body_10k.htm

 
 

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
   X
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Fiscal Year ended December 31, 2009
OR
 
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
Commission File Number 1-7908
ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
74-1753147
4400 Post Oak Pkwy Ste 2700
77027
   
Houston, Texas
 
(State of Incorporation)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
(Address of Principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (713) 881-3600
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $.10 Par Value
NYSE Amex

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  YES ___NO _X_

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.YES ____ NO _X_

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

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. _X_

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definition of “large accelerated filer” and “accelerated filer and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ____                                                                Accelerated filer ____

Non-accelerated filer _X_                                                      Smaller reporting company _____

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Act).
YES ___NO _X_

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by nonaffiliates as of the close of business on June 30, 2009 was $35,874,679 based on the closing price of $17.15 per one share of common stock as reported on the NYSE AMEX Exchange for such date.  A total of 4,217,596 shares of Common Stock were outstanding at March 10, 2010.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held May 19, 2010 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

 
 

 


PART I
Items 1 and 2.  BUSINESS AND PROPERTIES


Forward-Looking Statements –Safe Harbor Provisions

This annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009 contains certain forward-looking statements covered by the safe harbors provided under Federal securities law and regulations.  To the extent such statements are not recitations of historical fact, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties.  In particular, statements under the captions (a) Production and Reserve Information, (b) Regulatory Status and Potential Environmental Liability, (c) Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (d) Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates, (e) Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk, (f) Income Taxes, (g) Concentration of Credit Risk, (h) Price Risk Management Activities, and (i) Commitments and Contingencies, among others, contain forward-looking statements.  Where the Company expresses an expectation or belief regarding future results of events, such expression is made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis in fact.  However, there can be no assurance that such expectation or belief will actually result or be achieved.

With the uncertainties of forward looking statements in mind, the reader should consider the risks discussed elsewhere in this report and other documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time and the important factors described under “Item 1A Risk Factor” that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of the Company.

Business Activities

Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. (“ARE”) and its subsidiaries, collectively (the "Company"), are engaged in the business of marketing crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products, tank truck transportation of liquid chemicals, and oil and gas exploration and production.  Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. is a Delaware corporation organized in 1973.  The Company’s headquarters are located in 20,700 square feet of leased office space at 4400 Post Oak Parkway, Suite 2700, Houston, Texas 77027 and the telephone number of that address is (713)-881-3600.  The revenues, operating results and identifiable assets of each industry segment for the three years ended December 31, 2009 are set forth in Note (9) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere herein.

Marketing Segment Subsidiaries

Gulfmark Energy, Inc. (“Gulfmark”), a subsidiary of ARE, purchases crude oil and arranges sales and deliveries to refiners and other customers. Activity is concentrated primarily onshore in Texas and Louisiana with additional operations in Michigan and New Mexico. During 2009, Gulfmark purchased approximately 66,100 barrels per day of crude oil at the wellhead or lease level. Gulfmark also operates 101 tractor-trailer rigs and maintains over 50 pipeline inventory locations or injection stations.  Gulfmark has the ability to barge oil from five oil storage facilities along the intercoastal waterway of Texas and Louisiana and maintains 50,000 barrels of storage capacity at certain of the dock facilities in order to access waterborne markets for its products.  Gulfmark arranges transportation for sales to customers or enters into exchange transactions with third parties when the cost of the exchange is less than the alternate cost incurred in transporting or storing the crude oil.

Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd. (“ARM”), a subsidiary of ARE, operates as a wholesale purchaser, distributor and marketer of natural gas.  ARM’s focus is on the purchase of natural gas at the producer level. During 2009, ARM purchased approximately 363,000 million british thermal units (“mmbtu’s”) of natural gas per day at the wellhead and pipeline pooling points. Business is concentrated among approximately 60 independent producers with the primary production areas being the Louisiana and Texas Gulf Coast and the offshore Gulf of Mexico region.   ARM provides value added services to its customers by providing access to common carrier pipelines and handling daily volume balancing requirements as well as risk management services.

 
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Ada Resources, Inc. (“Ada”), a subsidiary of ARE, markets branded and unbranded refined petroleum products such as motor fuels and lubricants.  Ada makes purchases based on the supplier’s established distributor prices, with such prices generally being lower than Ada’s sales price to its customers.  Motor fuel sales include automotive gasoline, biodiesel and conventional diesel fuel.  Lubricants consist of passenger car motor oils as well as a full complement of industrial oils and greases.  Ada is also involved in the railroad servicing industry, including fueling and lubricating locomotives as well as performing routine maintenance on the power units. Further, the United States Coast Guard has certified Ada as a direct-to-vessel approved marine fuel and lube vendor.  Ada’s marketing area primarily includes the Texas Gulf Coast and southern Louisiana. The primary product distribution and warehousing facility is located on 5.5 Company-owned acres in Houston, Texas.  The property includes a 60,000 square foot warehouse, 11,000 square feet of office space and bulk storage for 320,000 gallons of lubricating oil.

Operating results are sensitive to a number of factors.  Such factors include commodity location, grades of product, individual customer demand for grades or location of product, localized market price structures, availability of transportation facilities, actual delivery volumes that vary from expected quantities, and the timing and costs to deliver the commodity to the customer.


Transportation Segment Subsidiary

Service Transport Company (“STC”), a subsidiary of ARE, transports liquid chemicals on a "for hire" basis throughout the continental United States and Canada. Transportation service is provided to over 400 customers under multiple load contracts in addition to loads covered under STC’s standard price list.  Pursuant to regulatory requirements, STC holds a Hazardous Materials Certificate of Registration issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation.   Presently, STC operates 262 truck tractors of which 6 are independent owner-operator units and maintains 416 tank trailers.  In addition, STC maintains truck terminals in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Nederland, Texas as well as Baton Rouge (St. Gabriel), Louisiana and Mobile (Saraland), Alabama. Transportation operations are headquartered at a terminal facility situated on 22 Company-owned acres in Houston, Texas.  This property includes maintenance facilities, an office building, tank wash rack facilities and a water treatment system.  The St. Gabriel, Louisiana terminal is situated on 11.5 Company-owned acres and includes an office building, maintenance bays and tank cleaning facilities.

STC is compliant with International Organization for Standardization (“ISO”) 9001:2000 Standard.  The scope of this Quality System Certificate covers the carriage of bulk liquids throughout STC’s area of operations as well as the tank trailer cleaning facilities and equipment maintenance.  STC’s quality management process is one of its major assets.  The practice of using statistical process control covering safety, on-time performance and customer satisfaction aids continuous improvement in all areas of quality service.  In addition to its ISO 9001:2000 practices, the American Chemistry Council recognizes STC as a Responsible CareÓ Partner. Responsible Care Partners serve the chemical industry and implement and monitor the seven Codes of Management Practices.  The seven codes address compliance and continuing improvement in (1) Community Awareness and Emergency Response, (2) Pollution Prevention, (3) Process Safety, (4) Distribution, (5) Employee Health and Safety, (6) Product Stewardship and (7) Security.

Oil and Gas Segment Subsidiary

Adams Resources Exploration Corporation (“AREC”), a subsidiary of ARE, is actively engaged in the exploration and development of domestic oil and natural gas properties primarily in Texas and the south central region of the United States. Exploration offices are maintained in Houston and the Company holds an interest in 325 wells of which 43 are Company operated.

 
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Producing Wells--The following table sets forth the Company's gross and net productive wells as of December 31, 2009. Gross wells are the total number of wells in which the Company has an interest, while net wells are the sum of the fractional interests owned.
 
 
   
Oil Wells
   
Gas Wells
   
Total Wells
 
   
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Net
 
Texas
    63       8.40       112       11.49       175       19.89  
Other
    94       4.19       56       5.49       150       9.68  
      157       12.59       168       16.98       325       29.57  

Acreage--The following table sets forth the Company's gross and net developed and undeveloped acreage as of December 31, 2009.  Gross acreage represents the Company’s direct ownership and net acreage represents the sum of the fractional interests owned.  The Company’s developed acreage is held by current production while undeveloped acreage is held by oil and gas leases with various remaining terms from six months to three years.

   
Developed Acreage
   
Undeveloped Acreage
 
   
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Net
 
Texas
    80,622       9,797       225,787       17,013  
Kansas
    -       -       31,727       3,173  
Other
    8,260       1,004       7,288       1,174  
      88,882       10,801       264,802       21,360  

Drilling Activity--The following table sets forth the Company's drilling activity for each of the three years ended December 31, 2009.  All drilling activity was onshore in Texas, Louisiana and Alabama.

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross
   
Net
 
Exploratory wells drilled
                                   
- Productive
    2       .10       2       .13       3       .15  
- Dry
    7       .94       2       .22       2       .10  
                                                 
Development wells drilled
                                               
- Productive
    24       1.35       17       1.06       18       1.37  
- Dry
    2       .10       7       .68       6       .35  

Production and Reserve Information--The Company's estimated net quantities of proved oil and natural gas reserves and the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows calculated at a 10% discount rate for the three years ended December 31, 2009, are presented in the table below (in thousands):

   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Crude oil (thousands of barrels)
    242       230       297  
Natural gas (thousands of mcf)
    7,248       6,443       7,068  
Standardized measure of discounted future
                       
net cash flows from oil and gas reserves
  $ 9,305     $ 11,547     $ 19,590  

The estimated value of oil and natural gas reserves and future net revenues from oil and natural gas reserves was made by the Company's independent petroleum engineers.  The reserve value estimates provided at each of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 are based on market prices of $58.43, $37.87 and $92.50 per barrel for crude oil and $4.05, $5.65 and $7.31 per mcf for natural gas, respectively.

 
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Reserve estimates are based on many subjective factors.  The accuracy of reserve estimates depends on the quantity and quality of geological data, production performance data, and reservoir engineering data, the pricing assumptions utilized as well as the skill and judgment of petroleum engineers in interpreting such data.  The process of estimating reserves requires frequent revision of estimates (usually on an annual basis) as additional information is made available through drilling, testing, reservoir studies and acquiring historical pressure and production data.  In addition, the discounted present value of estimated future net revenues should not be construed as the fair market value of oil and natural gas producing properties.  Such estimates do not necessarily portray a realistic assessment of current value or future performance of such properties. Such revenue calculations are based on estimates as to the timing of oil and natural gas production, and there is no assurance that the actual timing of production will conform to or approximate such estimates.  Also, certain assumptions have been made with respect to pricing. The estimates assume prices will remain constant from the date of the engineer's estimates, except for changes reflected under natural gas sales contracts.  There can be no assurance that actual future prices will not vary as industry conditions, governmental regulation and other factors impact the market price for oil and natural gas.

The Company's oil and natural gas production for the three years ended December 31, 2009 was as follows:

Years Ended
 
Crude Oil
   
Natural
 
December 31,
 
(barrels)
   
Gas (mcf)
 
2009
    49,500       1,304,000  
2008
    50,500       1,243,000  
2007
    69,250       1,182,000  

Certain financial information relating to the Company's oil and natural gas division revenues and earnings is summarized as follows:
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Average oil and condensate
                 
sales price per barrel
  $ 58.10     $ 99.25     $ 70.21  
Average natural gas
                       
sales price per mcf
  $ 4.43     $ 9.84     $ 7.54  
Average production cost, per equivalent
                       
barrel, charged to expense
  $ 13.25     $ 18.34     $ 15.32  

North Sea Exploration Licenses—Previously the Company held certain exploration rights in the Central and Southern sectors of the United Kingdom’s North Sea region.  These rights afforded the opportunity to analyze and assess licensed acreage for an initial two-year period without accompanying stringent financial requirements. Ultimately, the Company’s investment group was unsuccessful in obtaining a partner to fund drilling on any of the prospective acreage and therefore the license rights were dropped in 2009 at no additional cost to the Company.

The Company has had no reports to federal authorities or agencies of estimated oil and gas reserves. The Company is not obligated to provide any fixed and determinable quantities of oil or gas in the future under existing contracts or agreements associated with its oil and gas exploration and production segment.

Reference is made to Note (10) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional disclosures relating to oil and natural gas exploration and production activities.

 
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Environmental Compliance and Regulation

The Company is subject to an extensive variety of evolving United States federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations governing the storage, transportation, manufacture, use, discharge, release and disposal of product and contaminants into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment. Presented below is a non-exclusive listing of the environmental laws that potentially impact the Company’s activities.

-  
The Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended.
-  
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 ("CERCLA" or "Superfund"), as amended.
-  
The Clean Water Act of 1972, as amended.
-  
Federal Oil Pollution Act of 1990, as amended.
-  
The Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended.
-  
The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, as amended.
-  
The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act.
-  
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended.
-  
Texas Clean Air Act.
-  
Texas Solid Waste Disposal Act.
-  
Texas Water Code.
-  
Texas Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act of 1991, as amended.

Railroad Commission of Texas (“RRC”)--The RRC regulates, among other things, the drilling and operation of oil and natural gas wells, the operation of oil and gas pipelines, the disposal of oil and natural gas production wastes and certain storage of unrefined oil and gas.  RRC regulations govern the generation, management and disposal of waste from such oil and natural gas operations and provide for the clean up of contamination from oil and natural gas operations.  The RRC has promulgated regulations that provide for civil and/or criminal penalties and/or injunctive relief for violations of the RRC regulations.

Louisiana Office of Conservation--This agency has primary statutory responsibility for regulation and conservation of oil, gas, and other natural resources in the State of Louisiana.  Their objectives are to (i) regulate the exploration and production of oil, natural gas and other hydrocarbons; (ii) control and allocate energy supplies and distribution and (iii) protect public safety and the State’s environment from oilfield waste, including regulation of underground injection and disposal practices.
 
 
State and Local Government Regulation--Many states are authorized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) to enforce regulations promulgated under various federal statutes.  In addition, there are numerous other state and local authorities that regulate the environment, some of which impose more stringent environmental standards than federal laws and regulations.  The penalties for violations of state law vary, but typically include injunctive relief, recovery of damages for injury to air, water or property and fines for non-compliance.

