UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
 ýQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016

OR

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

For the transition period from _______________________ to _______________________

Commission file number:  001-35245

SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

COLORADO20-2835920
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

1625 Broadway, Suite 300, Denver, CO80202
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (720) 616-4300


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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer  ý
Accelerated filer  o
  
Non-accelerated filer  o   (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    
Smaller reporting company  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act):  Yes oNo ý

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 109,973,188 outstanding148,695,805outstanding shares of common stock as of January 4,April 29, 2016.





SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION

Index

   Page
Part I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
    
Item 1.Financial Statements  
    
 Condensed Balance Sheets as of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 (unaudited) and AugustDecember 31, 2015 
    
 Condensed Statements of Operations for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015 and November 30, 2014 (unaudited) 
    
 Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and March 31, 2015 and November 30, 2014 (unaudited) 
    
 Notes to Condensed Financial Statements (unaudited) 
    
Item 2.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 
    
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 
    
Item 4.Controls and Procedures 
    
Part II - OTHER INFORMATION  
    
Item 1.Legal Proceedings 
    
Item 1A.Risk Factors 
    
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 
    
Item 3.Defaults of Senior Securities 
    
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures 
    
Item 5.Other Information 
    
Item 6.Exhibits 
    
SIGNATURES 





SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share data)


ASSETSNovember 30, 2015 August 31, 2015March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015
(unaudited)  (unaudited)  
Current assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$80,723
 $133,908
$50,937
 $66,499
Accounts receivable:      
Oil and gas sales10,408
 13,601
10,539
 12,527
Joint interest billing and other11,029
 15,325
13,484
 12,156
Commodity derivative contracts4,890
 2,897
6,066
 6,572
Other current assets1,896
 1,109
1,940
 1,944
Total current assets108,946
 166,840
82,966
 99,698
      
Property and equipment:      
Oil and gas properties, full cost method:      
Proved properties, net415,582
 452,393
378,536
 422,778
Unproved properties, not subject to amortization106,921
 77,564
Unproved properties, not subject to depletion103,997
 98,945
Oil and gas properties, net522,503
 529,957
482,533
 521,723
Other property and equipment, net5,093
 4,783
5,477
 5,124
Total property and equipment, net527,596
 534,740
488,010
 526,847
      
Commodity derivative contracts2,450
 1,565
2,227
 2,996
Goodwill40,711
 40,711
40,711
 40,711
Other assets2,423
 2,593
2,386
 2,364
      
Total assets$682,126
 $746,449
$616,300
 $672,616
      
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY      
Current liabilities:      
Trade accounts payable$2,282
 $670
$3,157
 $4,350
Well costs payable41,746
 33,071
15,324
 31,414
Revenue payable12,263
 19,044
10,471
 13,603
Production taxes payable24,389
 20,899
26,132
 24,530
Other accrued expenses3,198
 27
927
 809
Total current liabilities83,878
 73,711
56,011
 74,706
      
Revolving credit facility78,000
 78,000

 78,000
Deferred tax liability, net
 10,007
Asset retirement obligations12,444
 12,334
13,676
 13,400
Total liabilities174,322
 174,052
69,687
 166,106
      
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 15)

 



 

      
Shareholders' equity:      
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized:
no shares issued and outstanding

 

 
Common stock - $0.001 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized:
109,547,330 and 105,099,342 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
110
 105
Common stock - $0.001 par value, 300,000,000 shares authorized:
126,245,686 and 110,033,601 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
126
 110
Additional paid-in capital596,361
 538,631
687,159
 595,671
Retained (deficit) earnings(88,667) 33,661
Retained deficit(140,672) (89,271)
Total shareholders' equity507,804
 572,397
546,613
 506,510
      
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity$682,126
 $746,449
$616,300
 $672,616
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements

2

SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited; in thousands, except share and per share data)


Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
      
Oil and gas revenues$26,137
 $42,538
$18,273
 $18,938
      
Expenses:      
Lease operating expenses3,809
 3,041
4,299
 4,121
Production taxes2,443
 4,178
1,833
 1,807
Depreciation, depletion, accretion, and amortization14,674
 16,454
Depreciation, depletion, and accretion12,092
 14,077
Full cost ceiling impairment125,230
 
45,621
 
Transportation commitment charge1,518
 
68
 
General and administrative13,990
 4,110
7,443
 4,081
Total expenses161,664
 27,783
71,356
 24,086
      
Operating (loss) income(135,527) 14,755
Operating loss(53,083) (5,148)
      
Other income:   
Commodity derivatives realized gain700
 1,432
Commodity derivatives unrealized gain2,492
 16,708
Other income (expense):   
Commodity derivatives gain1,680
 3,461
Interest expense, net
 (39)
Interest income2
 24
Total other income3,192
 18,140
1,682
 3,446
      
(Loss) Income before income taxes(132,335) 32,895
Loss before income taxes(51,401) (1,702)
      
Income tax (benefit) provision(10,007) 11,744
Net (loss) income$(122,328) $21,151
Income tax benefit
 (709)
Net loss$(51,401) $(993)
      
Net (loss) income per common share:   
Net loss per common share:   
Basic$(1.14) $0.27
$(0.42) $(0.01)
Diluted$(1.14) $0.26
$(0.42) $(0.01)
      
Weighted-average shares outstanding:      
Basic107,105,253
 79,008,719
121,392,736
 97,241,301
Diluted107,105,253
 80,141,152
121,392,736
 97,241,301
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements

3

SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited; in thousands)


Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net (loss) income$(122,328) $21,151
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
provided by operating activities:
   
Depletion, depreciation, accretion, and amortization14,674
 16,454
Net loss$(51,401) $(993)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by operating activities:
   
Depletion, depreciation, and accretion12,092
 14,077
Full cost ceiling impairment125,230
 
45,621
 
Provision for deferred taxes(10,007) 11,744

 (709)
Stock-based compensation7,197
 793
2,519
 1,604
Mark to market of commodity derivative contracts:      
Total gain on commodity derivatives contracts(3,192) (18,140)(1,680) (3,461)
Cash settlements on commodity derivative contracts1,272
 1,432
3,059
 13,742
Cash premiums paid for commodity derivative contracts(959) 

 (3,498)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
Accounts receivable      
Oil and gas sales4,269
 (4,085)1,988
 12,748
Joint interest billing and other4,296
 (9,566)(1,431) 8,529
Accounts payable      
Trade1,542
 (1,393)(1,193) 171
Revenue(6,781) 10,764
(3,132) (4,356)
Production taxes3,490
 4,607
1,602
 2,449
Accrued expenses3,171
 1,001
118
 (56)
Other(787) (327)(40) (488)
Total adjustments143,415
 13,284
59,523
 40,752
Net cash provided by operating activities21,087
 34,435
8,122
 39,759
      
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Acquisition of oil and gas properties(35,045) 
(10,000) 
Well costs and other capital expenditures(39,073) (66,137)(24,374) (57,811)
Earnest money deposit
 (6,250)
Net proceeds from sales of oil and gas properties
 3,696
Net cash used in investing activities(74,118) (72,387)(34,374) (54,115)
      
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from exercise of warrants
 10,699
Proceeds from sale of stock92,575
 200,100
Offering costs(3,409) (9,255)
Shares withheld for payment of employee payroll taxes(154) (389)(284) (71)
Proceeds from revolving credit facility
 40,000
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(154) 50,310
Principal repayments on revolving credit facility(78,000) 
Financing fee(192) 
Net cash provided by financing activities10,690
 190,774
      
Net (decrease) increase in cash and equivalents(53,185) 12,358
(15,562) 176,418
      
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period133,908
 34,753
66,499
 39,570
      
Cash and equivalents at end of period$80,723
 $47,111
$50,937
 $215,988

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (See Note 16)

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

4




SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
November 30, 2015
(unaudited)

1.Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Organization:  Synergy Resources Corporation ("we", "us", "Synergy", or the(the “Company”) is engaged in oil and gas acquisition, exploration, development, and production activities, primarily in the Denver-Julesburg Basin ("D-J Basin") of Colorado. The Company’s common stock is listed and traded on the NYSE MKT under the symbol “SYRG.”

Basis of Presentation:  The Company has adopted August 31st as the end of its fiscal year.  The Company does not utilize any special purpose entities. The Company operates in one business segment, and all of its operations are located in the United States of America.

At the directive of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") to use "plain English" in public filings, the Company will use such terms as "we," "our," or the "Company" in place of Synergy Resources Corporation. When such terms are used in this manner throughout this document, they are in reference only to the corporation, Synergy Resources Corporation, and are not used in reference to the Board of Directors, corporate officers, management, or any individual employee or group of employees.

The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US GAAP”).

Change of Year End: On February 25, 2016, the Company's board of directors approved a change in fiscal year end from August 31 to December 31 effective with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2016.

Interim Financial Information:  The unaudited condensed interim financial statements included herein have been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC as promulgated in Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.  The condensed balance sheet as of AugustDecember 31, 2015 was derived from the Company's AnnualTransition Report on Form 10-K for the yearfour months ended AugustDecember 31, 2015.2015 as filed with the SEC on April 22, 2016.  Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with US GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such SEC rules and regulations.  The Company believes that the disclosures included are adequate to make the information presented not misleading and recommends that these condensed financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto for the yearfour months ended AugustDecember 31, 2015.

In management's opinion, the unaudited condensed financial statements contained herein reflect all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring items, which are necessary for the fair presentation of the Company's financial position, results of operations, and cash flows on a basis consistent with that of its prior audited financial statements.  However, the results of operations for interim periods may not be indicative of results to be expected for the full fiscal year.

Major Customers:The Company sells production to a small number of customers, as is customary in the industry. As a result, during the three months ended November 30, 2015 and 2014, certain of the Company’s customers representedCustomers representing 10% or more of its oil and gas revenue (“major customers”). For for each of the three months ended November 30, 2015,periods presented are shown in the Company had three major customers, which represented 60%, 15%, and 12% of its revenue during the period. For the three months ended November 30, 2014, the Company had two major customers, which represented 68% and 12% of its revenue during the period.following table:
  Three Months Ended March 31,
Major Customers 2015 2014
Company A 42% *
Company B 25% 15%
Company C 12% 60%
Company D * 13%
* less than 10%

Based on the current demand for oil and natural gas, the availability of other buyers, and the Company having the option to sell to other buyers if conditions warrant, the Company believes that its oil and gas production can be sold in the market in the event that it is not sold to the Company’s existing customers. However, in some circumstances, a change in customers may entail significant transition costs and/or shutting in or curtailing production for weeks or even months during the transition to a new customer.
 


Accounts receivable consist primarily of trade receivables from oil and gas sales and amounts due from other working interest owners who are liable for their proportionate share of well costs. The Company typically has the right to withhold future revenue disbursements to recover outstanding joint interest billings on outstanding receivables from joint interest owners.

Customers with balances greater than 10% of total receivable balances as of each of the periods presented are shown in the following table:
As of As of As of As of
Major CustomersNovember 30, 2015 August 31, 2015 March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015
Company A10% 30% 20% *
Company B 16% 13%
Company C * 13%
Company D * 13%
* less than 10%

The Company operates exclusively within the United States of America and, except for cash and short-term investments, all of the Company’s assets are employedutilized in, and all of its revenues are derived from, the oil and gas industry.

5




Goodwill: The Company’s goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net identifiable assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment annually or whenever other circumstances or events indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill may not be recoverable. When evaluating goodwill for impairment, the Company may first perform an assessment of qualitative factors to determine if the fair value of the reporting unit is more-likely-than-not greater than its carrying amount. If, based on the review of the qualitative factors, the Company determines it is not more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, the required two-step impairment test can be bypassed. If the Company does not perform a qualitative assessment or if the fair value of the reporting unit is not more-likely-than-not greater than its carrying value, the Company must perform the first step of the two-step impairment test and calculate the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the estimated fair value, there is an indication that impairment may exist, and the second step must be performed to measure the amount of impairment loss. The amount of impairment for goodwill is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill. As a result of declining oil prices, the Company performed an interim goodwill test in conjunction with the preparation of its financial statements for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 which did not result in an impairment. The Company utilized a market approach in estimating the fair value of the reporting unit. TheThe primary assumptions used in the Company's impairment evaluations are based on the best available market information at the time and contain considerable management judgments. Changes in these assumptions or future economic conditions could impact the Company's conclusion regarding an impairment of goodwill and potentially result in a non-cash impairment loss in a future period.

Transportation Commitment Charge: The Company has entered into several agreements that require us to deliver minimum amounts of crude oil to a third party marketer and/or other counterparties that transport crude oil via pipelines. See Note 15 for additional information. Pursuant to these agreements, we must deliver specific amounts, either from our own production or from oil we acquire. If we are unable to fulfill all of our contractual delivery obligations from our own production, we may be required to pay penalties or damages pursuant to these agreements, or we may have to purchase oil from third parties to fulfill our delivery obligations. When we incur penalties of this type, we recognize the expense as a transportation commitment charge in the Statement of Operations.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements:
In November 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2015-17, “Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes,” which requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position to simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes. The standard is effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. As of September 1, 2015, we elected to early adopt the pronouncement on a prospective basis. Adoption of this amendment did not have an effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations, and prior periods were not retrospectively adjusted.

In September 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-16, “Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments,” which eliminates the requirement to restate prior period financial statements for measurement period adjustments. The new guidance requires that the cumulative impact of a measurement period adjustment (including the impact on prior periods) be recognized in the reporting period in which the adjustment is identified. The standard is effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. On September 1, 2015, we elected to early adopt the pronouncement. This amendment will be applied prospectively to measurement period adjustments that occur after the effective date. Adoption of this amendment did not have an effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, “Simplifying Income Statement Presentation by Eliminating the Concept of Extraordinary Items,” which eliminates from US GAAP the concept of extraordinary items, while retaining certain presentation and disclosure guidance for items that are unusual in nature or occur infrequently. The standard is effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted provided the guidance is applied from the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. On September 1, 2015, we elected to early adopt the pronouncement. This amendment will be applied prospectively to extraordinary items that occur after the effective date. Adoption of this amendment did not have an effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, which requires management of public and private companies to evaluate whether there are conditions and events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the financial statements are issued (or available to be issued when applicable) and, if so, to disclose that fact. Management will be required to make this evaluation for both annual and interim reporting periods, if applicable. ASU No. 2014-15 is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within annual periods beginning after

6



December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. On September 1, 2015, we elected to early adopt the pronouncement. Adoption of this amendment did not have an effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. ASU 2014-08 modifies the criteria for disposals to qualify as discontinued operations and expands related disclosures. The guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. On September 1, 2015, we elected to adopt the pronouncement. This amendment will be applied prospectively to disposals that occur after the effective date. Adoption of this amendment did not have an effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements:   We evaluate the pronouncements of various authoritative accounting organizations to determine the impact of new accounting pronouncements on us. 

In November 2014,March 2016, the FASBFinancial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-09, "Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting" ("ASU 2014-16, “Determining Whether the Host Contract in a Hybrid Financial Instrument Issued in the Form of a Share Is More Akin to Debt or to Equity” (“ASU 2014-16”2016-09"), which clarifies howintends to evaluateimprove the economic characteristics and risks of a host contract in a hybrid financial instrument that is issued in the form of a share. Specifically,accounting for share-based payment transactions. The ASU 2014-16 requires that an entity consider all relevant terms and features in evaluating the naturechanges several aspects of the host contractaccounting for share-based payment award transactions, including: (1) Accounting and clarifies that the nature of the host contract depends upon the economic characteristicsCash Flow Classification for Excess Tax Benefits and the risks of the entire hybrid financial instrument. An entity should assess the substance of the relevant termsDeficiencies, (2) Forfeitures, and features, including the relative strength of the debt-like or equity-like terms(3) Tax Withholding Requirements and features given the facts and circumstances, when considering how to weight those terms and features.Cash Flow Classification. ASU 2014-162016-09 is effective for public businesses for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015,2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption on our financial statements.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)" ("ASU 2016-02"), which establishes a comprehensive new lease standard designed to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease


assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In transition, lessees and lessors are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The modified retrospective approach includes a number of optional practical expedients that entities may elect to apply. An entity that elects to apply the practical expedients will, in effect, continue to account for leases that commence before the effective date in accordance with previous US GAAP. ASU 2016-02 is effective for public business for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” (“ASU 2014-09”), which establishes a comprehensive new revenue recognition standard designed to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. In doing so, companies may need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under current revenue recognition guidance. ASU 2014-09 allows for the use of either the full or modified retrospective transition method, and the standard will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 including interim periods within that period. Earlyperiod, with early adoption is not permitted.permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We are currently evaluating which transition approach to use and the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

There were various updates recently issued by the FASB, most of which represented technical corrections to the accounting literature or application to specific industries and are not expected to a have a material impact on our reported financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.


