UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.

 

For the quarterly period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005

 

¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.

 

Commission file number 1-10447

 


 

CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

DELAWARE 04-3072771

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

 

1200 Enclave Parkway, Houston, Texas 77077

(Address of principal executive offices including Zip Code)

 

(281) 589-4600

(Registrant’s telephone number)

 


 

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 and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  x    No  ¨

 

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

As of July27,October 24, 2005, there were48,944,424 48,969,832 shares of Common Stock, Par Value $.10 Per Share, outstanding.

 



CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

 

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Page

Part I. Financial Information  Page

Item 1.Financial Statements   

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the Three Months and SixNine Months Ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004

  3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004

  4

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the SixNine Months Ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004

  5

Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

  6

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Review of Interim Financial Information

  1617
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations  1718
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk  3033
Item 4.Controls and Procedures  3235
Part II. Other Information   
        Item 1.Legal Proceedings36
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds  3236
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders5.Other Information  3336
Item 6.Exhibits  3437
Signatures  3538

–  2  –


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. Financial Statements

 

CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 

  Three Months Ended
June 30,


 

Six Months Ended

June 30,


   Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  2005

  2004

 2005

  2004

   2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

OPERATING REVENUES

                     

Natural Gas Production

  $111,817  $90,028  $216,089  $180,407   $121,477  $96,111  $337,566  $276,518

Brokered Natural Gas

   15,520   15,628   42,012   47,187    18,756   13,224   60,768   60,411

Crude Oil and Condensate

   23,936   13,552   35,914   26,319    21,336   8,514   57,250   34,833

Other

   611   534   1,943   2,433    188   1,574   2,131   4,007
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

   151,884   119,742   295,958   256,346    161,757   119,423   457,715   375,769

OPERATING EXPENSES

                     

Brokered Natural Gas Cost

   13,701   13,596   36,999   42,317    16,550   11,627   53,549   53,944

Direct Operations - Field and Pipeline

   14,307   13,114   28,925   25,192    14,246   13,297   43,171   38,489

Exploration

   11,362   9,568   30,731   25,712    16,665   6,979   47,396   32,691

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization

   26,112   24,622   52,768   48,851    26,578   27,734   79,346   76,585

Impairment of Unproved Properties

   3,643   2,728   7,054   5,311    4,092   3,054   11,146   8,365

Impairment of Oil & Gas Properties (Note 2)

   —     3,458   —     3,458

General and Administrative

   8,700   9,582   17,660   16,298    9,679   9,001   27,339   25,299

Taxes Other Than Income

   12,396   9,921   22,114   20,023    14,939   10,115   37,053   30,138
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

   90,221   83,131   196,251   183,704    102,749   85,265   299,000   268,969

Gain / (Loss) on Sale of Assets

   59   (172)  59   (113)

Gain on Sale of Assets

   15   120   74   7
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

   61,722   36,439   99,766   72,529    59,023   34,278   158,789   106,807

Interest Expense and Other

   5,134   5,445   10,122   10,822    5,339   5,577   15,461   16,399
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

Income Before Income Taxes

   56,588   30,994   89,644   61,707    53,684   28,701   143,328   90,408

Income Tax Expense

   21,166   11,676   33,460   23,378    19,928   10,879   53,388   34,257
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

NET INCOME

  $35,422  $19,318  $56,184  $38,329   $33,756  $17,822  $89,940  $56,151
  

  


 

  


  

  

  

  

Basic Earnings per Share

  $0.72  $0.40  $1.15  $0.79   $0.69  $0.37  $1.84  $1.15

Diluted Earnings per Share

  $0.71  $0.39  $1.13  $0.78   $0.68  $0.36  $1.81  $1.14

Average Common Shares Outstanding

   48,917   48,789   48,821   48,693    48,951   48,822   48,865   48,736

Diluted Common Shares (Note 6)

   49,578   49,393   49,515   49,292    49,665   49,419   49,613   49,329

 

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

–  3  –


CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except share amounts)

 

  June 30,

 December 31,

 
  2005

 2004

   September 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


 

ASSETS

      

Current Assets

      

Cash and Cash Equivalents

  $51,946  $10,026   $3,187  $10,026 

Accounts Receivable

   93,416   125,754    131,840   125,754 

Inventories

   23,825   24,049    35,473   24,049 

Deferred Income Taxes

   24,636   21,345    52,247   21,345 

Other

   13,577   13,505    9,433   13,505 
  


 


  


 


Total Current Assets

   207,400   194,679    232,180   194,679 

Properties and Equipment, Net (Successful Efforts Method)

   1,050,987   994,081    1,156,886   994,081 

Deferred Income Taxes

   14,680   14,855    19,601   14,855 

Other Assets

   7,351   7,341    7,257   7,341 
  


 


  


 


  $1,280,418  $1,210,956   $1,415,924  $1,210,956 
  


 


  


 


LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

      

Current Liabilities

      

Accounts Payable

  $98,672  $104,969   $144,748  $104,969 

Current Portion of Long-Term Debt

   20,000   20,000    20,000   20,000 

Deferred Income Taxes

   404   944    1,105   944 

Derivative Contracts

   42,116   38,368    114,571   38,368 

Accrued Liabilities

   31,540   32,608    29,204   32,608 
  


 


  


 


Total Current Liabilities

   192,732   196,889    309,628   196,889 

Long-Term Debt

   250,000   250,000    260,000   250,000 

Deferred Income Taxes

   259,701   247,376    269,410   247,376 

Other Liabilities

   62,165   61,029    74,629   61,029 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 7)

      

Stockholders’ Equity

      

Common Stock:

      

Authorized — 80,000,000 Shares of $.10 Par Value Issued and Outstanding — 50,016,774 Shares and 49,680,915 Shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively

   5,002   4,968 

Authorized — 80,000,000 Shares of $.10 Par Value Issued and Outstanding — 50,050,174 Shares and 49,680,915 Shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively

   5,005   4,968 

Additional Paid-in Capital

   388,655   380,125    393,535   380,125 

Retained Earnings

   163,823   110,935    195,621   110,935 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

   (21,074)  (20,351)   (71,318)  (20,351)

Less Treasury Stock, at Cost:

      

1,081,250 and 1,061,550 Shares in 2005 and 2004

   (20,586)  (20,015)   (20,586)  (20,015)
  


 


  


 


Total Stockholders’ Equity

   515,820   455,662    502,257   455,662 
  


 


  


 


  $1,280,418  $1,210,956   $1,415,924  $1,210,956 
  


 


  


 


 

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

–  4  –


CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

(In thousands)

 

  

Six Months Ended

June 30,


   Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 
  2005

 2004

   2005

 2004

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

      

Net Income

  $56,184  $38,329   $89,940  $56,151 

Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Cash

   

Provided by Operating Activities:

   

Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Cash Provided by Operating Activities:

   

Depletion, Depreciation and Amortization

   52,768   48,851    79,346   76,585 

Impairment of Unproved Properties

   7,054   5,311    11,146   8,365 

Impairment of Oil & Gas Properties

   —     3,458 

Deferred Income Tax Expense

   9,078   7,181    18,225   15,449 

(Gain) / Loss on Sale of Assets

   (59)  113 

Gain on Sale of Assets

   (74)  (7)

Exploration Expense

   30,731   25,712    47,396   32,691 

Change in Derivative Fair Value

   3,681   6,272    2,051   13,295 

Performance Share Compensation

   114   —      2,572   3,403 

Other

   2,733   721    4,582   1,863 

Changes in Assets and Liabilities:

      

Accounts Receivable

   32,338   (2,070)   (6,086)  12,733 

Inventories

   224   8,722    (11,424)  (6,825)

Other Current Assets

   (2,858)  (1,017)   1,167   (8,449)

Other Assets

   (134)  178    (203)  341 

Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities

   (4,844)  3,573    4,808   5,175 

Other Liabilities

   1,066   1,425    3,665   1,701 
  


 


  


 


Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

   188,076   143,301    247,111   215,929 
  


 


  


 


CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

      

Capital Expenditures

   (115,848)  (102,430)   (241,504)  (157,747)

Proceeds from Sale of Assets

   710   22    996   186 

Exploration Expense

   (30,731)  (25,712)   (47,396)  (32,691)
  


 


  


 


Net Cash Used by Investing Activities

   (145,869)  (128,120)   (287,904)  (190,252)
  


 


  


 


CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

      

Increase in Debt

   —     28,000    85,000   75,000 

Decrease in Debt

   —     (28,000)   (75,000)  (75,000)

Increase in Book Overdrafts

   25,691   —   

Sale of Common Stock Proceeds

   3,580   13,468    4,088   11,123 

Purchase of Treasury Stock

   (571)  (5,342)   (571)  (8,732)

Dividends Paid

   (3,296)  (2,602)   (5,254)  (3,906)
  


 


  


 


Net Cash Provided / (Used) by Financing Activities

   (287)  5,524    33,954   (1,515)
  


 


  


 


Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

   41,920   20,705 

Net (Decrease) / Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

   (6,839)  24,162 

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period

   10,026   724   ��10,026   724 
  


 


  


 


Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period

  $51,946  $21,429   $3,187  $24,886 
  


 


  


 


 

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

–  5  –


CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

 

1. FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

 

During interim periods, Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation (the Company) follows the same accounting policies used in its Annual Report to Stockholders and its Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. People using financial information produced for interim periods are encouraged to refer to the footnotes in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 when reviewing interim financial results. In management’s opinion, the accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements contain all material adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation. The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the entire year.

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm has performed a review of these condensed consolidated interim financial statements in accordance with standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Pursuant to Rule 436(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, this report should not be considered a part of a registration statement prepared or certified by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP within the meanings of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act.

 

On February 28, 2005, the Company announced that the Board of Directors had declared a 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock in the form of a stock distribution. The stock dividend was distributed on March 31, 2005 to stockholders of record on March 18, 2005. In lieu of issuing fractional shares, the Company paid cash based on the closing price of the Common Stock on the record date. All common stock accounts and per share data have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to the 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In MayMarch 2005, the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.” This Interpretation clarifies the definition and treatment of conditional asset retirement obligations as discussed in FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.” A conditional asset retirement obligation is defined as an asset retirement activity in which the timing and/or method of settlement are dependent on future events that may be outside the control of the Company. FIN 47 states that a company must record a liability when incurred for conditional asset retirement obligations if the fair value of the obligation is reasonably estimable. This Interpretation is intended to provide more information about long-lived assets, more information about future cash outflows for these obligations and more consistent recognition of these liabilities. FIN 47 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2005. The Company does not believe that its financial position, results of operations or cash flows will be impacted by this Interpretation since the Company currently records all asset retirement obligations.

In May 2005, the FASB issued Statement SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections-a replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3.” In order to enhance financial reporting consistency between periods, SFAS 154 modifies the requirements for the accounting and reporting of the direct effects of changes in accounting principles. Under APB Opinion 20, the cumulative effect of voluntary changes in accounting principle was recognized in Net Income in the period of the change. Unlike the treatment previously prescribed by APB Opinion 20, retrospective application is now required, unless it is not practical to determine the specific effects in each period or the cumulative effect. If the period specific effects cannot be determined, it is required that the new accounting principle must be retrospectively applied in the earliest period possible to the balance sheet accounts and a corresponding adjustment be made to the opening balance of retained earnings or another equity account. If the cumulative effect cannot be determined, it is necessary to apply the new accounting principles prospectively at the earliest practical date. If it is not feasible to retrospectively apply the change in principle, the reason that this is not possible and the method used to report the change is required to be disclosed. The statement also provides that changes in accounting

for depreciation, depletion or amortization should be treated as changes in accounting estimate inseparable from a change in accounting principle and that disclosure of the preferability of the change is required. SFAS 154 is effective for accounting changes made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005.

 

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement SFAS No. 123R,123(R), “Share-Based Payment.” SFAS 123R123(R) revises SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and focuses on accounting for share-based payments for services provided by employee to employer. The statement requires companies to expense the fair value of employee stock options and other equity-based compensation at the grant date. The statement does not require a certain type of valuation model, and either a binomial or Black-Scholes model may be used. During the first quarter of 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved a new rule for public companies to delay the adoption of this standard. In April 2005, the SEC took further action to amend Regulation S-X to state that the provisions of SFAS 123R123(R) are now effective beginning with the first annual or interim reporting period of the registrant’s first fiscal year beginning on or after June 15, 2005 for all non-small business issuers. As a result, the Company will not adopt this SFAS until the first quarter of 2006. The Company plans to use the modified prospective application method as detailed in SFAS 123(R). The Company is currently evaluating the method of adoption and the impact on the Company’s operating results. Future cash flows of the Company will not be impacted by the adoption of this standard. See “Stock Based“Stock-Based Compensation” below for further information.