Oil and Gas Operations--The Company's oil and gas drilling and production activities are subject to laws and regulations relating to environmental quality and pollution control.  One aspect of the Company's oil and gas operation is the disposal of used drilling fluids, saltwater, and crude oil sediments.  In addition, low-level naturally occurring radiation may, at times, occur with the production of crude oil and natural gas.  The Company's policy is to comply with environmental regulations and industry standards. Environmental compliance has become more stringent and the Company, from time to time, may be required to remediate past practices. Management believes that such required remediation in the future, if any, will not have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

 
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All states in which the Company owns producing oil and gas properties have statutory provisions regulating the production and sale of crude oil and natural gas.  Regulations typically require permits for the drilling of wells and regulate the spacing of wells, the prevention of waste, protection of correlative rights, the rate of production, prevention and clean-up of pollution and other matters.

Marketing Operations--The Company's marketing facilities are subject to a number of state and federal environmental statutes and regulations, including the regulation of underground fuel storage tanks.  While the Company does not own or operate underground tanks as of December 31, 2009, historically the Company has been an owner and operator of underground storage tanks.  The EPA's Office of Underground Tanks and applicable state laws establish regulations requiring owners or operators of underground fuel tanks to demonstrate evidence of financial responsibility for the costs of corrective action and the compensation of third parties for bodily injury and property damage caused by sudden and non-sudden accidental releases arising from operating underground tanks.  In addition, the EPA requires the installation of leak detection devices and stringent monitoring of the ongoing condition of underground tanks.  Should leakage develop in an underground tank, the operator is obligated for clean up costs.  During the period when the Company was an operator of underground tanks, it secured insurance covering both third party liability and clean up costs.

Transportation Operations--The Company's tank truck operations are conducted pursuant to authority of the United States Department of Transportation (“DOT”) and various state regulatory authorities.  The Company's transportation operations must also be conducted in accordance with various laws relating to pollution and environmental control.  Interstate motor carrier operations are subject to safety requirements prescribed by DOT. Matters such as weight and dimension of equipment are also subject to federal and state regulations.  DOT regulations also require mandatory drug testing of drivers and require certain tests for alcohol levels in drivers and other safety personnel.  The trucking industry is subject to possible regulatory and legislative changes such as increasingly stringent environmental regulations or limits on vehicle weight and size.  Regulatory change may affect the economics of the industry by requiring changes in operating practices or by changing the demand for common or contract carrier services or the cost of providing truckload services.  In addition, the Company’s tank wash facilities are subject to increasingly stringent local, state and federal environmental regulations.

The Company has implemented security procedures for drivers and terminal facilities. Satellite tracking transponders installed in the power units are used to communicate en route emergencies to the Company and to maintain constant information as to the unit’s location.  If necessary, the Company’s terminal personnel will notify local law enforcement agencies.  In addition, the Company is able to advise a customer of the status and location of their loads.  Remote cameras and better lighting coverage in the staging and parking areas have augmented terminal security.

Regulatory Status and Potential Environmental Liability--The operations and facilities of the Company are subject to numerous federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations including those described above, as well as associated permitting and licensing requirements.  The Company regards compliance with applicable environmental regulations as a critical component of its overall operation, and devotes significant attention to providing quality service and products to its customers, protecting the health and safety of its employees, and protecting the Company’s facilities from damage. Management believes the Company has obtained or applied for all permits and approvals required under existing environmental laws and regulations to operate its current business.  Management has reported that the Company is not subject to any pending or threatened environmental litigation or enforcement action(s), which could materially and adversely affect the Company's business.  The Company has, where appropriate, implemented operating procedures at each of its facilities designed to assure compliance with environmental laws and regulation. However, given the nature of the Company’s business, the Company is subject to environmental risks and the possibility remains that the Company's ownership of its facilities and its operations and activities could result in civil or criminal enforcement and public as well as private action(s) against the Company, which may necessitate or generate mandatory clean up activities, revocation of required permits or licenses, denial of application for future permits, and/or significant fines, penalties or damages, any and all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company.  At December 31, 2009, the Company is unaware of any unresolved environmental issues for which additional accounting accruals are necessary.

 
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Employees

At December 31, 2009 the Company employed 679 persons, 14 of whom were employed in the exploration and production of oil and gas, 286 in the marketing of crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products, 356 in transportation operations, and 23 in administrative capacities.  None of the Company's employees are represented by a union.  Management believes its employee relations are satisfactory.

Federal and State Taxation

The Company is subject to the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). In accordance with the Code, the Company computes its income tax provision based on a 35 percent tax rate.  The Company's operations are, in large part, conducted within the State of Texas.  Texas operations are subject to a one-half percent state tax on its revenues net of cost of goods sold as defined by the state.  Oil and gas activities are also subject to state and local income, severance, property and other taxes. Management believes the Company is currently in compliance with all federal and state tax regulations.
 
 
Available Information

The Company is required to file periodic reports as well as other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) within established deadlines.  Any document filed with the SEC may be viewed or copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549.  Additional information regarding the Public Reference Room can be obtained by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330.  The Company’s SEC filings are also available to the public through the SEC’s web site located at http://www.sec.gov.

The Company maintains a corporate website at http://www.adamsresources.com, on which investors may access free of charge the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports as soon as is reasonably practicable after filing or furnishing such material with the SEC.  Additionally, the Company has adopted and posted on its website a Code of Business Ethics designed to reflect requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, NYSE Amex Exchange rules and other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Code of Business Ethics applies to all of the Company’s directors, officers and employees.  Any amendment to the Code of Business Ethics will be posted promptly on the Company’s website.  The information contained on or accessible from the Company’s website does not constitute a part of this report and is not incorporated by reference herein.  The Company will provide a printed copy of any of these aforementioned documents free of charge upon request by calling ARE at (713)-881-3600 or by writing to:
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc.
ATTN:  Richard B. Abshire
4400 Post Oak Parkway, Suite 2700
Houston, Texas 77027

Item 1A RISK FACTORS

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

Since mid 2008, disruptions in the credit markets and concerns about global economic growth have had a significant adverse impact on global financial markets and commodity prices.  At times, these factors have contributed to a decline in the Company’s stock price and corresponding market capitalization.  Further commodity price decreases during 2010 could result in reduced earnings.  Since the Company has no bank debt obligations nor covenants tied to its stock price, potential declines in the Company’s stock price do not affect the Company’s liquidity or overall financial condition.  Should the capital and credit markets continue to experience volatility and the availability of funds remains limited, the Company’s customers and suppliers may incur increased costs associated with issuing commercial paper and/or other debt instruments and this, in turn, could adversely affect the Company’s ability to secure supply and make profitable sales.

 
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General economic conditions could reduce demand for chemical based trucking services.

Customer demand for the Company’s products and services is substantially dependent upon the general economic conditions for the United States which have generally been slow over the past year and continue to be challenging.  In particular, demand for liquid chemical truck transportation services is dependent on activity within the petrochemical sector of the U. S. economy.  Chemical sector demand typically varies with the housing and auto markets as well as the relative strength of the U. S. dollar to foreign currencies.  A relatively strong U.S. dollar exchange rate tends to suppress export demand for petrochemicals which is adverse to the Company’s transportation operation.  Conversely, a weak U. S. dollar exchange rate tends to stimulate export demand for petrochemicals.

The Company’s business is dependent on the ability to obtain trade and other credit.

The Company’s future development and growth depends in part on its ability to successfully obtain credit from suppliers and other parties.  Credit arrangements are relied upon as a significant source of liquidity for capital requirements not satisfied by operating cash flow.

Current global financial markets and economic conditions have been, and may continue to be, disrupted and volatile. As a result of concerns about the stability of financial markets generally and the solvency of creditors specifically, the availability of money from the credit markets is reduced as many lenders and institutional investors have enacted tighter lending standards, refused to refinance existing debt on terms similar to current debt and in some cases, ceased to provide funding to borrowers.  These issues, along with significant write-offs in the financial services sector and the current weak economic conditions have made, and may continue to make, it more difficult for the Company and its suppliers and customers to obtain funding.

If the Company is unable to obtain trade or other forms credit on reasonable and competitive terms, its ability to continue its marketing and exploration businesses, pursue improvements, and continue future growth will be limited.  There is no assurance that the Company will be able to maintain future credit arrangements on commercially reasonable terms.

The financial soundness of customers could affect our business and operating results

As a result of constraints in the financial markets and other macro-economic challenges currently affecting the economy of the United States and other parts of the world, the Company’s customers may experience cash flow concerns.  As a result, if customers’ operating and financial performance deteriorates, or if they are unable to make scheduled payments or obtain credit, customers may not be able to pay, or may delay payment of, accounts receivable owed to the Company.  Any inability of current and/or potential customers to pay for services may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Counterparty credit default could have an adverse effect on the Company.

The Company’s revenues are generated under contracts with various counterparties.  Results of operations would be adversely affected as a result of non-performance by any of these counterparties of their contractual obligations under the various contracts.  A counterparty’s default or non-performance could be caused by factors beyond the Company’s control.  A default could occur as a result of circumstances relating directly to the counterparty, or due to circumstances caused by other market participants having a direct or indirect relationship with such counterparty.  The Company seeks to mitigate the risk of default by evaluating the financial strength of potential counterparties; however, despite mitigation efforts, defaults by counterparties may occur from time to time.

 
8

 

Fluctuations in oil and gas prices could have an effect on the Company.

The Company’s future financial condition, revenues, results of operations and future rate of growth are materially affected by oil and natural gas prices.  Oil and natural gas prices historically have been volatile and are likely to continue to be volatile in the future.  Moreover, oil and natural gas prices depend on factors outside the control of the Company.  These factors include:

·  
supply and demand for oil and gas and expectations regarding supply and demand;
·  
political conditions in other oil-producing countries, including the possibility of insurgency or war in such areas;
·  
economic conditions in the United States and worldwide;
·  
governmental regulations and taxation;
·  
impact of energy conservation efforts;
·  
the price and availability of alternative fuel sources;
·  
weather conditions;
·  
availability of local, interstate and intrastate transportation systems; and
·  
market uncertainty.

Revenues are generated under contracts that must be renegotiated periodically.

Substantially all of the Company’s revenues are generated under contracts which expire periodically or which must be frequently renegotiated, extended or replaced.  Whether these contracts are renegotiated, extended or replaced is often subject to factors beyond the Company’s control. Such factors include sudden fluctuations in oil and gas prices, counterparty ability to pay for or accept the contracted volumes and, most importantly, an extremely competitive marketplace for the services offered by the Company.  There is no assurance that the costs and pricing of the Company’s services can remain competitive in the marketplace or that the Company will be successful in renegotiating its contracts.

Anticipated or scheduled volumes will differ from actual or delivered volumes.

The Company’s crude oil and natural gas marketing operation purchases initial production of crude oil and natural gas at the wellhead under contracts requiring the Company to accept the actual volume produced.  The resale of such production is generally under contracts requiring a fixed volume to be delivered.  The Company estimates its anticipated supply and matches such supply estimate for both volume and pricing formulas with committed sales volumes.   Since actual wellhead volumes produced will never equal anticipated supply, the Company’s marketing margins may be adversely impacted.  In many instances, any losses resulting from the difference between actual supply volumes compared to committed sales volumes must be absorbed by the Company.

Environmental liabilities and environmental regulations may have an adverse effect on the Company.

The Company’s business is subject to environmental hazards such as spills, leaks or any discharges of petroleum products and hazardous substances.  These environmental hazards could expose the Company to material liabilities for property damage, personal injuries and/or environmental harms, including the costs of investigating and rectifying contaminated properties.

Environmental laws and regulations govern many aspects of the Company’s business, such as drilling and exploration, production, transportation and waste management.  Compliance with environmental laws and regulations can require significant costs or may require a decrease in production.  Moreover, noncompliance with these laws and regulations could subject the Company to significant administrative, civil and/or criminal fines and/or penalties.


 
9

 

Operations could result in liabilities that may not be fully covered by insurance.

The oil and gas business involves certain operating hazards such as well blowouts, explosions, fires and pollution.  Any of these operating hazards could cause serious injuries, fatalities or property damage, which could expose the Company to liability.  The payment of any of these liabilities could reduce, or even eliminate, the funds available for exploration, development, and acquisition, or could result in a loss of the Company’s properties and may even threaten survival of the enterprise.

Consistent with the industry standard, the Company’s insurance policies provide limited coverage for losses or liabilities relating to pollution, with broader coverage for sudden and accidental occurrences.  Insurance might be inadequate to cover all liabilities.  Moreover, from time to time, obtaining insurance for the Company’s line of business can become difficult and costly.  Typically, when insurance cost escalates, the Company may reduce its level of coverage and more risk may be retained to offset cost increases.  If substantial liability is incurred and damages are not covered by insurance or exceed policy limits, the Company’s operation and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

Changes in tax laws or regulations could adversely affect the Company.

The Internal Revenue Service, the United States Treasury Department and Congress frequently review federal income tax legislation.  The Company cannot predict whether, when or to what extent new federal tax laws, regulations, interpretations or rulings will be adopted.  Any such legislative action may prospectively or retroactively modify tax treatment and, therefore, may adversely affect taxation of the Company.

The Company’s business is subject to changing government regulations.

Federal, state or local government agencies may impose environmental, labor or other regulations that increase costs and/or terminate or suspend operations. The Company’s business is subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations.  These regulations relate to, among other things, the exploration, development, production and transportation of oil and natural gas.  Existing laws and regulations could be changed, and any changes could increase costs of compliance and costs of operations.

Estimating reserves, production and future net cash flow is difficult.

Estimating oil and natural gas reserves is a complex process that involves significant interpretations and assumptions.  It requires interpretation of technical data and assumptions relating to economic factors such as future commodity prices, production costs, severance and excise taxes, capital expenditures and remedial costs, and the assumed effect of governmental regulation.  As a result, actual results may differ from the Company’s estimates. Also, the use of a 10 percent discount factor for reporting purposes, as prescribed by the SEC, may not necessarily represent the most appropriate discount factor, given actual interest rates and risks to which the Company’s business is subject. Any significant variations from the Company’s valuations could cause the estimated quantities and net present value of the Company’s reserves to differ materially.