7



2.Property and Equipment

The capitalized costs related to the Company’s oil and gas producing activities were as follows (in thousands):

As of As ofAs of As of
November 30, 2015 August 31, 2015March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015
Oil and gas properties, full cost method:      
Costs of unproved properties, not subject to amortization:   
Costs of unproved properties, not subject to depletion:   
Lease acquisition and other costs$97,017
 $58,068
$93,696
 $89,122
Unproved wells in progress9,904
 19,496
10,301
 9,823
Subtotal, unproved properties106,921
 77,564
103,997
 98,945
      
Costs of proved properties:      
Producing and non-producing656,562
 577,500
698,564
 691,659
Proved wells in progress35,070
 11,302
17,665
 11,487
Less, accumulated depletion and full cost ceiling impairments(276,050) (136,409)(337,693) (280,368)
Subtotal, proved properties, net415,582
 452,393
378,536
 422,778
      
Costs of other property and equipment:      
Land4,478
 4,478
4,478
 4,478
Other property and equipment1,187
 875
1,696
 1,270
Less, accumulated depreciation(572) (570)(697) (624)
Subtotal, other property and equipment, net5,093
 4,783
5,477
 5,124
      
Total property and equipment, net$527,596
 $534,740
$488,010
 $526,847

The Company periodically reviews its oil and gas properties to determine if the carrying value of such assets exceeds estimated fair value. For proved producing and non-producing properties, the Company performs a ceiling test each quarter to determine whether there has been an impairment to its capitalized costs. Under the ceiling test, the value of the Company’s reserves is calculated using the average of the published spot prices for WTI oil (per barrel) as of the first day of each of the previous twelve months, as well as the average of the published spot prices for Henry Hub (per MMBtu) as of the first day of each of the previous twelve months, each adjusted by lease or field for quality, transportation fees and regional price differentials. The ceiling test as of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 used average realized prices of $42.54$37.32 per barrel and $2.77$2.41 per Mcf. The oil prices used at November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 were approximately 20%10% lower than the AugustDecember 31, 2015 price of $53.27,$41.33, and the gas prices were approximately 16%7% lower than the August


December 31, 2015 price of $3.28.$2.60. Using these prices, the Company's net capitalized costs for oil and natural gas properties exceeded the ceiling amount by $125.2$45.6 million, at November 30, 2015, resulting in an immediate recognition of a ceiling test impairment. No such ceiling test impairment was recognized during the three months ended November 30, 2014.March 31, 2015.

The Company also reviews the fair value of its unproved properties. The reviews for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015 and 2014 indicated that estimated fair values of such assets exceeded the carrying values. Therefore, no reclassifications to proved property were recognized during either period to impair the carrying value of the unproved properties.

Capitalized Overhead: A portion of the Company’s overhead expenses are directly attributable to acquisition, exploration, and development activities.  Under the full cost method of accounting, these expenses, in the amounts shown in the table below, were capitalized in the full cost pool (in thousands):

 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015 2014
Capitalized overhead$916
 $503
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Capitalized overhead$649
 $585


8



3.Acquisitions

During the three months ended November 30, 2015, theThe Company acquired certain oil and gas and other assets that affect the comparability between the three months ended March 31, 2016, and the three months ended March 31, 2015, as described below.

On February 4, 2016, the Company completed the acquisition of certain assets for a total purchase price of $10.0 million. The acquisition comprised solely of undeveloped oil and gas leasehold interests in the D-J Basin of Colorado. The purpose of the transaction was to provide additional mineral acres upon which the Company could drill wells and produce hydrocarbons. It is believed that the transaction will improve the Company's cash flow as it is developed. The purchase price has been allocated as $6.8 million to proved oil and gas properties and $3.2 million to unproved oil and gas properties on a preliminary basis and includes significant use of estimates.

Kauffman Acquisition

On October 20, 2015, the Company completedclosed the acquisition of certain assets from K.P. Kauffman Company, Inc. ("Kauffman") for a total purchase price of $85.2 million, net of customary closing adjustments. The purchase price was composed of $35.0 million in cash and $49.8 million in restricted common stock plus the assumption of certain liabilities.

The Kauffman acquisition encompassed approximately 4,300 net acres of oil and gas leasehold interests and related assets in the D-J Basin of Colorado and net production of approximately 1,200 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOED). at the time of purchase. The purpose of the transaction was to provide additional mineral acres upon which the Company could drill wells and produce hydrocarbons. It is believed that the transaction will improve the Company's cash flow.



The acquisition was accounted for using the acquisition method under ASC 805, Business Combinations, which requires the acquired assets and liabilities to be recorded at fair values as of the acquisition date of October 20, 2015. Transaction costs related to the acquisition were expensed as incurred. The following allocation of the purchase price is preliminary and includes significant use of estimates.  The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are preliminary and are subject to revision as the Company continues to evaluate the fair value of this acquisition.  Accordingly, the allocation will change as additional information becomes available and is assessed, and the impact of such changes may be material. The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price and preliminary estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed (in thousands):

Preliminary Purchase PriceOctober 20, 2015
Consideration given: 
Cash$35,045
Synergy Resources Corp. Common Stock (1)
49,840
Net liabilities assumed, including asset retirement obligations299
Total consideration given$85,184
  
Preliminary Allocation of Purchase Price 
Proved oil and gas properties (2)
$46,342
Unproved oil and gas properties37,766
Other assets, including accounts receivable1,076
Total fair value of assets acquired$85,184
(1) The fair value of the consideration attributed to the Common Stock under ASC 805 was based on the Company's closing stock price on the measurement date of October 20, 2015 (4,418,413 shares at $11.28 per share).
(2) Proved oil and gas properties were measured primarily using an income approach. The fair value measurements of the oil and gas assets were based, in part, on significant inputs not observable in the market and thus represent a Level 3 measurement. The significant inputs included assumed future production profiles, commodity prices (mainly based on observable market inputs), a discount rate of 12%, and assumptions regarding the timing and amount of future development and operating costs.

The results of operations of the acquired assets from the October 20, 2015 closing date through November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, representing approximately $0.6$2.4 million of revenue and $0.4$2.2 million of operating income, have been included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended November 30, 2015.March 31, 2016.


9



The following table presents the unaudited pro forma combined results of operations for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2015 and 2014 as if the Kauffman transaction had occurred on SeptemberJanuary 1, 2014, the first day of our 2015 fiscal year.2015.  The unaudited pro forma results reflect significant pro forma adjustments related to funding the acquisition through the issuance of common stock and cash, additional depreciation expense, costs directly attributable to the acquisition, and operating costs incurred as a result of the assets acquired.  The pro forma results do not include any cost savings or other synergies that may result from the acquisition or any estimated costs that have been or will be incurred by the Company to integrate the properties acquired.  The pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of what actually would have occurred if the acquisition had been completed as of the beginning of the period, nor are they necessarily indicative of future results.

Three Months Ended November 30,
(in thousands)2015 2014Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
Oil and gas revenues$27,354
 $44,748
$23,183
Net (loss) income$(122,091) $22,552
$(1,067)
    
Net (loss) income per common share    
Basic$(1.11) $0.27
$(0.01)
Diluted$(1.11) $0.27
$(0.01)




4.Depletion, depreciation, and accretion and amortization (“DDA”DD&A”)

Depletion, depreciation, accretion, and amortizationaccretion consisted of the following (in thousands):

 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015 2014
Depletion of oil and gas properties$14,376
 $16,304
Depreciation, accretion, and amortization298
 150
Total DDA Expense$14,674
 $16,454
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Depletion of oil and gas properties$11,743
 $13,880
Depreciation and accretion349
 197
Total DD&A Expense$12,092
 $14,077

Capitalized costs of proved oil and gas properties are depleted quarterly using the units-of-production method based on a depletion rate, which is calculated by comparing production volumes for the quarter to estimated total reserves at the beginning of the quarter. For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, production of 9591,047 MBOE represented 1.5% of estimated total proved reserves. For the three months ended November 30, 2014,March 31, 2015, production of 753633 MBOE represented 2.3%1.6% of estimated total proved reserves. DDADD&A expense was $15.30$11.55 per BOE and $21.84$22.24 per BOE for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015, and 2014, respectively.

5.Asset Retirement Obligations

The following table summarizes the changes in asset retirement obligations associated with the Company's oil and gas properties (in thousands).

Asset retirement obligations, August 31, 2015$12,334
Asset retirement obligations, December 31, 2015$13,400
Obligations incurred with development activities230

Obligations assumed with acquisitions229

Accretion expense262
276
Obligations discharged with asset retirements(611)
Revisions in previous estimates

Asset retirement obligations, November 30, 2015$12,444
Asset retirement obligations, March 31, 2016$13,676


10



6.Revolving Credit Facility

The Company maintains a revolving credit facility ("Revolver") with a bank syndicate. The Revolver is available for working capital requirements, capital expenditures, acquisitions, general corporate purposes, and to support letters of credit. As most recently amended on June 2, 2015,of March 31, 2016, the terms of the Revolver provide for up to $500 million in borrowings, subject to a borrowing base limitation, as further described below.which was $145 million. As of March 31, 2016, there was no outstanding principal balance. The maturity date of the Revolver is December 15, 2019.

Certain ofOn January 28, 2016, the Company’s assets, including substantially all of its producing wells and developed oil and gas leases, have been designated as collateral underRevolver was amended in connection with the Revolver. The borrowing commitment is subject to adjustment based upon a borrowing base calculation that includes the value of oil and gas reserves.semi-annual redetermination. The borrowing base limitation is subject to scheduled redeterminations on a semi-annual basis. In certain events, and at the discretion of the bank syndicate, an unscheduled redetermination may be required. During the quarter ended August 31, 2015, the Company's borrowing base was adjusted to $163 million. Accordingly, as of November 30, 2015, based on a borrowing base ofreduced from $163 million to $145 million, and anthe Revolver was further amended to (i) delete the minimum interest rate floor, (ii) delete the minimum liquidity covenant, (iii) add a current ratio covenant of 1.0 to 1.0, and (iv) delete the minimum hedging requirement. In January 2016, the Company reduced its outstanding principal balance ofborrowings under the Revolver from $78 million the unused borrowing base available for future borrowing totaled approximately $85 million.  The next semi-annual redetermination has been rescheduled for January 2016.to nil.

Interest under the Revolver is payable monthly and accrues at a variable rate, subject to a minimum rate of 2.5%.rate.  For each borrowing, the Company designates its choice of reference rates, which can be either the Prime Rate plus a margin or the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a margin. The interest rate margin, as well as other bank fees, varies with utilization of the Revolver. The average annual interest rate for borrowings during the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 was 2.5%.

Certain of the Company’s assets, including substantially all of the producing wells and developed oil and gas leases, have been designated as collateral under the Revolver. The borrowing commitment is subject to scheduled redeterminations on a semi-annual basis. In certain events, and at the discretion of the bank syndicate, an unscheduled redetermination could be prepared. As of March 31, 2016, based on a borrowing base of $145 million and no outstanding principal balance, the unused borrowing base available for future borrowing totaled approximately $145 million.  The next semi-annual redetermination has been scheduled for May 2016.



The Revolver also contains covenants that, among other things, restrict the payment of dividends and limits the minimum and maximum usedividends. Additionally, as of derivative contracts.  Specifically,March 31, 2016, the Revolver requiresrequired an overall commodity derivative position that forcovers a rolling 24 month period no less than 45% and no more thanmonths of estimated future production with a maximum position of 85% of the proved developed producing reserveshydrocarbon production as projected in the Company’s most recent semi-annual reserve report be covered by Commodity Derivative Instruments as discussed in Note 7 below.report.
  
Furthermore, the Revolver requires the Company to maintain compliance with certain financial and liquidity ratio covenants. Under the requirements, as most recently amended, the Company, on a quarterly basis, must (a) not, at any time, permit its ratio of total funded debt as of such time to EBITDAX, as defined in the agreement, to be greater than or equal to 4.0 to 1.0; and (b) maintain a minimum liquidity,not, as of the last day of any fiscal quarter, permit its current ratio, as defined as cash and cash equivalents plusin the unused availability under the Revolver, of notagreement, to be less than $25 million.1.0to 1.0. As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, the most recent compliance date, the CompanyCompany was in compliance with allthese loan covenants except the covenants related to its overall commodity derivative position as described above whereby the Company did not meet the minimum hedging requirement. The Company has obtained a waiver for this covenant.covenants.

7.Commodity Derivative Instruments

The Company has entered into commodity derivative instruments, as described below. The Company has utilized swaps, puts, Our commodity derivative instruments may include but are not limited to “collars,” “swaps,” and “put” positions. Our derivative strategy, including the volume amounts, whether we utilize oil and/or collars to reducenatural gas instruments, and at what commodity prices the effectinstruments are associated with, is based in part on our view of price changes on a portionexpected future market conditions and our analysis of its future oil and gas production. A swap requires a payment to the counterparty if the settlement price exceeds the strike price and the same counterparty is required to make a payment if the settlement price is less than the strike price. A put requires the counterparty to make a payment if the settlement price is below the strike price. A collar requires a payment to the counterparty if the settlement price is above the ceiling price and requires the counterparty to make a payment if the settlement price is below the floor price. The objective of the Company’swell-level economic return potential. In addition, our use of derivative financial instrumentscontracts is subject to achieve more predictable cash flowsstipulations set forth in an environment of volatile oil and gasthe Revolver.

A “put” option gives the owner the right, but not the obligation, to sell the underlying commodity at a specified price (strike price) within a specific time period. Depending on market conditions, strike prices, and the value of the contracts, we may, at times, purchase put options, which require us to manage its exposurepay premiums at the time we purchase the contracts. These premiums represent the fair value of the purchased put as of the date of purchase. The ownership of put options is consistent with our derivative strategy inasmuch as the value of the puts will increase as commodity prices decline, helping to offset the cash flow impact of a decline in realized prices for the underlying commodity. However, if the underlying commodity increases in value, there is a risk that the put option will expire worthless and the net premiums paid would be recognized as a loss.

Conversely, a “call” option gives the owner the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the underlying commodity at a specified price risk. While(strike price) within a specific time period. Depending on market conditions, strike prices, and the usevalue of thesethe contracts, we may, at times, sell call options in conjunction with the purchase of put options to create “collars.” We regularly utilize “no premium” (a.k.a. zero cost) collars constructed by selling call options while simultaneously buying put options, in which the premiums paid for the puts is offset by the premiums received for the calls. Collars are consistent with our derivative instruments limitsstrategy inasmuch as the downside riskthey establish a known range of adverseprices to be received for the associated volume equivalents, that being bound at the upper end by the call’s strike price movements, such use(the “ceiling”) and at the lower end by the put’s strike price (the “floor.”)

Additionally, at times, we may also limitenter into swaps. Swaps are derivative contracts which obligate two counterparties to effectively trade the Company’s abilityunderlying commodity at a set price over a specified term. Swaps are consistent with our derivative strategy inasmuch as they establish a known future price to benefit from favorable price movements. be received for the associated equivalent volumes.

The Company may, from time to time, add incremental derivatives to cover additional production, restructure existing derivative contracts or enter into new transactions to modify the terms of current contracts in order to realize the current value of the Company’s existing positions. The Company does not enter into derivative contracts for speculative purposes.

The use of derivatives involves the risk that the counterparties to such instruments will be unable to meet the financial terms of such contracts. The Company’s derivative contracts are currently with four counterparties and an exchange. Two of the counterparties are lenders in the Company’s credit facility.Revolver. The Company has netting arrangements with the counterparties that provide for the offset of payables against receivables from separate derivative arrangements with the counterparty in the event of contract termination. The derivative contracts may be terminated by a non-defaulting party in the event of default by one of the parties to the agreement.

The Company’s commodity derivative instruments are measured at fair value and are included in the accompanying balance sheets as commodity derivative assets. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded based on the changes in the fair values of the derivative instruments. Both the unrealized and realized gains and losses resulting from contract settlement of derivatives

11



are recorded in the statements of operations. The Company’s cash flow is only impacted when the actual settlements under commodity derivative contracts result in making or receiving a payment to or from the counterparty. Actual cash settlements can occur at either the scheduled maturity date of the contract or at an earlier date if the contract is liquidated prior to its scheduled maturity. These settlements under the commodity derivative contracts are reflected as operating activities in the Company’s Statementsstatements of Cash Flows.cash flows.

The Company’s valuation estimate takes into consideration the counterparty’s creditworthiness, the Company’s


creditworthiness, and the time value of money. The consideration of the factors results in an estimated fair valueexit-price for each derivative asset or liability under a market place participant’s view. Management believes that this approach provides a reasonable, non-biased, verifiable, and consistent methodology for valuing commodity derivative instruments.