 

–  6  –

In September 2005, the FASB also issued Proposed FASB Staff Position (FSP) FAS 123(R)-c which provides a simplified, more practical transition election relating to the calculation of the “APIC pool.” The APIC pool is defined as the pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb tax deficiencies occurring after the adoption of SFAS 123(R). Under this Proposed FSP, companies can elect to perform simpler computations to derive the beginning balance of the APIC pool as well as the impact on the APIC pool of fully vested and outstanding awards as of the SFAS 123(R) adoption date. The beginning balance can be computed by taking the sum of all tax benefits incurred prior to the adoption of SFAS 123(R) from stock-based compensation plans less the tax effected (using a blended statutory rate) pro forma stock-based compensation cost. In addition, increases to the APIC pool for fully vested awards can be calculated by multiplying the tax rate times the tax benefit of the deduction. The calculation of any awards that are partially vested or granted after the SFAS 123(R) adoption date will not be affected by this Proposed FSP and will be calculated in accordance with SFAS 123(R) which requires that only the excess tax benefit or deficiency of the tax deduction over the tax effect of the compensation cost recognized should be considered for the APIC pool. Also under the Proposed FSP, all tax benefits recognized on fully vested awards and the excess tax benefits for partially vested and new awards will be reported on the Statement of Cash Flows as a component of financing activities. Companies will have up to one year after adopting SFAS 123(R) to decide to elect and disclose whether they plan to use the alternative method or the original method prescribed in SFAS 123(R) for the calculation of the APIC pool. If finalized, the Company will adopt this Proposed FSP in conjunction with the adoption of SFAS 123(R).


In MarchOctober 2005, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.” This Interpretation clarifiesFSP FAS 123(R)-2, “Practical Accommodation to the definition and treatmentApplication of conditional asset retirement obligationsGrant Date as discusseddefined in FASB Statement No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.123(R).A conditional asset retirement obligationThis FSP provides guidance on the definition and practical application of “grant date” as described in SFAS No. 123(R). The grant date is defineddescribed as an asset retirement activity in which the timing and/or method of settlement are dependent on future eventsdate that may be outside the controlemployee and employer have met a mutual understanding of the Company. FIN 47 states that a Company must record a liability when incurred for conditional asset retirement obligations if the fair valuekey terms and conditions of an award. The other elements of the obligationdefinition of grant date are: 1) the award must be authorized, 2) the employer must be obligated to transfer assets or distribute equity instruments so long as the employee has provided the necessary service and 3) the employee is affected by changes in the company’s stock price. To determine the grant date, the Company is allowed to use the date the award is approved in accordance with its corporate governance requirements so long as the three elements described above are met. Furthermore, the recipient cannot negotiate the award’s terms and conditions with the employer and the key terms and conditions of the award are communicated to all recipients within a reasonably estimable. This Interpretation is intended to provide more information about long-lived assets, more information about future cash outflows for these obligations and more consistent recognition of these liabilities. FIN 47 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2005.short time period from the approval date. The Company does not believe that its financial position, resultswill adopt this FSP in conjunction with the adoption of operations or cash flows will be impacted by this Interpretation.SFAS 123(R).

Stock BasedStock-Based Compensation

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with the intrinsic value based method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” Under the intrinsic value based method, compensation cost is the excess, if any, of the quoted market price of the stock at the grant date over the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock.

 

SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” as amended by SFAS 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure,” outlines a fair value based method of accounting for stock options or similar equity instruments.

 

The following table illustrates the effect on Net Income and Earnings per Share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123 to stock-based employee compensation. The Earnings per Share amounts for prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock effective March 31, 2005.

 

  

Three Months Ended

June 30,


 

Six Months Ended

June 30,


   Three Months Ended
September 30,


 Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 

(In thousands, except per share amounts)


  2005

 2004

 2005

 2004

   2005

 2004

 2005

 2004

 

Net Income, as reported

  $35,422  $19,318  $56,184  $38,329   $33,756  $17,822  $89,940  $56,151 

Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of tax, previously not included in Net Income

   (187)  (479)  (479)  (954)   (170)  (324)  (649)  (1,279)
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Pro forma Net Income

  $35,235  $18,839  $55,705  $37,375   $33,586  $17,498  $89,291  $54,872 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Earnings per Share:

      

Basic - as reported

  $0.72  $0.40  $1.15  $0.79   $0.69  $0.37  $1.84  $1.15 

Basic - pro forma

  $0.72  $0.39  $1.14  $0.77   $0.69  $0.36  $1.83  $1.13 

Diluted - as reported

  $0.71  $0.39  $1.13  $0.78   $0.68  $0.36  $1.81  $1.14 

Diluted - pro forma

  $0.71  $0.38  $1.13  $0.76   $0.68  $0.35  $1.80  $1.11 

 

–  7  –


The assumptions used in the fair value method calculation as well as additional stock-based compensation information are disclosed in the following table.

 

  Three Months Ended
June 30,


 Six Months Ended
June 30,


   Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 

(In thousands, except per share amounts)


  2005

  2004

 2005

  2004

   2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

 

Compensation Expense in Net Income, as reported(1)

  $948  $1,638  $1,588  $1,930   $2,629  $1,544  $4,217  $3,474 

Weighted Average Value per Option Granted

         

During the Period(2) (3)

  $—    $11.31  $—    $11.31 

Weighted Average Value per Option Granted During the Period (2) (3)

  $—    $—    $—    $11.31 

Assumptions(3)

                     

Stock Price Volatility

   —     38.4%  —     38.4%   —     —     —     38.4%

Risk Free Rate of Return

   —     3.3%  —     3.3%   —     —     —     3.3%

Dividend Rate (per year)

  $0.16  $0.16  $0.16  $0.16   $0.16  $0.16  $0.16  $0.16 

Expected Term (in years)

   —     4   —     4    —     —     —     4 

(1)Compensation expense is defined as expense related to the vesting of stock grants, net of tax. Compensation expense for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005and 2004 also includes $(0.2)$1.5 million and $1.1$0.9 million, respectively, net of tax related to performance shares. Compensation expense for the sixnine months endedJune September 30, 2005 and 2004 also includes $0.1$1.6 million and $1.1$2.0 million, respectively, net of tax, related to performance shares.
(2)Calculated using the Black-Scholes fair value based method.
(3)There were no stock options issued in the third quarter of 2004 or in the first or second quartersnine months of 2005.

 

On October 26, 2005, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company approved the acceleration, to December 15, 2005, of the vesting of 200,299 unvested stock options awarded in February 2003 under the Company’s Second Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan and 24,500 unvested stock options awarded in April 2004 under the Company’s 2004 Incentive Plan.

The 200,299 shares awarded to employees at an exercise price of $15.32, would have vested in February 2006. The 24,500 shares, awarded to the non-employee directors at an exercise price of $23.32, would have vested 12,250 in April 2006 and April 2007, respectively. Of the 200,299 shares, 91,500 were awarded to the named executive officers.

The decision to accelerate the vesting of these unvested options, which the Company believes to be in the best interest of its shareholders and employees, was made solely to reduce compensation expense and administrative burden associated with the Company’s adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 123(R), “Share Based Payment (revised 2004).” The accelerated vesting of the options will not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations or cash flows. The Company currently accounts for stock-based compensation using the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” under which the Company has not recognized any compensation expense for its stock option grants. SFAS 123(R) will require the Company to recognize compensation expense equal to the fair value of all equity-based compensation over the vesting period of each such award beginning on January 1, 2006. The acceleration of vesting will reduce the Company’s compensation expense related to these options by an estimated $0.2 million for the year 2006.

2. PROPERTIES AND EQUIPMENT

 

Properties and equipment are comprised of the following:

 

  June 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


   September 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


 
  (In thousands)   (In thousands) 

Unproved Oil and Gas Properties

  $96,926  $94,795   $103,775  $94,795 

Proved Oil and Gas Properties

   1,747,518   1,646,841    1,870,731   1,646,841 

Gathering and Pipeline Systems

   168,294   160,951    172,863   160,951 

Land, Building and Improvements

   4,882   4,860    4,878   4,860 

Other

   32,210   31,261    32,621   31,261 
  


 


  


 


   2,049,830   1,938,708    2,184,868   1,938,708 

Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization

   (998,843)  (944,627)   (1,027,982)  (944,627)
  


 


  


 


  $1,050,987  $994,081   $1,156,886  $994,081 
  


 


  


 


 

As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, we did not have any significant changes from year-end in our amount of capitalized well costs that have been capitalized for greater than one year end as definedafter drilling was suspended.

During the third quarter of 2004, the Company recorded an impairment of approximately $3.5 million on a two-well field in south Louisiana resulting from production performance issues related to water encroachment. This impairment charge was recorded due to the capitalized cost of the fields exceeding the future undiscounted cash flows. This charge was reflected in the FASB Staff Position FAS 19-1.quarterly results and was measured based on discounted cash flows utilizing a discount rate appropriate for risks associated with the related field. There were no impairments of proved oil and gas properties during the nine months ended September 30, 2005.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2005, we spent $60.4 million on producing property acquisitions. Of this amount, $59.4 million was spent in the third quarter of 2005. During the quarter, the Company closed on two large producing property acquisitions for interests in fields in the Gulf Coast. For the McCampbell field acquisition, we spent $41.2 million. The Vernon field acquisition was $18.0 million.

 

3. INVENTORIES

 

Inventories are comprised of the following:

 

  June 30,
2005


  December 31,
2004


  September 30,
2005


  December 31,
2004


  (In thousands)  (In thousands)

Natural Gas and Oil in Storage

  $14,660  $17,631  $25,210  $17,631

Tubular Goods and Well Equipment

   8,211   6,387   8,696   6,387

Pipeline Imbalances

   954   31   1,567   31
  

  

  

  

  $23,825  $24,049  $35,473  $24,049
  

  

  

  

Natural gas and oil in storage is valued at average cost. Tubular goods and well equipment is valued at historical cost. All inventory balances are carried at the lower of cost or market.

–  8  –


4. ADDITIONAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION

 

Certain balance sheet amounts are comprised of the following:

 

  June 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


   September 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


 
  (In thousands)   (In thousands) 

Accounts Receivable

      

Trade Accounts

  $84,652  $105,378   $109,988  $105,378 

Joint Interest Accounts

   13,192   13,554    14,609   13,554 

Current Income Tax Receivable

   463   10,796    12,203   10,796 

Other Accounts

   351   1,312    394   1,312 
  


 


  


 


   98,658   131,040    137,194   131,040 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

   (5,242)  (5,286)   (5,354)  (5,286)
  


 


  


 


  $93,416  $125,754   $131,840  $125,754 
  


 


  


 


Other Current Assets

      

Derivative Contracts

  $119  $2,906   $—    $2,906 

Drilling Advances

   6,322   6,180    3,348   6,180 

Prepaid Balances

   6,889   4,173    5,786   4,173 

Other Accounts

   247   246    299   246 
  


 


  


 


  $13,577  $13,505   $9,433  $13,505 
  


 


  


 


Accounts Payable

      

Trade Accounts

  $9,371  $12,808   $9,514  $12,808 

Natural Gas Purchases

   11,563   8,669    10,955   8,669 

Royalty and Other Owners

   31,972   35,369    40,439   35,369 

Capital Costs

   26,599   26,203    35,296   26,203 

Taxes Other Than Income

   4,426   5,634    8,592   5,634 

Drilling Advances

   5,878   7,102    6,486   7,102 

Wellhead Gas Imbalances

   2,271   1,991    2,317   1,991 

Book Overdrafts

   25,691   —   

Other Accounts

   6,592   7,193    5,458   7,193 
  


 


  


 


  $98,672  $104,969   $144,748  $104,969 
  


 


  


 


Accrued Liabilities

      

Employee Benefits

  $5,006  $10,123   $6,559  $10,123 

Taxes Other Than Income

   15,720   14,191    14,456   14,191 

Interest Payable

   6,321   6,569    5,383   6,569 

Other Accounts

   4,493   1,725    2,806   1,725 
  


 


  


 


  $31,540  $32,608   $29,204  $32,608 
  


 


  


 


Other Liabilities

      

Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pension

  $5,235  $4,717   $5,796  $4,717 

Accrued Pension Cost

   4,898   5,089    5,791   5,089 

Rabbi Trust Deferred Compensation Plan

   4,593   4,199    4,776   4,199 

Accrued Plugging and Abandonment Liability

   41,444   40,375    42,369   40,375 

Derivative Contracts

   8,926   —   

Other Accounts

   5,995   6,649    6,971   6,649 
  


 


  


 


  $62,165  $61,029   $74,629  $61,029 
  


 


  


 


–  9  –


5. LONG-TERM DEBT

 

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Company did not have anyhad $10 million of debt outstanding under its Revolving Credit Agreement (Credit Facility), which provides for an available credit line of $250 million, which can be expanded up to $350 million, either with the existing banks or new banks. To expand the credit line, the Company must seek prior approval from the administrative agent and the bank whose commitment is increasing. The term of the Credit Facility expires in December 2009. The Credit Facility is unsecured. The available credit line is subject to adjustment from time to time on the basis of the projected present value (as determined by the banks’ petroleum engineer) of estimated future net cash flows from certain proved oil and gas reserves and other assets of the Company. While the Company does not expect a reduction in the available credit line, in the event that it is adjusted below the outstanding level of borrowings, the Company has a period of six months to reduce its outstanding debt to the adjusted credit line available with a requirement to provide additional borrowing base assets or pay down one-sixth of the excess during each of the six months.