The reserve data included in this report is only an estimate. The reader should not assume that the present values referred to in this report represent the current market value of the Company’s estimated oil and natural gas reserves. The timing of the production and the expenses from development and production of oil and natural gas properties will affect both the timing of actual future net cash flows from the Company’s proved reserves and their present value.

 
10

 


The Company’s business is dependent on the ability to replace reserves.

Future success depends in part on the Company’s ability to find, develop and acquire additional oil and natural gas reserves.  Without successful acquisition or exploration activities, reserves and revenues will decline as a result of current reserves being depleted by production.  The successful acquisition, development or exploration of oil and natural gas properties requires an assessment of recoverable reserves, future oil and natural gas prices and operating costs, potential environmental and other liabilities, and other factors. These assessments are necessarily inexact. As a result, the Company may not recover the purchase price of a property from the sale of production from the property, or may not recognize an acceptable return from properties acquired. In addition, exploration and development operations may not result in any increases in reserves. Exploration or development may be delayed or canceled as a result of inadequate capital, compliance with governmental regulations or price controls or mechanical difficulties.  In the future, the cost to find or acquire additional reserves may become prohibitive.

Fluctuations in commodity prices could have an adverse effect on the Company.

Revenues depend on volumes and rates, both of which can be affected by the prices of oil and natural gas. Decreased prices could result in a reduction of the volumes of crude oil and natural gas produced by the Company and/or its marketing segment suppliers.  The success of the Company’s operations is, in part, subject to continued development of additional oil and natural gas reserves.  A decline in energy prices could precipitate a decrease in these development activities leading to a decrease in the volume of reserves available for production, processing and transmission.  Fluctuations in energy prices are caused by a number of factors, including:

·  
regional, domestic and international supply and demand;
·  
availability and adequacy of transportation facilities;
·  
energy legislation;
·  
federal and state taxes, if any, on the sale or transportation of natural gas;
·  
abundance of supplies of alternative energy sources;
·  
political unrest among oil producing countries; and
·  
opposition to energy development in environmentally sensitive areas.

Revenues are dependent on the ability to successfully complete drilling activity.

Drilling and exploration are one of the main methods of replacing reserves.  However, drilling and exploration operations may not result in any increases in reserves for various reasons.  Drilling and exploration may be curtailed, delayed or cancelled as a result of:

·  
lack of acceptable prospective acreage;
·  
inadequate capital resources;
·  
weather;
·  
title problems;
·  
compliance with governmental regulations; and
·  
mechanical difficulties.

Moreover, the costs of drilling and exploration may greatly exceed initial estimates.  In such a case, the Company would be required to make additional expenditures to develop its drilling projects.  Such additional and unanticipated expenditures could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Security issues related to drivers and terminal facilities

The Company transports liquid combustible materials such as gasoline and petrochemicals and such materials may be a target for terrorist attacks.  Therefore, the Company employs a variety of security measures to mitigate the risk of such events.

 
11

 

Current and future litigation could have an adverse effect on the Company.

The Company is currently involved in several administrative and civil legal proceedings in the ordinary course of its business.  Moreover, as incidental to operations, the Company sometimes becomes involved in various lawsuits and/or disputes.  Lawsuits and other legal proceedings can involve substantial costs, including the costs associated with investigation, litigation and possible settlement, judgment, penalty or fine.  Although insurance is maintained to mitigate these costs, there can be no assurance that costs associated with lawsuits or other legal proceedings will not exceed the limits of insurance policies.  The Company’s results of operations could be adversely affected if a judgment, penalty or fine is not fully covered by insurance.

Item 1B UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

Item 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

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

Item 4.  RESERVED

 
12

 


PART II

Item 5.
MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON STOCK, RELATED SECURITY HOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER REPURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The Company's common stock is traded on the NYSE Amex Exchange.  The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices of the common stock as reported by the American Stock Exchange for each calendar quarter since January 1, 2008.

   
American Stock Exchange
 
   
High
   
Low
 
2008
           
First Quarter
  $ 28.65     $ 22.00  
Second Quarter
    35.35       26.35  
Third Quarter
    34.95       22.32  
Fourth Quarter
    23.00       13.55  
                 
2009
               
First Quarter
  $ 18.40     $ 12.66  
Second Quarter
    18.49       12.75  
Third Quarter
    21.95       14.83  
Fourth Quarter
    25.18       19.18  

At March 10, 2010 there were approximately 253 shareholders of record of the Company's common stock and the closing stock price was $22.70 per share.  The Company has no securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans.  The Company made no repurchases of its stock during 2009 and 2008.

On December 15, 2009, the Company paid an annual cash dividend of $.50 per common share to common stockholders of record on December 1, 2009.  On December 16, 2008, the Company paid an annual cash dividend of $.50 per common share to common stockholders of record on December 2, 2008.  Such dividends totaled $2,108,798 and $2,108,798 for each of 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 
 

 
13

 


Performance Graph

The performance graph shown below was prepared under the applicable rules of the SEC based on data supplied by Standard & Poor’s Compustat.  The purpose of the graph is to show comparative total stockholder returns for the Company versus other investment options for a specified period of time.  The graph was prepared based upon the following assumptions:

1.  
$100.00 was invested on December 31, 2004 in the Company’s common stock, the S&P 500 Index, and the S&P 500 Integrated Oil and Gas Index.

2.  
Dividends are reinvested on the ex-dividend dates.

Note:  The stock price performance shown on the graph below is not necessarily indicative of future price performance.

Performance Graph 2009



Total Return To Shareholders
 
(Includes reinvestment of dividends)
 
   
         
INDEXED RETURNS
 
   
Base
   
Years Ending
 
   
Period
                               
Company / Index
 
Dec04
   
Dec05
   
Dec06
   
Dec07
   
Dec08
   
Dec09
 
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc.
    100       131.64       175.94       153.01       104.58       138.92  
S&P 500 Index
    100       104.91       121.48       128.16       80.74       102.11  
S&P 500 Integrated Oil & Gas Index
    100       117.63       158.61       205.96       161.08       159.00  

 
14

 


Item 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA


FIVE YEAR REVIEW OF SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
 
Revenues:
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
Marketing
  $ 1,889,583     $ 4,074,677     $ 2,558,545     $ 2,167,502     $ 2,292,029  
Transportation
    44,895       67,747       63,894       62,151       57,458  
Oil and gas
    8,650       17,248       13,783       16,950       15,346  
    $ 1,943,128     $ 4,159,672     $ 2,636,222     $ 2,246,603     $ 2,364,833  
Operating Earnings:
                                       
Marketing
  $ 17,487     $ (2,704 )   $ 20,152     $ 12,975     $ 22,481  
Transportation
    2,128       4,245       5,504       5,173       5,714  
Oil and gas operations
    (3,625 )     (3,348 )     (2,853 )     5,355       6,765  
Oil and gas property sale
    -       -       12,078       -       -  
General and administrative
    (9,589 )     (9,667 )     (10,974 )     (8,536 )     (9,668 )
      6,401       (11,474 )     23,907       14,967       25,292  
Other income (expense):
                                       
Interest income
    125       1,103       1,741       965       188  
Interest expense
    (25 )     (187 )     (134 )     (159 )     (128 )
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations
                                       
before income taxes
    6,501       (10,558 )     25,514       15,773       25,352  
                                         
Income tax (provision) benefit
    (2,352 )     4,986       (8,458 )     (5,290 )     (8,583 )
                                         
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations
    4,149       (5,572 )     17,056       10,483       16,769  
Earnings (loss) from discontinued
                                       
operations, net of taxes
    -       -       -       -       872  
Net earnings (loss)
  $ 4,149     $ (5,572 )   $ 17,056     $ 10,483     $ 17,641  
                                         
Earnings (Loss) Per Share
                                       
From continuing operations
  $ .98     $ (1.32 )   $ 4.04     $ 2.49     $ 3.97  
From discontinued operations
    -       -       -       -       .21  
                                         
Basic earnings (loss) per share
  $ .98     $ (1.32 )   $ 4.04     $ 2.49     $ 4.18  
                                         
Dividends per common share
  $ .50     $ .50     $ .47     $ .42     $ .37  
                                         
Financial Position
                                       
                                         
Working capital
  $ 38,372     $ 41,559     $ 50,572     $ 35,208     $ 39,321  
Total assets
    249,401       210,926       357,075       289,287       312,662  
Long-term debt, net of
                                       
current maturities
    -       -       -       3,000       11,475  
Shareholders’ equity
    83,801       81,761       89,442       74,368       65,656  
Dividends on common shares
    2,109       2,109       1,982       1,771       1,560  
________________________________

Notes:
-  
In 2007, certain oil and natural gas producing properties were sold for $14.9 million producing a net gain of $12.1 million.

 
15

 


 
Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Results of Operations

- Marketing

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

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Revenues
                 
Crude oil
  $ 1,770,600     $ 3,849,531     $ 2,373,838  
Natural gas
    14,232       11,586       13,764  
Refined products
    104,751       213,560       170,943  
Total
  $ 1,889,583     $ 4,074,677     $ 2,558,545  
                         
Operating Earnings (loss)
                       
Crude oil
  $  15,404     $ (4,545 )   $ 15,321  
Natural gas
    2,749       2,247       4,999  
Refined products
    (666 )     (406 )     (168 )
Total
  $ 17,487     $ (2,704 )   $ 20,152  
                         
Depreciation
                       
Crude oil
  $ 1,997     $ 2,039     $ 657  
Natural gas
    166       163       162  
Refined products
    533       565       457  
Total
  $ 2,696     $ 2,767     $ 1,276  

Supplemental volume and price information is:

 
2009
2008
2007
       
Field Level Purchases per day (1)
     
Crude Oil – barrels
         66,100
            67,800
            61,500
Natural Gas – mmbtu’s
           363,000
          437,000
              423,000
       
Average Purchase Price
     
Crude Oil – per barrel
      $         58.32
      $          99.72
      $           70.70
Natural Gas – per mmbtu
          $           3.75
      $            8.63
      $             6.79

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

 
16

 


Comparison 2009 to 2008

Crude oil revenues declined for 2009 by 54 percent because of significantly lower average crude oil prices as shown in the table above.  While comparative overall crude oil prices were reduced in 2009, the direction of change in price was generally increasing during the period.  The average acquisition cost of crude oil moved from the $41 per barrel level at the beginning of the year to $75 per barrel for the December 2009 average price.  This event produced an inventory liquidation gain of $5,780,000 for the year.  The opposite event occurred in 2008 as crude oil prices declined from the $90 per barrel range in January 2008 to the $41 per barrel range in December 2008 causing an $11.8 million inventory liquidation loss.  The Company’s inventory holdings result from shipments in transit and as of December 31, 2009 the Company held 189,079 barrels of crude oil at an average price of $74.32 per barrel.  Excluding inventory related gains and losses, comparative operating earnings would have been $9,624,000 for 2009 and $7,338,000 for 2008.  The 2009 improvement resulted from reduced prices for diesel fuel consumed in the trucking function of this business.  Diesel fuel expense was $4.6 million in 2009 versus $7.3 million in 2008.

Natural gas sales are reported net of underlying natural gas purchase costs and thus reflect gross margins. As shown above, such margins were fairly consistent between the periods.  Natural gas lease purchase volumes were reduced in the current year as generally low natural gas prices caused production curtailments and delayed drilling plans by the Company’s supplier group.  Despite reduced volumes and based on historical trends, the year 2009 should have produced significantly improved operating earnings relative to 2008 because of the volatile weather patterns that occurred as compared to the mild conditions existing in 2008.  Traditionally, the Company captures improved unit margins during periods of rapidly changing weather.  However, the continued development of the nations natural gas infrastructure both in terms of more diverse areas of production and expanded pipeline and storage capacity have served to reduce unit margin even during periods of severe weather. This development may limit future opportunities to profit from natural gas marketing operations.  To counteract this dynamic, the Company has begun recruiting additional producer suppliers in the expanding production areas.

Contraction in the United States economy has adversely affected refined product segment revenues and operating earnings.  Both 2009 and 2008 suffered from the downturn in the domestic economy which began during the third quarter of 2008.  Operating earnings were additionally impacted in 2009 and 2008 when the bad debt provision was increased by approximately $560,000 and $700,000, respectively, due to customer financial stability concerns.  The Company has focused on cost controls and instituted personnel cut-backs in the fourth quarter of 2009 in an effort to restore profitability to this segment.

Comparison 2008 to 2007

Crude oil revenues increased by 62 percent in 2008 relative to 2007 due to significantly increased commodity prices during major portions of the year.  The Company’s monthly average crude oil acquisition price rose from the $91 per barrel level at year-end 2007 to the $133 per barrel level in June 2008 with a subsequent steep decline beginning in August 2008 to the $41 per barrel range by year-end.  Net inventory driven losses for 2008 were $11.8 million.  In contrast, rising prices produced $4.3 million of inventory liquidation gains in 2007. Excluding the impact of inventory values as described above, crude oil operating earnings for 2008 and 2007 would have been $7,338,000 and $11,021,000, respectively.  Absent the inventory items, crude oil earnings from operations were reduced in 2008 as a result of escalated prices for the diesel fuel.  Diesel fuel expense was $7.3 million in 2008 compared to $4.3 million for 2007.

Natural gas operating earnings were reduced in 2008 relative to 2007 as the marketplace in 2008 provided few opportunities to enhance margins by meeting short-term day-to-day demand needs.  In part, such conditions existed because 2008’s mild weather patterns did not stimulate localized demand spikes.

 
17

 

Refined products revenues increased during 2008 consistent with increased commodity prices partially offset by reduced volumes as the Company reduced its sales activity to less creditworthy accounts.  Refined product driven operating earnings were reduced during 2008 because of an increased allowance for doubtful accounts receivable through a bad debt charge of $700,000.  The Company has a number of construction industry customers that experienced significantly increased fuel costs coupled with a downturn in the housing development market.   With an elevated likelihood of this class of customer experiencing financial insolvency, the Company’s bad debt provision was increased accordingly.

