false 0001737204 --12-31 Accelerated Filer FY false 376000 376000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0001737204 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 xbrli:shares 0001737204 2020-01-31 iso4217:USD 0001737204 2019-06-28 0001737204 2019-12-31 0001737204 2018-12-31 iso4217:USD xbrli:shares 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2017-02-28 0001737204 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RetainedEarningsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ParentMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 xbrli:pure 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-08-05 2018-08-07 0001737204 2018-08-05 2018-08-07 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-09-24 2018-09-24 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2018-09-24 2018-09-24 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member 2019-01-01 0001737204 rvra:ProvedPropertiesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:ProvedPropertiesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:ProvedPropertiesMember 2017-02-27 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:ProvedPropertiesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UnprovedPropertiesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UnprovedPropertiesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UnprovedPropertiesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UnprovedPropertiesMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember rvra:VehiclesEquipmentAndOtherFixedAssetsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:VehiclesEquipmentAndOtherFixedAssetsMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember us-gaap:BuildingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:BuildingMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember rvra:PlantAndPipelinesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PlantAndPipelinesMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:InterestExpenseMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:InterestExpenseMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:InterestExpenseMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:InterestExpenseMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201409Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CalculatedUnderRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:DifferenceBetweenRevenueGuidanceInEffectBeforeAndAfterTopic606Member 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PermianBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PermianBasinMember us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMember us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PermianBasinMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:UintaBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasProductionMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:UintaBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndCondensateMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:UintaBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasLiquidsMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:UintaBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MidContinentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:EastTexasMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MichiganIllinoisMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UintaBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PermianBasinMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2019-11-22 2019-11-22 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainAssetsSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:IllinoisAssetsSaleMember 2019-09-04 2019-09-05 0001737204 rvra:NorthLouisianaAssetsSaleMember 2019-08-30 2019-08-30 0001737204 rvra:MichiganAssetsSaleMember 2019-07-03 2019-07-03 0001737204 rvra:MichiganAssetsSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:HugotonBasinAssetsSaleMember 2019-05-31 2019-05-31 0001737204 rvra:ArkomaAssetsSaleMember 2019-01-17 2019-01-17 0001737204 rvra:ArkomaAssetsSaleMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OklahomaCityOfficeBuildingSaleMember srt:ScenarioForecastMember 2020-01-01 2020-03-31 0001737204 rvra:PersonvilleFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OvertonFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OklahomaCityOfficeBuildingSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember rvra:DrunkardsWashFieldUintaBasinInterestInPropertiesSalesMember 2020-01-15 2020-01-15 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember rvra:PersonvilleFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2020-02-14 2020-02-14 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember rvra:OvertonFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2020-01-01 2020-01-31 0001737204 rvra:DrunkardsWashFieldUintaBasinInterestInPropertiesSalesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OvertonFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PersonvilleFieldOfEastTexasInterestInPropertiesSaleMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:NewMexicoAssetsSaleMember 2018-04-10 2018-04-10 0001737204 rvra:AltamontBluebellAssetsSaleMember 2018-04-04 2018-04-04 0001737204 rvra:WestTexasAssetsSaleMember 2018-03-29 2018-03-29 0001737204 rvra:OklahomaWaterfloodAndTexasPanhandlePropertiesMember 2018-02-28 2018-02-28 0001737204 rvra:OklahomaWaterfloodAndTexasPanhandlePropertiesMember 2018-02-28 0001737204 rvra:WillistonBasinMember 2017-11-30 2017-11-30 0001737204 rvra:WyomingPropertiesMember 2017-11-30 2017-11-30 0001737204 rvra:SouthTexasAssetsSalesMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:TexasAndNewMexicoAssetsSalesMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:SaltCreekFieldSaleMember 2017-06-30 2017-06-30 0001737204 rvra:WesternWyomingMember 2017-05-31 2017-05-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2017-08-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2018-01-01 2018-07-25 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2017-09-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2018-07-25 0001737204 rvra:SanJoaquinBasinSaleMember 2017-07-31 2017-07-31 0001737204 rvra:LosAngelesBasinSaleMember 2017-07-21 2017-07-21 0001737204 rvra:LosAngelesBasinSaleMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:LosAngelesBasinSaleMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:CaliforniaPropertiesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:CaliforniaPropertiesMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:CaliforniaPropertiesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:GasGatheringAndProcessingEquipmentMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:FurnitureAndFixturesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:FurnitureAndFixturesMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:VehiclesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:VehiclesMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:LandMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:LandMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:UpstreamEquipmentMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:UpstreamEquipmentMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2017-08-04 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-06-30 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-09-27 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-03-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-05-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-04-30 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-07-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember srt:MinimumMember rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember srt:MaximumMember rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:AbrMember srt:MinimumMember rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:AbrMember srt:MaximumMember rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RivieraCreditFacilityMember srt:MinimumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2018-08-10 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2018-08-10 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-02-08 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember 2020-01-31 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MaximumMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:AbrMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MaximumMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:AbrMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:MinimumMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 0001737204 