 

TheIn addition to the $10 million of debt outstanding on the Credit Facility, the Company has the following debt outstanding at JuneSeptember 30, 2005:

 

$100 million of 12-year 7.19% Notes to be repaid in five annual installments of $20 million beginning in November 2005

 

$75 million of 10-year 7.26% Notes due in July 2011

 

$75 million of 12-year 7.36% Notes due in July 2013

 

$20 million of 15-year 7.46% Notes due in July 2016

 

6. EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic Earnings per Share (EPS) is computed by dividing Net Income (the numerator) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period (the denominator). Diluted EPS is similarly calculated using the treasury stock method except that the denominator is increased to reflect the potential dilution that could occur if outstanding stock options and stock awards outstanding at the end of the applicable period were exercised for common stock.

 

The following is a calculation of basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the three months and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

  

Three Months Ended

June 30,


  

Six Months Ended

June 30,


  Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

Shares - basic

  48,917,430  48,788,870  48,821,369  48,692,803  48,951,439  48,821,794  48,865,202  48,736,114

Dilution effect of stock options and awards at end of period

  660,958  604,139  693,713  599,687  713,848  596,885  747,805  592,461
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Shares - diluted

  49,578,388  49,393,009  49,515,082  49,292,490  49,665,287  49,418,679  49,613,007  49,328,575
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Stock awards and shares excluded from diluted earnings per share due to the anti-dilutive effect

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Contingencies

 

The Company is a defendant in various legal proceedings arising in the normal course of our business. All known liabilities are accrued based on management’s best estimate of the potential loss. While the outcome and impact of such legal proceedings on the Company cannot be predicted with certainty, management believes that the resolution of these proceedings through settlement or adverse judgment will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position.position or cash flow. Operating results, and cash flow, however, could be significantly impacted in the reporting periods in which such matters are resolved.

 

–  10  –


Wyoming Royalty Litigation

In June 2000, the Company was sued by two overriding royalty owners in Wyoming state court for unspecified damages. The plaintiffs requested class certification. The plaintiffs alleged that the Company improperly deducted costs from their overriding royalty interests. Further, the suit alleged the Company had failed to properly report information required to be reported by a Wyoming statute. At a mediation held in April 2003, the plaintiffs in this case claimed total damages of $9.5 million plus attorney fees. The Company settled the case on a class basis for a total of $2.25 million. The State District Court Judge entered his order approving the settlement in the fourth quarter of 2003. The class included all private fee royalty and overriding royalty owners of the Company in the State of Wyoming except those in the suit discussed below and one owner who opted out of the settlement. The settlement included provisions for the method of valuation of gas for royalty payment purposes going forward and for reporting of royalty payments, which should prevent further litigation of these issues by the class members.

 

In January 2002, 13 overriding royalty owners sued the Company in Wyoming federal district court.court, as reported in previous filings. The plaintiffs in that case made the same general claims pertaining to deductions from their overriding royalty as the plaintiffs in the Wyoming state court. The judge has recently issued an order requested by the Company striking plaintiffs’ expert witness on damages. In a related case with the same plaintiffs, but different oil and gas company defendants, the same federal district court judge then granted the oil and gas company defendants summary judgment on a legal issue that if applied to the Company’s case would result in judgmentclaims concerning penalties for the Company.improper reporting. As a result of theseseveral decisions by the Court favorable to the Company, the case was settled in September 2005 with no payment from the Company and the plaintiffs have reached an orala dismissal with prejudice of all claims by plaintiffs. The settlement included provisions for reporting and settlement documents are being prepared.payment going forward. Management has areversed the reserve it believes is adequate based on its estimate of the probable outcome ofhad recorded regarding this case.

 

West Virginia Royalty Litigation

 

In December 2001, the Company was sued by two royalty owners in West Virginia state court for an unspecified amount of damages. The plaintiffs have requested class certification and allege that the Company failed to pay royalty based upon the wholesale market value of the gas, that it had taken improper deductions from the royalty and failed to properly inform royalty owners of the deductions. The plaintiffs have also claimed that they are entitled to a 1/8th royalty share of the gas sales contract settlement that the Company reached with Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation in 1995 bankruptcy proceedings.

 

Discovery and pleadings necessary to place the class certification issue before the state court have been ongoing. The court entered an order on June 1, 2005 granting the motion for class certification. The parties have negotiated a modification to the order which, if entered by the court, would result in the dismissal of the claims related to the gas sales contract settlement in connection with the Columbia Gas Transmission bankruptcy proceedings. Trial has been set for April 17, 2006. The Company intends to challenge the class certification order by filing a Petition for Writ of Prohibition with the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals.

 

The Company is vigorously defending the case. ItA reserve has a reservebeen established that management believes is adequate based on its estimate of the probable outcome of this case.

 

Texas Title Litigation

 

On January 6, 2003, the Company was served with Plaintiffs’ Second Amended Original Petition in Romeo Longoria, et al. v. Exxon Mobil Corporation, et al. in the 79th Judicial District Court of Brooks County, Texas. Plaintiffs filed their Second Supplemental Original Petition on November 12, 2004.2004 and their Third Supplemental Original Petition on February 22, 2005 (which added Wynn-Crosby 1996, Ltd. and Dominion Oklahoma Texas Exploration & Production, Inc.). Plaintiffs allege that they are the owners of a one-half undivided mineral interest in and to certain lands in Brooks County, Texas. Cody Energy, LLC, a subsidiary of the Company, acquired certain leases and wells in 1997 and 1998.

 

The plaintiffs allege that they are entitled to be declared the rightful owners of an undivided interest in minerals and all improvements on the lands on which the Company acquired these leases. The plaintiffs also assert claims for trespass to try title, action to remove a cloud on the title, failure to properly account for royalty, fraud, trespass, conversion, all for unspecified actual and exemplary damages. Plaintiffs claim that

–  11  –


they acquired title to the property by adverse possession. Plaintiffs also assert the discovery rule and a claim of fraudulent concealment to avoid the affirmative defense of limitations. The Company has not had the opportunity to conduct discovery in this matter. The Company estimates that production revenue from this field since its predecessor, Cody Energy, LLC, acquired title and since the Company acquired its lease is approximately $14.8$15.2 million, and that the carrying value of this property is approximately $33.8$33.7 million.

 

Although the investigation into this claim continues, the Company intends to vigorously defend the case. Should the Company receive an adverse ruling in this case, an impairment review would be assessed to determine whether the carrying value of the property is recoverable. Management cannot currently determine the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or range of any potential loss should the outcome be unfavorable. Accordingly, there has been no reserve established for this matter.

 

Raymondville Area

 

In April 2004, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Cody Energy, LLC, filed suit in state court in Willacy County, Texas against certain of its co-working interest owners in the Raymondville Area, located in Kenedy and Willacy Counties. In early 2003, Cody had proposed a new prospect under the terms of the Joint Operating Agreement. Some of the co-working interest owners elected not to participate. The initial well was successful and subsequent wells have been drilled to exploit the discovery made in the first well.

 

The working interest owners who elected not to participate notified Cody that they believed that they had the right to participate in wells drilled after the initial well. Cody contends that the working interest owners that elected not to participate are required to assign their interest in the prospect to those who elected to participate. Alternatively, Cody contends that such owners lost their right to participate in subsequent wells within a 1,200 foot radius of the initial well. The defendants have filed a counter claim against the Company, and one of the defendants has filed a lien against Cody’s interest in the leases in the Raymondville area.

 

Cody has signed a settlement agreement with certain of the defendants representing approximately 3% of the interest in the area. Cody and the remaining defendant filed cross motions for summary judgment. In August, 2005, the trial judge entered an order granting Cody’s Motion for Summary Judgment requiring the remaining defendant to assign to Cody all of its interest in the prospect and to remove the lien filed against Cody’s interest. The Companydefendant has filed a Motion for Reconsideration and Opposition to Proposed Order. The court is awaiting a ruling by the Court. Trial has been set for mid-Novemberscheduled to consider these two motions in December 2005.

The Company is vigorously defending the case. It has a reserve that management believes is adequate based on its estimate of the probable outcome of this case.

 

Commitment and Contingency Reserves

 

The Company has established reserves for certain legal proceedings. The establishment of a reserve involves an estimation process that includes the advice of legal counsel and subjective judgment of management. While management believes these reserves to be adequate, it is reasonably possible that the Company could incur approximately $13$14.9 million of additional loss with respect to those matters in which reserves have been established. Future changes in the facts and circumstances could result in the actual liability exceeding the estimated ranges of loss and amounts accrued.

 

While the outcome and impact on the Company cannot be predicted with certainty, management believes that the resolution of these proceedings through settlement or adverse judgment will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or cash flow of the Company. Operating results, and cash flow, however, could be significantly impacted in the reporting periods in which such matters are resolved.

–  12  –


8.DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITY

 

The Company periodically enters into derivative commodity instruments to hedge its exposure to price fluctuations on natural gas and crude oil production. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Company had 1420 cash flow hedges open: 511 natural gas price collar arrangements, 2 crude oil price collars and 7 natural gas price swap arrangements. Additionally, the Company had 2 crude oil financial instruments open at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, that did not qualify for hedge accounting. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, a $31.5$114.8 million ($19.570.8 million net of tax) unrealized loss was recorded to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, along with a $42.1$114.6 million short term derivative liability a $0.1and an $8.9 million shortlong term derivative receivable,liability, which is included in other current assets on the balance sheet, and a $0.2 million long term derivative receivable, which is included in other non-current assetsliabilities on the balance sheet. The change in the fair value of derivatives designated as hedges that is effective is initially recorded to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The ineffective portion, if any, of the change in the fair value of derivatives designated as hedges, and the change in fair value of all other derivatives is recorded currently in earnings as a component of Natural Gas Production and Crude Oil and Condensate revenue.

 

   

Three Months Ended

June 30,


 
   2005

  2004

 
   Realized

  Unrealized

  Realized

  Unrealized

 
   (In thousands) 

Operating Revenues - Increase/(Decrease) to Revenue

                 

Natural Gas Production

  $(11,266) $782  $(13,262) $1,306 

Crude Oil

   (3,328)  3,049   (3,326)  (1,959)
   


 


 


 


Total

  $(14,594) $3,831  $(16,588) $(653)
   


 


 


 


   

Six Months Ended

June 30,


 
   2005

  2004

 
   Realized

  Unrealized

  Realized

  Unrealized

 
   (In thousands) 

Operating Revenues - Increase/(Decrease) to Revenue

                 

Natural Gas Production

  $(17,488) $222  $(19,930) $(418)

Crude Oil

   (5,909)  (3,903)  (5,496)  (5,854)
   


 


 


 


Total

  $(23,397) $(3,681) $(25,426) $(6,272)
   


 


 


 


Assuming no change in commodity prices, after JuneSeptember 30, 2005 the Company would reclassify to earnings,the Statement of Operations, over the next 12 months, $19.6$65.4 million in after-tax expenditures associated with commodity derivatives.hedges. This reclassification represents the net liability associated with open positions currently not reflected in earnings at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 related to remaining anticipated 2005 production and a portion of anticipated 2006 production.

 

From time to time, the Company enters into natural gas and crude oil swap arrangements that do not qualify for hedge accounting in accordance with SFAS 133. These financial instruments are recorded at fair value at the balance sheet date. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the fair value of the Company’s 2two open crude oil swap arrangements was $9.3$7.3 million, and is reported as a component of Derivative Contracts in the liability section of the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The change in fair value oftotal loss related to these oil swaps, which were an increase of $3.0arrangements was $2.9 million and a decrease of $3.9$12.2 million for the three months and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, respectively, and has been reported as a component of Operating Revenues in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

–  13  –


9. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

Comprehensive Income includes Net Income and certain items recorded directly to Stockholders’ Equity and classified as Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The following table illustrates the calculation of Comprehensive Income for the sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

  

Six Months Ended

June 30,


   

Nine Months Ended

September 30,


 
  2005

 2004

   2005

 2004

 
  (In thousands)   (In thousands) 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss - Beginning of Period

   $(20,351) $(23,135)   $(20,351) $(23,135)

Net Income

  $56,184  $38,329    $89,940  $56,151  

Other Comprehensive Loss

   

Reclassification Adjustment for Settled Contracts

   17,395   22,611  

Other Comprehensive Loss Reclassification Adjustment for Settled Contracts

   41,215   30,159  

Changes in Fair Value of Hedge Positions

   (20,085)  (51,683)    (127,199)  (67,143) 

Minimum Pension Liability

   2,081   —       2,081   —    

Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment

   (370)  (11)    1,410   337  

Deferred Income Tax

   256   11,094     31,526   13,967  
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Total Other Comprehensive Loss

  $(723) $(723) $(17,989) $(17,989)  $(50,967) $(50,967) $(22,680) $(22,680)
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Comprehensive Income

  $55,461  $20,340    $38,973  $33,471  
  


 


   


 


 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss -

   

End of Period

   $(21,074) $(41,124)

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss - End of Period

   $(71,318) $(45,815)
   


 


   


 


Comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended September 30, 2005 and 2004 was ($16.5) million and $13.1 million, respectively.