The Company’s commodity derivative contracts as of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 are summarized below:
Settlement Period 
Derivative
Instrument
 
Average Volumes
(Bbls
per month)
 
Floor
Price
 
Ceiling
Price
 
Derivative
Instrument
 
Average Volumes
(Bbls
per month)
 
Floor
Price
 
Ceiling
Price
Crude Oil - NYMEX WTI            
Dec 1, 2015 - Dec 31, 2015 Purchased Put 40,000
 $50.00
 
Dec 1, 2015 - Dec 31, 2015 Purchased Put 10,000
 $55.00
 
      
Jan 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Purchased Put 25,000
 $50.00
 
Jan 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Purchased Put 10,000
 $45.00
 
Jan 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Collar 20,000
 $45.00
 $65.00
Apr 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Purchased Put 25,000
 $50.00
 
Apr 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Purchased Put 10,000
 $45.00
 
Apr 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Collar 20,000
 $45.00
 $65.00
            
Jan 1, 2017 - Apr 30, 2017 Purchased Put 20,000
 $50.00
 
 Purchased Put 20,000
 $50.00
 
May 1, 2017 - Aug 31, 2017 Purchased Put 20,000
 $55.00
 
 Purchased Put 20,000
 $55.00
 
Jan 1, 2017 - Dec 31, 2017 Collar 20,000
 $45.00
 $70.00
 Collar 20,000
 $45.00
 $70.00
            
Settlement Period 
Derivative
Instrument
 
Average Volumes
(MMBtu
per month)
 
Floor
Price
 
Ceiling
Price
 
Derivative
Instrument
 
Average Volumes
(MMBtu
per month)
 
Floor
Price
 
Ceiling
Price
Natural Gas - NYMEX Henry Hub            
Dec 1, 2015 - Dec 31, 2015 Collar 72,000
 $4.15
 $4.49
      
Jan 1, 2016 - May 31, 2016 Collar 60,000
 $4.05
 $4.54
Apr 1, 2016 - May 31, 2016 Collar 60,000
 $4.05
 $4.54
Jun 1, 2016 - Aug 31, 2016 Collar 60,000
 $3.90
 $4.14
 Collar 60,000
 $3.90
 $4.14
            
Natural Gas - CIG Rocky Mountain            
Dec 1, 2015 - Dec 31, 2015 Collar 100,000
 $2.20
 $3.05
      
Jan 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Collar 100,000
 $2.65
 $3.10
Apr 1, 2016 - Dec 31, 2016 Collar 100,000
 $2.65
 $3.10
            
Jan 1, 2017 - Apr 30, 2017 Collar 100,000
 $2.80
 $3.95
 Collar 100,000
 $2.80
 $3.95
May 1 2017 - Aug 31, 2017 Collar 110,000
 $2.50
 $3.06
 Collar 110,000
 $2.50
 $3.06


12



Offsetting of Derivative Assets and Liabilities

As of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 and AugustDecember 31, 2015, all derivative instruments held by the Company were subject to enforceable master netting arrangements held by various financial institutions. In general, the terms of the Company’s agreements provide for offsetting of amounts payable or receivable between the Company and the counterparty, at the election of both parties, for transactions that occur on the same date and in the same currency. The Company’s agreements also provide that, in the event of an early termination, the counterparties have the right to offset amounts owed or owing under that and any other agreement with the same counterparty. The Company’s accounting policy is to offset these positions in its accompanying Balance Sheets.



The following table provides a reconciliation between the net assets and liabilities reflected on the accompanying balance sheets and the potential effect of master netting arrangements on the fair value of the Company’s derivative contracts (in thousands):
 As of November 30, 2015 As of March 31, 2016
Underlying 
Balance Sheet
Location
 Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets and Liabilities 
Gross Amounts Offset in the
Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts of Assets and Liabilities Presented in the
Balance Sheet
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets and Liabilities 
Gross Amounts Offset in the
Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts of Assets and Liabilities Presented in the
Balance Sheet
Commodity derivative contracts Current assets $5,088
 $(198) $4,890
 Current assets $6,201
 $(135) $6,066
Commodity derivative contracts Noncurrent assets $2,973
 $(523) $2,450
 Noncurrent assets $2,445
 $(218) $2,227
Commodity derivative contracts Current liabilities $198
 $(198) $
 Current liabilities $135
 $(135) $
Commodity derivative contracts Noncurrent liabilities $523
 $(523) $
 Noncurrent liabilities $218
 $(218) $

 As of August 31, 2015 As of December 31, 2015
Underlying 
Balance Sheet
Location
 Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets and Liabilities 
Gross Amounts Offset in the
Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts of Assets and Liabilities Presented in the
Balance Sheet
 
Balance Sheet
Location
 Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets and Liabilities 
Gross Amounts Offset in the
Balance Sheet
 
Net Amounts of Assets and Liabilities Presented in the
Balance Sheet
Commodity derivative contracts Current assets $3,047
 $(150) $2,897
 Current assets $6,719
 $(147) $6,572
Commodity derivative contracts Noncurrent assets $1,774
 $(209) $1,565
 Noncurrent assets $3,354
 $(358) $2,996
Commodity derivative contracts Current liabilities $150
 $(150) $
 Current liabilities $147
 $(147) $
Commodity derivative contracts Noncurrent liabilities $209
 $(209) $
 Noncurrent liabilities $358
 $(358) $

The amount of gain recognized in the statements of operations related to derivative financial instruments was as follows (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Realized gain on commodity derivatives$2,445
 $13,542
Unrealized loss on commodity derivatives(765) (10,081)
Total gain$1,680
 $3,461

Realized gains and losses include cash received from the monthly settlement of derivative contracts at their scheduled maturity date, the proceeds from early liquidation of in-the-money derivative contracts, and the previously incurred premiums attributable to settled commodity contracts. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, the Company liquidated oil derivatives with an average strike price of $85.81 and covering 269,000 bbls of oil and received cash settlements of approximately $8.4 million. The following table summarizes derivative realized gains and losses during the periods presented (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015 2014
Realized gain on commodity derivatives$700
 $1,432
Unrealized gain on commodity derivatives2,492
 16,708
Total gain$3,192
 $18,140
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Monthly settlement$2,955
 $5,364
Previously incurred premiums attributable to settled commodity contracts(510) (200)
Early liquidation
 8,378
Total realized gain$2,445
 $13,542



Credit Related Contingent Features

As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, two of the four counterparties to the Company's derivative instruments were members of the Company’s credit facility syndicate. The Company’s obligations under the credit facility and its derivative contracts are secured by liens on substantially all of the Company’s producing oil and gas properties. The agreement with the third counterparty, which is not a lender under the credit facility, is unsecured and does not require the posting of collateral. The agreement with the fourth counterparty is subject to an inter-creditor agreement between the counterparty and the Company’s lenders under the credit facility.


13



8.Fair Value Measurements

ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure, establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value for financial assets and liabilities that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available.  Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company.  Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available in the circumstances.  The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of the inputs as follows:

Level 1: Quoted prices available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2: Quoted prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities that are observable for the asset or liability;
Level 3: Unobservable pricing inputs that are generally less observable from objective sources, such as discounted cash or valuation models.

The financial assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.

The Company’s non-recurring fair value measurements include asset retirement obligations and purchase price allocations for the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired through business combinations. Please refer to Notes 3 and 5 for further discussion of business combinations and asset retirement obligations, respectively.

The Company determines the estimated fair value of its asset retirement obligations by calculating the present value of estimated cash flows related to plugging and abandonment liabilities using Level 3 inputs. The significant inputs used to calculate such liabilities include estimates of costs to be incurred, the Company’s credit adjusted discount rates,credit-adjusted risk-free rate, inflation rates and estimated dates of abandonment. The asset retirement liability is accreted to its present value each period, and the capitalized asset retirement cost is depleted as a component of the full cost pool using the units-of-production method. See Note 5 for additional information.

The acquisition of a group of assets in a business combination transaction requires fair value estimates for assets acquired and liabilities assumed.  The fair value of assets and liabilities acquired through business combinations is calculated using a net discounted cash flow approach for the producing properties. The discounted cash flows are developed using the income approach and are based on management’s expectations for the future.  Unobservable inputs include estimates of future oil and gas production from the Company’s reserve reports, commodity prices based on the NYMEX forward price curves as of the date of the estimate (adjusted for basis differentials), estimated operating and development costs, and a risk-adjusted discount rate (all of which are designated as Level 3 inputs within the fair value hierarchy). For unproved properties, fair value is determined using unobservable market comparables. For the asset retirement liability assumed, the fair value is determined using the same inputs as describedescribed in the paragraph above. See Note 3 for additional information.

The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 and AugustDecember 31, 2015 by level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands):
Fair Value Measurements at November 30, 2015Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2016
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 TotalLevel 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Financial assets and liabilities:              
Commodity derivative asset$
 $7,340
 $
 $7,340
$
 $8,293
 $
 $8,293
Commodity derivative liability$
 $
 $
 $
$
 $
 $
 $


Fair Value Measurements at August 31, 2015Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 TotalLevel 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Financial assets and liabilities:              
Commodity derivative asset$
 $4,462
 $
 $4,462
$
 $9,568
 $
 $9,568
Commodity derivative liability$
 $
 $
 $
$
 $
 $
 $


14



Commodity Derivative Instruments

The Company determines its estimate of the fair value of commodity derivative instruments using a market approach based on several factors, including quoted commoditymarket prices in active markets, quotes from third parties, the credit rating of each counterparty, and the Company’s own credit standing. In consideration of counterparty credit risk, the Company assessed the possibility of whether the counterparties to its derivative contracts would default by failing to make any contractually required payments. The Company considers the counterparties to be of substantial credit quality and believes that they have the financial resources and willingness to meet their potential repayment obligations associated with the derivative transactions. At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, derivative instruments utilized by the Company consist of puts and collars. The crude oil and natural gas derivative markets are highly active. Although the Company’s derivative instruments are based on several factors, including public indices, the instruments themselves are primarily traded with third-party counterparties and are not openly traded on an exchange.counterparties. As such, the Company has classified these instruments as Level 2.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The Company’s financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, commodity derivative instruments (discussed above) and credit facility borrowings. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are representative of their fair values due to their short-term maturities. The carrying amount of the Company’s credit facility approximated fair value as it bears interest at variable rates over the term of the loan.

9.Interest Expense

The components of interest expense are (in thousands):

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Revolving bank credit facility$493
 $378
$141
 $821
Amortization of debt issuance costs252
 137
295
 242
Less, interest capitalized(745) (515)(436) (1,024)
Interest expense, net$
 $
$
 $39

10.Shareholders’ Equity

The Company's classes of stock are summarized as follows:

As of November 30, As of August 31,
2015 2015As of March 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015
Preferred stock, shares authorized10,000,000
 10,000,000
10,000,000
 10,000,000
Preferred stock, par value$0.01
 $0.01
$0.01
 $0.01
Preferred stock, shares issued and outstandingnil
 nil
nil
 nil
Common stock, shares authorized200,000,000
 200,000,000
300,000,000
 300,000,000
Common stock, par value$0.001
 $0.001
$0.001
 $0.001
Common stock, shares issued and outstanding109,547,330
 105,099,342
126,245,686
 110,033,601

Preferred stock may be issued in series with such rights and preferences as may be determined by the Board of Directors.  Since inception, the Company has not issued any preferred shares.


15




Shares of the Company’s common stock were issued during three months ended November 30, 2015 and 2014,March 31, 2016 as described further below.

CommonSales of common stock issued for acquisition of mineral property interests

During the period presented,In January 2016, the Company issuedcompleted a public offering of its common stock in an underwritten public offering led by Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC. The Company agreed to sell 14,000,000 shares of its common stock to the Underwriters at a price of $5.545 per share. In addition, pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, the Underwriters were granted an option, exercisable within 30 days, to purchase up to an additional 2,100,000 shares of common stock on the same terms and conditions. The option was exercised on January 26, 2016, bringing the total number of shares issued to 16,100,000. Net proceeds to the Company, after deduction of underwriting discounts and expenses payable by the Company, were $89.2 million. Proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, which may include continuing to develop our acreage position in exchangethe Wattenberg Field in Colorado, repaying amounts borrowed under the Revolver, funding a portion of our capital expenditure program for mineral property interests.the remainder of 2016, or other uses. Initially, proceeds were used to repay amounts borrowed under the Revolver.

Subsequent to March 31, 2016, shares of the Company's common stock were issued as described further below.

Sales of common stock

In April 2016, the Company completed a public offering of its common stock in an underwritten public offering led by Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC. The valueCompany agreed to sell 19,500,000 shares of each transaction was determined usingits common stock to the marketUnderwriters at a price of $7.3535 per share. In addition, pursuant to the Company’sUnderwriting Agreement, the Underwriters were granted an option, exercisable within 30 days, to purchase up to an additional 2,925,000 shares of common stock on the datesame terms and conditions. The option was exercised on April 12, 2016, bringing the total number of each transaction.shares issued to 22,425,000. Net proceeds to the Company, after deduction of underwriting discounts and expenses payable by the Company, were $164.8 million. Proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, including potential acquisitions. The Company expects to use a portion of the proceeds of the offering to pay a portion of the purchase price of the proposed acquisition described in Note 17.

 Three Months Ended November 30, 2015
Number of common shares issued for acquisition4,418,413
  
Price per common share$11.28
Aggregate value of shares issues (in thousands)$49,840

11.Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share includes no dilution and is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution of securities that could share in the earnings of the Company.  The number of potential shares outstanding relating to stock options, performance stock units, non-vested restricted stock and stock bonus shares, and warrants is computed using the treasury stock method.  Potentially dilutive securities outstanding are not included in the calculation when such securities would have an anti-dilutive effect on earnings per share.

The following table sets forth the share calculation of diluted earnings per share:
Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic107,105,253
 79,008,719
121,392,736
 97,241,301
Potentially dilutive common shares from:      
Stock options
 793,270

 
Warrants
 339,163
Performance stock units
 
Restricted stock and stock bonus shares
 
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted107,105,253
 80,141,152
121,392,736
 97,241,301



The following potentially dilutive securities outstanding for the fiscal periods presented were not included in the respective earnings per share calculation above, as such securities had an anti-dilutive effect on earnings per share:

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Potentially dilutive common shares from:      
Stock options4,846,000
 523,000
5,545,500
 2,274,000
Restricted stock812,334
 
Performance stock units 1
464,946
 
Restricted stock and stock bonus shares1,136,401
 
Total5,658,334
 523,000
7,146,847
 2,274,000
1 The number of awards assumes that the associated vesting condition is met at the target amount. The final number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued may vary depending on the performance multiplier, which ranges from zero to two, depending on the level of satisfaction of the vesting condition.

12.Stock-Based Compensation

In addition to cash compensation, the Company may compensate certain service providers, including employees, directors, consultants, and other advisors, with equity-based compensation in the form of stock options, restricted stock, stock bonus shares, warrants and warrants.other equity awards.  The Company records an expense related toits equity compensation by pro-rating the estimated grant date fair value of each grant over the period of time that the recipient is required to provide services to the Company (the “vesting phase”).  The calculation of fair value is based, either directly or indirectly, on the quoted market value of the Company’s common stock.  Indirect valuations are calculated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. For the periods presented, all stock-based compensation expense was classified either as a component within general and administrative expense in the Company's statements of operations, or, for that portion which is directly attributable to individuals performing acquisition, exploration, and development activities, was capitalized to the full cost pool.

16




Stock-basedThe amount of stock-based compensation was recognized as follows (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015 2014
Stock options$1,560
 $500
Stock bonus shares6,489
 293
Total stock-based compensation$8,049
 $793
Less: stock-based compensation capitalized(852) (126)
Total stock-based compensation expense$7,197
 $667

Subsequent to November 30, 2015, the Company granted 706,104 bonus shares, of which 557,570 bonus shares vested immediately. Due to the immediate vesting condition, these 557,570 bonus shares were deemed to have a service inception date which precedes the grant date, and as such, $5.5 million of stock-based compensation was accrued during the three months ended November 30, 2015. Of the $5.5 million in stock-based compensation, $4.0 million was associated with bonuses granted to the departing co-CEOs.
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Stock options$1,410
 $590
Performance stock units
 
Restricted stock and stock bonus shares1,212
 1,014
Total stock-based compensation$2,622
 $1,604
Less: stock-based compensation capitalized(103) (253)
Total stock-based compensation expensed$2,519
 $1,351

Stock options under the stock option plans

During the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015, and 2014, the Company granted the following stock options:

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015
20142016
2015
Number of options to purchase common shares932,500
 75,000
489,500
 190,000
Weighted-average exercise price$11.05
 $12.87
$7.72
 $12.09
Term10 years
 10 years
Vesting Period5 years
 5 years
Term (in years)10 years
 10 years
Vesting Period (in years)3 - 5 years
 1 - 5 years
Fair Value (in thousands)$5,459
 $639
$1,729
 $1,083



The assumptions used in valuing stock options granted during each of the three monthsperiods presented were as follows:

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Expected term6.5 years
 6.5 years
6.3 years
 6.1 years
Expected volatility53% 72%55% 48%
Risk free rate1.75 - 2.00%
 1.95%1.50 - 1.75%
 1.35 - 1.86%
Expected dividend yield0.0% 0.0%0.0% 0.0%
Average forfeiture rate0.1% 0.3%


17



The following table summarizes activity for stock options for the three months ended November 30, 2015:

March 31, 2016:
Number of
Shares
 Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
 Weighted-Average
Remaining Contractual Life
 Aggregate Intrinsic Value
(thousands)
Number of Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Aggregate Intrinsic Value (thousands)
Outstanding, August 31, 20154,176,500
 $9.29
 8.6 years $8,187
Outstanding, December 31, 20155,056,000
 $9.71
 8.7 years $4,351
Granted932,500
 11.05
  489,500
 7.72
  
Exercised(188,000) 6.56
 981

 
 
Expired(60,000) 11.74
  
 
  
Forfeited(15,000) 5.76
  
 
  
Outstanding, November 30, 20154,846,000
 $9.70
 8.7 years $8,874
Outstanding, Exercisable at November 30, 20151,391,450
 $7.17
 7.3 years $5,960
Outstanding, Vested and expected to vest at November 30, 20154,729,461
 $9.65
 8.7 years $8,872
Outstanding, March 31, 20165,545,500
 $9.53
 8.5 years $3,717
Outstanding, Exercisable at March 31, 20161,595,450
 $7.44
 7.1 years $2,721
Outstanding, Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 20165,446,636
 $9.50
 8.5 years $3,716

The following table summarizes information about issued and outstanding stock options as of November 30, 2015:March 31, 2016:
 Outstanding Options Exercisable Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Options
Range of Exercise Prices OptionsWeighted-Average Remaining Contractual LifeWeighted-Average Exercise Price per Share OptionsWeighted-Average Exercise Price per Share OptionsWeighted-Average Remaining Contractual LifeWeighted-Average Exercise Price per Share OptionsWeighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
              
Under $5.00 654,000
5.8 years$3.51
 509,000
$3.50
 654,000
5.5 years$3.51
 509,000
$3.50
$5.00 - $6.99 480,000
7.2 years6.46
 345,000
6.53
 630,000
7.6 years6.34
 425,000
6.51
$7.00 - $10.99 910,000
9.0 years9.94
 127,450
9.27
 1,459,500
9.1 years9.60
 173,450
9.38
$11.00 - $13.46 2,802,000
9.5 years11.62
 410,000
11.62
 2,802,000
9.2 years11.62
 488,000
11.68
Total 4,846,000
8.7 years$9.70
 1,391,450
$7.17
 5,545,500
8.5 years$9.53
 1,595,450
$7.44
       

The estimated unrecognized compensation cost from unvested stock options not vested as of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, which will be recognized ratably over the remaining vesting phase, is as follows:

Unvested Options at November 30, 2015Unvested Options at March 31, 2016
Unrecognized compensation, net of estimated forfeitures (in thousands)$16,736
$17,612
Remaining vesting phase3.9 years
3.7 years



Restricted stock awards under theand stock bonus planawards

The Company grants shares of time-based restricted stock and stock bonus awards to directors, eligible employees and officers as a part of its equity incentive plan.  Restrictions and vesting periods for the awards are determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and are set forth in the award agreements. Each share of restricted stock or stock bonus award represents one share of the Company’s common stock to be released from restrictions upon completion of the vesting period. The time-based restricted stock awards typically vest in equal increments over three to five years. Shares of restricted stock and stock bonus awards are valued at the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date and are recognized over the vesting period of the award.