srt:MaximumMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:SeniorSecuredRevolvingLoanFacilityMember 2018-08-09 2018-08-10 rvra:MMMBTU 0001737204 rvra:NaturalGasCommodityContractMember us-gaap:SwapMember rvra:YearTwoThousandTwentyMember 2019-12-31 iso4217:USD utr:MMBTU utr:MBbls 0001737204 rvra:OilCommodityContractMember us-gaap:SwapMember rvra:YearTwoThousandTwentyMember 2019-12-31 iso4217:USD utr:bbl 0001737204 rvra:PEPLBasisSwapMember us-gaap:SwapMember rvra:YearTwoThousandTwentyMember 2019-12-31 iso4217:USD rvra:MMMBTU 0001737204 2018-04-01 2018-04-30 0001737204 rvra:GainLossOnCommodityDerivativesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:GainLossOnCommodityDerivativesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:GainLossOnCommodityDerivativesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:GainLossOnCommodityDerivativesMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:MarketingExpensesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MarketingExpensesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MarketingExpensesMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:MarketingExpensesMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2018-08-07 0001737204 srt:MaximumMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2019-07-18 0001737204 us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember rvra:ShareRepurchaseProgramMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2020-01-01 2020-02-21 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2020-02-21 0001737204 us-gaap:SubsequentEventMember us-gaap:AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember 2020-01-01 2020-02-21 0001737204 rvra:TenderOfferMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2019-06-13 2019-06-13 0001737204 rvra:TenderOfferMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember 2019-07-01 2019-07-31 0001737204 2019-11-21 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2018-08-05 2018-08-07 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:OmnibusIncentivePlanMember us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:CommonClassAMember rvra:LinnHoldcoIIMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:CommonClassBMember srt:MaximumMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:CommonClassAMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:SubsidiariesMember us-gaap:CommonClassBMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember rvra:ClassBUnitsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember rvra:ClassBUnitsMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember rvra:ClassBUnitsMember us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember rvra:ClassBUnitsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LiquidityProgramMember 2018-01-01 2018-08-07 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember rvra:LiquidityProgramMember 2018-01-01 2018-08-07 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember us-gaap:CommonClassAMember 2018-08-05 2018-08-07 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-05-11 2018-08-07 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-01-01 2018-08-07 0001737204 rvra:LINNIncentivePlanMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-09-30 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-08-01 2018-09-30 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember us-gaap:CommonClassAMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember us-gaap:CommonClassAMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 rvra:Grantee 0001737204 us-gaap:GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:GeneralAndAdministrativeExpenseMember rvra:LINNEnergyIncMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember rvra:LiquidityProgramMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:SubsidiariesMember rvra:BlueMountainMidstreamLLCTwentyEighteenOmnibusIncentivePlanMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember srt:SubsidiariesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2018-12-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:PerformanceSharesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:PhantomShareUnitsPSUsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 2018-08-07 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 2017-02-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:ProfessionalFeesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:ProfessionalFeesMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:DepositsForDivestituresMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:DepositsForDivestituresMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:DistributionsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SalesRevenueNetMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SalesRevenueNetMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 rvra:Customer 0001737204 us-gaap:SalesRevenueNetMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SalesRevenueNetMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountsReceivableMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountsReceivableMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountsReceivableMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:AccountsReceivableMember us-gaap:CustomerConcentrationRiskMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember rvra:YorkSelectStrategyMasterFundMember 2019-05-01 2019-05-31 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember rvra:FirTreeCapitalOpportunityMasterFundMember 2019-06-25 2019-07-24 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember rvra:FirTreeCapitalOpportunityFundEMember 2019-06-25 2019-07-24 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember rvra:YorkSelectStrategyMasterFundMember 2019-05-31 0001737204 rvra:PrivatePurchaseMember us-gaap:CommonStockMember rvra:FirTreeCapitalOpportunityFundEMember 2019-07-24 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2017-08-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2017-08-30 2017-08-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:RoanResourcesLLCMember 2018-12-31 rvra:Segment 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UpstreamMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UpstreamMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-03-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:NaturalGasGatheringTransportationMarketingAndProcessingMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:ProductAndServiceOtherMember us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:UpstreamMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 rvra:BlueMountainMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 0001737204 us-gaap:CorporateNonSegmentMember 2017-01-01 2017-02-28 utr:Bcf 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2018-12-31 utr:MMBbls 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2019-12-31 utr:Bcfe 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasReservesMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 srt:OilReservesMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 srt:NaturalGasLiquidsReservesMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentDiscontinuedOperationsMember 2016-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentDiscontinuedOperationsMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:PriceMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:PriceMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:PriceMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:AssetPerformanceMember 2019-01-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:AssetPerformanceMember 2018-01-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:SegmentContinuingOperationsMember rvra:AssetPerformanceMember 2017-01-01 2017-12-31 rvra:Well 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-01-01 2019-03-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-04-01 2019-06-30 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-07-01 2019-09-30 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2019-10-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 2019-01-01 2019-03-31 0001737204 2019-04-01 2019-06-30 0001737204 2019-07-01 2019-09-30 0001737204 2019-10-01 2019-12-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2018-01-01 2018-03-31 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2018-04-01 2018-06-30 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2018-07-01 2018-09-30 0001737204 us-gaap:OilAndGasMember 2018-10-01 2018-12-31 0001737204 2018-01-01 2018-03-31 0001737204 2018-04-01 2018-06-30 0001737204 2018-07-01 2018-09-30 0001737204 2018-10-01 2018-12-31