 

Deferred income tax of $0.3$31.5 million at Junefor the nine months ended September 30, 2005 represents the net deferred tax liability of ($6.6)15.8) million on the Reclassification Adjustment for Settled Contracts, $7.7$48.7 million on the Changes in Fair Value of Hedge Positions, ($0.8) million on the Minimum Pension Liability Adjustment and less than $0.1($0.6) million on the Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment.

 

Deferred income tax of $11.1$14.0 million at Junefor the nine months ended September 30, 2004 represents the net deferred tax liability of ($8.8)11.5) million on the Reclassification Adjustment for Settled Contracts, $19.5$25.6 million on the Changes in Fair Value of Hedge Positions, and less than $0.4($0.1) million on the Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment.

–  14  –


10. ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

 

The following table reflects the changes of the asset retirement obligations during the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005.

 

(In thousands)        

Carrying amount of asset retirement obligations at December 31, 2004

  $40,375   $40,375 

Liabilities added during the current period

   395    1,044 

Liabilities settled during the current period

   (65)   (81)

Current period accretion expense

   739    1,087 

Revisions to estimated cash flows

   —      (56)
  


  


Carrying amount of asset retirement obligations at June 30, 2005

  $41,444 

Carrying amount of asset retirement obligations at September 30, 2005

  $42,369 
  


  


 

Accretion expense was $0.7$1.1 million and $1.1$1.4 million for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, and is included within Depletion, Depreciation and Amortization expense.expense on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

11. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

 

The components of net periodic benefit costs for the three months and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 are as follows:

 

  For the Three Months Ended
September 30,


 For the Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 
  

For the Three Months Ended

June 30,


 For the Six Months Ended
June 30,


   2005

 2004

 2005

 2004

 
  2005

 2004

 2005

 2004

   (In thousands) 
Qualified and Non-Qualified Pension Plans  (In thousands)    

Current Period Service Cost

  $558  $504  $1,116  $1,007   $558  $504  $1,674  $1,511 

Interest Accrued on Pension Obligation

   495   520   990   1,039    495   520   1,485   1,559 

Expected Return on Plan Assets

   (355)  (369)  (710)  (737)   (355)  (369)  (1,065)  (1,106)

Net Amortization and Deferral

   44   41   88   83    44   41   132   124 

Recognized Loss

   225   203   450   406    225   203   675   608 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Net Periodic Benefit Costs

  $967  $899  $1,934  $1,798   $967  $899  $2,901  $2,696 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Postretirement Benefits Other than Pension Plans

      

Service Cost of Benefits Earned During the Period

  $169  $71  $338  $142   $169  $71  $507  $213 

Interest Cost on the Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation

   151   93   302   185    151   93   453   278 

Plan Termination Loss

   80   —     160   —      80   —     240   —   

Amortization Benefit of the Unrecognized Gain

   (20)  (31)  (40)  (61)   (20)  (31)  (60)  (92)

Amortization of Prior Service Cost

   227   —     454   —      227   —     681   —   

Amortization Benefit of the Unrecognized Transition Obligation

   162   165   324   331    162   165   486   496 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


Total Postretirement Benefit Cost

  $769  $298  $1,538  $597   $769  $298  $2,307  $895 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 


 


 

In 2005, theThe Company does not have any required minimum funding obligations for its qualified pension plan. Currently, managementplan in 2005. The Company, however, has made a $2.0 million discretionary contribution in the first nine months of 2005. Management has not determined if aany additional discretionary funding will be made in 2005.

–  15  –the fourth quarter.


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation:

 

We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet of Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation and its subsidiaries (the Company) as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, and the related condensed consolidated statement of operations for each of the three and sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 and the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

 

We conducted our review in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

 

Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying condensed consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

We previously audited in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2004 and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended, management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004 and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2004; and in our report dated March 2, 2005, which included an explanatory paragraph related to the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations, we expressed unqualified opinions thereon. The consolidated financial statements and management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting referred to above are not presented herein. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet information as of December 31, 2004, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.

 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

 

Houston, Texas

July29,October 28, 2005

–  16  –


ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The following review of operations for the three and sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 should be read in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the Notes included in this Form 10-Q and with the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes and Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in the Cabot Oil & Gas Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.

 

Overview

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2005, we produced 42.4 Bcfe compared to production of 41.6 Bcfe for the comparable period of the prior year. Natural gas production was 36.8 Bcf and oil production was 927 Mbbls. Natural gas production increased slightly when compared to the comparable period of the prior year, which had production of 35.3 Bcf. The increase in our natural gas production is attributable to successful drilling efforts in our East region, where we had a large 2004 drilling program. In addition, production in the first half of 2005 included the first production from our drilling activity in Canada along with improvement in the West region production profile due to a successful drilling and recompletion program. These increases are partially offset by reduced production in our Gulf Coast region due to the natural decline of gas production in south Louisiana. Oil production decreased by 109 Mbbls from 1,036 Mbbls in the first six months of 2004 to 927 Mbbls produced in the first six months of 2005. The decrease in oil production is primarily the result of the continued natural decline of the CL&F lease in south Louisiana, partially offset by new production of the Breton Sound offshore lease.

Natural gas revenues increased by $35.7$61.0 million for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 as compared to the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. ThisThe increase is due to increased realized natural gas prices as well as increased production, primarily in the East and Canada, as discussed above.production. Oil revenues increased by $9.6$22.4 million for the first halfnine months of 2005 as compared to the first halfnine months of 2004. This increase is primarily due to an increase in oil prices of 38%40% in the first halfnine months of 2005 as compared to the first halfnine months of 2004. Additionally, the unrealized loss on crude oil derivatives decreased by $2.0$11.4 million in the first halfnine months of 2005 from the comparable prior year period. PartiallySomewhat offsetting the crude oil price increase and the decrease in pricesthe unrealized loss was the decrease in crude oil production in the first sixnine months of 2005.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2005, we drilled 141 gross wells (123 development, 15 exploratory and 3 extension wells) with a success rate of 94% compared to 130 gross wells (118 development and 12 exploratory wells) with a success rate of 98% for the comparable period of the prior year. For the full year, we plan to drill approximately 330 gross wells compared to 256 gross wells in 2004.

On February 28, 2005, we announced that the Board of Directors had declared a 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock in the form of a stock distribution, distributed on March 31, 2005 to stockholders of record on March 18, 2005. All common stock accounts and per share data have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to the 3-for-2 split of our Common Stock.

We had net income of $56.2 million, or $1.15 per share, for the six months ended June 30, 2005 compared to net income of $38.3 million, or $0.79 per share, for the comparable period of the prior year. The increase in net income is primarily due to increased natural gas and oil production revenues, as discussed above. This increase is partially offset by an increase in total operating expenses of $12.5 million and an increase in income tax expense of $10.1 million in the first half of 2005 as compared to the first half of 2004.

In the first sixnine months of 2005, natural gas prices were higher than the comparable period of the prior year and our financial results reflect their impact. Our realized natural gas price was $5.86$6.16 per Mcf, or 14%21% higher than the $5.12$5.10 per Mcf price realized in the same period of the prior year. These realized prices are impacted by realized losses resulting from commodity derivatives. For information about the impact of these derivatives on realized prices, refer to the “Results of Operations” sections.section. Commodity prices are determined by factors that are outside of our control. Historically, commodity prices have been volatile and we expect them to remain volatile. Commodity prices are affected by changes in market demands, overall economic activity, weather, pipeline capacity constraints, storage levels, basis differentials and other factors. As a result, we cannot accurately predict future natural gas, NGLs and crude oil prices, and therefore, cannot accurately predict revenues.

 

–  17  –

For the nine months ended September 30, 2005, we produced 62.9 Bcfe compared to production of 63.5 Bcfe for the comparable period of the prior year, reflecting the deferral of approximately 1.0 Bcfe of expected production from the two hurricanes that impacted the Gulf Coast in the third quarter of 2005. Natural gas production was 54.8 Bcf and oil production was 1,346 Mbbls. Natural gas production increased slightly when compared to the comparable period of the prior year, which had production of 54.2 Bcf. We increased production in all regions except our Gulf Coast region. Our East region increased production with the success of the increased drilling program in 2004 and 2005. In the West region, we have had a successful drilling and recompletion program this year. In addition, production in Canada increased as a result of having a full nine months of production in the current year. These increases are partially offset by reduced production in our Gulf Coast region as a result of the hurricanes experienced in Louisiana during the third quarter of 2005 as well as the natural decline of gas production in south Louisiana. Oil production decreased by 186 Mbbls from 1,532 Mbbls in the first nine months of 2004 to 1,346 Mbbls produced in the first nine months of 2005. The decrease in oil production is primarily the result of the continued natural decline of the CL&F lease in south Louisiana and decreased production from properties, which are currently producing below capacity, after the impact of the hurricanes that occurred during the third quarter in Louisiana, including non-operated offshore properties that are currently shut-in.


We had net income of $89.9 million, or $1.84 per share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 compared to net income of $56.2 million, or $1.15 per share, for the comparable period of the prior year. The increase in net income is primarily due to increased natural gas and oil production revenues, as discussed above. This increase is partially offset by an increase in total operating expenses of $30.0 million and an increase in income tax expense of $19.1 million in the first nine months of 2005 as compared to the first nine months of 2004.

In addition to production volumes and commodity prices, finding and developing sufficient amounts of crude oil and natural gas reserves at economical costs are critical to our long-term success. In 2005, we expect to spend approximately $330$400 million in capital and exploration expenditures, which includes a layer of investment for new projects or property acquisitions that may arise during the remainder of 2005. This figure has increased by $50$70 million from $280$330 million previously reported primarilyin order to reflect increased drilling as a result of recent leasehold acquisitions expected to close inwell as new projects. During the third quarter of 2005.2005,

we closed on two large producing property acquisitions for interests in fields in the Gulf Coast. For the sixMcCampbell field acquisition, we spent $41.2 million. The Vernon field acquisition was $18.0 million. For the nine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, $147.0$299.7 million of capital and exploration expenditures have been invested in our exploration and development efforts.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2005, we drilled 229 gross wells (207 development, 18 exploratory and 4 extension wells) with a success rate of 95% compared to 205 gross wells (190 development and 15 exploratory wells) with a success rate of 97% for the comparable period of the prior year. For the full year, we plan to drill approximately 330 gross wells compared to 256 gross wells in 2004.

 

We remain focused on our strategies of balancing our capital investments between acceptable risk and strongest economics, along with balancing longer life investments with impact exploration opportunities. In the current year we have allocated our planned program for capital and exploration expenditures among our various operating regions. We believe these strategies are appropriate in the current industry environment and will continue to add shareholder value over the long term.

 

On February 28, 2005, we announced that the Board of Directors had declared a 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock in the form of a stock distribution, distributed on March 31, 2005 to stockholders of record on March 18, 2005. All common stock accounts and per share data have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to the 3-for-2 split of our Common Stock.

The preceding paragraphs, discussing our strategic pursuits and goals, contain forward-looking information. See “Forward-Looking Information” on page 29.33.

 

Financial Condition

 

Capital Resources and Liquidity

 

Our primary source of cash for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 was from funds generated from operations, as well as borrowings on our revolving credit facility and proceeds from the saleexercise of common stock options under our stock option plans. The Company generatesWe generate cash from the sale of natural gas and crude oil. Operating cash flow fluctuations are substantially driven by commodity prices and changes in our production volumes. Prices for crude oil and natural gas have historically been subject to seasonal influences characterized by peak demand and higher prices in the winter heating season; however, the impact of other risks and uncertainties, as described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K, have influenced prices throughout the recent years. During the third quarter, approximately 1.0 Bcfe of expected production in our Gulf Coast region was deferred due to the impacts of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. These events in Louisiana did not have a material adverse impact on our capital resources or liquidity. Working capital is substantially influenced by these variables. Fluctuation in cash flow may result in an increase or decrease in our capital and exploration expenditures. See “Results of Operations” for a review of the impact of prices and volumes on sales. Cash flows provided by operating activities were primarily used to fund exploration and development expenditures, pay dividends and purchase treasury stock. During the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 we purchased 19,700 treasury shares of Cabot stock at a weighted average purchase price of $28.99. See below for additional discussion and analysis of cash flow.