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

-      Transportation

The transportation segment revenues and operating earnings were as follows (in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
 
                                     
Revenues
  $ 44,895       (34 )%   $ 67,747       6 %   $ 63,894       3 %
                                                 
Operating earnings
  $ 2,128       (50 )%   $ 4,245       (23 )%   $ 5,504       6 %
                                                 
Depreciation
  $ 3,970       3 %   $ 3,843       (10 )%   $ 4,275       (6 )%
______________
(1)
Represents the percentage increase (decrease) from the prior year.

Comparison 2009 to 2008

Revenues and operating results turned downward for the transportation segment in 2009 due to reduced customer demand beginning in the third quarter of 2008.  The Company’s customers are predominately the domestic United States petrochemical industry, and demand for such products is driven primarily by activity within the housing and automotive sectors.  The current national economic recession has severely and adversely impacted this segment of the Company’s business.  Customer demand is down approximately 30% and through year-end 2009 showed only limited signs of recovery.  Typically, as revenues decline, operating earnings decline at a faster rate, as measured by percentage, due to the fixed cost components of operating costs.  In March 2009, the Company instituted cost cutting measures including a reduction in personnel levels in order to better align costs with the Company’s level of revenues.  As a result, the rate of decline in operating earnings slowed relative to the rate of decline in revenues beginning in the second quarter of 2009.  In addition during the third quarter of 2009 the Company earned an approximate $467,000 credit against its automobile and workers compensation insurance premiums.  Such premium credits served to reduce operating expenses and were a direct result of reduced activity within the transportation segment.

Based on the current level of infrastructure, the Company’s transportation segment is designed to maximize efficiency when revenues excluding fuel adjustments are in the $60 million per year range.  The Company’s transportation business tends to contract when United States and world economies weaken and also fluctuates with the exchange value for the U.S. dollar.  A strong dollar exchange rate generally suppresses demand and reduces earnings.  Other important factors include levels of competition within the tank truck industry as well as competition from the railroads.  Some demand improvement, most likely the result of shifting traffic patterns from rail to truck, occurred in January 2010 and has continued to date.

 
18

 

Comparison 2008 to 2007

Transportation revenues include various component parts, the most significant being standard line haul charges, fuel adjustment charges and demurrage.  Line haul revenues declined slightly during 2008 to $48.3 million versus $49.2 million in 2007 as the average annual demand for the Company’s services generally remained consistent.  Fuel adjustment billings increased to $12.6 million in 2008 compared to $7.6 million in 2007 for comparative additional 2008 revenue of $5 million.  However, actual fuel expense incurred increased by $5.6 million during 2008 to $17.1 million.  The partial inability to fully pass along fuel increases coupled with increased salary and wage cost during 2008 reduced operating earnings for the year.

-           Oil and Gas

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

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
   
Amount
   
Change(1)
 
                                     
Revenues
  $ 8,650       (50 )%   $ 17,248       25 %   $ 13,783       (19 )%
                                                 
Operating earnings (loss)
    (3,625 )     8 %     (3,348 )     17 %     (2,853 )     (153 )%
                                                 
Depreciation and depletion
    3,654       (46 )%     6,763       16 %     5,833       62 %
                                                 
Producing property impairments
    1,350       (56 )%     3,078       153 %     1,216       43 %
______________
 (1)
Represents the percentage increase (decrease) from the prior year.

Comparative volumes and prices were as follows:

 
2009
2008
2007
       
Production Volumes
     
- Crude Oil
            49,500 bbls
           50,500 bbls
           69,250 bbls
- Natural Gas
       1,304,000 mcf
       1,243,000 mcf
      1,182,000 mcf
       
Average Price
     
- Crude Oil
      $      58.10/bbl
       $       99.25/bbl
       $      70.21/bbl
- Natural Gas
          $        4.43/mcf
       $         9.84/mcf
       $        7.54/mcf


The revenue and earnings decline for the oil and gas segment in 2009 is attributable to decreased crude oil and natural gas prices as shown in the tables above.  Depreciation and depletion expense is reduced in the current period because a significant decline in hydrocarbon prices at year-end December 31, 2008 caused producing property impairment provisions to be recorded.  Such charges reduced the level of capitalized costs for amortizing in the current period.  Improved oil and gas segment revenues for 2008 in comparison to 2007 resulted from increased overall average commodity prices for both crude oil and natural gas as shown above.  Crude oil volumes are reduced in 2009 and 2008 as a result of normal production declines while natural gas volumes increased for each year with favorable drilling results.

 
19

 

Operating earnings were burdened in 2009, 2008 and 2007 with exploration expenses incurred as follows (in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Dry hole expense
  $ 661     $ 2,421     $ 3,187  
Prospect abandonment
    2,423       2,834       845  
Seismic and geological
    734       775       1,475  
                         
Total
  $ 3,818     $ 6,030     $ 5,507  

During 2009, the Company participated in the drilling of 35 wells with 26 successful and 9 dry holes. Additionally, the Company had seven wells in process on December 31, 2009 with ultimate evaluation anticipated during 2010.    Converting natural gas volumes to equate with crude oil volumes at a ratio of six to one, oil and gas production and proved reserve volumes are summarized as follows on an equivalent barrel (Eq. Bbls) basis:

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
(Eq. Bbls.)
   
(Eq. Bbls.)
   
(Eq. Bbls.)
 
                   
Beginning of year
    1,304,000       1,475,000       1,779,000  
Estimated reserve additions
    439,000       395,000       246,000  
Production
    (267,000 )     (258,000 )     (266,000 )
Reserves sold
    -       -       (245,000 )
Revisions of previous estimates
    (26,000 )     (308,000 )     (39,000 )
                         
End of year
    1,450,000       1,304,000       1,475,000  

During 2009 and in total for the three year period ended December 31, 2009, estimated reserve additions represented 164 percent and 136 percent, respectively, of production volumes.

The Company’s current drilling and exploration efforts are primarily focused as follows:

East Texas Project

Beginning in 2005, the Company began acquiring acreage interests in Nacogdoches and Shelby counties of East Texas.  Subsequent drilling activity produced 26 productive wells through the end of 2009.  Four of the successful wells targeted the Haynesville Shale Play of Nacogdoches County with the Hill #1, the Pop Pop Gas Unit #1 and the Hassell Gas Unit #1 each beginning initial production rates from 12,000 to in excess of 15,000 mcf per day of natural gas with flowing tubing pressures in excess of 7200 psi.  The Company has a five percent working interest in these three wells and holds a five percent working interest in approximately 43,000 acres, which includes the area of the Haynesville wells.  A two percent working interest is held in approximately 24,000 additional adjacent acres.  Drilling activity will continue on this project with six rigs scheduled during 2010.

Eaglewood Project

The Eaglewood project encompasses a ten county area from South Texas along the Gulf Coast and northward into East Texas.  In this area, the Company purchased existing 3-D seismic data and reprocessed it using proprietary techniques.  During 2008, five wells were successfully drilled.  In 2009, activity was curtailed due to reduced prices for natural gas.  Active efforts resumed in 2010 with one successful well drilled in the first quarter and three wells approved for drilling.  The Company anticipates additional economically viable prospects will be identified for future drilling.  The Company has a five percent working interest in this project.

 
20

 

Southwestern Arkansas

The Company participated in three 3-D seismic surveys in Southwestern Arkansas covering approximately 160 square miles.  After initially drilling two unsuccessful test wells on this project in 2008, additional study was completed and a successful well was drilled in 2010 and is presently completing.  Indications continue to suggest that multiple drillable shallow oil prospects will be identified.  The Company’s working interest in this project varies from 4.5 percent to 11.6 percent.

South Central Kansas

The Company is participating with a 10 percent working interest in a large 3-D seismic survey in South Central Kansas.  A number of prospects have been identified with the first well scheduled to spud in the first quarter of 2010.


-  
Oil and gas property sale

In May 2007, the Company sold its interest in certain Louisiana producing oil and gas properties.  Sale proceeds totaled $14.9 million resulting in a pre-tax gain on sale of approximately $12.1 million.

-  
General and administrative, interest income and income tax

General and administrative expenses were elevated during 2007 due primarily to federally mandated Sarbanes-Oxley compliance costs.  Interest income declined in 2009 and 2008 as interest rates on overnight deposits declined to near zero following the significant turmoil that occurred in the financial markets during the fall of 2008.  The provision for income taxes is based on Federal and State tax rates and variations are consistent with taxable income in the respective accounting periods.

 
-
Outlook

Recent successful results in the Haynesville Shale formation of East Texas should boost 2010 natural gas volumes and revenues.  Further for 2010, emphasis will be on development drilling which should reduce the level of exploration expense charged to earnings.  The marketing and transportation segments are also forecasting stable profitability during 2010.  Absent declines in crude oil and natural gas prices, upcoming 2010 results should show improvement over the current level of earnings.
 
 
The Company has the following major objectives for 2010:

-  
Maintain marketing operating earnings at the $10 million level exclusive of inventory valuation gains or losses.

-  
Establish transportation operating earnings at the $3 million level.

-  
Establish oil and gas operating earnings at the $5 million level and replace 2010 production with current reserve additions.

 
21

 


Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s liquidity primarily derives from net cash provided from operating activities, which was $22,285,000, $13,639,000 and $9,201,000 for each of 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company had no bank debt or other forms of debenture obligations.  Cash and cash equivalents totaled $16,806,000 as of December 31, 2009, and such balances are maintained in order to meet the timing of day-to-day cash needs.  Working capital, the excess of current assets over current liabilities, totaled $38,372,000 as of December 31, 2009.

From time to time, the Company may make cash prepayments to certain suppliers of crude oil and natural gas for the Company’s marketing operations.  Such prepayments totaled $7,670,000 as of December 31, 2009 and such amounts will be recouped and advanced from month-to-month as the suppliers deliver product to the Company.  The Company also requires certain counterparties to post cash collateral with the Company in order to support their purchases from the Company.  Such cash collateral held by the Company totaled $1,884,000 as of December 31, 2009.  Management believes current cash balances, together with expected cash generated from future operations, will be sufficient to meet short-term and long-term liquidity needs.

The Company utilizes cash from operations to make discretionary investments in its oil and natural gas exploration, marketing and transportation businesses, which comprise substantially all of the Company’s investing cash outflows for each of the past three years.  The Company does not look to proceeds from property sales to fund its cash flow needs.  However, during May 2007, the Company received net proceeds of $14,954,000 related to the sale of oil and gas properties and such sale was made due to attractive pricing.  Currently, the Company does not plan to make significant dispositions of its oil and gas properties in the future, but certain oil and gas interests may be disposed of should favorable opportunities arise.  Except for a total of $1.9 million in operating lease commitments for transportation equipment and office lease space, the Company’s future commitments and planned investments can be readily curtailed if operating cash flows contract.

Capital expenditures during 2009 included $9,648,000 for marketing and transportation equipment additions (primarily trucks and trailers) and $12,742,000 in property additions associated with oil and gas exploration and production activities.  For 2010, the Company anticipates expending approximately $15 million on oil and gas exploration projects to be funded from operating cash flow and available working capital.  In addition, approximately $7 million will be expended towards replacement of older truck-tractors within the Company’s marketing and transportation businesses with funding from available cash flow.

Historically, the Company pays an annual dividend in the fourth quarter of each year, and the Company paid a $.50 per common share or $2,109,000 dividend to shareholders of record as of December 1, 2009.  The most significant item affecting future increases or decreases in liquidity is earnings from operations and such earnings are dependent on the success of future operations (see Item 1A Risk Factors in this annual report of Form 10-K).

Banking Relationships

In August 2009, the Company entered into a Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank to provide a $40 million letter of credit facility.  Pursuant to the Wells Fargo agreement, the Company discontinued its previous working capital lines of credit with Bank of America.  The Wells Fargo facility provides for the issuance of up to $40 million of letters of credit to support the Company’s crude oil and natural gas marketing businesses based on the eligible accounts receivable within those operations.  Letters of credit outstanding totaled $24.5 million as of December 31, 2009.  The letter of credit facility places certain restrictions on the Company’s Gulfmark Energy, Inc. and Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd. subsidiaries.  Such restrictions included maintaining a combined 1.1 to 1.0 current ratio and maintaining positive net earnings as defined among other restrictions.  Management believes the Company is currently in compliance with all such covenants.

 
22

 


Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company maintains certain operating lease arrangements primarily with independent truck owner-operators in order to provide truck-tractor equipment for the Company’s fleet.  Any commitments with independent truck owner-operators are on a month-to-month basis.  All operating lease commitments qualify for off-balance sheet treatment.  Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 was $6,898,000, $13,423,000 and $11,885,000, respectively.  As of December 31, 2009, commitments under long-term non-cancelable operating leases for the next five years are payable as follows:  2010 - $1,165,000; 2011 - $820,000; 2012 - $168,000; 2013 - $47,000 and none thereafter.

Contractual Cash Obligations

The Company has entered into certain operating leasing arrangements for tractors, trailers and office space.  The Company has no capital lease obligations.  A summary of the payment periods for contractual cash obligations is as follows (in thousands):

   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
2013
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
                                     
Lease payments
  $ 1,165     $ 820     $ 168     $ 47     $ -     $ 2,200  

In addition to its lease financing obligations, the Company is also committed to purchase certain quantities of crude oil and natural gas in connection with its marketing activities.  Such commodity purchase obligations are the basis for commodity sales, which generate the cash flow necessary to meet such purchase obligations.  Approximate commodity purchase obligations as of December 31, 2009 are as follows (in thousands):

   
January
   
Remaining
                         
   
2010
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Crude Oil
  $ 100,859     $ 8,035     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 108,894  
Natural Gas
    24,160       23,292       -       -       -       47,452  
    $ 125,019     $ 31,327     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 156,346  

Insurance

From time to time, the marketplace for all forms of insurance enters into periods of severe cost increases. In the past, during such cyclical periods, the Company has seen costs escalate to the point where desired levels of insurance were either unavailable or unaffordable.  The Company’s primary insurance needs are in the areas of worker’s compensation, automobile and umbrella coverage for its trucking fleet and medical insurance for employees.  During each of 2009, 2008 and 2007, insurance cost stabilized and totaled $10.5 million, $10.6 million and $10.3 million, respectively.  Overall insurance cost may experience renewed rate increases during 2010.  Since the Company is generally unable to pass on such cost increases, any increase will need to be absorbed by existing operations.