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019

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

For the transition period from _______________ to _______________

Commission file number:  333-225927

 

 

 

 

 

 

Riviera Resources, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

 

82-5121920

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

 

 

600 Travis Street, Suite 1700

Houston, Texas

 

77002

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

(281) 840-4000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Title of each class

 

Trading symbols(s)

 

Name of exchange on which registered

None

 

None

 

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities

Act.     Yes      No 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.     Yes      No

 


 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes      No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes      No 

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

Large accelerated filer  

 

Accelerated filer  

Non-accelerated filer  

 

Smaller reporting company  

 

 

Emerging growth company  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.      

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

Yes      No

Aggregate market value of the Company’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 28, 2019, was $293,404,582 based on the closing price on the OTCQX Market.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes      No

As of January 31, 2020, there were 58,037,642 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

Documents Incorporated By Reference:

Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement relating to its 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2019, are incorporated by reference to the extent set forth in Part III, Items 10-14 of this Annual Report on Form 10‑K.

 

 

 


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

Glossary of Terms

ii

 

 

 

 

Part I

1

Item 1.

Business

1

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

23

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

40

Item 2.

Properties

40

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

40

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

40

 

Part II

41

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

41

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data

43

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

46

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

74

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

76

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

130

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

130

Item 9B.

Other Information

130

 

Part III

131

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

131

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

132

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

132

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

132

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

132

 

Part IV

133

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

133

 

 

 

 

Signatures

137

 

 

i


Table of Contents

Glossary of Terms

As commonly used in the oil and natural gas industry and as used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the following terms have the following meanings:

Basin.  A large area with a relatively thick accumulation of sedimentary rocks.

Bbl.  One stock tank barrel or 42 United States gallons liquid volume.

Bcf.  One billion cubic feet.

Bcfe.  One billion cubic feet equivalent, determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

Btu.  One British thermal unit, which is the heat required to raise the temperature of a one-pound mass of water from 58.5 degrees to 59.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

Development well.  A well drilled within the proved area of a reservoir to the depth of a stratigraphic horizon known to be productive.

Dry hole or well.  A well found to be incapable of producing hydrocarbons in sufficient quantities such that proceeds from the sale of such production would exceed production expenses and taxes.

Exploratory well.  A well drilled to find a new field or to find a new reservoir in a field previously found to be productive of oil or natural gas in another reservoir.

Field.  An area consisting of a single reservoir or multiple reservoirs all grouped on or related to the same individual geological structural feature and/or stratigraphic condition.

Formation.  A stratum of rock that is recognizable from adjacent strata consisting primarily of a certain type of rock or combination of rock types with thickness that may range from less than two feet to hundreds of feet.

Gross acres or gross wells.  The total acres or wells, as the case may be, in which a working interest is owned.

MBbls.  One thousand barrels of oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.

MBbls/d.  MBbls per day.

Mcf.  One thousand cubic feet.

Mcfe.  One thousand cubic feet equivalent, determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

MMBbls.  One million barrels of oil or other liquid hydrocarbons.

MMBtu.  One million British thermal units.

MMcf.  One million cubic feet.

MMcf/d.  MMcf per day.

MMcfe.  One million cubic feet equivalent, determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

MMcfe/d.  MMcfe per day.

MMMBtu.  One billion British thermal units.

Net acres or net wells.  The sum of the fractional working interests owned in gross acres or gross wells, as the case may be.

ii


Table of Contents

Glossary of Terms – Continued

NGL.  Natural gas liquids, which are the hydrocarbon liquids contained within natural gas.

Productive well.  A well found to be capable of producing hydrocarbons in sufficient quantities such that proceeds from the sale of such production exceeds production expenses and taxes.

Proved developed reserves.  Reserves that can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods or in which the cost of the required equipment is relatively minor compared to the cost of a new well; and through installed extraction equipment and infrastructure operational at the time of the reserves estimate if the extraction is by means not involving a well.

Proved reserves.  Reserves that by analysis of geoscience and engineering data can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible from a given date forward, from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods, and government regulations prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that renewal is reasonably certain.  The project to extract the hydrocarbons must have commenced or the operator must be reasonably certain that it will commence the project within a reasonable time.

Proved undeveloped drilling location.  A site on which a development well can be drilled consistent with spacing rules for purposes of recovering proved undeveloped reserves.

Proved undeveloped reserves or PUDs.  Reserves that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion.  Reserves on undrilled acreage are limited to those directly offsetting development spacing areas that are reasonably certain of production when drilled, unless evidence using reliable technology exists that establishes reasonable certainty of economic producibility at greater distances.  Undrilled locations can be classified as having undeveloped reserves only if a development plan has been adopted indicating that they are scheduled to be drilled within five years, unless the specific circumstances justify a longer time.  Estimates for proved undeveloped reserves are not attributed to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is contemplated, unless such techniques have been proved effective by actual projects in the same reservoir or an analogous reservoir, or by other evidence using reliable technology establishing reasonable certainty.