 

  

Six Months Ended

June 30,


   Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 
(In thousands)  2005

 2004

 Variance

   2005

 2004

 

Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities

  $188,076  $143,301  $44,775   $247,111  $215,929 

Cash Flows Used by Investing Activities

   (145,869)  (128,120)  (17,749)   (287,904)  (190,252)

Cash Flows Used by Financing Activities

   (287)  5,524   (5,811)

Cash Flows Provided by Financing Activities

   33,954   (1,515)
  


 


 


  


 


Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

  $41,920  $20,705  $21,215 

Net (Decrease) / Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents

  $(6,839) $24,162 
  


 


 


  


 


 

Operating Activities. Net cash provided by operating activities in the first nine months of 2005 increased $44.8$31.2 million over the comparable period in 2004. This increase is primarily due to higher commodity prices. Key drivers ofcomponents impacting net operating cash flows are commodity prices, production volumes and operating costs. Average realized natural gas prices increased 14%21% over the 2004 period, while crude oil realized prices

increased 38%40% over the same period. Production volumes increaseddecreased slightly with a 2% rise1% decline in equivalent production in the first nine months of 2005 compared to the comparable period in 2004. We are unable to predict future commodity prices, and as a result cannot provide any assurance about future levels of net cash provided by operating activities.

 

Investing Activities. The primary driverkey components of cash used by investing activities isare capital spending and exploration expense. We establish the budget for these amounts based on our current estimate of future commodity prices. Due to the volatility of commodity prices our budget may be periodically adjusted during any given year. Cash flows used in investing activities increased by $17.7$97.7 million for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, compared to the same period in 2004. The increase from 2004 to 2005 is primarily due to proved property acquisitions in the third quarter and, to a lesser extent, an increase in drilling activity as a result of higher commodity prices. This increase largely occurred in our West region along with an increase in the East region and drilling activity in Canada.

 

–  18  –


Financing Activities. Cash flows provided by financing activities were $34.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2005. Cash flows used by financing activities were $0.3$1.5 million for the sixnine months ended June 30, 2005 and cash flows provided by financing activities were $5.5 million for the six months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. Cash flows usedprovided by financing activities in the first halfnine months of 2005 were the result of an increase in book overdrafts, borrowings under the Credit Facility and proceeds from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by dividend payments and the purchases of treasury stock, partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options.stock.

 

TheAt September 30, 2005, we had $10 million of debt outstanding under our Credit Facility, which provides for an available credit line under our revolving Credit Facility, which wasof $250 million, at June 30, 2005,which can be expanded up to $350 million.million, either with the existing banks or new banks. It is subject to adjustment on the basis of the present value of estimated future net cash flows from proved oil and gas reserves (as determined by the banks’ petroleum engineer) and other assets. At June 30, 2005, we had no outstanding balance on the Credit Facility. The revolving term of the Credit Facility ends in December 2009. We strive to manage our debt at a level below the available credit line in order to maintain excess borrowing capacity. Management believes that we have the ability to finance through new debt or equity offerings, if necessary, our capital requirements, including potential acquisitions.

 

On August 13, 1998, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of two million shares of our Common Stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions. Subsequent to this announcement, there was a 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock. As a result of this stock split, this figure has been adjusted to three million shares. During the first sixnine months of 2005, we repurchased 19,700 shares of our Common Stock. All purchases executed to date have been through open market transactions. There is no expiration date associated with the authorization to repurchase our securities. The approximate number of shares that may yet be purchased under the plan is 1,918,750. See “Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” in Item 2 “Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds” for additional information.

 

Capitalization

 

Our capitalization information is as follows:

 

  June 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


   September 30,
2005


 December 31,
2004


 
  (In millions)   (In millions) 

Debt(1)

  $270.0  $270.0   $280.0  $270.0 

Stockholders’ Equity(2) (3)

   515.8   455.7    502.3   455.7 
  


 


  


 


Total Capitalization

  $785.8  $725.7   $782.3  $725.7 
  


 


  


 


Debt to Capitalization(3)

   34%  37%   36%  37%

Cash and Cash Equivalents

  $51.9  $10.0   $3.2  $10.0 

(1)Includes $20.0 million of current portion of long-term debt.
(2)Includes common stock, net of treasury stock.
(3)Includes the impact of the Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 of $21.1$71.3 millionand $20.4 million, respectively.

During the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, we paid dividends of $3.3$5.3 million on our Common Stock. A regular dividend of $0.04 per share of Common Stock has been declared for each quarter since we became a public company in 1990. We expect to pay additional incremental dividends of approximately $2.0 million in 2005 as a result of the 3-for-2 stock split.

 

–  19  –


Capital and Exploration Expenditures

 

On an annual basis, we generally fund most of our capital and exploration activities, excluding major oil and gas property acquisitions, with cash generated from operations and, when necessary, our revolving Credit Facility. We budget these capital expenditures based on our projected cash flows for the year.

 

The following table presents major components of capital and exploration expenditures:

 

  Six Months Ended
June 30,


  Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  2005

  2004

  2005

  2004

  (In millions)  (In millions)

Capital Expenditures

            

Drilling and Facilities

  $99.4  $87.3  $163.2  $136.3

Leasehold Acquisitions

   8.0   9.5   15.6   12.0

Pipeline and Gathering

   7.3   6.8   12.0   10.1

Other

   0.7   1.0   1.1   1.0
  

  

  

  

   115.4   104.6   191.9   159.4
  

  

  

  

Proved Property Acquisitions

   0.9   1.4   60.4   1.8

Exploration Expense

   30.7   25.7   47.4   32.7
  

  

  

  

Total

  $147.0  $131.7  $299.7  $193.9
  

  

  

  

 

We plan to drill approximately 330 gross wells in 2005. This drilling program includes approximately $330$400 million in total capital and exploration expenditures. See the “Overview” discussion for additional information regarding the current year drilling program. We will continue to assess the natural gas price environment and may increase or decrease the capital and exploration expenditures accordingly.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted and adopted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. There have been no changes to our critical accounting policies from those described in the 2004 Form 10-K. See the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, for further discussion.

 

Results of Operations

 

SecondThird Quarters of 2005 and 2004 Compared

 

We reported Net Income in the secondthird quarter of 2005 of $35.4$33.8 million, or $0.72$0.69 per share. During the corresponding quarter of 2004, we reported Net Income of $19.3$17.8 million, or $0.40$0.37 per share. Operating Income increased $25.3$24.7 million compared to the prior year, from $36.4$34.3 million in the secondthird quarter of 2004 to $61.7$59.0 million in the secondthird quarter of 2005. The increase in current year Operating Income was substantially due to an increase in natural gas and oil production revenues partially offset by an increase in total Operating Expenses. Net Income increased in the current quarter by $16.1$15.9 million due to an increase in Operating Income partially offset by an increase of $9.5$9.0 million in Income Tax Expense.

–  20  –


Natural Gas Production Revenues

 

Our average total company realized natural gas production sales price, including the realized impact of derivative instruments, was $6.02$6.77 per Mcf for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 compared to $5.02$5.07 per Mcf for the comparable period of the prior year. These prices include the realized impact of derivative instruments which reduced these prices by $0.61$1.26 per Mcf in 2005 and $0.75$0.59 per Mcf in 2004. The following table excludes the unrealized gainloss from the change in derivative fair value of $0.8$0.4 million and $1.3the unrealized gain of $0.3 million for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. These unrealized changes in fair value have been included in the Natural Gas Production Revenues line item in the Statement of Operations.

 

  Three Months Ended
June 30,


  Variance

   Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Natural Gas Production(Mmcf)

            

Gulf Coast

   7,353   7,600   (247) (3)%   6,333   8,350   (2,017) (24)%

West

   5,690   5,216   474  9%   5,961   5,498   463  8%

East

   5,083   4,841   242  5%   5,453   5,004   449  9%

Canada

   332   —     332  —      264   37   227  614%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

   18,458   17,657   801  5%   18,011   18,889   (878) (5)%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Natural Gas Production Sales Price($/Mcf)

            

Gulf Coast

  $6.14  $5.12  $1.02  20%  $6.67  $5.26  $1.41  27%

West

  $5.47  $4.64  $0.83  18%  $5.91  $4.68  $1.23  26%

East

  $6.54  $5.29  $1.25  24%  $7.75  $5.19  $2.56  49%

Canada

  $4.53  $—    $4.53  —     $8.04  $4.39  $3.65  83%

Total Company

  $6.02  $5.02  $1.00  20%  $6.77  $5.07  $1.70  34%

Natural Gas Production Revenue(in thousands)

            

Gulf Coast

  $45,178  $38,889  $6,289  16%  $42,253  $43,902  $(1,649) (4)%

West

   31,108   24,208   6,900  29%   35,229   25,725   9,504  37%

East

   33,241   25,625   7,616  30%   42,280   25,975   16,305  63%

Canada

   1,508   —     1,508  —      2,123   160   1,963  1227%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

  $111,035  $88,722  $22,313  25%  $121,885  $95,762  $26,123  27%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 
(in thousands)               

Price Variance Impact on Natural Gas Production Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $7,552       $8,954     

West

   4,664        7,340     

East

   6,470        13,973     

Canada

   —          965     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $18,686       $31,232     
  


      


    
(in thousands)               

Volume Variance Impact on Natural Gas Production Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $(1,263)      $(10,603)    

West

   2,236        2,164     

East

   1,146        2,332     

Canada

   1,508        998     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $3,627       $(5,109)    
  


      


    

 

The increase in Natural Gas Production Revenue is due substantially to the increase in natural gas sales prices. In addition,Partially offsetting this increase was the increasedecrease in production was due to the successful drilling and recompletion programdecreases in the West coupled withGulf Coast region as a result of the 2004 successful drilling effortshurricanes in the East. The commencement of Canadathird quarter as discussed above and natural gas production late in 2004 also contributed to the increase.declines. The increase in the realized natural gas price combined withpartially offset by the increasedecrease in production resulted in a net revenue increase of $22.3$26.1 million, excluding the unrealized impact of derivative instruments.

–  21  –


Brokered Natural Gas Revenue and Cost

 

  Three Months Ended
June 30,


  Variance

   Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Sales Price($/Mcf)

  $7.60  $7.19  $0.41  6%  $9.41  $6.38  $3.03  47%

Volume Brokered(Mmcf)

   2,041   2,173   (132) (6)%   1,994   2,079   (85) (4)%
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Revenues(in thousands)

  $15,520  $15,628     $18,756  $13,224   
  


 

     


 

   

Purchase Price($/Mcf)

  $6.71  $6.26  $0.45  7%  $8.30  $5.59  $2.71  48%

Volume Brokered(Mmcf)

   2,041   2,173   (132) (6)%   1,994   2,079   (85) (4)%
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Cost(in thousands)

  $13,701  $13,596     $16,550  $11,627   
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Margin(in thousands)

  $1,819  $2,032  $(213) (10)%  $2,206  $1,597  $609  38%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

(in thousands)

            

Sales Price Variance Impact on Revenue

  $1,189       $6,042     

Volume Variance Impact on Revenue

   (1,297)       (542)    
  


      


    
  $(108)      $5,500     
  


      


    

(in thousands)

            

Purchase Price Variance Impact on Purchases

  $(1,300)      $(5,366)    

Volume Variance Impact on Purchases

   1,195        475     
  


      


    
  $(105)      $(4,891)    
  


      


    

 

The decrease in brokered natural gas revenues of $0.1 million combined with the increase in brokered natural gas cost of $0.1 million resulted in a decrease to theincreased brokered natural gas margin of $0.2 million.

–  22  –$0.6 million was driven by higher volume combined with an increased sales price that outpaced the increase in purchase cost.


Crude Oil and Condensate Revenues

 

Our average total company realized Crude Oil Sales Price, including the realized impact of derivative instruments, was $43.76$46.05 per Bbl for the secondthird quarter of 2005 and $31.10$32.03 per Bbl for the comparable period of the prior year. These prices include the realized impact of derivative instruments which reduced these prices by $6.98$14.59 per Bbl in 2005 and $6.67$10.87 per Bbl in 2004. The following table excludes the unrealized gain from the change in derivative fair value of $3.0$2.0 million and the unrealized loss from the change in derivative fair value of $2.0$7.4 million for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. These unrealized changes in fair value have been included in the Crude Oil and Condensate Revenues line item in the Statement of Operations.