 
23

 

Competition

In all phases of its operations, the Company encounters strong competition from a number of entities. Many of these competitors possess financial resources substantially in excess of those of the Company. The Company faces competition principally in establishing trade credit, pricing of available materials and quality of service.  In its oil and gas operation, the Company also competes for the acquisition of mineral properties. The Company's marketing division competes with major oil companies and other large industrial concerns that own or control significant refining and marketing facilities.  These major oil companies may offer their products to others on more favorable terms than those available to the Company.  From time to time in recent years, there have been supply imbalances for crude oil and natural gas in the marketplace.  This in turn has led to significant fluctuations in prices for crude oil and natural gas. As a result, there is a high degree of uncertainty regarding both the future market price for crude oil and natural gas and the available margin spread between wholesale acquisition costs and sales realization.

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

Fair Value Accounting

The Company enters into certain forward commodity contracts that are required to be recorded at fair value and such contracts are recorded as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value.  Changes in fair value are recognized immediately in earnings unless the derivatives qualify for, and the Company elects, cash flow hedge accounting.  The Company had no contracts designated for hedge accounting during 2009, 2008 and 2007.

The Company utilizes a market approach to valuing its commodity contracts.  On a contract by contract, forward month by forward month basis, the Company obtains observable market data for valuing its contracts.  Such contracts typically have durations that are less than 18 months.  As of December 31, 2009, all of the Company’s market value measurements were based on either quoted prices in active markets (Level 1 inputs) or from inputs based on observable market data (Level 2 inputs). See discussion under “Fair Value Measurements” in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company’s fair value contracts give rise to market risk, which represents the potential loss that may result from a change in the market value of a particular commitment.  The Company monitors and manages its exposure to market risk to ensure compliance with the Company’s risk management policies.  Such policies are regularly assessed to ensure their appropriateness given management’s objectives, strategies and current market conditions.

Trade Accounts

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

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

 
24

 

Oil and Gas Reserve Estimate

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

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

Contingencies

From time to time as incident to its operations, the Company becomes involved in various accidents, lawsuits and/or disputes.  Primarily as an operator of an extensive trucking fleet, the Company is a party to motor vehicle accidents, worker compensation claims or other items of general liability as are typical for the industry.  In addition, the Company has extensive operations that must comply with a wide variety of tax laws, environmental laws and labor laws, among others.  Should an incident occur, management evaluates the claim based on its nature, the facts and circumstances and the applicability of insurance coverage.  To the extent management believes that such event may impact the financial condition of the Company, management will estimate the monetary value of the claim and make appropriate accruals or disclosure as provided in the appropriate accounting literature guidelines.

Revenue Recognition

The Company’s crude oil, natural gas and refined products marketing customers are invoiced daily or monthly based on contractually agreed upon terms.  Revenue is recognized in the month in which the physical product is delivered to the customer.  Where required, the Company also recognizes fair value or mark-to-market gains and losses related to its commodity activities. A detailed discussion of the Company’s revenue recognition policy is included in Note (1) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

As of September 30, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) which became effective for the Company.  The ASC is now the source of authoritative U.S. accounting and reporting standards for nongovernmental entities, in addition to guidance issued by the SEC.  No changes to accounting standards or guidance resulted from the issuance of the ASC.  Any references to accounting guidance in current and future financial statements will be to the applicable ASC sections.

 
25

 

In December 2008, the Securities and Exchange Commission released Final Rule, Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting to revise the existing Regulation S-K and Regulation S-X reporting requirements to align with current industry practices and technological advances.  The new disclosure requirements include provisions that permit the use of new technologies to determine proved reserves if those technologies have been demonstrated empirically to lead to reliable conclusions about reserve volumes.  In addition, the new disclosure requirements require a company to (a) disclose its internal control over reserves estimation and report the independence and qualification of its reserves preparer or auditor, (b) file reports when a third party is relied upon to prepare reserves estimates or conducts a reserve audit, (c) report oil and gas reserves using an average price based upon the prior 12-month period rather than period-end prices and (d) disclose the development of any proved undeveloped reserves (PUD’s) including the total quantity of PUD’s at year-end, material changes to PUD’s during the year, investments and progress toward the development of PUD’s and an explanation of the reasons why material concentrations of PUD’s have remained undeveloped for five years or more after disclosure as PUD’s.  The accounting changes resulting from changes in definitions and pricing assumptions should be treated as a change in accounting principle that is inseparable from a change in accounting estimate, which is to be applied prospectively.  The disclosures required by this final ruling became effective for the Company’s current Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

In January 2010, the FASB issued FASB Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2010-03, “Oil and Gas Reserve Estimations and Disclosures” (ASU No. 2010-03).  This update aligns the current oil and gas reserve estimation and disclosure requirements of the Extractive Industries – Oil and Gas topic of the ASC (ASC Topic 932) with the changes required by the SEC final rule, “Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting,” as discussed above.  ASU No. 2010-03 expands the disclosures required for equity method investments, revises the definition of oil and gas producing activities to include nontraditional resources in reserves unless not intended to be upgraded into synthetic oil or gas, amends the definition of proved oil and gas reserves to require 12-month average pricing in estimating reserves, amends and adds definitions in the Master Glossary that is used in estimating proved oil and gas quantities and provides guidance on geographic area with respect to disclosure of information about significant reserves.  ASU No. 2010-03 must be applied prospectively as a change in accounting principle that is inseparable from a change in accounting estimate.  The Company adopted ASU No. 2010-03 effective December 31, 2009.

Management believes the impact of other recently issued standards and updates, which are not yet effective, will not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

Item 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company’s exposure to market risk includes potential adverse changes in interest rates and commodity prices.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company had no long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2009 and 2008.  A hypothetical ten percent adverse change in the floating rate would not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.

 
26

 

Commodity Price Risk

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

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

Historically, prices received for oil and natural gas sales have been volatile and unpredictable with price volatility expected to continue.  From January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2009 natural gas price realizations ranged from a monthly low of $2.96 per mmbtu to a monthly high of $11.85 per mmbtu.  Crude oil prices ranged from a monthly average low of $35.99 per barrel to a high of $135.00 per barrel during the same period. A hypothetical ten percent adverse change in average natural gas and crude oil prices, assuming no changes in volume levels, would have reduced earnings by approximately $2,270,000 and $2,896,000 for the comparative years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 
27

 



ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



 
Page
   
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
    29
   
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
 
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008
    30
   
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended
 
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
    31
   
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended
 
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
    32
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
 
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
    32
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    34


 
28

 


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc.
Houston, Texas

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009.  These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting.  Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.  Accordingly, we express no such opinion.  An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

As discussed in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for oil and natural gas reserves and disclosures on December 31, 2009.


/s/DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Houston, Texas
March 23, 2010

 
29

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)

   
December 31,
 
ASSETS
 
2009
   
2008
 
             
CURRENT ASSETS:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 16,806     $ 18,208  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of
               
$1,681 and $1,251, respectively
    155,941       119,401  
Inventories
    15,260       14,207  
Fair value contracts
    1,581       8,697  
Income tax receivable
    2,171       3,629  
Prepayments
    10,804       5,224  
                 
Total current assets
    202,563       169,366  
                 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
               
Marketing
    19,787       19,510  
Transportation
    38,859       32,661  
Oil and gas (successful efforts method)
    73,843       66,593  
Other
    171       99  
      132,660       118,863  
                 
Less – Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
    (90,355 )     (83,277 )
      42,305       35,586  
OTHER ASSETS:
               
Deferred income tax asset
    1,290       2,035  
Cash deposits and other
    3,243       3,939  
    $ 249,401     $ 210,926  
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
                 
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 158,176     $ 115,183  
Accounts payable – related party
    75       89  
Fair value contracts
    1,331       8,196  
Accrued and other liabilities
    3,872       3,930  
Current deferred income taxes
    737       409  
Total current liabilities
    164,191       127,807  
                 
LONG-TERM DEBT
    -       -  
                 
OTHER LIABILITIES:
               
Asset retirement obligations
    1,315       1,260  
Other liabilities
    94       98  
                 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 6)
    165,600       129,165  
                 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
               
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 960,000 shares authorized,
               
none outstanding
    -       -  
Common stock, $.10 par value, 7,500,000 shares authorized,
               
4,217,596 issued and outstanding
    422       422  
Contributed capital
    11,693       11,693  
Retained earnings
    71,686       69,646  
Total shareholders’ equity
    83,801       81,761  
    $ 249,401     $ 210,926  


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

 
30

 


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

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
REVENUES:
                 
Marketing
  $ 1,889,583     $ 4,074,677     $ 2,558,545  
Transportation
    44,895       67,747       63,894  
Oil and gas
    8,650       17,248       13,783  
      1,943,128       4,159,672       2,636,222  
COSTS AND EXPENSES:
                       
Marketing
    1,869,400       4,074,614       2,537,117  
Transportation
    38,797       59,659       54,115  
Oil and gas operations
    8,621       13,833       10,803  
Oil and gas property sale
    -       -       (12,078 )
General and administrative
    9,589       9,667       10,974  
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
    10,320       13,373       11,384  
      1,936,727       4,171,146       2,612,315  
                         
Operating Earnings (Loss)
    6,401       (11,474 )     23,907  
                         
Other Income (Expense):
                       
Interest income
    125       1,103       1,741  
Interest expense
    (25 )     (187 )     (134 )
                         
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
    6,501       (10,558 )     25,514  
                         
Income Tax (Provision) Benefit:
                       
Current
    (1,280 )     (1,689 )     (8,093 )
Deferred
    (1,072 )     6,675       (365 )
      (2,352 )     4,986       (8,458 )
                         
Net Earnings (Loss)
  $ 4,149     $ (5,572 )   $ 17,056  
                         
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:
                       
Basic and diluted net earnings (loss) per share
  $ .98     $ (1.32 )   $ 4.04  
                         
DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE
  $ .50     $ .50     $ .47  


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

 
31

 




ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands)

                     
Total
 
   
Common
   
Contributed
   
Retained
   
Shareholders’
 
   
Stock
   
Capital
   
Earnings
   
Equity
 
                         
BALANCE, January 1, 2007
  $ 422     $ 11,693     $ 62,253     $ 74,368  
Net earnings
    -       -       17,056       17,056  
Dividends paid on common stock
    -       -       (1,982 )     (1,982 )
BALANCE, December 31, 2007
  $ 422     $ 11,693     $ 77,327     $ 89,442  
Net earnings (loss)
    -       -       (5,572 )     (5,572 )
Dividends paid on common stock
    -       -       (2,109 )     (2,109 )
BALANCE, December 31, 2008
  $ 422     $ 11,693     $ 69,646     $ 81,761  
Net earnings
    -       -       4,149       4,149  
Dividends paid on common stock
    -       -       (2,109 )     (2,109 )
BALANCE, December 31, 2009
  $ 422     $ 11,693     $ 71,686     $ 83,801  


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

 
32

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)


   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
                   
CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATIONS:
                 
Net earnings (loss)
  $ 4,149     $ (5,572 )   $ 17,056  
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash
                       
from operating activities-
                       
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
    10,320       13,373       11,384  
Property sale (gains) losses
    (177 )     354       (12,025 )
Dry hole costs incurred
    661       2,421       3,187  
Impairment of oil and gas properties
    3,773       5,911       2,062  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    430       1,059       (33 )
Deferred income taxes
    1,072       (6,675 )     365  
Net change in fair value contracts
    251       1,238       (275 )
Other, net
    485       (433 )     (93 )
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable
    (36,515 )     141,250       (67,580 )
Decrease (increase) in inventories
    (1,053 )     569       (6,826 )
Decrease (increase) in income tax receivable
    1,458       (1,075 )     (1,158 )
Decrease (increase) in prepayments
    (5,580 )     (1,456 )     771  
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
    43,069       (137,548 )     66,556  
Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities
    (58 )     223       (4,190 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    22,285       13,639       9,201  
                         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Property and equipment additions
    (22,390 )     (17,688 )     (15,841 )
Insurance and state collateral (deposits) refunds
    (192 )     502       (303 )
Proceeds from property sales
    1,004       167       14,954  
Redemption of short-term investments
    -       10,000       25,000  
Investment in short-term investments
    -       (10,000 )     (25,000 )
Net cash (used in) investing activities
    (21,578 )     (17,019 )     (1,190 )
                         
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Net repayments under credit agreements
    -       -       (3,000 )
Dividend payments
    (2,109 )     (2,109 )     (1,982 )
Net cash (used in) financing activities
    (2,109 )     (2,109 )     (4,982 )
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,402 )     (5,489 )     3,029  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
    18,208       23,697       20,668  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
  $ 16,806     $ 18,208     $ 23,697  


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

 
33

 

ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


(1)  Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Adams Resources & Energy, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Company") after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts and transactions.  The impact on the accompanying financial statements of events occurring after December 31, 2009 has been evaluated through the date of issuance of these financial statements.

Nature of Operations

The Company is engaged in the business of crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products marketing, as well as tank truck transportation of liquid chemicals and oil and gas exploration and production.  Its primary area of operation is within a 1,000 mile radius of Houston, Texas.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Auction Rate Investments

Cash and cash equivalents include any Treasury bill, commercial paper, money market fund or federal funds with maturity of 90 days or less.  Depending on cash availability and market conditions, investments in municipal bonds may also be made from time to time.  The Company invests in tax-free municipal securities in order to enhance the after-tax rate of return from short-term investments of cash.  The Company had no municipal investments as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.  Cash and cash equivalents are maintained with major financial institutions and such deposits may exceed the amount of Federally backed insurance provided.  While the Company regularly monitors the financial stability of such institutions, cash and cash equivalents ultimately remain at risk subject to the financially viability of such institutions.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts receivable result from sales of crude oil, natural gas and refined products as well as from trucking services.  Marketing business wholesale level sales of crude oil and natural gas comprise in excess of 90 percent of accounts receivable and under industry practices, such items are “settled” and paid in cash within 25 days of the month following the transaction date.  For such receivables, an allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on specific account identification.  The balance of accounts receivable results primarily from sales of refined petroleum products and trucking services.  For this component of receivables, the allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on a review of specific accounts combined with a review of the general status of the aging of all accounts.