Recompletion.  The completion for production of an existing wellbore in another formation from that which the well has been previously completed.

Reservoir.  A porous and permeable underground formation containing a natural accumulation of economically productive natural gas and/or oil that is confined by impermeable rock or water barriers and is individual and separate from other reserves.

Royalty interest.  An interest that entitles the owner of such interest to a share of the mineral production from a property or to a share of the proceeds there from.  It does not contain the rights and obligations of operating the property and normally does not bear any of the costs of exploration, development and operation of the property.

Spacing.  The number of wells which conservation laws allow to be drilled on a given area of land.

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows.  The after-tax present value of estimated future net cash flows of proved reserves, determined in accordance with the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and discounted using an annual discount rate of 10%.

Undeveloped acreage.  Lease acreage on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that would permit the production of commercial quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL regardless of whether such acreage contains proved reserves.

Unproved reserves.  Reserves that are considered less certain to be recovered than proved reserves.  Unproved reserves may be further sub-classified to denote progressively increasing uncertainty of recoverability and include probable reserves and possible reserves.

Working interest.  The operating interest that gives the owner the right to drill, produce and conduct operating activities on the property and a share of production.

Workover.  Maintenance on a producing well to restore or increase production.

Zone.  A stratigraphic interval containing one or more reservoirs.

 

iii


Table of Contents

Part I

Item 1.

Business

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements based on expectations, estimates and assumptions as of the date of this filing.  These statements by their nature are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties.  Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements.  For more information, see “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” included at the end of this Item 1. “Business” and see also Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

References

Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to the “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refer (i) prior to the Spin-off (as defined below) to Linn Energy, Inc. (the “Parent”) and its consolidated subsidiaries, and (ii) after the Spin-off, to Riviera Resources, Inc. (“Riviera”) and its consolidated subsidiaries.  Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to “LINN Energy” refer to Linn Energy, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.  References to “Successor” relate to the financial position and results of operations of the Company subsequent to LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy on February 28, 2017.  References to “Predecessor” relate to the financial position of the Company prior to, and results of operations through and including February 28, 2017.  Riviera is a successor issuer of the Parent pursuant to Rule 15d-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).

The reference to a “Note” herein refers to the accompanying Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements contained in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Overview

Riviera is an independent oil and natural gas company with a strategic focus on efficiently operating its mature low-decline assets, developing its growth-oriented assets, and returning capital to shareholders.  Riviera is quoted for trading on the OTCQX Market under the ticker “RVRA.”  The Company has two operating segments: upstream and Blue Mountain.

The Company’s upstream reporting segment properties are currently primarily located in two operating regions in the United States (“U.S.”): the Mid-Continent and North Louisiana.  Proved reserves at December 31, 2019, were approximately 316 Bcfe, of which approximately 89% were natural gas, 6% were natural gas liquids (“NGL”) and 5% were oil.  Approximately 90% were classified as proved developed, with a total standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows of approximately $159 million.  At December 31, 2019, the Company operated 1,446 or approximately 55% of its 2,635 gross productive wells.

In the first quarter of 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin, the Overton field in East Texas and the Personville field in East Texas.  These properties are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.  Reserve information as of December 31, 2019, includes amounts associated with these properties.  See Note 4 for additional information.

The Blue Mountain reporting segment consists of a state of the art cryogenic natural gas processing facility, a network of gathering pipelines and compressors and produced water services and a crude oil gathering system located in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play, each of which is owned by Blue Mountain Midstream LLC (“Blue Mountain Midstream”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

In April 2018, the Parent announced its intention to separate Riviera from LINN Energy.  To effect the separation, the Parent and certain of its then direct and indirect subsidiaries undertook an internal reorganization (including the conversion of Riviera Resources, LLC from a limited liability company to a corporation named Riviera Resources, Inc.), following which Riviera holds, directly or through its subsidiaries, substantially all of the assets of LINN Energy, other than LINN Energy’s 50% equity interest in Roan Resources LLC (“Roan”).  A subsidiary of the Company held the equity interest in Roan until the Parent’s internal reorganization on July 25, 2018 (the “Reorganization Date”).  Following the internal reorganization, the Parent distributed all of the outstanding shares of Riviera common stock to the Parent’s shareholders on a pro rata basis (the “Spin-off”).  The Spin-off was completed on August 7, 2018.

1


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Prior to the Spin-off, the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements were prepared on a stand-alone basis and derived from the Parent’s consolidated financial statements and accounting records for the periods presented as the Company was historically managed as a subsidiary of the Parent.

Historically, a subsidiary of the Company also owned a 50% equity interest in Roan.  The Company’s equity earnings (losses), consisting of its share of Roan’s earnings or losses, are included in the consolidated and combined financial statements through the Reorganization Date.  However, on the Reorganization Date, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  As such, the Company has classified the investment and equity earnings (losses) in Roan as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  See Note 4 for additional information.  In December 2019, stockholders of Roan Resources, Inc. approved an Agreement and Plan of Merger (“Merger”) between Roan Resources, Inc. and a subsidiary of Citizen Energy Operating, LLC (“Citizen Operating”) under which Roan Resources, Inc., including its subsidiary Roan Resources LLC, became wholly owned subsidiaries of Citizen Operating.  The effective date of the Merger was December 6, 2019, and as a result of the Merger, the Company and Roan Resources, Inc. no longer share certain mutual directors and significant stockholders.