18



The following table summarizes activity for restricted stock and stock bonus awards for the three months ended November 30, 2015:

March 31, 2016:
Number of
Shares
 Weighted-Average
Grant-Date Fair Value
Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Non-vested, August 31, 2015632,500
 $10.93
Not vested, December 31, 2015915,867
 $10.63
Granted213,500
 11.05
397,221
 7.81
Vested(33,666) 10.72
(153,153) 10.40
Forfeited
 $
(23,534) 8.47
Non-vested, November 30, 2015812,334
 $10.96
Not vested, March 31, 20161,136,401
 $9.72

The estimated unrecognized compensation cost from unvested restricted stock and stock bonus awards not vested as of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, which will be recognized ratably over the remaining vesting phase, is as follows:
Unrecognized compensation, net of estimated forfeitures (in thousands)$9,670
Remaining vesting phase3.2 years

Performance-vested stock units

In March 2016, the Company granted performance-vested stock units (“PSUs”) to certain executives under its long term incentive plan. The number of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued to settle PSUs ranges from zero to two times the number of PSUs awarded. The PSUs granted are determined based on the Company’s performance over a three-year measurement period and vest in their entirety at the end of the measurement period. The PSUs will be settled in shares of the Company’s common stock following the end of the three-year performance cycle. Any PSUs that have not vested at the end of the applicable measurement period are forfeited. The vesting criterion for the PSUs is based on a comparison of the Company’s total shareholder return (“TSR”) for the measurement period compared with the TSRs of a group of peer companies for the same measurement period. As the vesting criterion is linked to the Company's share price, it is considered a market condition for purposes of calculating the grant-date fair value of the awards.

The fair value of the PSUs was measured at the grant date with a stochastic process method using a Monte Carlo simulation. A stochastic process is a mathematically defined equation that can create a series of outcomes over time. These outcomes are not deterministic in nature, which means that by iterating the equations multiple times, different results will be obtained for those iterations. In the case of the Company’s PSUs, the Company cannot predict with certainty the path its stock price or the stock prices of its peers will take over the performance period. By using a stochastic simulation, the Company can create multiple prospective stock pathways, statistically analyze these simulations, and ultimately make inferences regarding the most likely path the stock price will take. As such, because future stock prices are stochastic, or probabilistic with some direction in nature, the stochastic method, specifically the Monte Carlo Model, is deemed an appropriate method by which to determine the fair value of the PSUs. Significant assumptions used in this simulation include the Company’s expected volatility, risk-free interest rate based on U.S. Treasury yield curve rates with maturities consistent with the measurement period, as well as the volatilities for each of the Company’s peers.



The following table presents the assumptions used to determine the fair value of the PSUs granted during the three months ended March 31, 2016:
 Unvested Awards at November 30, 2015
Unrecognized compensation, net of estimated forfeitures (in thousands)$7,246
Remaining vesting phase3.6 years
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
Expected term2.8 years
Expected volatility58%
Risk free rate0.87%

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company granted 464,946 PSUs to certain executives. The fair value of the PSUs granted during the three months ended March 31, 2016 was $3.8 million. The Company did not recognize any compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2016, unrecognized compensation expense for PSUs was $3.8 million and will be amortized through 2018. A summary of the status and activity of PSUs is presented in the following table:
 
Number of Units1
 Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Not vested, December 31, 2015
 $
Granted464,946
 8.22
Vested
 
Forfeited
 
Not vested, March 31, 2016464,946
 $8.22
1 The number of awards assumes that the associated vesting condition is met at the target amount. The final number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued may vary depending on the performance multiplier, which ranges from zero to two, depending on the level of satisfaction of the vesting condition.

13.Income Taxes

We evaluate and update our estimated annual effective income tax rate on a quarterly basis based on current and forecasted operating results and tax laws. Consequently, based upon the mix and timing of our actual earnings compared to annual projections, our effective tax rate may vary quarterly and may make quarterly comparisons not meaningful. A tax expense or benefit unrelated to the current year income or loss is recognized in its entirety as a discrete item of tax in the period identified. The quarterly income tax provision is generally comprised of tax expense on income or benefit on loss at the most recent estimated annual effective tax rate, adjusted for the effect of discrete items.

The effective tax rate for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 was 8%0% compared to 36%42% for the three months ended November 30, 2014.March 31, 2015. The effective tax rate for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 is based upon a full year forecasted tax provision and differs from the statutory rate, primarily due to the recognition of a valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets. The effective tax rate for the three months ended November 30, 2014March 31, 2015 differs from the statutory rate primarily due to state taxes and nondeductible officers' compensation, partially offset by percentage depletion. There were no significant discrete items recorded during the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 and 2014.2015.

As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we had no liability for unrecognized tax benefits. The Company believes that there are no new items, nor changes in facts or judgments that should impact the Company’s tax position.  Given the substantial NOL carryforwards at both the federal and state levels, it is anticipated that any changes resulting from a tax examination would simply adjust the carryforwards, and would not result in significant interest expense or penalties.  Most of the Company's tax returns filed since August 31, 2011 are still subject to examination by tax authorities. As of the date of this report, we are current with our income tax filings in all applicable state jurisdictions, and we are not currently under any state income tax examinations.

No significant uncertain tax positions were identified as of any date on or before November 30, 2015.March 31, 2016.  The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax benefits in income tax expense.  As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, the Company has not recognized any interest or penalties related to uncertain tax benefits.

    Each period, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income


during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Based upon our cumulative losses through November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we have provided a full valuation allowance reducing the net realizable benefits.


19



14.Related Party Transactions

Whenever the Company engages in transactions with its officers, directors, or other related parties, the terms of the transaction are reviewed by the disinterested directors. All transactions must be on terms no less favorable to the Company than similar transactions with unrelated parties.

Lease Agreement:  The Company leases its Platteville facilities under a lease agreement with HS Land & Cattle, LLC (“HSLC”). HSLC is controlled by Ed Holloway and William Scaff, Jr., Directorsmembers of the Company.Company's board of directors.  The most recent lease, dated June 30, 2014, is currently on a month-to-month basis and requires payments of $15 thousand per month.  Historically, the lease has been renewed annually. Under this agreement, the Company incurred the following expenses to HSLC for the periods presented (in thousands):

 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015
2014
Rent expense$45
 $45

Mineral Leases Acquired from Director:  Mr. Seward owns mineral interests in several Colorado and Nebraska counties.  He agreed to lease his interests to the Company in exchange for restricted shares of common stock.  During the three months ended November 30, 2015, the Company acquired leases valued at $248 thousand from Mr. Seward. The acquisition of these leases was accrued as of November 30, 2015; however, the associated restricted shares for these leases were issued in December 2015.
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016
2015
Rent expense$45
 $45

Revenue Distribution Processing:  Effective January 1, 2012, theThe Company commenced processingprocesses revenue distribution payments to all persons that own a mineral interest in wells that it operates.  Payments to mineral interest owners included payments to entities controlled by threetwo of the Company’s officers, directors or their affiliates: Ed Holloway, and William Scaff Jr, and George Seward.Jr.  The following table summarizes the aggregate royalty payments made to officers, directors or their affiliates for the periods presented (in thousands):

 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2015 2014
Total royalty payments$54
 $53
 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2016 2015
Total royalty payments$18
 $8

15.Other Commitments and Contingencies

Volume Commitments

During fiscal 2015, the Company entered into crude oil transportation agreements with three counterparties and a volume commitment to a third party refiner. Deliveries under two of the transportation agreements commenced during the quarter ended November 30, 2015. Deliveries under the third transportation agreement are not expected to commence until late in fiscal 2016. The third party refinery volume commitment expired on December 31, 2015.


20



Pursuant to these agreements, we must deliver specific amounts of crude oil either from our own production or from oil we acquire from third parties. If we are unable to fulfill all of our contractual obligations, we may be required to pay penalties or damages pursuant to these agreements. As of January 1,March 31, 2016, our commitments over the next five years are as follows:

Year ending August 31,
Year ending December 31,Year ending December 31,
(in MBbls/year)
Remainder of 2016 1,651
 1,998
2017 4,072
 4,072
2018 4,072
 4,072
2019 4,072
 4,072
2020 4,072
 3,517
Thereafter 1,855
 1,090
Total 19,794
 18,821

During the quarter ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, the Company incurred a transportation deficiency charge of $1.5 million$68,000 as we were unable to meet all of the obligations during the quarter, and we estimate we could incur an additional $1.0 million deficiency charge in the month of December 2015.quarter. As of January 1,March 31, 2016, our current production exceeds our delivery obligations, subsequent to the expiration of the volume commitment to a third party refiner.obligations.



Office leases

The Company leases its Platteville offices and other facilities from a related party, as described in Note 14. In addition, the Company maintains its principal offices in Denver. The Denver office lease requires monthly payments of approximately $30 thousand and terminates in October 2016.

Litigation

From time to time, the Company is a party to various commercial and regulatory claims, pending or threatened legal action, and other proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. It is the opinion of management that none of the current matters of contention are reasonably likely to have a material adverse impact on its business, financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

16.Supplemental Schedule of Information to the Statements of Cash Flows

The following table supplements the cash flow information presented in the financial statements for the periods presented (in thousands):

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
Supplemental cash flow information:2015 20142016 2015
Interest paid$514
 $321
$146
 $923
Income taxes (refunded) paid(150) 110

 
      
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Accrued well costs$41,746
 $69,511
$15,324
 $33,077
Assets acquired in exchange for common stock49,840
 

 70
Asset retirement costs and obligations459
 269

 

17.Subsequent Events

On December 15, 2015,In April 2016, the Company heldcompleted a public offering of its annual meetingcommon stock, which resulted in the issuance of shareholders.an additional 22,425,000 shares at a price of $7.3535 per share. This transaction is described more fully in Note 10.

In April 2016, the Company agreed to divest approximately 3,700 net undeveloped acres and 107 vertical wells primarily in Adams County, Colorado for total consideration of approximately $27 million in cash, subject to customary purchase price adjustments, in two transactions. The shareholders approveddivested assets had associated production of approximately 200 BOED. The vertical well transaction closed in April 2016, and the undeveloped acreage transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2016.

On May 2, 2016, we entered into a purchase and sale agreement with a large publicly-traded company, pursuant to which we have agreed to acquire approximately 72,000 gross (33,100 net) acres in an area referred to as the Greeley-Crescent project in the Wattenberg Field for $505 million, subject to customary closing conditions and purchase price adjustments (the "GC Agreement").  Estimated net daily production from the properties to be acquired was approximately 2,400 BOE in the three months ended March 31, 2016. The acquisition is expected close on two separate dates, with the undeveloped lands and non-operated production expected to close in the second quarter of 2016 with an effective date of April 1, 2016, followed by the operated producing properties (assuming regulatory approval is obtained) later in 2016 with an effective date for horizontal wells of April 1, 2016, and an effective date for vertical wells of the first day of the calendar month in which the closing for such properties occurs. The closings are subject to the completion of customary due diligence and closing conditions, and in the case of the second closing, receipt of a regulatory approval. Accordingly, the transactions may not close in the expected timeframes or at all. We expect to fund the acquisition using a combination of cash on hand and proceeds from financing transactions, including the issuance of Senior Notes as described below.

On May 3, 2016, the Company entered into a commitment letter (the “Commitment Letter”) with two investors (the “Investors”) pursuant to which the Investors have agreed to purchase $80 million aggregate principal amount of 9% senior unsecured notes of the Company (the “Senior Notes”). The Senior Notes will mature five years from the date of issuance. The Senior Notes will be issued, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, contemporaneously with the first closing under the agreement governing the GC Acquisition. The Commitment Letter provides that the terms of the Senior Notes will be set forth in definitive documentation to be entered into at or prior to the time of issuance. Such terms will include customary covenants limiting the


Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness, sell assets, make certain restricted payments and incur liens on its properties, and customary provisions regarding redemptions, repurchases following a change of control event and events of default.

On May 3, 2016, the Company entered into an amendment to its revolving credit facility the Company’s Articleseffect of Incorporationwhich, among other things, is to increasepermit the number of authorized shares of common stockissuance by the Company of the Company from 200,000,000 to 300,000,000. Additionally, the shareholders approved the Company's 2015 Equity Incentive Plan (the "2015

21



Plan"). With the approval of the 2015 Plan, the 2011 non-qualified stock option plan, the 2011 incentive stock option plan, and the 2011 stock bonus plan (collectively, the "2011 Plans") were terminated. Existing awards under the 2011 Plans will continue in accordance with their applicable terms and conditions. Under the 2015 Plan, the Company is authorized to grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock bonuses and other forms of awards that may be granted or denominated in the Company’s common stock or units of the Company’s common stock, as well as, cash bonus awards. The Company will have 4,500,000 common shares authorized for grant under the 2015 Plan.Senior Notes.

Effective December 31, 2015, Ed Holloway and William Scaff, Jr. resigned their positions as Co-Chief Executive Officers of the Company. They continue to serve as directors, and management has been authorized to hire Mr. Holloway and Mr. Scaff as consultants with each being paid $70 thousand per month during the five-month period ending May 31, 2016. Effective January 1, 2016, Lynn A. Peterson assumed the duties of the Chief Executive Officer.


22




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

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of management and information currently available to management. The use of words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “should,” “likely,” or similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this report include statements relating to future capital expenditures and projects, the adequacy and nature of future sources of financing, possible future impairment charges, midstream capacity issues, future differentials, and future production relative to volume commitments.commitments, and the closing and effect of proposed transactions.

The identification in this report of factors that may affect our future performance and the accuracy of forward-looking statements is meant to be illustrative and by no means exhaustive. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty.

FactorsImportant factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:

extended or further decline in oil and natural gas prices;
operating hazards that adversely affect our ability to conduct business;
uncertainties in the estimates of proved reserves;
the effect of seasonal weather conditions and wildlife restrictions on our operations;
our ability to fund, develop, produce and acquire additional oil and natural gas reserves that are economically recoverable;
our ability to obtain adequate financing;
the effect of local and regional factors on oil and natural gas prices;
incurrence of ceiling test write-downs;
our inability to control operations on properties that we do not operate;
the availability and capacity of gathering systems and pipelines for our production;
the strength and financial resources of our competitors;
our ability to complete the acquisition discussed in “Significant Developments” and integrate the acquired properties, and the risks associated with liabilities assumed or other problems relating to that acquisition;
our ability to successfully identify, execute, or effectively integrate future acquisitions;
the effect of federal, state, and local laws and regulations;
the effects of, including cost to comply with, new environmental legislation or regulatory initiatives, including those related to hydraulic fracturing;
our ability to market our production;
the effects of local moratoria or bans on our business;
the effect of environmental liabilities;
the effect of the adoption and implementation of new statutory and regulatory requirements for derivative transactions;
changes in U.S. tax laws;
our ability to satisfy our contractual obligations and commitments;
the amount of our indebtedness and ability to maintain compliance with debt covenants;
the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and our internal controls over financial reporting;
the geographic concentration of our principal properties;
our ability to protect critical data and technology systems;
the availability of water for use in our operations; and

23



the risks and uncertainties described and referenced in the "Risk Factors."