Inventories

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

   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Crude oil
  $ 14,053     $ 11,710  
Petroleum products
    1,207       2,497  
                 
    $ 15,260     $ 14,207  


 
34

 

Prepayments

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

   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Cash collateral deposits for commodity purchases
  $ 7,670     $ 2,082  
Insurance premiums
    2,478       1,985  
Natural gas pipeline imbalances
    89       369  
Rents, license and other
    567       788  
                 
    $ 10,804     $ 5,224  


Property and Equipment

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

Oil and gas exploration and development expenditures are accounted for in accordance with the successful efforts method of accounting.  Direct costs of acquiring developed or undeveloped leasehold acreage, including lease bonus, brokerage and other fees, are capitalized. Exploratory drilling costs are initially capitalized until the properties are evaluated and determined to be either productive or nonproductive.  Such evaluations are made on a quarterly basis.  If an exploratory well is determined to be nonproductive, the costs of drilling the well are charged to expense. Costs incurred to drill and complete development wells, including dry holes, are capitalized.  As of December 31, 2009, the Company had no unevaluated or suspended exploratory drilling costs.

Depreciation, depletion and amortization of the cost of proved oil and gas properties is calculated using the unit-of-production method.  The reserve base used to calculate depreciation, depletion and amortization for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties is the sum of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves.  For lease and well equipment, development costs and successful exploration drilling costs, the reserve base includes only proved developed reserves.  All other property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated average useful lives of three to twenty years.

The Company periodically reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever there is evidence that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable.  Any impairment recognized is permanent and may not be restored.  Producing oil and gas properties are reviewed quarterly for impairment triggers on a field-by-field basis.  For properties requiring impairment, the fair value is estimated based on an internal discounted cash-flow model that uses market based inputs.  Cash flows are developed based on estimated future production and prices and then discounted using an internal rate of return consistent with that used by the Company in evaluating cash flows for other assets of a similar nature.  For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 there were $1,350,000, $3,078,000 and $1,216,000 impairment provisions on producing oil and gas properties, respectively.

 
35

 

Fair value measurements for producing oil and gas properties that were subject to fair value impairment for the year ended December 31, 2009 summarized as follows (in thousands):

   
Producing Properties
 
   
Subject to Fair
 
   
Value Impairment
 
       
Net book value at January 1, 2009
  $ 1,744  
         
Property additions
    960  
Depletion taken
    (751 )
Impairment valuation loss
    (1,350 )
         
Net book at December 31, 2009
  $ 603  


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

On a quarterly basis, management also evaluates the carrying value of non-producing oil and gas properties and may deem them impaired for lack of drilling activity.  Accordingly, impairment provisions on non-producing properties totaling $2,423,000, $2,834,000 and $846,000 were recorded for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  For non-producing properties, impairments are determined based on management’s knowledge of current geological evaluations, drilling results and activity in the area and intent to drill as it relates to the remaining term of the underlying oil and gas leasehold interest.


Cash Deposits and Other Assets

The Company has established certain deposits to support participation in its liability insurance program and remittance of state crude oil severance taxes and other state collateral deposits.  In addition, the Company has accounts and notes receivable from certain customers that are expected to be collected over a long-term period. Components of cash deposits and other assets are as follows (in thousands):

   
December 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Insurance collateral deposits
  $ 2,648     $ 2,794  
State collateral deposits
    271       279  
Accounts and notes receivable
    -       503  
Materials and supplies
    324       363  
    $ 3,243     $ 3,939  

Revenue Recognition

Commodity purchases and sale contracts utilized by the Company’s marketing businesses qualify as derivative instruments.  Further, all natural gas, as well as certain specifically identified crude oil purchase and sale contracts, are designated as trading activities.  From the time of contract origination, such trading activity contracts are marked-to-market and recorded on a net revenue basis in the accompanying financial statements.

 
36

 

Substantially all crude oil and refined products purchase and sale contracts qualify and are designated as non-trading activities and the Company elects the normal purchases and sales exception methodology for such activity.  For normal purchase and sale activities, the Company’s customers are invoiced monthly based upon contractually agreed upon terms with revenue recognized in the month in which the physical product is delivered to the customer.  Such sales are recorded gross in the financial statements because the Company takes title to and has risk of loss for the products, is the primary obligor for the purchase, establishes the sale price independently with a third party and maintains credit risk associated with the sale of the product.

Certain crude oil contracts may be with a single counterparty to provide for similar quantities of crude oil to be bought and sold at different locations.  These contracts are entered into for a variety of reasons, including effecting the transportation of the commodity, to minimize credit exposure, and/or to meet the competitive demands of the customer.  Such buy/sell arrangements are reflected on a net revenue basis in the accompanying financial statements.

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

Banking Relationships

In August 2009, the Company entered into a Credit and Security Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank to provide a $40 million letter of credit facility.  Pursuant to the Wells Fargo agreement, the Company discontinued its previous working capital lines of credit with Bank of America.  The Wells Fargo facility provides for the issuance of up to $40 million of letters of credit to support the Company’s crude oil and natural gas marketing businesses based on the eligible accounts receivable within those operations.  Letters of credit outstanding totaled $24.5 million as of December 31, 2009.  The letter of credit facility places certain restrictions on the Company’s Gulfmark Energy, Inc. and Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd. subsidiaries.  Such restrictions include maintaining a combined 1.1 to 1.0 current ratio and maintaining positive net earnings as defined among other restrictions.  Management believes the Company is currently in compliance with all such financial covenants.

Statement of Cash Flows

Interest paid totaled $26,000, $187,000 and $115,000 during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Income taxes paid during these same periods totaled $1,152,000, $3,768,000, and $9,134,000, respectively.  The Company also received a $2,000,000 income tax refund during 2009.  Non-cash investing activities for property and equipment in accounts payable were $440,000, $561,000 and $135,000 as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  There were no significant non-cash financing activities in any of the periods reported.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings per share are based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive common stock shares outstanding during the period. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was 4,217,596 for 2009, 2008 and 2007.  There were no potentially dilutive securities during those periods.

Share-Based Payments

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

 
37

 

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. Examples of significant estimates used in the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the oil and gas reserve volumes that form the foundation for (1) calculating depreciation, depletion and amortization and (2) deriving cash flow estimates to assess impairment triggers or estimated values associated with oil and gas property, revenue accruals, the provision for bad debts, insurance related accruals, income taxes, contingencies and valuation of fair value contracts.

Use of Derivative Instruments

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

None of the Company’s derivative instruments have been designated as hedging instruments and the estimated fair value of forward month commodity contracts (derivatives) is reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

   
Balance Sheet Location and Amount
 
   
Current
   
Other
   
Current
   
Other
 
   
Assets
   
Assets
   
Liabilities
   
Liabilities
 
Asset Derivatives
                       
- Fair Value Commodity
                       
Contracts at Gross Valuation
  $ 2,035     $ -     $ -     $ -  
                                 
Liability Derivatives
                               
- Fair Value Commodity
                               
Contracts at Gross Valuation
    -       -       1,785       -  
                                 
Less Counterparty Offsets
    (454 )     -       (454 )     -  
                                 
As Reported Fair Value Contracts
  $ 1,581     $ -     $ 1,331     $ -  
 
 
The Company only enters into commodity contracts with creditworthy counterparties or obtains collateral support for such activities.  No credit loss provision applies to the Company’s forward commodity contract valuations.  As of December 31, 2009, the Company is not holding nor has it posted any collateral to support its forward month fair value derivative activity. The Company is not subject to any credit-risk related trigger events.

Forward month fair value commodity contracts (derivatives) are reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2009 as follows (in thousands):

Location
 
(Loss)
 
       
Revenues - marketing
  $ (251 )

 
38

 

 Fair Value Measurements

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

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

Fair value estimates are based on assumptions that market participants would use when pricing an asset or liability and the Company uses a fair value hierarchy of three levels that prioritizes the information used to develop those assumptions.  Currently, for all items presented herein, the Company utilizes a market approach to valuing its contracts.  On a contract by contract, forward month by forward month basis, the Company obtains observable market data for valuing its contracts.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets and the lowest priority to unobservable data.  The fair value hierarchy is summarized as follows:

 
Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that may be accessed at the measurement date.  Active markets are those in which transactions for the asset or liability occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.  The Company utilizes the New York Mercantile Exchange “NYMEX” for its Level 1 valuations
            
 
Level 2 – (a) quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, (b) quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities but in markets that are not actively traded or in which little information is released to the public, (c) observable inputs other than quoted prices and (d) inputs derived from observable market data.

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

As of December 31, 2009, the Company’s fair value assets and liabilities are summarized and categorized as follows (in thousands):

   
Market Data Inputs
       
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
       
   
Quoted Prices
   
Observable
   
Unobservable
   
Total
 
Derivatives
                       
- Current assets
  $ 224     $ 1,357     $ -     $ 1,581  
- Current liabilities
    -       (1,331 )     -       (1,331 )
Net Value
  $ 224     $ 26     $ -     $ 250  

As of December 31, 2008, the Company’s fair value assets and liabilities are summarized and categorized as follows (in thousands):

   
Market Data Inputs
       
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
       
   
Quoted Prices
   
Observable
   
Unobservable
   
Total
 
Derivatives
                       
- Current assets
  $ 1,029     $ 7,668     $ -     $ 8,697  
- Current liabilities
    -       (8,196 )     -       (8,196 )
Net Value
  $ 1,029     $ (528 )   $ -     $ 501  



 
39

 

The Company’s gross transaction volumes for physically settled energy trading contracts were approximately 132,488,000 mmbtu’s, 159,505,000 mmbtu’s, and 154,395,000 mmbtu’s in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

When determining fair value measurements, the Company makes credit valuation adjustments to reflect both its own nonperformance risk and its counterparty’s nonperformance risk.  When adjusting the fair value of derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, and guarantees are considered.  Credit valuation adjustments utilize Level 3 inputs, such as credit scores to evaluate the likelihood of default by the Company or its counterparties.  As of December 31, 2009, credit valuation adjustments were not significant to the overall valuation of the Company’s fair value contracts.  As a result, applicable fair value assets and liabilities in their entirety are classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The following table illustrates the factors impacting the change in the net value of the Company’s fair value contracts for the year ended December 31, 2009 (in thousands):

   
Level 1
   
Level 2
       
   
Quoted Prices
   
Observable
   
Total
 
                   
Net Fair Value January 1,
  $ 1,029     $ (528 )   $ 501  
- Net realized (gains) losses
    (1,029 )     528       (501 )
- Net unrealized gains (losses)
                       
at inception of contract
    224       26       250  
                         
Net Fair Value December 31,
  $ 224     $ 26     $ 250  

Asset Retirement Obligations

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

   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Balance on January 1,
  $ 1,260     $ 1,153  
-Liabilities incurred
    44       57  
-Accretion of discount
    74       70  
-Liabilities settled
    (60 )     (20 )
-Revisions to estimates
    (3 )     -  
Balance on December 31,
  $ 1,315     $ 1,260  

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

 
40

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

As of September 30, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) which became effective for the Company.  The ASC is now the source of authoritative U.S. accounting and reporting standards for nongovernmental entities, in addition to guidance issued by the SEC.  No changes to accounting standards or guidance resulted from the issuance of the ASC.  Any references to accounting guidance in current and future financial statements will be to the applicable ASC sections.

In December 2008, the Securities and Exchange Commission released Final Rule, Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting to revise the existing Regulation S-K and Regulation S-X reporting requirements to align with current industry practices and technological advances.  The new disclosure requirements include provisions that permit the use of new technologies to determine proved reserves if those technologies have been demonstrated empirically to lead to reliable conclusions about reserve volumes.  In addition, the new disclosure requirements require a company to (a) disclose its internal control over reserves estimation and report the independence and qualification of its reserves preparer or auditor, (b) file reports when a third party is relied upon to prepare reserves estimates or conducts a reserve audit, (c) report oil and gas reserves using an average price based upon the prior 12-month period rather than period-end prices and (d) disclose the development of any proved undeveloped reserves (PUD’s) including the total quantity of PUD’s at year-end, material changes to PUD’s during the year, investments and progress toward the development of PUD’s and an explanation of the reasons why material concentrations of PUD’s have remained undeveloped for five years or more after disclosure as PUD’s.  The accounting changes resulting from changes in definitions and pricing assumptions should be treated as a change in accounting principle that is inseparable from a change in accounting estimate, which is to be applied prospectively.  The disclosures required by this ruling became effective for the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

In January 2010, the FASB issued FASB Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2010-03, “Oil and Gas Reserve Estimations and Disclosures” (ASU No. 2010-03).  This update aligns the current oil and gas reserve estimation and disclosure requirements of the Extractive Industries – Oil and Gas topic of the ASC (ASC Topic 932) with the changes required by the SEC final rule, “Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting,” as discussed above.  ASU No. 2010-03 expands the disclosures required for equity method investments, revises the definition of oil and gas producing activities to include nontraditional resources in reserves unless not intended to be upgraded into synthetic oil or gas, amends the definition of proved oil and gas reserves to require 12-month average pricing in estimating reserves, amends and adds definitions in the Master Glossary that is used in estimating proved oil and gas quantities and provides guidance on geographic area with respect to disclosure of information about significant reserves.  ASU No. 2010-03 must be applied prospectively as a change in accounting principle that is inseparable from a change in accounting estimate.  The Company adopted ASU No. 2010-03 effective December 31, 2009.

