodity prices, both of which may have contributed to a decline in the Company’s stock price and corresponding market capitalization.  Further commodity price decreases in the fourth quarter could result in reduced earnings.  Since the Company has no bank debt obligations nor covenants tied to its stock price, recent declines in the Company’s stock price do not affect the Company’s liquidity or overall financial condition.  Should the capital and credit markets continue to experience volatility and the availability of funds remains limited, the Company’s customers and suppliers may incur increased costs associated with issuing commercial paper and/or other debt instruments and this, in turn, could adversely affect the Company’s ability to secure supply and make profitable sales.


 Item 2.     -  None
Item 2. - None
 
Item 3.     -  None

Item 4.     -  None

Item 5. –
 Item 5.-  None


23


Item 6.  Exhibits

4(b)  - Credit and Security Agreement between Gulfmark Energy, Inc, Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association dated August 27, 2009

31.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
31.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
32.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
32.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  


 
2419

 


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


 ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC
 (Registrant)
  
  
  
Date:  November 13, 20082009
By  /s/K. S. Adams, Jr.
 K. S. Adams, Jr.
 Chief Executive Officer
  
  
 
By /s/Frank T. Webster
 Frank T. Webster
 President & Chief Operating Officer
  
  
 
By /s/Richard B. Abshire
 Richard B. Abshire
 Chief Financial Officer


 
2520

 

EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit 
NumberDescription
4(b)
Credit and Security Agreement between Gulfmark Energy, Inc, Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association dated August 27, 2009
  
31.1Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
31.2Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
32.1Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
  
32.2Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 
2621