Strategy

Riviera is strategically focused on efficiently operating its mature low-decline assets, developing its growth-oriented assets, and returning capital to shareholders.  The Company has producing properties currently located primarily in Oklahoma and Louisiana.  The Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Blue Mountain Midstream, is an emerging midstream company with assets in central Oklahoma focused on providing its customers with comprehensive natural gas, oil, natural gas liquids, and water solutions in a safe and environmentally sound manner, including gas and oil gathering and processing, water gathering and treatment, and delivery of product to lucrative downstream markets.  In the future, Blue Mountain Midstream looks to expand the scale and scope of its service capabilities in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK through organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Recent Developments

Divestitures

Below are the Company’s completed divestitures in 2019:

On November 22, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in the remaining properties located in the Hugoton Basin (the “Hugoton Basin Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $286 million. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $100 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value. In connection with the Hugoton Basin Assets Sale, the buyer also acquired the Company’s interests in Mayzure, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, which was the counterparty to the volumetric production payment agreements based on helium produced from certain oil and natural gas properties in the Hugoton Basin.

Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with a potential customer to construct a gathering system, as well as gather and process gas.  During the third quarter of 2019, a decision was made not to proceed with the gas gathering and processing contract, and as a result, the customer reimbursed Blue Mountain Midstream for capital deployed and operating expenses incurred, in addition to paying a success fee for constructing the assets.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream received a capital reimbursement of approximately $20 million.  Blue Mountain Midstream also received approximately $4 million for the success fee and the expense reimbursement, which is included in “(gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statement of operations.

On September 5, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Illinois.  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $4 million.

On August 30, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-core assets located in North Louisiana.  Cash proceeds from the sale were approximately $2 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $376,000.

On July 3, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Michigan (the “Michigan Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $39 million.  The Company recorded a noncash

2


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value of approximately $18 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.

On May 31, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-operated properties located in the Hugoton Basin in Kansas.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million and the Company recognized a net loss of approximately $10 million.

On January 17, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Arkoma Basin in Oklahoma.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $64 million (including a deposit of approximately $5 million received in 2018), and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $28 million.

Divestitures – Subsequent Events

On January 15, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin (the “Drunkards Wash Asset Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million (including a deposit of approximately $450,000 received in 2019).

On January 31, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Overton field in East Texas (the “Overton Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $17 million (including a deposit of approximately $2 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $13 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On February 14, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Personville field in East Texas (the “Personville Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million (including a deposit of approximately $3 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $72 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On November 20, 2019, the Company signed an agreement to sell its building located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for an amended contract price of $21 million.  The sale is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $5 million to reduce the carrying value of this asset to fair value.

The assets and liabilities associated with the sale of the Oklahoma office building, the Drunkards Wash Asset Sale, the Overton Assets Sale and the Personville Assets Sale are classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

2019 Oil and Natural Gas and Midstream Capital Expenditures

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company had total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, of approximately $172 million, including approximately $63 million related to its oil and natural gas capital program and approximately $105 million related to Blue Mountain Midstream.

2020 Oil and Natural Gas and Midstream Capital Budget

For 2020, the Company estimates its total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, will be approximately $52 million, including approximately $25 million related to its oil and natural gas capital program and approximately $27 million related to Blue Mountain Midstream.  This estimate is under continuous review and subject to ongoing adjustments.

Financing Activities

Riviera Credit Facility

Riviera’s credit agreement provides for a senior secured reserve-based revolving loan facility (the “Riviera Credit Facility”).  On September 27, 2019, the Company entered into an amendment to the Riviera Credit Facility to, among other things, extend its maturity date to August 4, 2021.  The amendment resulted in a borrowing commitment reduction from $230 million to $90 million, primarily due to asset sales, with the next scheduled borrowing base redetermination to occur on April 1, 2020.

3


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility

Blue Mountain Midstream’s credit agreement provides for a senior secured revolving loan facility (the “Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility”).  On February 8, 2019, the borrowing commitment under the Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility was increased to $200 million.  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility together with the Riviera Credit Facility, are referred to as the “Credit Facilities.”

Cash Distributions

On November 21, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash distribution of $4.25 per share.  A cash distribution totaling approximately $249 million was paid on December 12, 2019, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2019.  In addition, approximately $11 million for potential future distributions was recorded in restricted cash at December 31, 2019.  In December 2019, distributions payable of approximately $2 million related to outstanding share-based compensation awards was also recorded.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Share Repurchase Program

On July 18, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the share repurchase authorization to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 8,475,514 shares of common stock at an average price of $12.72 per share for a total cost of approximately $108 million.  Included in this number are private purchases of 2,380,425 shares of common stock purchased at a discount to market, at an average price of $10.91 for a total cost of approximately $26 million.  See Note 12 for additional information.  For the period from January 1, 2020 through February 21, 2020, the Company repurchased 171,107 shares of common stock at an average price of $7.84 for a total cost of approximately $1 million.  At February 21, 2020, approximately $23 million was available for share repurchases under the program.  Any share repurchases are subject to restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Tender Offer

On June 13, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors announced the intention to commence a tender offer to purchase $40 million of the Company’s common stock.  In July 2019, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated June 18, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 2,666,666 shares of common stock at a price of $15.00 per share for a total cost of approximately $40 million (excluding expenses of approximately $440,000 related to the tender offer).