Management believes the impact of other recently issued standards and updates, which are not yet effective, will not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

 
41

 


(2)  Income Taxes

The following table shows the components of the Company's income tax (provision) benefit (in thousands):

   
Years ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Current:
                 
Federal
  $ (649 )   $ (1,349 )   $ (6,637 )
State
    (631 )     (340 )     (1,456 )
      (1,280 )     (1,689 )     (8,093 )
Deferred:
                       
Federal
    (1,286 )     6,199       (497 )
State
    214       476       132  
    $ (2,352 )   $ 4,986     $ (8,458 )

Taxes computed at the corporate federal income tax rate reconcile to the reported income tax (provision) as follows (in thousands):

   
Years ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Statutory federal income tax (provision) benefit
  $ (2,275 )   $ 3,696     $ (8,930 )
State income tax (provision) benefit
    (270 )     88       (860 )
Federal statutory depletion
    186       797       750  
Domestic production deduction
    -       62       141  
Foreign investment write-off
    -       -       148  
Change in state tax rates
    -       20       322  
Reduction of prior uncertain tax position
    -       320       -  
Other
    7       3       (29 )
    $ (2,352 )   $ 4,986     $ (8,458 )

Deferred income taxes reflect the net difference between the financial statement carrying amounts and the underlying tax basis in such items.  The components of the federal deferred tax asset (liability) are as follows (in thousands):

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Current deferred tax asset (liability)
           
Bad debts
  $ 421     $ 438  
Prepaid insurance
    (1,070 )     (672 )
Mark-to-market contracts
    (88 )     (175 )
                 
Net current deferred tax (liability)
    (737 )     (409 )
                 
Long-term deferred tax asset (liability)
               
Property
    884       1,985  
Uniform capitalization
    322       263  
Insurance returns
    (166 )     (323 )
Other
    250       110  
Net long-term deferred tax  asset
    1,290       2,035  
                 
Net deferred tax asset
  $ 553     $ 1,626  


 
42

 

Financial statement recognition and measurement of positions taken, or expected to be taken, by an entity in its income tax returns must consider the uncertainty and judgment involved in the determination and filing of income taxes.  Tax positions taken in an income tax return that are recognized in the financial statements must satisfy a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, assuming that the tax position will be examined by taxing authorities with full knowledge of all relevant information.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company had accrued approximately $130,000 and $114,000 including approximately $58,000 and $51,000 of potential interest and penalty, respectively, applicable to certain open and unfiled state tax returns.  A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
   
2009
   
2008
 
Balance as of January 1,
  $ 63     $ 234  
Additions for tax positions of prior years
    9       -  
Reductions of prior positions
    -       (171 )
Balance as of December 31,
  $ 72     $ 63  

The Company is currently working to file all remaining open returns and expects to complete this process by year-end 2010.  As the actual tax payments are made, the accrual will be reduced.  The Company has no other unrecognized tax benefits.  Interest and penalties associated with income tax liabilities are classified as income tax expense.

The earliest tax years remaining open from Federal and major states of operations are as follows:

 
Earliest Open
 
Tax Year
   
Federal
           2007
Texas
           2005
Louisiana
           2006
Michigan
           2006
Mississippi
           2006
Alabama
           2006
New Mexico
           2006

(3)  Concentration of Credit Risk

Credit risk represents the amount of loss the Company would absorb if its customers failed to perform pursuant to contractual terms.  Management of credit risk involves a number of considerations, such as the financial profile of the customer, the value of collateral held, if any, specific terms and duration of the contractual agreement, and the customer's sensitivity to economic developments.  The Company has established various procedures to manage credit exposure, including initial credit approval, credit limits, and rights of offset.  Letters of credit and guarantees are also utilized to limit credit risk.

The Company's largest customers consist of large multinational integrated oil companies and utilities.  In addition, the Company transacts business with independent oil producers, major chemical concerns, crude oil and natural gas trading companies and a variety of commercial energy users. Accounts receivable associated with crude oil and natural gas marketing activities comprise approximately 90 percent of the Company's total receivables as of December 31, 2009, and industry practice requires payment for such sales to occur within 25 days of the month following a transaction.  The Company's credit policy and the relatively short duration of receivables mitigate the uncertainty typically associated with receivables management.  The Company had accounts receivable from three customers that comprised 17.8 percent, 12.6 percent and 10.8 percent, respectively, of total accounts receivable at December 31, 2009.  Three customers comprised 39.4 percent, 17.7 percent and 15.7 percent, respectively, of total revenues during 2009.  The Company had accounts receivable from one customer that comprised 18.7 percent of total receivables at December 31, 2008.  Such customer also comprised 16.3 percent and a second customer comprised 40.3 percent, respectively, of total revenues during 2008.  The Company had accounts receivable from two customers that comprised 23 percent and 17 percent of total receivables at December 31, 2007 and such customers also comprised 42 percent and 14 percent of total revenues in 2007, respectively.

As reflected in the table below, during 2009 and 2008 the Company increased its provision for bad debts as a result of a deteriorating economic outlook for the U. S. economy particularly as it impacted the collectability of the Company’s diesel fuel sales to the construction industry.  An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided where appropriate and accounts receivable presented herein are net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $1,681,000 and $1,251,000 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

An analysis of the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts is presented as follows (in thousands):

   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
                   
Balance, beginning of year
  $ 1,251     $ 192     $ 225  
Provisions for bad debts
    704       1,099       121  
Less:  Write-offs and recoveries
    (274 )     (40 )     (154 )
                         
Balance, end of year
  $ 1,681     $ 1,251     $ 192  

(4)  Employee Benefits

The Company maintains a 401(k) savings plan for the benefit of its employees.  The Company’s contributory expenses for the plan were $578,000, $607,000 and $582,000 in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. No other pension or retirement plans are maintained by the Company.

(5)  Transactions with Related Parties

Mr. K. S. Adams, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and certain of his family partnerships and affiliates have participated as working interest owners with the Company’s subsidiary, Adams Resources Exploration Corporation.  Mr. Adams and such affiliates participate on terms similar to those afforded other non-affiliated working interest owners. In recent years, such related party transactions generally result after the Company has first identified oil and gas prospects of interest.  Typically the available dollar commitment to participate in such transactions is greater than the amount management is comfortable putting at risk.  In such event, the Company first determines the percentage of the transaction it wants to obtain, which allows a related party to participate in the investment to the extent there is excess available.  In those instances where there was no excess availability there has been no related party participation.  Similarly, related parties are not required to participate, nor is the Company obligated to offer any such participation to a related or other party.  When such related party transactions occur, they are individually reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee comprised of the independent directors on the Company’s Board of Directors.  During 2009 and 2008, the Company’s investment commitments totaled approximately $22 million and $18 million, respectively, in those oil and gas projects where a related party was also participating in such investments.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company owed a combined net total of $75,000 and $89,000, respectively, to these related parties.  In connection with the operation of certain oil and gas properties, the Company also charges such related parties for administrative overhead primarily as prescribed by the Council of Petroleum Accountants Society Bulletin 5. Such overhead recoveries totaled $150,000, $134,000 and $125,000 for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007, respectively.

The Company also enters into certain transactions in the normal course of business with other affiliated entities including direct cost reimbursement for shared phone and secretarial services.  For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the affiliated entities charged the Company $62,000, $51,000 and $80,000, respectively, of expense reimbursement and the Company charged the affiliates $127,000, $97,000 and $80,000, respectively, for such expense reimbursements.


 
43

 

(6)  Commitments and Contingencies

Rental expense primarily results from payments to truck owner-operators for use of their equipment and services on a month-to-month basis. The Company has also entered into longer term operating lease arrangements for tractors, trailers, office space, and other equipment and facilities.  Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 was $6,898,000, $13,423,000 and $11,885,000, respectively.  At December 31, 2009, commitments under long-term non-cancelable operating leases for the next four years and thereafter are payable as follows:  2010 - $1,165,000; 2011 - $820,000; 2012 - $168,000; 2013 - $47,000 with none thereafter.

Under certain of the Company’s automobile and workers’ compensation insurance policies, the Company can either receive a return of premium paid or be assessed for additional premiums up to pre-established limits. Additionally under the policies in certain instances the risk of insured losses is shared with a group of similarly situated entities.  As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, management has appropriately recognized estimated expenses and liability related to the program.

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

(7)  Guarantees

Pursuant to arranging operating lease financing for truck tractors and tank trailers, individual subsidiaries of the Company may guarantee the lessor a minimum residual equipment sales value upon the expiration of a lease and sale of the underlying equipment.  The Company believes performance under these guarantees to be remote.  Aggregate guaranteed residual values for tractors and trailers under operating leases as of December 31, 2009 are as follows (in thousands):

   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
2013
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Equipment residual values
  $ 217     $ 181     $ 72     $ 216     $ -     $ 686  

In connection with certain contracts for the purchase and resale of branded motor fuels, the Company has received certain price discounts from its suppliers toward the purchase of gasoline and diesel fuel.  Such discounts have been passed through to the Company’s customers as an incentive to offset a portion of the costs associated with offering branded motor fuels for sale to the general public.  Under the terms of the supply contracts, the Company and its customers are not obligated to return the price discounts, provided the gasoline service station offering such product for sale remains as a branded station for periods ranging from three to ten years.  The Company has a number of customers and stations operating under such arrangements, and the Company’s customers are contractually obligated to remain a branded dealer for the required periods of time.  Should the Company’s customers seek to void such contracts, the Company would be obligated to return a portion of such discounts received to its suppliers.  As of December 31, 2009, the maximum amount of such potential obligation is approximately $2,221,000.  Management of the Company believes its customers will adhere to their branding obligations and no such refunds will result.

Presently, neither Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. (“ARE”) nor any of its subsidiaries has any other types of guarantees outstanding that require liability recognition.

 
44

 

ARE frequently issues parent guarantees of commitments resulting from the ongoing activities of its subsidiary companies.  The guarantees generally result from subsidiary commodity purchase obligations, subsidiary lease commitments and subsidiary banking transactions.  The nature of such items is to guarantee the performance of the subsidiary companies in meeting their respective underlying obligations.  Except for operating lease commitments and letters of credit, all such underlying obligations are recorded on the books of the subsidiary companies and are included in the consolidated financial statements included herein.  Therefore, no such obligation is recorded again on the books of the parent.  The parent would only be called upon to perform under the guarantee in the event of a payment default by the applicable subsidiary company.  In satisfying such obligations, the parent would first look to the assets of the defaulting subsidiary company.

As of December 31, 2009, parental guaranteed obligations are approximately as follows (in thousands):

   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
2013
   
Thereafter
   
Total
 
Lease payments
  $ 1,165       820       168       47       -       2,200  
Equipment residual values
    217       181       72       216       -       686  
Commodity purchases
    47,754       -       -       -       -       47,754  
Letters of credit
    24,494       -       -       -       -       24,494  
    $ 73,630     $ 1,001     $ 240     $ 263     $ -     $ 75,134  

(8)  Segment Reporting

The Company is engaged in the business of crude oil, natural gas and petroleum products marketing as well as tank truck transportation of liquid chemicals, and oil and gas exploration and production.  Information concerning the Company's various business activities is summarized as follows (in thousands):

         
Segment Operating
   
Depreciation Depletion and
   
Property and Equipment
 
   
Revenues
   
Earnings (loss)
   
Amortization
   
Additions
 
Year ended December 31, 2009-
                       
Marketing
                       
- Crude oil
  $ 1,770,600     $ 15,404     $ 1,997     $ 1,947  
- Natural gas
    14,232       2,749       166       -  
- Refined products
    104,751       (666 )     533       177  
Marketing Total
    1,889,583       17,487       2,696       2,124  
Transportation
    44,895       2,128       3,970       7,524  
Oil and gas
    8,650       (3,625 )     3,654       12,742  
    $ 1,943,128     $ 15,990     $ 10,320     $ 22,390  
Year ended December 31, 2008-
                               
Marketing
                               
- Crude oil
  $ 3,849,531     $ (4,545 )   $ 2,039     $ 4,715  
- Natural gas
    11,586       2,247       163       12  
- Refined products
    213,560       (406 )     565       114  
Marketing Total
    4,074,677       (2,704 )     2,767       4,841  
Transportation
    67,747       4,245       3,843       809  
Oil and gas
    17,248       (3,348 )     6,763       12,038  
    $ 4,159,672     $ (1,807 )   $ 13,373     $ 17,688  
Year ended December 31, 2007-
                               
Marketing
                               
- Crude oil
  $ 2,373,838     $ 15,321     $ 657     $ 1,397  
- Natural gas
    13,764       4,999       162       497  
- Refined products
    170,943       (168 )     457       104  
Marketing Total
    2,558,545       20,152       1,276       1,998  
Transportation
    63,894       5,504       4,275       353  
Oil and gas
    13,783       9,225       5,833       13,490  
    $ 2,636,222     $ 34,881     $ 11,384     $ 15,841  


 
45

 

 
Intersegment sales are insignificant and all sales by the Company occurred in the United States.

Segment operating earnings reflect revenues net of operating costs and depreciation, depletion and amortization and are reconciled to earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, as follows (in thousands):
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Segment operating earnings (loss)
  $ 15,990     $ (1,807 )   $ 34,881  
- General and administrative expenses
    (9,589 )     (9,667 )     (10,974 )
Operating earnings
    6,401       (11,474 )     23,907  
- Interest income
    125       1,103       1,741  
- Interest expense
    (25 )     (187 )     (134 )
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
  $ 6,501     $ (10,558 )   $ 25,514  

Identifiable assets by industry segment are as follows (in thousands):

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Marketing
           
- Crude oil
  $ 130,840     $ 85,774  
- Natural gas
    40,715       46,599  
- Refined products
    10,133       13,037  
Marketing Total
    181,688       145,410  
Transportation
    16,078       14,915  
Oil and gas
    26,050       21,904  
Other
    25,585       28,697  
    $ 249,401     $ 210,926  

Other identifiable assets are primarily corporate cash, corporate accounts receivable, and properties not identified with any specific segment of the Company's business.  Accounting policies for transactions between reportable segments are consistent with applicable accounting policies as disclosed herein.