 

  Three Months Ended
June 30,


  Variance

   Three Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Crude Oil Production(Mbbl)

            

Gulf Coast

   421   450   (29) (6)%   364   450   (86) (19)%

West

   43   42   1  2%   43   37   6  16%

East

   8   7   1  14%   7   7   —    —   

Canada

   5   —     5  —      5   1   4  400%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

   477   499   (22) (4)%   419   495   (76) (15)%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Crude Oil Sales Price ($/Bbl)

            

Gulf Coast

  $42.86  $30.43  $12.43  41%  $43.93  $31.01  $12.92  42%

West

  $52.27  $37.37  $14.90  40%  $60.77  $42.85  $17.92  42%

East

  $50.32  $36.41  $13.91  38%  $59.22  $39.64  $19.58  49%

Canada

  $35.43  $—    $35.43  —     $52.94  $36.63  $16.31  45%

Total Company

  $43.76  $31.10  $12.66  41%  $46.05  $32.03  $14.02  44%

Crude Oil Revenue (in thousands)

            

Gulf Coast

  $18,045  $13,686  $4,359  32%  $15,970  $13,961  $2,009  14%

West

   2,284   1,574   710  45%   2,642   1,604   1,038  65%

East

   373   251   122  49%   440   269   171  64%

Canada

   185   —     185  —      246   52   194  373%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

  $20,887  $15,511  $5,376  35%  $19,298  $15,886  $3,412  21%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 
(in thousands)               

Price Variance Impact on Crude Oil Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $5,196       $4,666     

West

   731        779     

East

   41        171     

Canada

   —          47     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $5,968       $5,663     
  


      


    
(in thousands)               

Volume Variance Impact on Crude Oil Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $(837)      $(2,657)    

West

   (21)       259     

East

   81        —       

Canada

   185        147     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $(592)      $(2,251)    
  


      


    

 

The decrease in oil production is primarily the result of the decreased Gulf Coast production. This is a result of continued natural decline of the CL&F lease in south Louisiana, partially offset by newas well as the impact of hurricanes which includes the shutting in and deferring of production ofat the Breton Sound offshore lease. The increase in the realized crude oil price combined with the decline in production resulted in a net revenue increase of $5.4$3.4 million, excluding the unrealized impact of derivative instruments.

Impact of Derivative Instruments on Operating Revenues

 

–  23  –

The following table reflects the realized impact of cash settlements and the net unrealized change in fair value of derivative instruments:


   

Three Months Ended

September 30,


 
   2005

  2004

 
   Realized

  Unrealized

  Realized

  Unrealized

 
   (In thousands) 

Operating Revenues - Increase/(Decrease) to Revenue

                 

Cash Flow Hedges

                 

Natural Gas Production

  $(22,723) $(408) $(11,080) $349 

Crude Oil

   (1,165)  (24)  —     —   
   


 


 


 


Total Cash Flow Hedges

   (23,888)  (432)  (11,080)  349 

Other Derivative Financial Instruments

                 

Crude Oil

   (4,948)  2,062   (5,393)  (7,372)
   


 


 


 


Total Cash Flow and Non-Qualifying Hedges

  $(28,836) $1,630  $(16,473) $(7,023)
   


 


 


 


Other Operating Revenues

 

Other operating revenues remained fairly consistentdecreased by $1.4 million between the secondthird quarter of 2005 and the secondthird quarter of 2004 withprimarily due to a $0.1 million increase betweendecrease in cash received for net profits interest. This variance also results, to a lesser extent, from changes in our wellhead gas imbalances over the two periods.previous year third quarter period.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Total costs and expenses from operations increased $7.1$17.5 million in the secondthird quarter of 2005 compared to the same quarter of 2004. The primary reasons for this fluctuation are as follows:

 

Exploration expense increased by $9.7 million in the third quarter of 2005, primarily as a result of increased dry hole expense as well as an increase in other land expenses partially offset by decreased spending for geological and geophysical costs. During the third quarter of 2005, we incurred $8.9 million more dry hole expense, mainly as a result of an increase in the Gulf Coast and to a lesser extent in the West region, compared to the third quarter of 2004.

Brokered natural gas costs increased by $4.9 million from the third quarter of 2004 to the third quarter of 2005. See the preceding table labeled Brokered Natural Gas Revenue and Cost for further analysis.

Taxes Other Than Income expense increased by $2.5$4.8 million, or 25%48%, from the secondthird quarter of 2004 compared to the secondthird quarter of 2005, primarily due to increased production taxes as a result of increased commodity prices.

 

ExplorationImpairment of Oil and Gas Properties decreased by $3.5 million as we incurred no impairment expense increasedduring the current quarter. The costs incurred in the third quarter of 2004 related to a field in south Louisiana. Further analysis of this impairment is discussed in Footnote 2 “Properties & Equipment” to the financial statements.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization decreased by $1.8$1.2 million in the secondthird quarter of 2005,2005. This is primarily as a result of increased dry hole expense,due to decreased production for the quarter partially offset by decreased spending related to administrative and contract services. During the second quarter of 2005, we incurred $2.4 million more dry hole expense, mainly as a result of an increase in the Gulf Coast, comparedDD&A rate associated with the commencement of offshore production in late 2004.

Impairment of Unproved Properties increased by $1.0 million over the comparable three months of 2004. This is due to the second quarter of 2004.increased amortization related to unproved property additions both offshore and onshore, including an increase in our Canadian additions.

 

Direct Operations expense increased by $1.2$0.9 million over the secondthird quarter of 2004. This is primarily the result of an increase over the prior year quarter in employee related expenses as well as increased maintenance and workover expenses and expenses for outside operated properties.

Depreciation, Depletionproperties, increased workover costs and Amortization increased by $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2005. This is primarily due to an increase in offshore DD&A rates associated with the commencement of offshore production in late 2004 and increased production period over period.

Impairment of Unproved Properties increased by $0.9 million over the comparable six months of 2004. This is due to increased amortizationemployee related to unproved property additions both onshore and offshore.expenses.

 

General and Administrative expense decreasedincreased by $0.9$0.7 million in the secondthird quarter of 2005. This increase is primarily due to increased stock compensation costs of $1.8 million, mainly related to the accrual associated with the 2004 and 2005 performance share awards. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in miscellaneous expenses, primarily the reversal of the reserve attributable to litigation that was settled in the quarter.

Interest Expense, net

Interest expense, net decreased $0.2 million in the third quarter of 2005. This decrease is primarily due to decreased stock compensation costs of $1.1 million, mainly related to performance shares, since our ranking in our peer group dropped in the second quarter, causing a reduction to expense. Partially offsetting this decrease was an increase in professional services, primarily legal services.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $0.5 million in the second quarter of 2005. This decrease is mainly a result of increased interest income on our short term investments. In addition, noInterest expense related to borrowings were made onunder the Credit Facility duringwas higher in the secondcurrent quarter due to higher average borrowings. Average borrowings based on month end balances for the third quarter of 2005.2005 were approximately $52 million compared to approximately $31 million in the third quarter of 2004.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Income tax expense increased by $9.5$9.0 million due to a comparable increase in our pre-tax income.

 

SixNine Months of 2005 and 2004 Compared

 

We reported Net Income in the first halfnine months of 2005 of $56.2$89.9 million, or $1.15$1.84 per share. During the corresponding period of 2004, we reported Net Income of $38.3$56.2 million, or $0.79$1.15 per share. Operating Income increased by $27.2$52.0 million in the first halfnine months of 2005 compared to the prior year. The increase in current year Operating Income was substantially due to an increase in natural gas and oil production revenues partially offset by an increase in total Operating Expenses. Net Income increased in the first sixnine months of 2005 by $17.9$33.7 million due to an increase in Operating Income partially offset by an increase of $10.1$19.1 million in Income Tax Expense.

 

–  24  –


Natural Gas Production Revenues

 

Our average total company realized natural gas production sales price, including the realized impact of derivative instruments, was $5.86$6.16 per Mcf for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 compared to $5.12$5.10 per Mcf for the comparable period of the prior year. These prices include the realized impact of derivative instruments which reduced these prices by $0.47$0.73 per Mcf in 2005 and $0.56$0.57 per Mcf in 2004. The following table excludes the unrealized gainloss from the change in derivative fair value of $0.2 million and the unrealized loss from the change in derivative fair value of $0.4$0.1 million for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. These unrealized changes in fair value have been included in the Natural Gas Production Revenues line item in the Statement of Operations.

  

Six Months Ended

June 30,


  Variance

   Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Natural Gas Production(Mmcf)

            

Gulf Coast

   14,674   15,275   (601) (4)%   21,007   23,626   (2,619) (11)%

West

   11,375   10,782   593  5%   17,337   16,280   1,057  6%

East

   10,216   9,280   936  10%   15,669   14,283   1,386  10%

Canada

   554   —     554  —      818   37   781  2111%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

   36,819   35,337   1,482  4%   54,831   54,226   605  1%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Natural Gas Production Sales Price($/Mcf)

            

Gulf Coast

  $6.09  $5.13  $0.96  19%  $6.26  $5.17  $1.09  21%

West

  $5.10  $4.74  $0.36  8%  $5.38  $4.72  $0.66  14%

East

  $6.44  $5.53  $0.91  16%  $6.90  $5.41  $1.49  28%

Canada

  $4.95  $—    $4.95  —     $5.95  $4.39  $1.56  36%

Total Company

  $5.86  $5.12  $0.74  14%  $6.16  $5.10  $1.06  21%

Natural Gas Production Revenue(in thousands)

            

Gulf Coast

  $89,295  $78,355  $10,940  14%  $131,548  $122,257  $9,291  8%

West

   58,000   51,121   6,879  13%   93,229   76,846   16,383  21%

East

   65,829   51,349   14,480  28%   108,109   77,323   30,786  40%

Canada

   2,743   —     2,743  —      4,866   161   4,705  2922%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

  $215,867  $180,825  $35,042  19%  $337,752  $276,587  $61,165  22%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 
(in thousands)               

Price Variance Impact on Natural Gas Production Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $14,023       $22,843     

West

   4,068        11,396     

East

   9,303        23,284     

Canada

   —          1,277     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $27,394       $58,800     
  


      


    
(in thousands)               

Volume Variance Impact on Natural Gas Production Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $(3,083)      $(13,552)    

West

   2,811        4,987     

East

   5,177        7,502     

Canada

   2,743        3,428     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $7,648       $2,365     
  


      


    

 

The increase in Natural Gas Production Revenue is due substantially to the increase in natural gas sales prices. In addition, the increase in production was due to the successful drilling and recompletion programprograms in the West coupled withand East as well as the 2004 successful drilling efforts in the East. The commencement of Canada natural gas production late in 2004 also contributed to2004. Partially offsetting this was the increase.decrease in the Gulf Coast production. The increase in the realized natural gas price combined with the increase in production resulted in a net revenue increase of $35.0$61.2 million, excluding the unrealized impact of derivative instruments.

–  25  –


Brokered Natural Gas Revenue and Cost

 

  Six Months Ended
June 30,


  Variance

   Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Sales Price($/Mcf)

  $7.27  $8.35  $(1.08) (13)%  $7.82  $6.24  $1.58  25%

Volume Brokered(Mmcf)

   5,779   5,655   124  2%   7,773   9,683   (1,910) (20)%
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Revenues(in thousands)

  $42,012  $47,187     $60,768  $60,411   
  


 

     


 

   

Purchase Price($/Mcf)

  $6.40  $7.48  $(1.08) (14)%  $6.89  $5.57  $1.32  24%

Volume Brokered(Mmcf)

   5,779   5,655   124  2%   7,773   9,683   (1,910) (20)%
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Cost(in thousands)

  $36,999  $42,317     $53,549  $53,944   
  


 

     


 

   

Brokered Natural Gas Margin(in thousands)

  $5,013  $4,870  $143  3%  $7,219  $6,467  $752  12%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 
(in thousands)               

Sales Price Variance Impact on Revenue

  $(6,210)      $12,291     

Volume Variance Impact on Revenue

   1,035        (11,918)    
  


      


    
  $(5,175)      $373     
  


      


    
(in thousands)               

Purchase Price Variance Impact on Purchases

  $6,246       $(10,260)    

Volume Variance Impact on Purchases

   (928)       10,639     
  


      


    
  $5,318       $379     
  


      


    

 

The decrease in brokered natural gas revenues of $5.2 million combined with the decline in brokered natural gas cost of $5.3 million resulted in an increase to theincreased brokered natural gas margin of $0.1 million.

–  26  –$0.8 million was driven by an increased sales price that outpaced the increase in purchase cost, offset in part by a decrease in volume.