Introduction

The following discussion and analysis was prepared to supplement information contained in the accompanying unaudited condensed financial statements and is intended to explain certain items regarding the Company's financial condition as of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, and its results of operations for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 and 2014.2015.  It should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited condensed financial statements and related notes thereto contained in this report as well as the audited


financial statements included in ourthe Transition Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal yearfour months ended AugustDecember 31, 2015.2015 filed with the SEC on April 22, 2016.

Overview

Synergy Resources Corporation ("we," "us," "Synergy," or the "Company") is a growth-oriented independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas in and around the D-J Basin, which we believe to be one of the premier, liquids-rich oil and gas resource plays in the United States. The D-J Basin generally extends from the Denver metropolitan area throughout northeast Colorado into Wyoming, Nebraska, and Kansas. It contains hydrocarbon-bearing deposits in several formations, including the Niobrara, Codell, Greenhorn, Shannon, Sussex, J-Sand and D-Sand. The area has produced oil and gas for over fifty years and benefits from established infrastructure including midstream and refining capacity, long reserve life, and multiple service providers.

Our drilling and completion activities are focused in the Wattenberg Field, an area that covers the western flank of the D-J Basin, predominantly in Weld County, Colorado. Currently, we are focused on the horizontal development of the Codell and Niobrara formations, which are characterized by relatively high liquids content. We operate the majority of the horizontal wells we have working interests in, and we strive to maintain a high net revenue interest in all of our operations.

Substantially all of our producing wells are either in or adjacent to the Wattenberg Field. We operate over 74%approximately 75% of our proved producing reserves, and over 98% of our planned fiscal 2016 drilling and completion expenditures are focused on the Wattenberg Field. This gives us both operational focus and development flexibility to maximize returns on our leasehold position.

Core Operations

Since commencing active operations in September 2008, we have undergone significant growth. From inception through November 30, 2015, we have completed, acquired or participated in 594 gross (401 net) successful oil and gas wells. Our early development efforts were focused on drilling vertical wells into the Niobrara, Codell, and J-Sand formations. In May 2013, we shifted our efforts to horizontal well development within the Wattenberg Field.

The following table provides details about our ownership interests with respect to vertical and horizontal producing wells as of November 30, 2015:

March 31, 2016:
Vertical Wells
Operated WellsOperated Wells Non-Operated Wells TotalsOperated Wells Non-Operated Wells Totals
GrossGross Net Gross Net Gross NetGross Net Gross Net Gross Net
332
 285
 71
 21
 403
 306
331
 285
 71
 21
 402
 306
Horizontal Wells
Operated WellsOperated Wells Non-Operated Wells TotalsOperated Wells Non-Operated Wells Totals
GrossGross Net Gross Net Gross NetGross Net Gross Net Gross Net
78
 76
 113
 19
 191
 95
86
 84
 130
 19
 216
 103

In addition to the producing wells summarized in the preceding table, as of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we were the operator of 25 wells in progress, and we were participating as a non-operating working interest owner in 7 21gross (17net) wells in progress.

During the first three months of fiscal2016, our average net daily production was 11,510 BOED. By comparison, during the three months ended March 31, 2015, our average production rate was 7,029 BOED. By March 31, 2016, approximately 90% of our daily production was from horizontal wells as compared to less than 10% as of August 31, 2013.

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, crude oil prices have declined by approximately 20%1% and gas prices declined by approximately 16%. Price declines especially of this magnitude, can impact many aspects of our operations. For a more complete analysis ofadditional discussion concerning the potential impacts from declining commodity prices, please see our discussions in "Drilling and Completion Operations," "Market Conditions," "Trends and Outlook," and "Oil and Gas Commodity Contracts.Contracts," and "Trends and Outlook."

24





Strategy

Our primary objective is to enhance shareholder value by increasing our net asset value, net reserves and cash flow through development, exploitation, exploration, and acquisitions of oil and gas properties. WeWith current economic conditions, we intend to follow a balanced risk strategy by allocating capital expenditures to a combination of lower risk development and exploitation activities and higher potential exploration prospects.activities. Key elements of our business strategy include the following:

Concentrate on our existing core area in and around the D-J Basin, where we have significant operating experience.  All of our current wells are located within the D-J Basin, and our undeveloped acreage is located either in or adjacent to the D-J Basin.  Focusing our operations in this area leverages our management, technical and operational experience in the basin.
 
Develop and exploit existing oil and natural gas properties.  Since inception, our principal growth strategy has been to develop and exploit our acquired and leased properties to add proved reserves.  In the Wattenberg Field, we target three benches of the Niobrara formation as well as the Codell formation for horizontal drilling and production. Our plans focus on horizontal development as weWe believe horizontal drilling is the most efficient way to recover the potential hydrocarbons. Wehydrocarbons and consider the Wattenberg Field to be relatively low-risk because information gained from the large number of existing wells can be applied to potential future wells.  There is enough similarity between wells in the Wattenberg Field that the exploitation process is generally repeatable.

Improve hydrocarbon recovery through increased well density.  We utilize the best available industry practices in our effort to determine the optimal recovery area for each well. When we began our operated horizontal well development program in the Wattenberg Field, we assumed spacing of 16 wells per 640 acre section. With increased experience and industry knowledge, we are now testing up to 24 horizontal wells per section.
 
Complete selective acquisitions.  We seek to acquire developed and undeveloped oil and gas properties, primarily in the D-J Basin and certain adjacent areas.core Wattenberg Field.  We generally seek acquisitions that will provide us with opportunities for reserve additions and increased cash flow through production enhancement and additional development and exploratory prospect generation.
 
Retain control over the operation of a substantial portion of our production. As operator of a majority of our wells and undeveloped acreage, we control the timing and selection of new wells to be drilled or existing wells to be re-completed.  This allows us to modify our capital spending as our financial resources and underlying lease terms allow and market conditions permit.

Maintain financial flexibility while focusing on operational cost control.  We strive to be a cost-efficient operator in the D-J Basin. Ourand to maintain a relatively low utilization of debt, which enhances our financial flexibility, and ourflexibility. Our high degree of operational control, as well as our focus on operating efficiencies and short return on investment cycle times, is central to our operating strategy. Additionally, we seek to maintain low lease operating, drilling and completion costs. We intend to finance our operations through a mixture of cash from operations, debt and equity capital as market conditions allow.  

Use the latest technology to maximize returns.  BeginningOur primary focus is drilling wells that have 7,000' to 10,000' of lateral as opposed to the 4,000' laterals that were initially drilled in fiscal 2013, we shifted our emphasis away from drilling vertical wells towards drilling horizontal wells. In doing so, we have significantly increased our production and the value of our asset base. While horizontal drilling requires higher up-front costs, these wells have generated relatively higher returns on our capital deployed.Wattenberg Field. Increasing the number of wells drilled within a given drilling section, drilling longer laterals, and applying technical advances in drilling and completion designs is leading to enhanced productivity. Production results from various well designs are analyzed, and the conclusions from each analysis are factored into future well designs that take into account spacing between hydraulic fracturing stages, potential communication between wellbores, lateral length, timing and economics. Similarly, we evaluate the use of different completion fluids.

Significant Developments

Acquisition and Divestiture Activity

Acquisition of Mineral Assets from K.P. Kauffman on October 20, 2015

On October 20, 2015, we completedMay 2, 2016, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase approximately 72,000 gross (33,100 net) acres located in an area known as the Greeley-Crescent project in Weld County Colorado, primarily in and around the city of Greeley, for $505 million (the “GC Acquisition”). The Company has identified over 900 gross drilling locations on the acquired lands using an initial assumption of horizontal development with 20-24 wells per drilling unit. Estimated net daily production from the properties to be acquired was approximately 2,400 BOE in the three months ended March 31, 2016. The acquisition is expected close on two separate dates, with the undeveloped lands and non-operated production expected to close in the second quarter of interests2016 with an effective date of April 1, 2016, followed by the operated producing properties (assuming regulatory approval is obtained) later in producing2016 with an effective date for horizontal wells of April 1, 2016, and non-producing leaseholdsan effective date for vertical wells of the first day of the calendar month in which the closing for such properties occurs. The closings are subject to the completion of


customary due diligence and closing conditions, and in the case of the second closing, receipt of a regulatory approval. Accordingly, the transactions may not close in the expected timeframes or at all. The Company entered into the Commitment Letter described under “-Financing and Other” in connection with the GC Acquisition.

In April 2016, the Company agreed to divest approximately 3,700 net undeveloped acres and 107 vertical wells primarily in Adams County, Colorado for total consideration of approximately $27 million in cash, subject to customary purchase price adjustments, in two transactions. The divested assets had associated production of approximately 200 BOED. The vertical well transaction closed in April 2016, and the undeveloped acreage transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2016.

Financing and Other

Equity offerings

On January 27, 2016, the Company closed on the sale of 16,100,000 shares of common stock pursuant to an underwriting agreement with Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, acting severally on behalf of itself and the other underwriters.  The price to the Company was $5.545 per share and net proceeds to the Company, after deduction of underwriting discounts and expenses payable by the Company were $89.2 million. Proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, including continuing to develop our acreage position in the Wattenberg Field from K.P. Kauffmanin Colorado, repaying amounts borrowed under the Revolver, funding a portion of our capital expenditure program for the remainder of 2016, or other uses. Initially, proceeds were used to repay amounts borrowed under the Revolver.

On April 14, 2016, the Company Inc. The assets include leasehold rights for approximately 4,300 net acres inclosed on the

25



core Wattenberg Field and non-operated working interests in 25 gross (approximately 5 net) horizontal wells in the Niobrara and Codell formations. Net production associated sale of an additional 22,425,000 shares of common stock pursuant to an underwriting agreement with the purchased assetssame underwriters.  The price to the Company was approximately 1,200 BOED.$7.3535 per share and net proceeds to the Company, after deduction of underwriting discounts and expenses payable by the Company were $164.8 million.  The proceeds of this offering are also expected to be used for general corporate purposes, including to fund development activities and/or potential future acquisitions, including a portion of the purchase price for the assets was $85.2GC Acquisition.

Revolving Credit Facility

We continue to maintain a borrowing arrangement with our bank syndicate to provide us with liquidity, which could be used to develop oil and gas properties, acquire new oil and gas properties, and for working capital and other general corporate purposes. As of March 31, 2016, this revolving credit facility (sometimes referred to as the "Revolver") provides for maximum borrowings of $500 million, comprised of $35.0 million in cash and approximately 4.4 million restricted sharessubject to adjustments based upon a borrowing base calculation, which is re-determined semi-annually using updated reserve reports. The Revolver is collateralized by certain of our common stock,assets, including producing properties, and bears a variable interest rate on borrowings, with the effective rate varying with utilization. The Revolver expires on December 15, 2019.

On January 28, 2016, the Revolver was amended in connection with the semi-annual borrowing base redetermination. The borrowing base was reduced from $163 million to $145 million, and the Revolver was further amended to (i) delete the minimum interest rate floor, (ii) delete the minimum liquidity covenant, (iii) add a current ratio covenant of 1.0 to 1.0, and (iv) delete the minimum hedging requirement. As of March 31, 2016, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Revolver. As of March 31, 2016, the entire $145 million borrowing base was available to us for future borrowings. See further discussion in Note 6 to our financial statements.

On May 3, 2016, the Revolver was further amended to, among other things, permit the issuance of senior unsecured notes, subject to closing adjustments.certain conditions. Pursuant to the amendment, if the aggregate amount of senior unsecured notes issued from time to time exceeds $100 million, then the borrowing base will automatically be reduced by an amount equal to 25% of the stated principal amount of the senior unsecured notes in excess of $100 million.

Commitment Letter

On May 3, 2016, the Company entered into a commitment letter (the “Commitment Letter”) with two investors (the “Investors”) pursuant to which the Investors have agreed to purchase $80 million aggregate principal amount of 9% senior unsecured notes of the Company (the “Senior Notes”). The transaction has an effectiveSenior Notes will mature five years from the date of September 1, 2015.issuance. The Senior Notes will be issued, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, contemporaneously with the first closing under the agreement governing the GC Acquisition. The Commitment Letter provides that the terms of the Senior Notes will be set forth in definitive documentation to be entered into at or prior to the time of issuance. Such terms will include customary covenants limiting the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness, sell assets, make certain restricted payments and incur liens on its properties, and customary provisions regarding redemptions, repurchases following a change of control event and events of default.



Impairment of full cost pool

Every quarter, we perform a ceiling test as prescribed by SEC regulations for entities following the full cost method of accounting. This test determines a limit on the book value of oil and gas properties using a formula to estimate future net cash flows from oil and gas reserves. This formula is dependent on several factors and assumes future oil and natural gas prices to be equal to an unweighted arithmetic average of oil and natural gas prices derived from each of the 12 months prior to the reporting period. During ourthe first fiscal quarter of 2016, this calculation indicated that the ceiling amount had declined, largely as a result of the decline in oil and natural gas prices, such that the ceiling was less than the net book value of oil and gas properties. As a result, we recorded a ceiling test impairment totaling $125.2$45.6 million for the three months ended November 30, 2015.March 31, 2016. This full cost ceiling impairment is recognized as a charge to earnings and may not be reversed in future periods, even if oil and natural gas prices subsequently increase. For more information, see "Trends and Outlook" for discussion relating to future potential impairments.

Drilling and Completion Operations

Our drilling and completion schedule has a material impact on our production forecast and a corresponding impact on our expected future cash flows. As commodity prices have fallen, we have been able to reduce per wellper-well drilling and completion costs. We actively monitorbelieve that at current drilling and completion cost levels and with currently prevailing commodity prices, and costs to determine if we can achieve a reasonable well-level raterates of return. Ourreturn when drilling mid or long laterals. Should commodity prices weaken further, our operational flexibility allowswill allow us to adjust our drilling and completion schedule, as necessary.if prudent. If management believes the well-level internal rate of return will be at or below our weighted-average cost of capital, we may choose to further delay completions and/or forego drilling altogether.

SubsequentDuring February 2016, the Company acquired undeveloped oil and gas leasehold interests in the Wattenberg field, referred to as the quarter end, we elected to terminate our existing drilling rig contract, approximately one month prior to the contract’s expiration date, and entered into a 180 day contractFagerberg pad, for a new build rig. We believe the lower day ratetotal purchase price of approximately $10.0 million, including lands, permits, and expected increased efficienciescertain surface improvements. The Company is currently drilling 14 mid-length lateral wells on part of the new rig should more than offset the expected $0.5 million early termination fee incurred. The new rig is expected to be mobilized onto our Vista pad in mid-January 2016.acquired lands.

During the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we drilledcompleted the drilling of 10 horizontal wells targetingon the Niobrara or Codell formations.Vista pad. Drilling on the pad commenced in November 2015 but was halted in December 2015 when the rig contract was terminated. In January 2016, a new design rig was contracted and completed drilling operations on the pad. That rig was then moved to the Fagerberg pad and described above. During the three months ended November 30, 2015,this period, we completed 5did not complete any horizontal wells. As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, there are 2521 gross horizontal wells in various stages of completion. For 2016, we expect to drill 55 gross (52 net) horizontal wells of mostly mid and long laterals, targeting the Codell and Niobrara zones.

Other Operations

We continue to be opportunistic with respect to acquisition efforts. WeIn an effort to extend the length of laterals in our wells, we continue to enter into land and working interest swaps to increase our overall leasehold control. Duringinterest.

Production

For the three months ended November 30, 2015, we consummated several asset and acreage swaps, resulting in a higher working interest in several ofMarch 31, 2016, our operated padsaverage daily production increased to 11,510 BOED as well as a higher working interest in yet-to-be-developed leaseholds.

Production

Our production decreased from 10,925compared to 7,029 BOED for the three months ended AugustMarch 31, 2015 to 10,540 BOED for the three months ended November 30, 2015. The additional production volumes from recently completed wells and the K.P. Kauffman acquisition did notmore than offset the natural decline of our existing wells. The increase was achieved despite continuing mid-stream constraints, high line pressures in the northern portion of the Wattenberg Field, and the temporary suspension of production from shut-in wells due to offset operator completion activities.


26




Market Conditions

Market prices for our products significantly impact our revenues, net income, and cash flow.  The market prices for crude oil and natural gas are inherently volatile.  To provide historical perspective, the following table presents the average annual NYMEX prices for oil and natural gas for each of the last five fiscal years.

Years Ended August 31,Four Months Ended December 31, Year Ended August 31,
2015 2014 2013 2012 20112015 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
Average NYMEX prices                    
Oil (per Bbl)$60.65
 $100.39
 $94.58
 $94.88
 $91.79
$42.82
 $60.65
 $100.39
 $94.58
 $94.88
 $91.79
Natural gas (per Mcf)$3.12
 $4.38
 $3.55
 $2.82
 $4.12
$2.26
 $3.12
 $4.38
 $3.55
 $2.82
 $4.12

For the periods presented in this report, the following table presents the Reference Price (derived from average NYMEX prices weighted to reflect monthly sales volumes) as well as the differential between the Reference Price and the wellhead prices realized by us.