(9)  Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) -

Selected quarterly financial data and earnings per share of the Company are presented below for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands, except per share data):

 
46

 


                 
Net Earnings (loss)
   
Dividends
 
           
Operating
         
Per
         
Per
 
     
Revenues
   
Earnings (loss)
   
Amount
   
Share
   
Amount
   
Share
 
  2009 -                                      
March 31
    $ 340,141     $ 2,800     $ 1,870     $ .44     $ -     $ -  
June 30
      515,070       4,328       2,734       .65       -       -  
September 30
      576,299       1,146       639       .15       -       -  
December 31
      511,618       (1,873 )     (1,094 )     (.26 )     2,109       .50  
Total
    $ 1,943,128     $ 6,401     $ 4,149     $ .98     $ 2,109     $ .50  
                                                     
  2008 -                                                  
March 31
    $ 965,988     $ 3,001     $ 2,211     $ .52     $ -     $ -  
June 30
      1,280,352       7,133       4,825       1.15       -       -  
September 30
      1,288,322       (10,044 )     (6,276 )     (1.49 )     -       -  
December 31
      625,010       (11,564 )     (6,332 )     (1.50 )     2,109       .50  
Total
    $ 4,159,672     $ (11,474 )   $ (5,572 )   $ (1.32 )   $ 2,109     $ .50  

Note:
The fourth quarter 2009 operating loss resulted from $833,000 of oil and gas producing property impairments and a $550,000 bad debt provision within the Company’s refined products segment. First and second quarter 2008 earnings above included pre-tax inventory liquidation gains totaling $1,967,000 and $3,911,000, respectively, as crude oil prices increased during the periods, while third and fourth quarter 2008 earnings included pre-tax inventory liquidation losses totaling $11,600,000 and $6,122,000 respectively, as crude oil prices initially increased by $43 per barrel and then declined by $93 per barrel during the second half of 2008.  The full year 2009 includes pre-tax inventory liquidation gains totaling $5,780,000.

The above unaudited interim financial data reflect all adjustments that are in the opinion of management necessary to a fair statement of the results for the period presented.  All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.

(10) Oil and Gas Producing Activities (Unaudited)

The Company’s oil and gas exploration and production activities are conducted in Texas and the south central region of the United States, primarily along the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana.

Oil and Gas Producing Activities (Unaudited) -

Total costs incurred in oil and gas exploration and development activities, all incurred within the United States, were as follows (in thousands):

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Property acquisition costs
                 
Unproved
  $ 6,199     $ 3,139     $ 1,428  
Proved
    -       -       -  
Exploration costs
                       
Expensed
    3,818       6,030       5,507  
Capitalized
    1,035       178       1,289  
Development costs
    2,341       3,466       6,741  
Total costs incurred
  $ 13,393     $ 12,813     $ 14,965  


 
47

 

The aggregate capitalized costs relative to oil and gas producing activities are as follows (in thousands):

 
 
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Unproved oil and gas properties
  $ 9,385     $ 5,945  
Proved oil and gas properties
    64,458       60,648  
      73,843       66,593  
Accumulated depreciation, depletion
               
and amortization
    (49,797     (47,042 )
                 
Net capitalized cost
  $ 24,046     $ 19,551  

Estimated Oil and Natural Gas Reserves (Unaudited) -

The following information regarding estimates of the Company's proved oil and gas reserves, all located in Texas and the south central region of the United States, is based on reports prepared on behalf of the Company by its independent petroleum engineers. Because oil and gas reserve estimates are inherently imprecise and require extensive judgments of reservoir engineering data, they are generally less precise than estimates made in conjunction with financial disclosures. The revisions of previous estimates as reflected in the table below result from changes in commodity pricing assumptions and from more precise engineering calculations based upon additional production histories and price changes.

Proved developed and undeveloped reserves are presented as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Natural
         
Natural
         
Natural
       
   
Gas
   
Oil
   
Gas
   
Oil
   
Gas
   
Oil
 
   
(Mcf’s)
   
(Bbls.)
   
(Mcf’s)
   
(Bbls.)
   
(Mcf’s)
   
(Bbls.)
 
       
   
(in thousands)
 
Total proved reserves-
                                   
Beginning of year
    6,443       230       7,068       297       8,300       396  
Revisions of previous estimates
    (129 )     (4 )     (1,350 )     (83 )     132       (61 )
Oil and gas reserves sold
    -       -       -       -       (1,460 )     (2 )
Extensions, discoveries and
                                               
other reserve additions
    2,238       66       1,968       67       1,278       33  
Production
    (1,304 )     (50 )     (1,243 )     (51 )     (1,182 )     (69 )
End of year
    7,248       242       6,443       230       7,068       297  
                                                 
Proved developed reserves-
                                               
End of year
    6,295       242       6,443       230       7,068       297  

Proved undeveloped reserves as of December 31, 2009 consisted of 953,000 mcf of natural gas.  Such quantities resulted from fourth quarter 2009 drilling activities.

The Company has developed internal policies and controls for estimating and recording oil and gas reserve data.  The estimation and recording of proved reserves is required to be in compliance with SEC definitions and guidance.  The Company assigns responsibility for compliance in reserve bookings to the office of President of the Company’s AREC subsidiary.  No portion of this individual’s compensation is directly dependent on the quantity of reserves booked.  Reserve estimates are required to be made by qualified reserve estimators, as defined by Society of Petroleum Engineers’ Standards.

 
48

 

The Company employs the third party petroleum consultant, Ryder Scott Company, to prepare its oil and gas reserve data estimates as of December 31 2009, 2008 and 2007.  The firm of Ryder Scott is well recognized within the industry for more than 50 years.  As prescribed by the SEC, such proved reserves were estimated using 12-month average oil and gas prices, based on the first-day-of-the-month price for each month in the period, and year-end production and development costs for the December 31, 2009 estimate, without escalation.  In previous years, such proved reserves were estimated using oil and gas prices and production and development costs as of December 31 of each such year, without escalation.

The process of estimating oil and gas reserves is complex and requires significant judgment.  Uncertainties are inherent in estimating quantities of proved reserves, including many factors beyond the estimator’s control.  Reserve engineering is a subjective process of estimating subsurface accumulations of oil and gas that cannot be measured in an exact manner, and the accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of available data and the interpretation thereof.  As a result, estimates by different engineers often vary, sometimes significantly.  In addition, physical factors such as the results of drilling, testing and production subsequent to the date of an estimate, as well as economic factors such as changes in product prices, may justify revision of such estimates.  Accordingly, oil and gas quantities ultimately recovered will vary from reserve estimates.

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows from Oil and Gas Operations and Changes Therein (Unaudited) -

The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows was determined based on the economic conditions in effect at the end of the years presented, except in those instances where fixed and determinable gas price escalations are included in contracts.  The disclosures below do not purport to present the fair market value of the Company's oil and gas reserves.  An estimate of the fair market value would also take into account, among other things, the recovery of reserves in excess of proved reserves, anticipated future changes in prices and costs, a discount factor more representative of the time value of money and risks inherent in reserve estimates.  The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is presented as follows (in thousands):

   
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
                   
Future gross revenues
  $ 43,498     $ 45,081     $ 79,159  
Future costs -
                       
Lease operating expenses
    (15,969 )     (14,080 )     (25,817 )
Development costs
    (2,495 )     (816 )     (860 )
Future net cash flows before income taxes
    25,034       30,185       52,482  
Discount at 10% per annum
    (10,719 )     (12,421 )     (22,344 )
Discounted future net cash flows
                       
before income taxes
    14,315       17,764       30,138  
Future income taxes, net of discount at
                       
10% per annum
    (5,010 )     (6,217 )     (10,547 )
Standardized measure of discounted
                       
future net cash flows
  $ 9,305     $ 11,547     $ 19,591  

The reserve estimates provided at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 are based on market prices of $58.43, $37.87 and $92.50 per barrel for crude oil and $4.05, $5.65 and $7.31 per mcf for natural gas, respectively.

The following are the principal sources of changes in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows (in thousands):

 
49

 


   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
Beginning of year
  $ 11,547     $ 19,590     $ 18,770  
Revisions to reserves proved in prior years -
                       
Net change in prices and production costs
    (4,890 )     (10,041 )     6,072  
Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates
    (347 )     (6,293 )     (664 )
Accretion of discount
    1,242       2,234       1,790  
Production rate changes and other
    2,189       2,679       (2,424 )
Total revisions
    (1,806 )     (11,421 )     4,774  
Sale of oil and gas reserves
    -       -       (3,503 )
New field discoveries and extensions, net of future
                       
production costs
    3,471       11,571       8,294  
Sales of oil and gas produced, net of production costs
    (5,114 )     (12,523 )     (9,703 )
Net change in income taxes
    1,207       4,330       958  
Net change in standardized measure of discounted
                       
future net cash flows
    (2,242 )     (8,043 )     820  
End of year
  $ 9,305     $ 11,547     $ 19,590  

 Results of Operations for Oil and Gas Producing Activities (Unaudited) -

The results of oil and gas producing activities, excluding corporate overhead and interest costs, are as follows (in thousands):

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
 
                   
Revenues
  $ 8,650     $ 17,248     $ 13,783  
Oil and gas property sale
    -       -       12,078  
Costs and expenses -
                       
Production
    (3,536 )     (4,725 )     (4,080 )
Producing property impairment
    (1,350 )     (3,078 )     (1,216 )
Exploration
    (3,735 )     (6,030 )     (5,507 )
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
    (3,654 )     (6,763 )     (5,833 )
Operating income (loss) before income taxes
    (3,625 )     (3,348 )     9,225  
Income tax (expense) benefit
    1,268       1,172       (3,229 )
Operating income (loss)
  $ (2,357 )   $ (2,176 )   $ 5,996  


Item 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

 
50

 

Item 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
 
The Company maintains “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely discussions regarding required disclosure.  As of the end of the period covered by this annual report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2009.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act.  The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies and procedures may deteriorate.

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009.  In making this assessment, management used the criteria described in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  Based on this assessment, management concluded that it maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting.  This management’s report was not subject to attestation by an independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the Company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

This Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


Item 9B.  OTHER

None.

 
51

 



PART III


Item 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information concerning directors, corporate governance and executive officers of the Company is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 19, 2010, under the heading “Election of Directors” and “Executive Officers”, respectively, to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

Item 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by Item 11 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 19, 2010, under the heading “Executive Compensation” to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

Item 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by Item 12 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 19, 2010, under the heading “Voting Securities and Principal Holders Thereof” to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

Item 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS, RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by Item 13 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 19, 2010, under the headings “Transactions with Related Parties” and “Director Independence” to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

Item 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by Item 14 is incorporated by reference from the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 19, 2010, under the heading “Principal Accounting Fees and Services” to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K.

 
52

 


PART IV


Item 15.
EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)           The following documents are filed as a part of this Form 10-K:

1.           Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


2.  
All financial schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.

3.  
Exhibits required to be filed

3(a)
-
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) filed with the Annual Report on Form 10-K (-File No. 1-7908) of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1987)

3(b)
-
Bylaws of the Company, as amended (Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 3.2 and 3.2.1 of Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 1973 - File No. 2-48144)

3(c)
-
Amendment to the Bylaws of the Company to add an Article VII, Section 8. Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Agents (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K (-File No. 1-7908) of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1986)

3(d)
-
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. and Subsidiaries’ Code of Ethics (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(d) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K (-File No. 1-7908) of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002)

4(a)
-
Specimen common stock Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company (-File No. 1-7908) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1991)

 
53

 


4(b)
-
Credit and Security Agreement between Gulfmark Energy, Inc., Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association dated August 27, 2009 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(6) of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 31, 2009.

21*
-
Subsidiaries of the Registrant

23.1*
-
Consent of Ryder Scott Company

31.1*
-
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. Certification Pursuant to 17 CFR 13a-14 (a)/15d-14(a), As adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2*
-
Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. Certification Pursuant to 17 CFR 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a),  as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1*
-
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.2*
-
Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

99.1*
-
Ryder Scott Company Report

 
______________________________
 
*  - Filed herewith

Copies of all agreements defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Company and its subsidiaries, which agreements authorize amounts not in excess of 10% of the total consolidated assets of the Company, are not filed herewith but will be furnished to the Commission upon request.

 
54

 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
ADAMS RESOURCES & ENERGY, INC.
 
(Registrant)
   
   
By  /s/Richard B. Abshire
By /s/ K. S. Adams, Jr.
(Richard B. Abshire,
(K. S. Adams, Jr.,
Vice President, Director
Chairman of the Board and
and Chief Financial Officer)
Chief Executive Officer)




Date:  March 23, 2010

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.


By /s/ Frank T. Webster
By /s/ E. C. Reinauer, Jr.
(Frank T. Webster, Director)
(E. C. Reinauer, Jr., Director)
   
   
   
By /s/ Larry E. Bell
By /s/ E. Jack Webster, Jr.
(Larry E. Bell, Director)
(E. Jack Webster, Jr., Director)
   

 
55

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
 
Number
Description
   
3(a)
-      Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended.  (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) filed with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1987)
   
3(b)
-      Bylaws of the Company, as amended (Incorporated by reference to Exhibits 3.2 and 3.2.1 of Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 1973 – File No. 2-48144)
   
3(c)
-      Amendment to the Bylaws of the Company to add an Article VII, Section 8. Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Agents (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(c) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1986)
   
3(d)
-      Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. and Subsidiaries’ Code of Ethics (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(d) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002)
   
4(a)
-      Specimen common stock Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) of the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1991)
   
4(b)
-     Credit and Security Agreement between Gulfmark Energy, Inc., Adams Resources Marketing, Ltd and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association dated August 27, 2009 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(b) of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 31, 2009
   
10.1
-      Change in control/severance agreement dated July 25, 2008 by and between Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. and Richard B. Abshire (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s current report on Form 8-K filed on July 25, 2008)
   
21*
-      Subsidiaries of the Registrant
   
23.1*
-      Consent of Ryder Scott Company
   
31.1*
-      Certification Pursuant to 17 CFR 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
31.2*
-      Certification Pursuant to 17 CFR 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), As Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
32.1*
-     Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
32.2*
-     Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, As Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
99.1*
-     Ryder Scott Company Report
   
 
______________________________
 
* - Filed herewith

 
56