Crude Oil and Condensate Revenues

 

Our average total company realized Crude Oil Sales Price, including the realized impact of derivative instruments, was $42.96$43.92 per Bbl for the first halfnine months of 2005 and $31.04$31.36 per Bbl for the comparable period of the prior year. These prices include the realized impact of derivative instruments which reduced these prices by $6.37$8.93 per Bbl in 2005 and $5.31$7.11 per Bbl in 2004. The following table excludes the unrealized loss from the change in derivative fair value of $3.9$1.9 million and $5.9$13.2 million for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. These unrealized changes in fair value have been included in the Crude Oil and Condensate Revenues line item in the Statement of Operations.

 

  Six Months Ended
June 30,


  Variance

   Nine Months Ended
September 30,


  Variance

 
  2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

   2005

 2004

  Amount

 Percent

 

Crude Oil Production(Mbbl)

            

Gulf Coast

   826   940   (114) (12)%   1,189   1,391   (202) (15)%

West

   79   83   (4) (5)%   123   120   3  3%

East

   13   13   0  0%   20   20   —    —   

Canada

   9   —     9  —      14   1   13  1300%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

   927   1,036   (109) (10)%   1,346   1,532   (186) (12)%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Crude Oil Sales Price($/Bbl)

            

Gulf Coast

  $42.19  $30.57  $11.62  38%  $42.72  $30.71  $12.01  39%

West

  $50.61  $35.89  $14.72  41%  $54.21  $38.06  $16.15  42%

East

  $49.37  $34.17  $15.20  44%  $52.98  $35.99  $16.99  47%

Canada

  $36.83  $—    $36.83  —     $42.23  $36.63  $5.60  15%

Total Company

  $42.96  $31.04  $11.92  38%  $43.92  $31.36  $12.56  40%

Crude Oil Revenue(in thousands)

            �� 

Gulf Coast

  $34,833  $28,745  $6,088  21%  $50,804  $42,705  $8,099  19%

West

   4,010   2,964   1,046  35%   6,651   4,568   2,083  46%

East

   634   464   170  37%   1,074   733   341  47%

Canada

   340   —     340  —      586   52   534  1027%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 

Total Company

  $39,817  $32,173  $7,644  24%  $59,115  $48,058  $11,057  23%
  


 

  


   


 

  


 
(in thousands)               

Price Variance Impact on Crude Oil Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $9,565       $14,316     

West

   1,202        1,981     

East

   162        341     

Canada

   —          45     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $10,929       $16,683     
  


      


    
(in thousands)               

Volume Variance Impact on Crude Oil Revenue

            

Gulf Coast

  $(3,477)      $(6,217)    

West

   (157)       102     

East

   9        —       

Canada

   340       $489     
  


      


    

Total Company

  $(3,285)      $(5,626)    
  


      


    

 

The decrease in oil production is primarily the result of the continued natural decline of the CL&F lease in south Louisiana, partially offset by new production of the Breton Sound offshore lease. The increase in the realized crude oil price combined with the decline in production resulted in a net revenue increase of $7.6$11.1 million, excluding the unrealized impact of derivative instruments. The decrease in oil production is primarily the result of the decrease in the Gulf Coast region production due to the continued natural decline of the CL&F lease in south Louisiana, as well as the impact of hurricanes which included the shutting in and deferring of production at the Breton Sound offshore lease.

Impact of Derivative Instruments on Operating Revenues

 

–  27  –

The following table reflects the realized impact of cash settlements and the net unrealized change in fair value of derivative instruments:


   

Nine Months Ended

September 30,


 
   2005

  2004

 
   Realized

  Unrealized

  Realized

  Unrealized

 
   (In thousands) 

Operating Revenues - Increase/(Decrease) to Revenue

                 

Cash Flow Hedges

                 

Natural Gas Production

  $(40,211) $(186) $(31,009) $(69)

Crude Oil

   (1,552)  (103)  —     —   
   


 


 


 


Total Cash Flow Hedges

  $(41,763) $(289) $(31,009) $(69)

Other Derivative Financial Instruments

                 

Crude Oil

   (10,470)  (1,762)  (10,889)  (13,225)
   


 


 


 


Total Cash Flow and Non-Qualifying Hedges

  $(52,233) $(2,051) $(41,898) $(13,294)
   


 


 


 


Other Operating Revenues

 

Other operating revenues decreased $0.5$1.9 million from the first halfnine months of 2004 to the first halfnine months of 2005. This change was primarily a result of an increase in our payout liability, accrualassociated with the reduction of our interest due to reversionary interest owned by others, which correspondingly decreased other operating revenues. Also, thisThis variance also results, to a lesser extent, from changes in our wellhead gas imbalances over the prior yearprevious nine month period.

 

Operating Expenses

 

Total costs and expenses from operations increased $12.5$30.0 million in the first halfnine months of 2005 compared to the comparable period of 2004. The primary reasons for this fluctuation are as follows:

 

Brokered Natural Gas Cost declined in the amount of $5.3 million in the first half of 2005. See the Brokered Natural Gas Revenue and Cost analysis for additional discussion.

Exploration expense increased $5.0$14.7 million in 2005, primarily as a result of increased dry hole expenseexpenses partially offset by decreased spending on geological and geophysical expenses. During the first halfnine months of 2005, we spent $6.4$6.8 million less on geological and geophysical activities and incurred an additional $11.1$20.0 million in dry hole expense. The increase in dry hole expense is mainly due to expenses incurred in Canada for two dry holes as well as four dry holes in the Gulf Coast.

Taxes Other Than Income increased by $6.9 million from the first nine months of 2004 compared to the first nine months of 2005, primarily due to increased production taxes as a result of increased commodity prices.

Direct Operations expense increased by $4.7 million over the first nine months of 2004. This is primarily the result of increased expenses for outside operated properties and workovers. In addition, there was an increase over the prior year in employee related expenses.

Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties decreased by $3.5 million as we incurred no impairment expense in the current year. The costs incurred in the third quarter of 2004 related to a field in south Louisiana. Further analysis of this impairment is discussed in Footnote 2 “Properties & Equipment” to the financial statements.

 

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization increased by $3.9$2.8 million in the first halfnine months of 2005. This is primarily due to an increase in offshore DD&A rates associated with the commencement of offshore production in late 2004 and increased production period over period.

Direct Operations expense increased by $3.7 million overduring the first six monthshalf of 2004. This is primarily the result of increased workover expenses and expenses for outside operated properties. In addition, there was an increase over the prior year in employee related expenses.2005.

 

Impairment of Unproved Properties increased $1.7$2.8 million over the comparable quarter of 2004. This is due to increased amortization related to unproved property additions both offshore and onshore, and offshore.including an increase in our Canadian additions.

General and Administrative expense increased by $1.4$2.0 million in the first halfnine months of 2005. This increase is primarily due to increased legal expenses in the first halfnine months of 2005 over the first halfnine months of 2004 as well as increased stock compensation expense relating to performance share awards and higher employee related expenses. Partially offsetting this increase are decreased stock compensation costs mainly relatedthese increases was a decrease in miscellaneous expenses, primarily the reversal of the reserve attributable to performance shares, since our ranking dropped as compared to our peer grouplitigation that was settled in the second quarter of 2005.2005 period.

 

Interest Expense, net

 

Interest expense, net decreased $0.9$1.1 million in the first halfnine months of 2005. This variance is mainly a result of increased income on our short term investments. In addition, interest expense on the revolver was lower than in the prior year period due to the fact that there were no borrowings in the first half of 2005 on our Credit Facility. In addition, commitment fee expenses declined from the first half of 2004 due to the amendment of our Credit Facility in December 2004.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Income tax expense increased $10.1$19.1 million due to a comparable increase in our pre-tax income.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In MayMarch 2005, the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.” This Interpretation clarifies the definition and treatment of conditional asset retirement obligations as discussed in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.” A conditional asset retirement obligation is defined as an asset retirement activity in which the timing and/or method of settlement are dependent on future events that may be outside the control of the Company. FIN 47 states that a company must record a liability when incurred for conditional asset retirement obligations if the fair value of the obligation is reasonably estimable. This Interpretation is intended to provide more information about long-lived assets, more information about future cash outflows for these obligations and more consistent recognition of these liabilities. FIN 47 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2005. We do not believe that our financial position, results of operations or cash flows will be impacted by this Interpretation, since we currently record all asset retirement obligations.

In May 2005, the FASB issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections-a replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3.” In order to enhance financial reporting consistency between periods, SFAS 154 modifies the requirements for the accounting and reporting of the direct effects of changes in accounting principles. Under APB Opinion 20, the cumulative effect of voluntary changes in accounting principle was recognized in Net Income in the period of the change. Unlike the treatment previously prescribed by APB Opinion 20, retrospective application is now required, unless it is not practical to determine the specific effects in each period or the cumulative effect. If the period specific effects cannot be determined, it is required that the new accounting principle must be retrospectively

–  28  –


applied in the earliest period possible to the balance sheet accounts and a corresponding adjustment be made to the opening balance of retained earnings or another equity account. If the cumulative effect cannot be determined, it is necessary to apply the new accounting principles prospectively at the earliest practical date. If it is not feasible to retrospectively apply the change in principle, the reason that this is not possible and the method used to report the change is required to be disclosed. The statement also provides that changes in accounting for depreciation, depletion or amortization should be treated as changes in accounting estimate inseparable from a change in accounting principle and that disclosure of the preferability of the change is required. SFAS 154 is effective for accounting changes made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005.

 

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement SFAS No. 123R,123(R), “Share-Based Payment.” SFAS 123R123(R) revises SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and focuses on accounting for share-based payments for services provided by employee to employer. The statement requires companies to expense the fair value of employee stock options and other equity-based compensation at the grant date. The statement does not require a certain type of valuation model, and either a binomial or Black-Scholes model may be used. During the first quarter of 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved a new rule for public companies to delay the adoption of this standard. In April 2005, the SEC took further action to amend Regulation S-X to state that the provisions of SFAS 123R123(R) are now effective beginning with the first annual or interim reporting period of the registrant’s first fiscal year beginning on or after June 15, 2005 for all non-small business issuers. As a result, we will not adopt this SFAS until the first quarter of 2006. We plan to use the modified prospective application method as detailed in SFAS 123(R). We are currently evaluating the method of adoption and the impact on our operating results. Our future cash flows will not be impacted by the adoption of this standard. See “Stock Based“Stock-Based Compensation” below for further information.

 

In MarchAdditionally, in September 2005, the FASB issued Proposed FASB Interpretation (FIN) No. 47, “AccountingStaff Position (FSP) FAS 123(R)-c which provides a simpler, more practical transition election relating to the calculation of the “APIC pool.” The APIC pool is defined as the pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb tax deficiencies occurring after the adoption of SFAS 123(R). Under this Proposed FSP, companies can elect to perform simpler computations to derive the beginning balance of the APIC pool as well as the impact on the APIC pool of fully vested and outstanding awards as of the SFAS 123(R) adoption date. The beginning balance can be computed by taking the sum of all tax benefits incurred prior to the adoption of SFAS 123(R) from stock-based compensation plans less the tax effected (using a blended statutory rate) pro forma stock-based compensation cost. In addition, increases to the APIC pool for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.” This Interpretation clarifiesfully vested awards can be calculated by multiplying the definitiontax rate times the tax benefit of the deduction. The calculation of any awards that are partially vested or granted after the SFAS 123(R) adoption date will not be affected by this Proposed FSP and treatmentwill be calculated in accordance with SFAS 123(R) which requires that only the excess tax benefit or deficiency of conditional asset retirement obligationsthe tax deduction over the

tax effect of the compensation cost recognized should be considered for the APIC pool. Also under the Proposed FSP, all tax benefits recognized on fully vested awards and the excess tax benefits for partially vested and new awards will be reported on the Statement of Cash Flows as discusseda component of financing activities. Companies will have up to one year after adopting SFAS 123(R) to decide to elect and disclose whether they plan to use the alternative method or the original method prescribed in SFAS 123(R) for the calculation of the APIC pool. If finalized, we will adopt this Proposed FSP in conjunction with the adoption of SFAS 123(R).

In October 2005, the FASB issued FSP FAS 123(R)-2, “Practical Accommodation to the Application of Grant Date as defined in FASB Statement No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.123(R).A conditional asset retirement obligationThis FSP provides guidance on the definition and practical application of “grant date” as described in SFAS No. 123(R). The grant date is defineddescribed as an asset retirement activity in which the timing and/or method of settlement are dependent on future eventsdate that may be outside the controlemployee and employer have met a mutual understanding of the Company. FIN 47 states that a Company must record a liability when incurred for conditional asset retirement obligations if the fair valuekey terms and conditions of an award. The other elements of the obligationdefinition of grant date are: 1) the award must be authorized, 2) the employer must be obligated to transfer assets or distribute equity instruments so long as the employee has provided the necessary service and 3) the employee is affected by changes in the company’s stock price. To determine the grant date, we are allowed to use the date the award is approved in accordance with its corporate governance requirements so long as the three elements described above are met. Furthermore, the recipient cannot negotiate the award’s terms and conditions with the employer and the key terms and conditions of the award are communicated to all recipients within a reasonably estimable. This Interpretation is intended to provide more information about long-lived assets, more information about future cash outflows for these obligations and more consistent recognitionshort time period from the approval date. We will adopt this FSP in conjunction with the adoption of these liabilities. FIN 47 is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2005. We do not believe that our financial position, results of operations or cash flows will be impacted by this Interpretation.SFAS 123(R).