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Oil (NYMEX WTI)      
Average NYMEX Price$44.70
 $84.47
$33.18
 $46.87
Realized Price$36.72
 $73.69
$23.89
 $37.35
Differential$(7.98) $(10.78)$(9.29) $(9.52)
      
Gas (NYMEX Henry Hub)      
Average NYMEX Price$2.36
 $3.94
$2.00
 $2.99
Realized Price$2.49
 $4.74
$1.82
 $3.35
Differential$0.13
 $0.80
$(0.18) $0.36

Market conditions in the Wattenberg Field require us to sell oil at prices less than the prices posted by the NYMEX. The negative differential between the prices actually received by us at the wellhead and the published indices reflects deductions imposed upon us by the purchasers for location and quality adjustments. We continue to negotiate with crude oil purchasers to obtain better differentials. With regard to the sale of natural gas and liquids, we werehave historically been able to sell production at prices greater than the prices posted for dry gas, primarily because prices that we receive include payment for a percentage of the value attributable to the natural gas liquids produced with the gas.

There has been a significant decline in the price of oil since the summer of 2014.  Our revenues, results of operations, profitability and future growth, and the carrying value of our oil and natural gas properties, depend primarily on the prices that we receive for our oil and natural gas production. A further decline in oil and natural gas prices will adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.  Furthermore, low oil and natural gas prices can result in an impairment of the value of our properties and the calculation of the “ceiling test” required under the accounting principles for companies following the “full cost” method of accounting. Our ceiling tests resulted in a total impairment charge of $45.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, and additional impairments may occur in the future.

Trends and Outlook

Oil traded at$49.2037.13per Bbl onMonday, AugustDecember 31, 2015,, the last day of our 2015 fiscal year, but declined more than approximately20%1%through November 2015. This decline has resulted in a reduction of operating cash flow and contributed March 31, 2016toa ceiling test impairment charge of $125.2 million for the three months ended November 30, 2015$36.94. Natural gas traded at.$2.34 Subsequent to the end of the quarter, crude oil prices have continued to decline, making it likely we will need to recognize additional impairment charges in the future. As an example, had the ceiling test computation used the lower price deck of $38.93 per barrel and $2.54 per Mcf as derived from market conditions subsequent to November 30,onDecember 31, 2015, an additional impairment ofbut declined approximately $74 million would be recorded.

16%throughMarch 31, 2016to$1.96. A continuing decline in oil and gas prices (i) will reduce our cash flow which, in turn, will reduce the funds available for exploring and replacing oil and gas reserves, (ii) will potentially reduce our current Revolver borrowing base capacity and increase the difficulty of obtaining equity and debt financing and worsen the terms on which such financing may be obtained, (iii) will reduce the number of oil and gas prospects which have reasonable economic returns, (iv) may cause us to allow leases to expire based upon the value of potential oil and gas reserves in relation to the costs of exploration, (v) may result in marginally productive oil and gas wells being abandoned as non-commercial, and (vi) may cause a ceiling test impairment. However, price declines reduce the competition for oil and gas properties and correspondingly reduce the prices paid for leases and prospects.


27




Other factors that will most significantly affect our results of operations include (i) activities on properties that we operate, (ii) the marketability of our production, (iii) our ability to satisfy our financial and transportation obligations, (iv) completion of acquisitions of additional properties and reserves, and (v) competition from larger companies. Our revenues will also be significantly impacted by our ability to maintain or increase oil or gas production through exploration and development activities.

Horizontal well development in the Wattenberg Field is enabling operators to utilize higher density drilling within designated spacing units. When we began our operated horizontal well development program in the Wattenberg Field, we allowed for up to 16 wells per 640 acre section, but we are now testing up to 24 horizontal wells per section.

The recent decline in commodity prices has led to a corresponding decline in service costs, which directly relate to our drilling and completion costs. On average, we reducedWe have been able to reduce drilling and completion costs during fiscal 2015the three months ended March 31, 2016 due to a combination of optimizing well designs, moving to day-rate drilling, negotiating lower contract rates for drilling rigs, fewer average days to drill, and securing lower completion costs. TheseThis focus on cost reductions helped supportreduction has supported well-level economics in spite of the severe price drop in crude oil and natural gas we experienced over the year.gas. We continue to strive to reduce drilling and completion costs going forward to offset the negative impacts associated with lower commodity prices, but we do not believe that we canwill achieve the same percentage reduction inof costs during fiscal 2016, and well-level rates of return may be lower, particularly if commodity prices continue to decline.

From time to time, our production has been adversely impacted by high natural gas gathering line pressures, especially in the northern area of the Wattenberg Field. Where it is cost effective, we install wellhead compression to enhance our ability to inject gas into the gathering system and, in some instances, install larger gathering lines to help mitigate the impacts. Additionally, midstream companies that operate the gas gathering pipelines in the area continue to make significant capital investments to increase their capacities. While these actions have helped reduce overall line pressures in the field, several of our producing locations have been shut-in on occasion due to line pressures exceeding system limits.

We are evaluatinghave begun the use of oil gathering lines to certain production locations. We anticipate that these gathering systems would be owned and operated by independent third party companies, but that we would commit specific wellhead production to these systems. We believe that oil gathering lines would have several benefits including, a) reduced need to use trucks to gather our oil, thereby reducing truck traffic in and around our production locations, b) potentially lower gathering costs as pipeline gathering tends to be more efficient, c) less on-site oil storage capacity, resulting in lower production location facility costs, and d) generally less noise and dust.

Oil transportation and takeaway capacity has recently increased with the expansion of certain interstate pipelines servicing the Wattenberg field.Field. This has reversed the prior imbalance of oil production exceeding the combination of local refinery demand and the capacity of pipelines to move the oil to other markets. Depending on transportation commitments, local refinery demand, and our production volumes, we may be able to reduce the negative differential that we have historically realized on our oil production. We anticipate that there will continue to be excess pipeline takeaway capacity as additional pipelines are expected to begin operations in the second half of calendar 2016. Further details regarding posted prices and average realized prices are discussed in the section entitled “Market Conditions,” presented in this Item 2.

We believe that the GC Acquisition, if completed, will allow us to achieve significant efficiencies through the establishment of a contiguous acreage position in an attractive area in the Wattenberg Field, which should facilitate the drilling of longer lateral wells and high-grading of our drilling inventory. As discussed in “-Liquidity and Capital Resources”, completion of the acquisition will require additional financing.

Other than the foregoing, we do not know of any trends, events, or uncertainties that will have had or are reasonably expected to have a material impact on our sales, revenues, expenses, liquidity, or capital resources.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Historically, our primary sources of capital have been net cash provided by the sale of equity and debt securities, cash flow from operations, proceeds from the sale of properties, and borrowings under bank credit facilities.  Our primary use of capital has been for the exploration, development, and acquisition of oil and natural gas properties.  Our future success in growing proved reserves and production will be highly dependent on capital resources available to us.

WeExclusive of the GC Acquisition, we believe that our capital resources, including cash on hand, amounts available under our revolving credit facility, proceeds from the sale of equity, and cash flow from operating activities, will be sufficient to fund our planned capital expenditures and operating expenses for the next twelve months. We intend to fund the purchase price of the GC Acquisition through a combination of cash on hand and proceeds of financing transactions, including the issuance of the Senior


Notes. We would not expect to commence drilling activities on the properties to be acquired in the GC Acquisition until 2017. Assuming we finance the purchase price for the GC Acquisition as anticipated, we believe that we will have adequate liquidity to fund our planned activities for the next twelve months. To the extent actual operating results differ from our anticipated results, or available borrowings under our credit facility are reduced, or we experience other unfavorable events, our liquidity could be adversely impacted.  Our liquidity would also be affected if we increase our capital expenditures or complete one or more additional acquisitions. Terms of future financings may be unfavorable, and we cannot assure investors that funding will be available on acceptable terms.

As operator of the majority of our wells and undeveloped acreage, we control the timing and selection of new wells to be drilled and/or completed.existing wells to be recompleted. This allows us to modify our capital spending as our financial resources allow and market conditions support. Additionally, our relatively low utilization of debt enhances our financial flexibility as it provides a potential source of future liquidity and enableswhile currently not overly burdening us to make capital decisions with limited restrictions imposed by debtrestrictive financial covenants lender oversight and/orand mandatory repayment schedules.


28



Sources and Uses

Our sources and uses of capital are heavily influenced by the prices that we receive for our production. During the first fiscal quarter of 2016, the NYMEX-WTI oil price ranged from a high of $49.20$41.45 per Bbl on Monday, August 31, 2015, the last day of our 2015 fiscal year,Tuesday, March 22, 2016 to a low of $39.27$26.19 per Bbl near the end of November 2015,on Thursday, February 11, 2016, while the NYMEX-Henry Hub natural gas price ranged from a high of $2.76$2.47 per MMBtu in the middle of Septemberon Friday, January 8, 2016 to a low of $2.03$1.64 per MMBtu near the end of October.on Thursday, March 3, 2016. These markets will likely continue to be volatile in the future. To deal with the volatility in commodity prices, we maintain a flexible capital investment program and seek to maintain a high operating interest in our leaseholds with limited long-term capital commitments. This enables us to accelerate or decelerate our activities quickly in response to changing industry environments.

At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we had cash and cash equivalents of $80.7$50.9 million and anno outstanding balance of $78.0 million under our revolving credit facility, leaving $85.0 million available under our revolving credit facility. Our sources and (uses) of funds for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015 and 2014 are summarized below (in thousands):

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Cash provided by operations$21,087
 $34,435
$8,122
 $39,759
Acquisitions and development of oil and gas properties and equipment(74,118) (66,137)(34,374) (57,811)
Cash used in other investing activities
 (6,250)
Cash (used in) provided by equity financing activities(154) 10,310
Net borrowings on Revolver
 40,000
Net cash provided by other investing activities
 3,696
Net cash provided by equity financing activities88,882
 190,774
Net cash used in debt financing activities(78,192) 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and equivalents$(53,185) $12,358
$(15,562) $176,418

Net cash provided by operating activities was $21.1$8.1 million and $34.4$39.8 million for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015, and 2014, respectively. The decline in cash from operating activities reflects the decline in commodity prices, which was partially offset by the increase in production.

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we received cash proceeds from and used in the following financing activities:

On January 27, 2016, we received cash proceeds of approximately $89.2 million (after underwriting discounts, commissions and expenses) from our public offering of 16,100,000 shares (including the shares sold pursuant to an over-allotment option exercised by the underwriters) at a price to us of $5.545 per share. These proceeds have been or are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, which may include continuing to develop our acreage position in the Wattenberg Field in Colorado, repaying amounts borrowed under the Revolver, funding a portion of our capital expenditure program for the remainder of 2016, or other uses. As discussed below, proceeds were initially used to repay amounts borrowed under the Revolver.
In January 2016, the Company repaid its outstanding borrowings under the Revolver of $78 million.



Subsequent to March 31, 2016, we received cash proceeds from the following financing activities:

On April 14, 2016, we received cash proceeds of approximately $164.8 million (after underwriting discounts, commissions and expenses) from our public offering of 22,425,000 shares (including the shares sold pursuant to an over-allotment option exercised by the underwriters) at a price to us of $7.3535 per share. These proceeds are also expected to be used for general corporate purposes, including to fund development activities and/or potential future acquisitions.

Credit Arrangements

We maintain a borrowing arrangement with a banking syndicate.  The arrangement, in the form of a revolving credit facility, was most recently amended with the SixthEighth Amendment to the credit facility on June 2, 2015.May 3, 2016.  The arrangement provides for a maximum loan commitment of $500 million; however, the maximum amount we can have outstandingborrow at any one time is subject to a borrowing base limitation, which stipulates that we may borrow up to the lesser of the maximum loan commitment or the borrowing base.  The borrowing base can increase or decrease based upon the value of the collateral, which secures any amounts borrowed under the line of credit.  The value of the collateral will generally be derived with reference to the estimated future net cash flows from our proved oil and gas reserves, discounted by 10%. Amounts borrowed under the facility are secured by substantially all of our producing wells and developed oil and gas leases. 

As of November 30,December 31, 2015, our borrowing base was $163 million, and we had $78.0$78 million outstanding under the facility.facility, which was fully repaid during the three months ended March 31, 2016. The maturity date of the facility is December 15, 2019. On January 28, 2016, the borrowing base was reduced from $163.0 million to $145.0 million. As of March 31, 2016, the total of the $145.0 million was available to us for future borrowings. The next semi-annual redetermination of the borrowing base has been rescheduledscheduled for JanuaryMay 2016.

InterestAs of March 31, 2016, interest on our revolving line of credit accrues at a variable rate, which will equal or exceed the minimum rate of 2.5%.rate. The interest rate pricing grid contains a graduated escalation in applicable margin for increased utilization. Prior to the Seventh Amendment discussed below, the minimum interest rate was 2.5%.

On January 28, 2016, the Revolver was amended to (i) delete the minimum interest rate floor, (ii) delete the minimum liquidity covenant, (iii) add a current ratio covenant of 1.0 to 1.0, and (iv) delete the minimum hedging requirement.

Reconciliation of Cash Payments to Capital Expenditures

The majority of capital expenditures during the three months ended November 30, 2015 were associated with the acquisition of the Kauffman assets and the costs of drilling and completing wells that we operate.  As of November 30, 2015, we had drilled, completed and brought into productive status 5 wells in our 2016 drilling program. In addition, we had drilled 25 gross (22 net) wells that had not been brought into productive status. All of the wells in progress are scheduled to commence production before August 31, 2016.


29



With respect to our ownership interest in wells operated by other companies, we participated in drilling and completion activities on 7 gross (less than 1 net) wells during the first quarter.

Capital expenditures reported in the statement of cash flows are calculated on a strict cash basis, which differs from the accrual basis used to calculate other amounts reported in our financial statements. Specifically, cash payments for acquisition of property and equipment as reflected in the statement of cash flows excludes non-cash capital expenditures and includes an adjustment (plus or minus) to reflect the timing of when the capital expenditure obligations are incurred and when the actual cash payment is made.  On thean accrual basis, capital expenditures totaled $134.7$18.6 million and $64.2$38.4 million for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015, and 2014, respectively. A reconciliation of the differences between cash payments and the accrual basis amounts is summarized in the following table (in thousands):

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Cash payments for acquisition$35,045
 $
Cash payments for acquisitions$10,000
 $
Cash payments for capital expenditures39,073
 66,137
24,374
 57,811
Accrued costs, beginning of period(33,071) (71,849)(31,414) (52,747)
Accrued costs, end of period41,746
 69,511
15,324
 33,077
Non-cash acquisitions, common stock49,840
 

 70
Other2,056
 383
277
 224
Accrual basis capital expenditures$134,689
 $64,182
$18,561
 $38,435



Capital Expenditures

The majority of capital expenditures during thethree months endedMarch 31, 2016were associated with the acquisition of certain acreage assets and the costs of drilling and completing wells that we operate.  During thethree months ended March 31, 2016, we completed the drilling of 10 horizontal wells on the Vista pad and began the drilling of 14 horizontal wells on the Fagerberg pad. In total, we had drilled 21 gross (17 net) wells that had not been brought into productive status as of March 31, 2016. All but eight of the wells in progress are scheduled to commence production before December 31, 2016.

With respect to our ownership interest in wells operated by other companies, we participated in drilling and completion activities on 10 gross (0.1 net) wells during the first quarter.

Capital Requirements

Our level of exploration, development, and acreage expenditures is largely discretionary, and the amount of funds devoted to any particular activity may increase or decrease significantly depending on available opportunities, commodity prices, cash flows, and development results, among other factors. Our primary need for capital will be to fund our anticipated drilling and completion activities, as well asthe GC Acquisition, and any other acquisitions that we may complete during the remainder of our fiscal year ending AugustDecember 31, 2016.

While ourOur preliminary capital expenditure plan continues to anticipate the use of one drilling rig during the remainder of fiscalthe year ending December 31, 2016, except for a short period which we anticipate adding a second rig to drill adjoining pads to minimize the impact on the local municipality. We also regularly review capital expenditures, as has been our historical practice, we regularly review capital expenditures throughout the year and will adjust our program based on changes in commodity prices, service costs, drilling success, and capital availability. Our total anticipated fiscal 2016 capital program remainsfor the year ended December 31, 2016 is estimated at a range between $115$130 million and $135$150 million, including approximately $30 million for discretionary seismic and land leasing, activities, but excluding the GC Acquisition and any other potential acquisitions that we may execute.

For the near term and exclusive of the GC Acquisition as discussed above, we believe that we have sufficient liquidity to fund our needs through cash on hand, cash flow from operations, and additional borrowings available under our revolving credit facility.  However, to meet all of our long-term goals, we may need to raise additional funds to drill new wells through the sale of our securities, from our revolving credit facility or from third parties willing to pay our share of drilling and completing wells.  We may not be successful in raising the capital needed to drill or acquire oil or gas wells.  Any wells which may be drilled by us may not produce oil or gas in commercial quantities.