Commodity Derivatives

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company entered into commodity derivative contracts consisting of natural gas fixed price swaps and NGL fixed price swaps for 2019 and oil fixed price swaps and natural gas basis swaps for 2020.  In July 2019, in connection with the closing of the Michigan Assets Sale, the Company canceled its MichCon natural gas basis swaps for 2019 and 2020.

Oil Services Agreement

On July 17, 2019, a subsidiary of Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with Roan to gather Roan’s oil in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play.  The agreement provides for a 10-year term covering an 89,000 net acre dedicated area in nine Townships in central Oklahoma.  Blue Mountain plans to construct an initial crude system consisting of approximately 28 miles of gathering pipelines with two downstream interconnections providing Roan with direct access to the Cushing market.  The Blue Mountain system will initially be capable of transporting up to 60,000 barrels per day of crude oil.  Services will commence in the first half of 2020.  On December 6, 2019, Roan became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Citizen Operating.

Water Services Agreement

On January 31, 2019, a subsidiary of Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with Roan to exclusively manage all of Roan’s water needs for its drilling and completion operations in Central Oklahoma.  Blue Mountain Midstream provides comprehensive water management services including pipeline gathering, disposal, treatment and redelivery of recycled water for re-use.  The agreement is supported by a 10-year acreage dedication in 67 Townships covering portions of seven Oklahoma Counties.  On December 6, 2019, Roan became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Citizen Operating.

4


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Upstream Reporting Segment Operating Regions

The Company’s upstream reporting segment properties are currently primarily located in two operating regions in the U.S.:

 

Mid-Continent, which includes properties in the Northwest STACK in northwestern Oklahoma and various other oil and natural gas producing properties throughout Oklahoma; and

 

North Louisiana, which includes oil and natural gas properties producing primarily from the Hosston, Cotton Valley Bossier and Smackover formations.

In the first quarter of 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin, the Overton field in East Texas and the Personville field in East Texas.  These properties are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.  Reserve information as of December 31, 2019, includes amounts associated with these properties.  See Note 4 for details of the Company’s divestitures.

During 2019, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Hugoton Basin and Michigan/Illinois operating regions.  During 2018, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Permian Basin operating region.  During 2017, the Company divested all of its properties located in the California and South Texas operating regions.  As a result of the Company’s strategic exit from California in 2017 (completed by the sale of its interest in properties located in the San Joaquin Basin and the Los Angeles Basin in California), the Company classified the results of operations and cash flows of its California properties as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.

East Texas

At December 31, 2019, the East Texas region consisted of properties located in east Texas primarily producing natural gas from the Travis Peak, Cotton Valley and Bossier formations at depths ranging from 7,000 feet to 12,500 feet.  The Company’s properties in this region are primarily mature, low-decline natural gas wells.  To more efficiently transport its natural gas in east Texas to market, the Company owns and operates a network of natural gas gathering systems comprised of approximately 590 miles of pipeline and associated compression and metering facilities that connect to numerous sales outlets in the area.

East Texas proved reserves represented approximately 40% of total proved reserves at December 31, 2019, all of which were classified as proved developed.  This region produced approximately 42 MMcfe/d of the Company’s 2019 average daily production.  During 2019, the Company invested approximately $1 million to develop the properties in this region.  As noted above, the majority of the Company’s properties located in East Texas are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.

Mid-Continent

The Mid-Continent region consists of properties located in the Northwest STACK, as well as other Oklahoma properties.  The Company’s properties in this diverse region produce from both oil and natural gas reservoirs at depths ranging from 3,500 feet to 19,000 feet.

Mid-Continent proved reserves represented approximately 22% of total proved reserves at December 31, 2019, all of which were classified as proved developed.  This region produced approximately 36 MMcfe/d of the Company’s 2019 average daily production.  During 2019, the Company invested approximately $9 million to develop the properties in this region and approximately $43 million in exploration activity.

North Louisiana

The North Louisiana region consists of properties located in north Louisiana and primarily producing natural gas from the Hosston, Cotton Valley, Bossier and Smackover formations at depths ranging from 7,000 feet to 12,500 feet.

North Louisiana proved reserves represented approximately 25% of total proved reserves at December 31, 2019, of which 61% were classified as proved developed.  This region produced approximately 31 MMcfe/d of the Company’s 2019 average daily production.  During 2019, the Company invested approximately $10 million to develop the properties in this region.

5


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Uinta Basin

Uinta Basin proved reserves represented approximately 13% of total proved reserves at December 31, 2019, all of which were classified as proved developed.  The Uinta Basin region produced approximately 18 MMcfe/d of the Company’s 2019 average daily production.  During 2019, the Company invested approximately $1 million to develop the properties in the Uinta Basin region.  As noted above, these properties are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.

