Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2019

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments

Note 5. Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at a specified measurement date. Fair value estimates are based on either (i) actual market data or (ii) assumptions that other market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, including estimates of risk. A three-tier hierarchy has been established that classifies fair value amounts recognized or disclosed in the financial statements. The hierarchy considers fair value amounts based on observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2) to be more reliable and predictable than those based primarily on unobservable inputs (Level 3). All the derivative instruments reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets were considered Level 2.

The carrying values of accounts receivables, accounts payables (including accrued liabilities), restricted investments and amounts outstanding under long-term debt agreements with variable rates included in the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets approximated fair value at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018. The fair value estimates are based upon observable market data and are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. These assets and liabilities are not presented in the following tables.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The fair market values of the derivative financial instruments reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 were based on estimated forward commodity prices. Financial assets and liabilities are classified based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.

The following table presents the gross derivative assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 for each of the fair value hierarchy levels:

	Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2019 Using
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Market		Observable Inputs		Unobservable Inputs
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Fair Value
	(In thousands)
Assets:
Commodity derivatives	$	—	$	41,758	$	—	$	41,758
Interest rate derivatives		—		307		—		307
Total assets	$	—	$	42,065	$	—	$	42,065
Liabilities:
Commodity derivatives	$	—	$	3,584	$	—	$	3,584
Interest rate derivatives		—		755		—		755
Total liabilities	$	—	$	4,339	$	—	$	4,339

	Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2018 Using
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Market		Observable Inputs		Unobservable Inputs
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		Fair Value
	(In thousands)
Assets:
Commodity derivatives	$	—	$	25,515	$	—	$	25,515
Liabilities:
Commodity derivatives	$	—	$	4,372	$	—	$	4,372

See Note 6 for additional information regarding our derivative instruments.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

Certain assets and liabilities are reported at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as reflected on the accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair values:

• The fair value of asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) is based on discounted cash flow projections using numerous estimates, assumptions and judgments regarding factors such as the existence of a legal obligation for an ARO; amounts and timing of settlements; the credit-adjusted risk-free rate; and inflation rates. The initial fair value estimates are based on unobservable market data and are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. See Note 7 for a summary of changes in AROs.

• Proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate a possible decline in the recoverability of the carrying value of such properties. The factors used to determine fair value include, but are not limited to, estimates of proved reserves, estimates of probable reserves, future commodity prices, the timing of future production and capital expenditures and a discount rate commensurate with the risk reflective of the lives remaining for the respective oil and natural gas properties.

• Unproved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed for impairment based on time or geologic factors. Information such as drilling results, reservoir performance, seismic interpretation or future plans to develop acreage is also considered.

• No impairments were recognized during the three or nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.