Oil and Gas Commodity Contracts

We use derivative contracts to mitigate a portionprotect against the variability in cash flows created by short-term price fluctuations associated with the sale of our exposure to potentially adverse market changes in commodity pricesfuture oil and the associated impact on our expected future cash flows. We generally enter into contracts covering between 45% and 85% of the anticipated production from our proved developed producing reserves, as projected in our most recent semi-annual reserve report, for a period of 24 months.gas production.  At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we had open positions covering 1.10.9 million barrels of oil and 2,6922,040 MMcf of natural gas. We do not use derivative instruments for speculative purposes.

Our commodity derivative instruments may include but are not limited to “collars,” “swaps,” and “put” positions. Our derivative strategy, including the volume amounts, whether we utilize oil and/or natural gas instruments, and at what commodity prices the instruments are associated volumes, the commodity, and the relevant reference price or prices,with, is based in part on our view of expected future market conditions and our analysis of well-level economic return potential. In addition, our use of derivative contracts is subject to stipulations set forth in our credit facility.


30A “put” option gives the owner the right, but not the obligation, to sell the underlying commodity at a specified price (strike price) within a specific time period. Depending on market conditions, strike prices, and the value of the contracts, we may, at times, purchase put options, which require us to pay premiums at the time we purchase the contracts. These premiums represent the fair value of the purchased put as of the date of purchase. The ownership of put options is consistent with our derivative strategy inasmuch as the value of the puts will increase as commodity prices decline, helping to offset the cash flow impact of a decline in realized prices for the underlying commodity. However, if the underlying commodity increases in value, there is a risk that the put option will expire worthless and the net premiums paid would be recognized as a loss.


Conversely, a “call” option gives the owner the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the underlying commodity at a specified price (strike price) within a specific time period. Depending on market conditions, strike prices, and the value of the contracts, we may, at times, sell call options in conjunction with the purchase of put options to create “collars.” We regularly utilize “no premium” (a.k.a. zero cost) collars constructed by selling call options while simultaneously buying put options, in which the premiums paid for the puts is offset by the premiums received for the calls. Collars are consistent with our derivative


strategy inasmuch as the they establish a known range of prices to be received for the associated volume equivalents, that being bound at the upper end by the call’s strike price (the “ceiling”) and at the lower end by the put’s strike price (the “floor.”)

Additionally, at times, we may enter into swaps. Swaps are derivative contracts which obligate two counterparties to effectively trade the underlying commodity at a set price over a specified term. Swaps are consistent with our derivative strategy inasmuch as they establish a known future price to be received for the associated equivalent volumes.

During periods of significant price declines, for settled contracts structured as “collars,” we will receive settlement payments from the contracts’ counterparties for the difference between the contracted “floor” price and the average posted price for the contract period. For settled “swaps,” we will receive the difference between the contracted swap price and the average posted price for the contract period, if lower. For settled “put” contracts, we will receive the difference between the put’s strike price and the average posted price for the contract period. If we decide to liquidate an “in-the-money” position prior to settlement date, we will receive the approximate fair value of the contract at that time. These realized gains increase our cash flows for the period in which they are recognized.

Conversely, during periods of significant price increases, upon settlement, we would be obligated to pay the counterparties the difference between the contract’s “ceiling” and/or swap price and the average posted price for the contract period. If liquidated prior to settlement, we would pay the approximate fair market value to close the position at that time. These realized losses decrease our cash flows for the period in which they are recognized. Losses associated with puts that expire out-of-the-money are simply the original premium paid for the contract and are recognized upon expiration.

The fair values of our open, but not yet settled, derivative contracts are estimated by obtaining independent market quotes, as well as using industry standard models that consider various assumptions, including quoted forward prices for commodities, risk-free interest rates, and estimated volatility factors, as well as other relevant economic measures. We compare the valuations calculated by us to valuations provided by the counterparties to assess the reasonableness of each valuation. The discount rate used in the fair values of these instruments includes a measure of nonperformance risk by the counterparty or us, as appropriate.

The mark-to-market fair value of the open commodity derivative contracts will generally be inversely related to the price movement of the underlying commodity. If commodity price trends reverse from period to period, prior unrealized gains may become unrealized losses and vice versa. Higher underlying commodity price volatility will generally lead to higher volatility in our unrealized gains and losses and by association, the fair value of our commodity derivative contracts. These unrealized gains and losses will also impact our net income in the period recorded.

We do not designate our commodity contracts as accounting hedges.  Accordingly, we use mark-to-market accounting to value the portfolio at the end of each reporting period.  Mark-to-market accounting can create non-cash volatility in our reported earnings during periods of commodity price volatility.  We have experienced such volatility in the past and are likely to experience it in the future.  Mark-to-market accounting treatment results in volatility of our results as unrealized gains and losses from derivatives are reported. As commodity prices increase or decrease, such changes will have an opposite effect on the mark-to-market value of our derivatives. Gains on our derivatives generally indicate lower wellhead pricesrevenues in the future while losses indicate higher future wellhead prices.revenues.

During the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we reported an unrealized commodity activity gainloss of $2.5$0.8 million.  Unrealized gains and losses are non-cash items.  We also reported a realized gain of $0.7$2.4 million, representing the cash settlement proceeds forof commodity contracts settled during the period, net of amortization of cashpreviously incurred premiums paid forattributable to the settled commodity contracts.

At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we estimated that the fair value of our various commodity derivative contracts was a net asset of $7.3$8.3 million. We value these contracts using fair value methodology that considers various inputs including a) quoted forecast prices, b) time value, c) volatility factors, d) counterparty risk, and e) other relevant factors. The fair value of these contracts as estimated at November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 may differ significantly from the realized values at their respective settlement dates.



Our commodity derivative contracts as of November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 are summarized below:

  Volumes 
Average Collar Prices (1)
 
Average Put Prices (1)
Month 
Oil
(Bbl)
 Gas (MMBtu) Average Oil (Bbl) Price Average Gas (MMBtu) Price Average Oil (Bbl) Price Average Gas (MMBtu) Price
Dec 1 to Dec 31, 2015 50,000 172,000 N/A $3.02 - $3.65 $51.00 N/A
Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2016 660,000 1,680,000 $45.00 - $65.00 $3.03 - $3.47 $48.57 N/A
Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2017 400,000 840,000 $45.00 - $70.00 $2.64 - $3.48 $52.50 N/A
  Volumes 
Average Collar Prices (1)
 
Average Put Prices (1)
Month 
Oil
(Bbl)
 Gas (MMBtu) Average Oil (Bbl) Price Average Gas (MMBtu) Price Average Oil (Bbl) Price Average Gas (MMBtu) Price
Apr 1 to Dec 31, 2016 495,000 1,200,000 $45.00 - 65.00 $2.98 - 3.40 $48.57 N/A
Jan 1 to Aug 31, 2017 400,000 840,000 $45.00 - 70.00 $2.64 - 3.48 $52.50 N/A
(1) Price is at NYMEX WTI and NYMEX Henry Hub and CIG Rocky Mountain.

Results of Operations

Material changes of certain items in our statements of operations included in our financial statements for the periods presented are discussed below.

For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, compared to the three months ended November 30, 2014March 31, 2015

For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we reported net loss of $122.3$51.4 million compared to net incomeloss of $21.2$1.0 million during the three months ended November 30, 2014.March 31, 2015. Net loss per basic and diluted share (including a ceiling test impairment of $45.6 million) were $(1.14)$(0.42) for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 compared to earningsnet loss per share of $0.27 and $0.26$(0.01) per basic and diluted share for the three months ended November 30, 2014. Other significant differences betweenMarch 31, 2015. Net loss per basic share for the two periods includethree months ended March 31, 2016 decreased by $0.41 primarily due to the ceiling test impairment of $45.6 million incurred during the three months ended March 31, 2016. Revenues decreased 4% during the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared with the three months ended March 31, 2015 due to the rapid growth in reserves,decline of commodity prices, as discussed previously. As of March 31, 2016, we had 618 gross producing wells, and daily production totals,compared with 538 gross producing wells as well as theof March 31, 2015. The impact of changing prices on our revenuescommodity derivative positions and our commodity hedge positions.  The following discussion expands upona full cost ceiling impairment also drove significant items of inflow and outflow that affecteddifferences in our results of operations.operations between the two periods.

Oil and Gas Production and Revenues - For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we recorded total oil and gas revenues of $26.1$18.3 million compared to $42.5$18.9 million for the three months ended November 30, 2014,March 31, 2015, a decrease of $16.4$0.7 million or 39%4%.

As of November 30, 2015, we reported production from 95 net horizontal wells. The increase of 49 net horizontal wells increased our reserves and daily production totals as compared to the same period of the prior year. Net oil and gas production for the three months ended November 30, 2015 averaged 10,540 BOED, an increase of 27% over average production of 8,278 BOED in the three months ended November 30, 2014.

Our revenues are sensitive to changes in commodity prices. As shown in the following table, there has been a decrease of 52% in average realized prices between the periods presented. This decline in average sales prices more than offset the effects of increased production. The following table presents actual realized prices, without the effect of commodity derivative transactions. The impact of commodity derivative transactions is presented later in this discussion.


31



Keysummarizes key production information is summarized in the following table:and revenue statistics:

Three Months Ended November 30,  Three Months Ended March 31,  
2015 2014 Change2016 2015 Change
Production:          
Oil (MBbls1)
543
 467
 16 %527
 361
 46 %
Gas (MMcf2)
2,500
 1,720
 45 %3,121
 1,630
 91 %
    

Total production in MBOE3
959
 753
 27 %
MBOE 3
1,047
 633
 65 %
BOED 4
11,510
 7,029
 64 %
          
Revenues (in thousands):          
Oil$19,921
 $34,386
 -42 %$12,594
 $13,484
 (7)%
Gas6,216
 8,152
 -24 %5,679
 5,454
 4 %
$26,137
 $42,538
 -39 %$18,273
 $18,938
 (4)%
Average sales price:          
Oil$36.72
 $73.69
 -50 %$23.89
 $37.35
 (36)%
Gas$2.49
 $4.74
 -47 %$1.82
 $3.35
 (46)%
BOE$27.25
 $56.47
 -52 %$17.45
 $29.94
 (42)%
1 "MBbl” refers to one thousand stock tank barrels, or 42,000 U.S. gallons liquid volume in reference to crude oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.
2 "MMcf” refers to one million cubic feet of natural gas.
3 "MBOE” refers to one thousand barrels of oil equivalent, which combines MBbls of oil and MMcf of gas by converting each six MMcf of gas to one MBbl of oil.
4 "BOED” refers to the average number of barrels of oil equivalent produced in a day for the period.



Net oil and gas production for the three months ended March 31, 2016 averaged 11,510 BOED, an increase of 64% over average production of 7,029 BOED in the three months ended March 31, 2015. From March 31, 2015 to March 31, 2016, we added 55 net horizontal wells, including 6 (net) horizontal wells acquired in the K.P. Kaufman transaction, increasing our reserves, producing wells, and daily production totals. This decline in average sales prices by approximately 42% more than offset the effects of increased production, resulting in an overall reduction of revenues.

Lease Operating Expenses (“LOE”) - Direct operating costs of producing oil and natural gas are reported as follows (in thousands):

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Production costs$3,748
 $3,035
$4,266
 $4,056
Workover61
 6
33
 65
Total LOE$3,809
 $3,041
$4,299
 $4,121
      
Per BOE:      
Production costs$3.91
 $4.03
$4.07
 $6.41
Workover0.06
 0.01
0.03
 0.10
Total LOE$3.97
 $4.04
$4.10
 $6.51

Lease operating and workover costs tend to increase or decrease primarily in relation to the number of wells in production, and, to a lesser extent, on fluctuation in oil field service costs and changes in the production mix of crude oil and natural gas. During the first fiscal quarter of fiscal 2016, we experienced decreased production costs per BOE primarily as a result of increased production.

Production taxes - During the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, production taxes were $2.4$1.8 million, or $2.55$1.75 per BOE, compared to $4.2$1.8 million, or $5.55$2.86 per BOE, during the three months ended November 30, 2014. Production taxesMarch 31, 2015. Taxes tend to increase or decrease primarily based on the value of oil and gas sold. As a percent of revenues, production taxes were 9.3%10.0% and 9.8%9.5% for the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2016 and 2015, and 2014, respectively.


32



Depletion, Depreciation, and Accretion and Amortization (“DDA”DD&A”) - The following table summarizes the components of DDA:DD&A:

 Three Months Ended November 30,
(in thousands)2015 2014
Depletion of oil and gas properties$14,376
 $16,304
Depreciation, accretion, and amortization298
 150
Total DDA$14,674
 $16,454
    
DDA expense per BOE$15.30
 $21.84
 Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)2016 2015
Depletion of oil and gas properties$11,743
 $13,880
Depreciation and accretion349
 197
Total DD&A$12,092
 $14,077
    
DD&A expense per BOE$11.55
 $22.24

For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, depletion of oil and gas properties was $15.30$11.55 per BOE compared to $21.84$22.24 per BOE for the three months ended November 30, 2014. For the three months ended November 30,March 31, 2015 production of 959 MBOE represented 1.5% of estimated total proved reserves. For the three months ended November 30, 2014, production of 753 MBOE represented 2.3% of estimated total proved reserves.. The decrease in the DDADD&A rate was the result of a substantialdecrease in the ratio of total costs capitalized in the full cost pool to the estimated recoverable reserves. This ratio was significantly reduced due to the impairments of our full cost pool, which primarily occurred during the second half of calendar 2015, and the increase in our total proved reserves. Capitalized costs of proved oil and gas properties are depleted quarterly using the units-of-production method based on estimated recoverable reserves, aswherein the ratio of November 30, 2015 as comparedproduction volumes for the quarter to November 30, 2014.beginning of quarter estimated total reserves determine the depletion rate.

Full cost ceiling impairment - During the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we recognized a total impairment of $125.2$45.6 million, representing the amount by which the net capitalized costs of our oil and gas properties exceeded our full cost ceiling. See Note 2, "Property and Equipment," to the Financial Statements included as part of this report.

Transportation commitment charge - During the three months ended November 30, 2015, we recognized a charge of $1.5 million related to our crude oil transportation volume commitments. In addition to our volume commitment to a third party refiner, which expired on December 31, 2015, two pipeline related transportation agreements commenced in October 2015, and we were unable to meet all of obligations during the quarter. We estimate that we could incur an additional $1.0 million charge in December 2015. As of January 1, 2016, our current production exceeds our delivery obligations, subsequent to the expiration of the volume commitment to the third party refiner. See Note 15, “Other Commitments and Contingencies, Volume Commitments,” to the Financial Statements included as part of this report.

General and Administrative (“G&A”&A���) - The following table summarizes G&A expenses incurred and capitalized during the periods presented:

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)2015 20142016 2015
G&A costs incurred$14,906
 $4,613
$8,092
 $4,666
Capitalized costs(916) (503)(649) (585)
Total G&A$13,990
 $4,110
$7,443
 $4,081
      
Non-Cash G&A$7,279
 $667
$2,519
 $1,351
Cash G&A$6,711
 $3,443
$4,924
 $2,730
Total G&A$13,990
 $4,110
$7,443
 $4,081
      
Non-Cash G&A per BOE$7.59
 $0.89
$2.41
 $2.14
Cash G&A per BOE$7.00
 $4.57
$4.70
 $4.31
G&A Expense per BOE$14.59
 $5.46
$7.11
 $6.45

G&A includes all overhead costs associated with employee compensation and benefits, insurance, facilities, professional fees, and regulatory costs, among others. During the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we increased our employee count from 3662 as of December 31, 2015 to 61,73, while reducing the number of consultants, advisors, and contractors that had historically been used for certain tasks. Additionally, during the fiscal first quarter of 2016, we awarded bonuses, consisting of cash and restricted stock, to management, employees and directors. Most significantly, bonuses totaling approximately $4.8 million (including restricted stock valued at $4.0 million) were paid to our co-CEOs. They both have resigned as CEO as of December 31, 2015, but remain as Directors.

33




Our G&A expense for the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 includes stock-based compensation of $7.2$2.5 million compared to $0.7$1.4 million for the three months ended November 30, 2014.March 31, 2015. Stock-based compensation includes a calculated value for stock options or shares of common stock that we grant for compensatory purposes. It is a non-cash charge. For stock options, the fair value is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. For restricted stock units and stock bonus shares, the fair value is estimated using the closing stock price on the grant date. Amounts are pro-rated over the vesting terms of the award agreements, which are generally three to five years.

Pursuant to the requirements under the full cost accounting method for oil and gas properties, we identify all general and administrative costs that relate directly to the acquisition of undeveloped mineral leases and the exploration and development of properties. Those costs are reclassified from G&A expenses and capitalized into the full cost pool. The increase in capitalized costs from the three months ended November 30, 2014March 31, 2015 to the three months ended November 30, 2015March 31, 2016 reflects our increasingincreased headcount of individuals performing activities to maintain and acquire leases and develop our properties.

Commodity derivative gains - As more fully described in the paragraphs titled “Oil and Gas Commodity Contracts” located in “Liquidity and Capital Resources,” we use commodity contracts to help mitigate the risks inherent in the price volatility of oil and natural gas. For the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we realized a cash settlement gain of $0.7$2.4 million, net of amortization of cashpreviously incurred premiums paid forattributable to the settled commodity contracts. For the three months ended November 30, 2014,prior comparable period, we realized a cash settlement gain of $1.4$13.5 million.