Blue Mountain Segment

Blue Mountain Midstream currently provides natural gas and oil gathering, compression and processing and produced water services to producers in the Merge/SCOOP/Stack play in the Mid-Continent Region of Oklahoma.  Blue Mountain Midstream’s assets primarily consist of the state of the art 250 MMcf/d design-capacity Cryo 1 natural gas plant as well as a network of natural gas gathering pipelines and compressors and produced water services (collectively, the “Blue Mountain System”).  Blue Mountain Midstream’s gathering and processing agreements for its gathering and processing system include long-term, fee-based or percent of proceeds contracts.  Based on Blue Mountain Midstream’s contracts, it gathers natural gas and NGLs from producers that it then processes and delivers to third party customers.

Blue Mountain Midstream is aggressively pursuing growth to its midstream business primarily in Oklahoma.  Additions to the Blue Mountain System are continually underway adding low and high-pressure gathering pipelines and interconnections that will accommodate incremental volume throughput.  During 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream invested approximately $102 million for plant and pipeline construction activities primarily associated with the Blue Mountain System.

Drilling and Acreage

The following table sets forth the wells drilled during the years indicated:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

Gross wells:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Productive

 

 

61

 

 

 

52

 

 

 

90

 

Dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

61

 

 

 

52

 

 

 

90

 

Net development wells:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Productive

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

12

 

Dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

12

 

Net exploratory wells:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Productive

 

 

6

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

9

 

Dry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

9

 

 

There were no lateral segments added to existing vertical wellbores during the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, or December 31, 2017.  As of December 31, 2019, the Company had 14 gross (no net) wells in progress, and no wells were temporarily suspended.

This information should not be considered indicative of future performance, nor should it be assumed that there is necessarily any correlation between the number of productive wells drilled and the quantities or economic value of reserves found.  Productive wells are those that produce commercial quantities of oil, natural gas or NGL, regardless of whether they generate a reasonable rate of return.

Productive Wells

The following table sets forth information relating to the productive wells in which the Company owned a working interest as of December 31, 2019.  Productive wells consist of producing wells and wells capable of production, including wells

6


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

awaiting pipeline or other connections to commence deliveries.  The number of wells below does not include approximately 2,331 gross productive wells in which the Company owns a royalty interest only.

 

 

Natural Gas Wells

 

 

Oil Wells

 

 

Total Wells (1)

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operated (2)

 

 

1,318

 

 

 

1,114

 

 

 

128

 

 

 

95

 

 

 

1,446

 

 

 

1,209

 

Nonoperated (3)

 

 

1,027

 

 

 

305

 

 

 

162

 

 

 

18

 

 

 

1,189

 

 

 

323

 

 

 

 

2,345

 

 

 

1,419

 

 

 

290

 

 

 

113

 

 

 

2,635

 

 

 

1,532

 

(1)

Includes 1,544 gross and 1,016 net wells divested in 2020.

(2)

The Company had 4 operated wells with multiple completions at December 31, 2019.

(3)

The Company had 1 nonoperated well with multiple completions at December 31, 2019.

Developed and Undeveloped Acreage

The following table sets forth information relating to leasehold acreage as of December 31, 2019:

 

 

Developed Acreage

 

 

Undeveloped Acreage

 

 

Total Acreage (1)

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

Gross

 

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leasehold acreage

 

 

677

 

 

 

377

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

700

 

 

 

383

 

(1)

Includes approximately 264 gross and 156 net acres divested in 2020.

Future Acreage Expirations

The Company’s investment in developed and undeveloped acreage comprises numerous leases.  The terms and conditions under which the Company maintains exploration or production rights to the acreage are property-specific, contractually defined and vary significantly from property to property.  If production is not established or the Company takes no other action to extend the terms of the related leases, undeveloped acreage will expire.  The Company currently has no material undeveloped acreage due to expire during the next three years.

Programs are designed to ensure that the exploration potential of any property is fully evaluated before expiration.  In some instances, the Company may elect to relinquish acreage in advance of the contractual expiration date if the evaluation process is complete and there is not a business basis for extension.  In cases where additional time may be required to fully evaluate acreage, the Company has generally been successful in obtaining extensions.  The Company utilizes various methods to manage the expiration of leases, including drilling the acreage prior to lease expiration or extending lease terms.

Production, Price and Cost History

The Company’s natural gas production is primarily sold under short-term, market-sensitive contracts that are typically priced at the published natural gas index for the producing area plus or minus a differential attributable to the natural gas quality and the proximity to major consuming markets.  In certain circumstances, the Company has entered into natural gas processing contracts whereby the residue natural gas is sold under short-term contracts but the related NGL are sold under long-term contracts.  In all such cases, the residue natural gas and NGL are sold at market-sensitive index prices.  As of December 31, 2019, the Company had no natural gas or NGL delivery commitments under long-term contracts.

The Company’s natural gas production is sold to purchasers under spot price contracts, percentage-of-index contracts or percentage-of-proceeds contracts.  Under percentage-of-index contracts, the Company receives a percentage of the published index price for the producing area for its residue natural gas and NGL.  Under percentage-of-proceeds contracts, the Company receives a percentage of the resale price received by the purchaser for sales of residue natural gas and NGL

7


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

recovered after transportation and processing of natural gas.  These purchasers sell the residue natural gas and NGL based primarily on spot market prices.