 

Forward-Looking Information

 

The statements regarding future financial performance and results, market prices and the other statements which are not historical facts contained in this report are forward-looking statements. The words “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “budget,” “plan,” “forecast,” “predict” and similar expressions are also intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, market factors, market prices (including regional basis differentials) of natural gas and oil, results for future drilling and marketing activity, future production and costs and other factors detailed herein and in our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those indicated.

–  29  –


ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activity

 

Our hedging strategy is designed to reduce the risk of price volatility for our production in the natural gas and crude oil markets. A hedging committee that consists of members of senior management oversees our hedging activity. Our hedging arrangements apply to only a portion of our production and provide only partial price protection. These hedging arrangements limit the benefit to us of increases in prices.prices, but offer protection in the event of price declines. Further, if our counterparties defaulted, this protection might be limited as we might not receive the benefits of the hedges in the event prices decline.hedges. Please read the discussion below related to commodity price swaps and Note 8 of the Notes to the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a more detailed discussion of our hedging arrangements.

 

Hedges on Production – Swaps

 

From time to time, we enter into natural gas and crude oil swap agreements with counterparties to hedge price risk associated with a portion of our production. These derivatives are not held for trading purposes. Under these price swaps, we receive a fixed price on a notional quantity of natural gas and crude oil in exchange for paying a variable price based on a market-based index, such as the NYMEX gas and crude oil futures. Under our Revolving Credit Agreement, which had no borrowings of $10 million outstanding at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the aggregate level of commodity hedging must not exceed 100% of the anticipated future equivalent production during the period covered by these cash flow hedges. During the first sixnine months of 2005, natural gas price swaps covered 10,19415,375 Mmcf, or 28%, of our gas production, fixing the sales price of this gas at an average of $5.14 per Mcf.

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, we had open natural gas price swap contracts covering our 2005 production as follows:

 

  Natural Gas Price Swaps

   Natural Gas Price Swaps

 

Contract Period


  Volume
in
Mmcf


  Weighted
Average
Contract Price


  

Unrealized
Loss

(In thousands)


   Volume
in
Mmcf


  Weighted
Average
Contract Price


  

Unrealized
Loss

(In thousands)


 

As of June 30, 2005

         

As of September 30, 2005

         

Natural Gas Price Swaps on Production in:

                  

Third Quarter 2005

  5,181  $5.14   

Fourth Quarter 2005

  5,181   5.14     5,181  $5.14   
  
  

  


  
  

  


Six Months Ended December 31, 2005

  10,362  $5.14  $(25,566)

Three Months Ended December 31, 2005

  5,181  $5.14  $(47,164)
  
  

  


  
  

  


 

From time to time, we enter into natural gas and crude oil swap arrangements that do not qualify for hedge accounting in accordance with SFAS 133. These financial instruments are recorded at fair value at the balance sheet date. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the fair value of our two open crude oil swap arrangements was $9.3$7.3 million, and is reported as a component of Derivative Contracts in the liability section of the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. The change in fair value oftotal loss related to these oil swaps which werearrangements was an increase of $3.0$2.1 million and a decrease of $3.9$1.8 million for the three months and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, respectively, and has been reported as a component of Operating Revenues in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

–  30  –


Hedges on Production – Options

 

From time to time, we enter into natural gas and crude oil collar agreements with counterparties to hedge price risk associated with a portion of our production. These cash flow hedges are not held for trading purposes. Under the collar arrangements, if the index price rises above the ceiling price, we pay the counterparty. If the index falls below the floor price, the counterparty pays us. During the first sixnine months of 2005, natural gas price collars covered 8,34911,753 Mmcf, or 23%21%, of our 2005 gas production, with a weighted average floor of $5.82$5.67 per Mcf and a weighted average ceiling of $8.81$8.68 per Mcf.

 

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, we had open natural gas price collar contracts covering our 2005 and 2006 production as follows:

 

   Natural Gas Price Collars

 

Contract Period


  Volume
in
Mmcf


  Weighted
Average
Ceiling /Floor


  

Unrealized
Loss

(In thousands)


 

As of June 30, 2005

            

Third Quarter 2005

  3,404  $8.38 /$5.30     

Fourth Quarter 2005

  3,404   8.38 / 5.30     
   
  

  


Six Months Ended December 31, 2005

  6,808  $8.38 /$5.30  $(5,434)
   
  

  


   Natural Gas Price Collars

 

Contract Period


  Volume
in
Mmcf


  Weighted
Average
Ceiling / Floor


  

Unrealized
Loss

(In thousands)


 

As of September 30, 2005

            

Fourth Quarter 2005

  3,404  $8.38 / $5.30     
   
  

  


Three Months Ended December 31, 2005

  3,404  $8.38 /$5.30  $(22,380)
   
  

  


First Quarter 2006

  5,860  $12.31 / $7.98     

Second Quarter 2006

  5,926   12.31 / 7.98     

Third Quarter 2006

  5,990   12.31 / 7.98     

Fourth Quarter 2006

  5,990   12.31 / 7.98     
   
  

  


Full Year 2006

  23,766  $12.31 / $7.98  $(43,751)
   
  

  


 

During the first nine months of 2005, crude oil price collars covered 273 Mbbl, or 20%, of our 2005 oil production, with a weighted average floor of $40.00 per Bbl and a weighted average ceiling of $50.50 per Bbl. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, we had two open crude oil price collar contracts covering our 2005 and 2006 production as follows:

  Crude Oil Price Collar

   Crude Oil Price Collars

 

Contract Period


  Volume
in
Mbbl


  Weighted
Average
Ceiling /Floor


  Unrealized
Gain /(Loss)
(In thousands)


   Volume
in
Mbbl


  Weighted
Average
Ceiling / Floor


  

Unrealized
Loss

(In thousands)


 

As of June 30, 2005

         

Third Quarter 2005

  92  $50.50 /$40.00   

As of September 30, 2005

         

Fourth Quarter 2005

  92   50.50 / 40.00     92  $50.50 / $40.00   
  
  

  


  
  

  


Six Months Ended December 31, 2005

  184  $50.50 /$40.00  $(1,773)

Three Months Ended December 31, 2005

  92  $50.50 / $40.00  $(1,914)
  
  

  


  
  

  


First Quarter 2006

  90  $76.00 /$50.00     90  $76.00 / $50.00   

Second Quarter 2006

  91   76.00 / 50.00     91   76.00 / 50.00   

Third Quarter 2006

  92   76.00 / 50.00     92   76.00 / 50.00   

Fourth Quarter 2006

  92   76.00 / 50.00     92   76.00 / 50.00   
  
  

  


  
  

  


Full Year 2006

  365  $76.00 /$50.00  $284   365  $76.00 / $50.00  $(1,006)
  
  

  


  
  

  


 

We are exposed to market risk on these open contracts, to the extent of changes in market prices of natural gas and oil. However, the market risk exposure on these hedged contracts is generally offset by the gain or loss recognized upon the ultimate sale of the commodity that is hedged.

 

The preceding paragraphs contain forward-looking information concerning future production and projected gains and losses, which may be impacted both by production and by changes in the future market prices of energy commodities. See “Forward-Looking Information” on page 29.33.

–  31  –


ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

 

As of the end of the current reported period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’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 pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective, in all material respects, with respect to the recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms, of information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act.

 

There have beenwere no significant changes in the Company’s internal controlscontrol over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or in other factors that could significantlyare reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls subsequent to the date the Company carried out its evaluation.control over financial reporting.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings

The information set forth under the captions “Wyoming Royalty Litigation” and “Raymondville Area” in Note 7 of the Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of Part I of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is incorporated by reference in response to this item.

 

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

Period


  Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased


  Average
Price Paid
per Share


  

Total Number

of Shares

Purchased as

Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs


  

Approximate
Number

of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs


April 2005

  —    $—    —    1,938,450

May 2005

  19,700  $28.99  19,700  1,918,750

June 2005

  —    $—    —    1,918,750
   
          

Total

  19,700  $28.99      
   
          

Period


Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased


Average
Price Paid
per Share


Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs


Approximate
Number

of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs


July 2005

—  $—  —  1,918,750

August 2005

—  $—  —  1,918,750

September 2005

—  $—  —  1,918,750

Total

—  $—  

 

On August 13, 1998, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of two million shares of the Company’s Common Stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions. Subsequent to this announcement, on February 28, 2005, the Company announced that the Board of Directors had declared a 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock. As a result of this stock split, this figure has been adjusted to three million shares. All purchases executed have been through open market transactions. There is no expiration date associated with the authorization to repurchase securities of the Company.

The 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock was consummated in the form of a stock distribution. The stock dividend was distributed on March 31, 2005 to stockholders of record on March 18, 2005. In lieu of issuing fractional shares, the Company paid cash based on the closing price of the Common Stock on the record date. As a result of the stock split, each share of common stock continues to include one right under the Company’s Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Plan, and each right now provides for the purchase, upon the occurrence of the conditions set forth in the plan and disclosed in the Company’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K, of two-thirds of one one-hundredth of a share of preferred stock at a purchase price of approximately $36.67 per two-thirds of one one-hundredth of a share. All common stock accounts and per share data have been retroactively adjusted to give effect to the 3-for-2 split of the Company’s Common Stock.

 

–  32  –


ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders5. Other Information

 

On April 28,October 26, 2005, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company held its Annual Meetingapproved the acceleration, to December 15, 2005, of Stockholders. At this meeting,the vesting of 200,299 unvested stock options awarded in February 2003 under the Company’s stockholders voted onSecond Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan and 24,500 unvested stock options awarded in April 2004 under the following matters:Company’s 2004 Incentive Plan.

the election of three directors, and

the ratification of the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Company for its 2005 fiscal year.

Of the 32,601,884 shares entitled to vote, 30,333,478 were voted.

Shareholders voted to re-elect three directors by the following vote:

Dan O. Dinges
For:27,705,676
Withheld:2,627,802
C. Wayne Nance
For:27,714,140
Withheld:2,619,338
William P. Vititoe
For:27,721,259
Withheld:2,612,219

 

The terms200,299 shares awarded to employees at an exercise price of office$15.32, would have vested in February 2006. The 24,500 shares, awarded to the non-employee directors at an exercise price of directors, Robert F. Bailey, John G.L. Cabot, James G. Floyd, Robert Kelley$23.32, would have vested 12,250 in April 2006 and P. Dexter Peacock continued beyondApril 2007, respectively. Of the meeting date.200,299 shares, 91,500 were awarded to the named executive officers.

 

Shareholders votedThe decision to ratifyaccelerate the appointmentvesting of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, asthese unvested options, which the independent registered public accounting firmCompany believes to be in the best interest of its shareholders and employees, was made solely to reduce compensation expense and administrative burden associated with the Company’s adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 123(R), “Share Based Payment (revised 2004).” The accelerated vesting of the options will not have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations or cash flows. The Company currently accounts for stock-based compensation using the provisions of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” under which the Company has not recognized any compensation expense for its stock option grants. SFAS 123(R) will require the Company to recognize compensation expense equal to the fair value of all equity-based compensation over the vesting period of each such award beginning on January 1, 2006. The acceleration of vesting will reduce the Company’s compensation expense related to these options by an estimated $0.2 million for the Company for its 2005 fiscal year by the following vote:

For

30,138,658

Against

191,079

Abstain

3,741

–  33  –2006.


ITEM 6. Exhibits

14.1-Amendment of Code of Business Conduct (as amended on July 28, 2005 to revise Section III. F. relating to Transactions in Securities and Article V. relating to Safety, Health and the Environment)

 

15.1- Awareness letter of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

 

31.1- 302 Certification - Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

 

31.2- 302 Certification - Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

32.1- 906 Certification

–  34  –


SIGNATURES

 

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.

 

  

CABOT OIL & GAS CORPORATION

  

        (Registrant)

July29,October 28, 2005

 

By:

 

/s/ Dan O. Dinges


    

Dan O. Dinges

    

Chairman, President and

Chief Executive Officer
    

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

July29,October 28, 2005

 

By:

 

/s/ Scott C. Schroeder


    

Scott C. Schroeder

    

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    

(Principal Financial Officer)

July29,October 28, 2005

 

By:

 

/s/ Henry C. Smyth


    

Henry C. Smyth

    

Vice President, Controller and Treasurer

    

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

–  35  –38