In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2016, we recorded an unrealized gainloss of $2.5$0.8 million to recognize the mark-to-market change in fair value of our commodity contracts for the three months ended November 30, 2015.contracts. In comparison, in the three months ended November 30, 2014,March 31, 2015, we reported an unrealized gainloss of $16.7$10.1 million. Unrealized gains and losses are non-cash items.

Income taxes - We reported no income tax benefit of $10.0 million for the three months ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, calculated at an effective tax rate of 8%0%. During the comparable prior year period, we reported income tax expensebenefit of $11.7$0.7 million, calculated at an effective tax rate of 36%42%. As explained in more detail below, during the period ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, the effective tax rate was substantially reduced by recognition of a full valuation allowance on the net deferred tax asset.assets. During the periodthree months ended November 30, 2014,March 31, 2016, the effective tax rate differed from the federal and state statutory rate, primarily due to the impactrecognition of deductions for percentage depletion.a valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets.

For tax purposes, we have a net operating loss (“NOL”) carryover of $21.3$44.2 million, which is available to offset future taxable income. The NOLNOLs will begin to expire, if not used, in 2031. As a result of the NOLNOLs and other tax strategies, it appears that payment of any tax liability will be substantially deferred into future years.



In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized. Based on the level of losses in the current period and the level of uncertainty with respect to future taxable income over the period in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, a valuation allowance has been provided as of November 30, 2015.March 31, 2016. During fiscalthe 2015 comparable period, we reached the opposite conclusion; therefore, we did not record a valuation allowance against any of our deferred tax assets in that period.

Non-GAAP Financial MeasureMeasures

In addition to financial measures presented on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("US GAAP"), we present "adjusted EBITDA,"certain financial measures which is a financial measure that isare not prescribed by US GAAP ("non-GAAP"). A summary of these measures is described below.

Adjusted EBITDA

We use adjusted"adjusted EBITDA," a non-GAAP financial measure, for internal managerial purposes when evaluating period-to-period comparisons. This measure is not a measure of financial performance under US GAAP and should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, cash flows from operations, investing, or financing activities, and it should not be viewed as a liquidity measure or indicator of cash flows reported in accordance with US GAAP. Our definition of adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to measures with similar titles reported by other companies. Also, in the future, we may disclose different non-GAAP financial measures in order to help our investors more meaningfully evaluate and compare our future results of operations to our previously reported results of operations. We strongly encourage investors to review our financial statements and publicly filed reports in their entirety and to not rely on any single financial measure.

We define adjusted EBITDA as net incomeloss adjusted to exclude the impact of the items set forth in the table below. We believe that adjusted EBITDA is relevant because similar measures are widely used in our industry.


34



The following table presents a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, to net income (loss),loss, its nearest GAAP measure:

Three Months Ended November 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2015 20142016 2015
Adjusted EBITDA:      
Net (loss) income$(122,328) $21,151
Depreciation, depletion, accretion, and amortization14,674
 16,454
Net loss$(51,401) $(993)
Depreciation, depletion, and accretion12,092
 14,077
Full cost ceiling impairment125,230
 
45,621
 
Income tax (benefit) provision(10,007) 11,744
Income tax benefit
 (709)
Stock-based compensation7,197
 793
2,519
 1,604
Mark to market of commodity derivative contracts:      
Total gain on commodity derivatives contracts(3,192) (18,140)(1,680) (3,461)
Cash settlements on commodity derivative contracts1,272
 1,432
3,059
 13,742
Cash premiums paid for commodity derivative contracts(959) 

 (3,498)
Interest expense (income)(2) 15
Adjusted EBITDA$11,887
 $33,434
$10,208
 $20,777

Critical Accounting Policies

We prepare our financial statements and the accompanying notes in conformity with US GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. We identify certain accounting policies as critical based on, among other things, their impact on the portrayal of our financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity and the degree of difficulty, subjectivity, and complexity in their deployment. Critical accounting policies cover accounting matters that are inherently uncertain because the future resolution of such matters is unknown. Management routinely discusses the development, selection, and disclosure of each of the critical accounting policies.



There have been no significant changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates or in the underlying accounting assumptions and estimates used from those disclosed Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes contained in our 2015the Transition Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on October 16, 2015.April 22, 2016. However, certain events during the first fiscal quarter increased the significance of our policies with respect to the evaluation of goodwill and the recording of costs incurred under firm transportation commitments. These items aregoodwill. This item is discussed in Note 1, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the accompanying condensed financial statements included elsewhere in this report. Note 1 also provides information regarding recently adopted and issued accounting pronouncements.

We call your attention to the increased significance of the ceiling test as disclosed in Note 2, Property and Equipment, to the accompanying condensed financial statements included elsewhereelsewhere in this report. During the quarter ended November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we recorded an impairment in conjunction with performing a ceiling test as prescribed by SEC Regulation S-X Rule 4-05.



35



ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISKS

Commodity Price Risk

- Our financial condition, results of operations, and capital resources are highly dependent upon the prevailing market prices of oil and natural gas. The volatility of oil prices affects our results to a greater degree than the volatility of gas prices, as approximately 76%69% of our revenue during our firstthe three months of fiscalended March 31, 2016 was from the sale of oil. A $10 per barrel change in our realized oil price would have resulted in a $5.4$5.3 million change in oil revenues during our first fiscal quarter ofthe three months ended March 31, 2016, while a $0.50 per Mcf change in our realized gas price would have resulted in a $1.3$1.6 million change in our natural gas revenues in our first fiscal quarter.for the three months ended March 31, 2016.

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the price of oil and natural gas declined significantly.  These commodity prices are subject to wide fluctuations and market uncertainties due to a variety of factors that are beyond our control. Factors influencing oil and natural gas prices include the levellevels of global demand and supply for oil the(in global supply of oil and natural gas,or local markets), the establishment of and compliance with production quotas by oil exporting countries, weather conditions which determine the demand for natural gas, the price and availability of alternative fuels, the strength of the US dollar compared to other currencies, and overall economic conditions. It is impossible to predict future oil and natural gas prices with any degree of certainty. Sustained weakness in oil and natural gas prices may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations, and may also reduce the amount of oil and natural gas reserves that we can produce economically. Any reduction in our oil and natural gas reserves, including reductions due to price fluctuations, can have an adverse effect on our ability to obtain capital for our exploration and development activities. Similarly, any improvements in oil and natural gas prices can have a favorable impact on our financial condition, results of operations, and capital resources.

We attempt to mitigate fluctuations in short-term cash flow resulting from changes in commodity prices by entering into derivative positions on a portion of our expected oil and gas production.  Typically, weWe use derivative contracts to cover no less than 45% and no more thanup to 85% of expected proved developed producing production as projected in our semi-annual reserve report, generally over a period of two years.  We do not enter into derivative contracts for speculative or trading purposes.  As of November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we had open crude oil and natural gas derivatives in a net asset positionposition with a fair value of $7.3$8.3 million.  A hypothetical upward or downward shift of 10% in the NYMEX forward curve of crude oil and natural gas prices would change the fair value of our position by $0.7approximately $1.5 million. 

Interest Rate Risk

- At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we had no debt outstanding under our bank credit facility totaling $78 million.facility.  Interest on our bank credit facility accrues at a variable rate, based upon either the Prime Rate or the London InterBank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin.  At November 30, 2015,March 31, 2016, we were incurring interest at a rate of 2.5%.  We are exposed to interest rate risk on the bank credit facility if the variable reference rates increase.  AHistorically, a decrease in the variable interest rates would not have a significant impact on us, as the bank credit facility hashad a minimum interest rate of 2.5%.  As of January 28, 2016, the minimum interest rate was removed from the credit facility. If interest rates increase, our monthly interest payments would increase and our available cash flow would decrease.  We estimate that if market interest rates increased by 1% to an annual rate of 3.5%, or decreased by 1% to an annual rate of 1.5%, our interest payments in our first fiscal quarter ofthe three months ended March 31, 2016 would have increasedchanged by $0.2approximately $0.1 million.

Under current market conditions, we do not anticipate significant changes in prevailing interest rates for the next year and we have not undertaken any activities to mitigate potential interest rate risk.  There was no material change in interest rate risk during the quarter ended November 30, 2015.March 31, 2016.

Counterparty Risk

- As described in the discussion about Commodity Price Risk, we enter into commodity derivative agreements to mitigate short-term price volatility.  These derivative financial instruments present certain counterparty risks.  We are exposed to potential loss if a counterparty fails to perform according to the terms of the agreement. The failure of any of the counterparties to fulfill their obligations to us could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.  We do not require collateral or other security to be furnished by counterparties.  We seek to manage the counterparty risk associated with these contracts by limiting transactions to well capitalized, well established, and well known counterparties that have been approved by our senior officers.  There can be no assurance, however, that our practice effectively mitigates counterparty risk. 

Our exposure to counterparty risk has increasedslightly declined during the last yearperiod as the amounts due to us from counterparties has increased.decreased.


36




ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) as of the end of the period covered by this report on Form 10-Q (the “Evaluation Date”).  Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


37




PART II

Item 1.Legal Proceedings

During the quarter, there were no material developments regarding legal matters, which were previously described under Item 3, Legal Proceedings, of our 2015the Transition Report on Form 10-K.10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 22, 2016. This information should be considered carefully, together with other information in this report and other reports and materials we file with the SEC.

Item 1A.Risk Factors

We face many risks. Factors that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results or liquidity, and the trading price of our common stock are described under Item 1A, Risk Factors, of our 2015the Transition Report on Form 10-K.10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 22, 2016. This information should be considered carefully, together with other information in this report and other reports and materials that we file with the SEC. In addition, there are numerous risks and uncertainties associated with the GC Acquisition, including those set forth below:

If completed, the GC Acquisition may not achieve its intended results and may result in us assuming unanticipated liabilities. To date, we have conducted only limited diligence regarding the assets and liabilities we would assume in the transaction. These risks are heightened because the GC Acquisition, if consummated, would involve our acquisition of a material amount of acreage relative to our current acreage position.

We entered into the GC Agreement with the expectation that the GC Acquisition would result in various benefits, growth opportunities and synergies. Achieving the anticipated benefits of the transaction is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. For example, under the GC Agreement, we have the opportunity to conduct customary environmental and title due diligence following the execution of the agreement, but our diligence efforts to date have been limited. As a result, we may discover title defects or adverse environmental or other conditions of which we are currently unaware. Environmental, title and other problems could reduce the value of the properties to us, and, depending on the circumstances, we could have limited or no recourse to the sellers with respect to those problems. We would assume substantially all of the liabilities associated with the acquired properties and would be entitled to indemnification in connection with those liabilities in only limited circumstances and in limited amounts. We cannot assure that such potential remedies will be adequate for any liabilities we incur, and such liabilities could be significant. In addition, certain of the properties to be acquired are subject to consents to assign. If the sellers cannot obtain all applicable consents, we may not be able to acquire certain properties as originally contemplated and our expected benefits of the GC Acquisition may be adversely affected. Similarly, if the second closing under the purchase and sale agreement for the acquisition (the “GC Agreement”) is delayed for a substantial period, we will not be able to control operations on those properties during that period, which would increase the risk that certain leases will expire before production is established, and this could materially detract from the value of the properties to be acquired pursuant to either closing. Also, it is uncertain whether our existing operations and the acquired properties and assets can be integrated in an efficient and effective manner. The integration of operations following the GC Acquisition will require the dedication of management and other personnel, which may distract their attention from our day-to-day business and operations and prevent us from realizing benefits from other opportunities. Completing the integration process may be more expensive than anticipated, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to effect the integration of these operations smoothly or efficiently or that the anticipated benefits of the transaction will be achieved.

The risks involved in the GC Acquisition are heightened due to the size of the acquisition. The GC Acquisition, if consummated, would involve our acquisition of approximately 33,100 net acres in the Wattenberg Field, which is a material amount of acreage relative to our current acreage position.

Actual reserves and production associated with the properties to be acquired in the GC Acquisition may be substantially less than we expect.

As with other acquisitions, the success of the GC Acquisition depends on, among other things, the accuracy of our assessment of the number and quality of the drilling locations associated with the properties to be acquired, future oil and natural gas prices, reserves and production, and future operating costs and various other factors. These assessments are necessarily inexact. Our assessment of certain of these factors is based in part on information provided to us by the sellers, including historical production data. Our independent reserve engineers have not provided a report regarding the estimates of reserves with respect to the properties subject to the GC Acquisition. The assumptions on which our internal estimates have been based may prove to be incorrect in a number of material ways, resulting in our not realizing the expected benefits of the acquisition. In addition, the representations, warranties and indemnities of the sellers contained in the GC Agreement are limited, and we may not have recourse against the sellers in the event that the acreage is less valuable than we currently believe. As a result, we may not recover the purchase price


for the acquisition from the sale of production from the properties being acquired or recognize an acceptable return from such sales.

The development of the properties to be acquired will be subject to all of the risks and uncertainties associated with oil and natural gas activities as described in the “Risk Factors” section of our Transition Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015.

A significant portion of the value of the GC Acquisition is associated with undeveloped acreage that may not be economic.

A large portion of the acreage we are acquiring in the GC Acquisition is undeveloped, and our plans, development schedule and production schedule associated with the acreage may fail to materialize. As a result, our investment in these areas may not be as economic as we anticipate, and we could incur material writedowns of unevaluated properties.

We will incur significant transaction expenses and costs in connection with the GC Acquisition, and completion of the acquisition will increase our indebtedness.

We expect to incur a number of significant transaction-related costs associated with the GC Acquisition, including costs associated with the issuance of the Senior Notes. We continue to assess the magnitude of these costs, and additional unanticipated costs may be incurred in the integration of the properties to be acquired, which may be significant.

In addition, the issuance of the Senior Notes in connection with the closing of the GC Acquisition will increase our indebtedness. As a result, the risks described in the “Risk Factors” section of our Transition Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015 relating to indebtedness will be increased. In particular, see the risk factors entitled, “-Risks Relating to Our Business and the Industry-Potential indebtedness may adversely affect our cash flow and our ability to operate our business, remain in compliance with debt covenants and make payments on our debt”, “-Risks Relating to Our Business and the Industry -A significant amount of cash may be required to service our indebtedness. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control, and any failure to meet our debt obligations could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations”, and “-Risks Relating to Our Business and the Industry-Restrictive debt covenants could limit our growth and our ability to finance our operations, fund our capital needs, respond to changing conditions, and engage in other business activities that may be in our best interests”.

The GC Agreement contains conditions to closing, some of which are beyond our control, and we may be unable to consummate the GC Acquisition in its entirety or with respect to the second closing.

The GC Agreement contains closing conditions, including, with respect to the second closing only, obtaining a release of a consent decree burdening certain of the properties to be acquired, as well as customary closing conditions. It is possible that one or more of the conditions in the GC Agreement will not be satisfied, and we may be unable or unwilling to consummate the GC Acquisition. If the acquisition is not closed on account of a breach of any representations, warranties or covenants in the GC Agreement on our part, we may be required to forfeit our $50.5 million earnest money deposit as liquidated damages.

Failure to complete the GC Acquisition could negatively affect our stock price as well as our business and financial results.
If either or both of the closings under the GC Agreement are not completed, we will be subject to a number of risks, including but not limited to the following:
We must pay costs related to the acquisition including, among others, legal, accounting and financial advisory fees, whether the acquisition is completed or not.
We may experience negative reactions from the financial markets.
We could be subject to litigation related to the failure to complete the acquisition.

Each of these factors may adversely affect our business, financial results and stock price. If either of the closings under the GC Agreement are not consummated, holders of our common stock would be exposed to the risks described above and various other risks.



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

Purchases of equity securities by the Company
Period Total Number of Shares Purchased Average Price Paid per Share
September 1, 2015 - September 30, 2015 (1)
 3,074
 $10.01
October 1, 2015 - October 31, 2015 (1)
 5,314
 $11.56
November 1, 2015 - November 30, 2015 (1)
 5,462
 $11.45
   Total 13,850
  
Period Total Number of Shares Purchased Average Price Paid per Share
January 1, 2016 - January 31, 2016 (1)
 
 $
February 1, 2016 - February 29, 2016 (1)
 21,003
 $6.34
March 1, 2016 - March 31, 2016 (1)
 20,062
 $7.51
   Total 41,065
  

(1) Pursuant to statutory minimum withholding requirements, certain of our employees exercised their right to "withhold to cover" as a tax payment method for the vesting and exercise of certain shares. These elections were outside of any publicly announced repurchase plan.

Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable

Item 5.Other Information

None.


38




Item 6.        Exhibits

Exhibit
Number
Exhibit
3.2Bylaws of the Company, as amended by the First Amendment to the Bylaws dated January 21, 2016
31.1Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32Certifications of the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 USC 1350, as adopted, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase




39



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(a) 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 on the 7th3rd day of January,May, 2016.

 SYNERGY RESOURCES CORPORATION
  
 /s/ Lynn A. Peterson
 
Lynn A. Peterson, President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
  
 /s/ James P. Henderson
 
James P. Henderson, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer
(Principal Financial Officer)
  
 /s/ Frank L. Jennings
 
Frank L. Jennings, Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)