The Company’s natural gas is transported through its own and third-party gathering systems and pipelines.  The Company incurs processing, gathering and transportation expenses to move its natural gas from the wellhead to a purchaser-specified delivery point.  These expenses vary based on the volume, distance shipped and the fee charged by the third-party processor or transporter.

The Company’s oil production is primarily sold under short-term, market-sensitive contracts that are typically priced at a differential to the New York Mercantile Exchange (“NYMEX”) price or at purchaser-posted prices for the producing area.  As of December 31, 2019, the Company had no oil delivery commitments under long-term contracts.

The following table sets forth information regarding total production, average daily production, average prices and average costs for each of the years indicated:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

Total production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf)

 

 

71,968

 

 

 

90,091

 

 

 

118,110

 

 

 

29,223

 

Oil (MBbls)

 

 

617

 

 

 

1,186

 

 

 

5,442

 

 

 

1,191

 

NGL (MBbls)

 

 

2,133

 

 

 

3,762

 

 

 

6,287

 

 

 

1,263

 

Total (MMcfe)

 

 

88,466

 

 

 

119,781

 

 

 

188,481

 

 

 

43,945

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average daily production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf/d)

 

 

197

 

 

 

247

 

 

 

386

 

 

 

495

 

Oil (MBbls/d)

 

 

1.7

 

 

 

3.2

 

 

 

17.8

 

 

 

20.2

 

NGL (MBbls/d)

 

 

5.8

 

 

 

10.3

 

 

 

20.5

 

 

 

21.4

 

Total (MMcfe/d)

 

 

242

 

 

 

328

 

 

 

616

 

 

 

745

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average prices (unhedged): (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (Mcf)

 

$

2.28

 

 

$

2.78

 

 

$

2.69

 

 

$

3.41

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

57.15

 

 

$

62.99

 

 

$

47.42

 

 

$

49.16

 

NGL (Bbl)

 

$

17.36

 

 

$

25.14

 

 

$

21.28

 

 

$

24.37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average NYMEX prices:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMBtu)

 

$

2.63

 

 

$

3.09

 

 

$

3.00

 

 

$

3.66

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

57.03

 

 

$

64.77

 

 

$

50.53

 

 

$

53.04

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs per Mcfe of production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

$

0.88

 

 

$

1.00

 

 

$

1.11

 

 

$

1.13

 

Transportation expenses

 

$

0.73

 

 

$

0.70

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

$

0.59

 

General and administrative expenses (2)

 

$

0.70

 

 

$

2.05

 

 

$

0.62

 

 

$

1.63

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

$

0.87

 

 

$

0.79

 

 

$

0.71

 

 

$

1.07

 

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

$

0.17

 

 

$

0.25

 

 

$

0.25

 

 

$

0.34

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total production – discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity method investment – Total (MMcfe) (3)

 

 

 

 

 

23,355

 

 

 

9,235

 

 

 

 

California – Total (MMcfe) (4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,326

 

 

 

1,755

 

(1)

Does not include the effect of gains (losses) on derivatives.

8


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

(2)

General and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, include approximately $11 million, $132 million, $41 million and $50 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expenses and approximately $5 million, $27 million, $2 million and $787,000, respectively of severance costs.  General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, include approximately $8 million of Spin-off related costs.  In addition, general and administrative expenses for the two months ended February 28, 2017, include expenses incurred by LINN Energy associated with the operations of Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry”).  On February 28, 2017, LINN Energy and Berry emerged from bankruptcy as stand-alone, unaffiliated entities.

(3)

Represents the Company’s historical 50% equity interest in Roan.  Production of Roan for 2018 is for the period from January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018.  Production of Roan for 2017 is for the period from September 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017.

(4)

Total production of the Company’s California properties reported as discontinued operations for 2017 is for the period from January 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017.

The following table sets forth information regarding production volumes for fields with greater than 15% of the Company’s total proved reserves for each of the years indicated:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

Total production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugoton Basin Field:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf)

 

*

 

 

 

33,510

 

 

 

34,363

 

Oil (MBbls)

 

*

 

 

 

24

 

 

 

45

 

NGL (MBbls)

 

*

 

 

 

2,581

 

 

 

2,968

 

Total (MMcfe)

 

*

 

 

 

49,137

 

 

 

52,437

 

East Texas Basin Field:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf)

 

 

14,253

 

 

 

17,355

 

 

*

 

Oil (MBbls)

 

 

60

 

 

 

66

 

 

*

 

NGL (MBbls)

 

 

130

 

 

 

113

 

 

*

 

Total (MMcfe)

 

 

15,393

 

 

 

18,432

 

 

*

 

Sabine Uplift Field: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf)

 

 

10,584

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

Oil (MBbls)

 

 

35

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

NGL (MBbls)

 

 

42

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

Total (MMcfe)

 

 

11,047

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

Anadarko Basin Field: (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf)

 

 

7,144

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

Oil (MBbls)

 

 

416

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

NGL (MBbls)

 

 

353

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

Total (MMcfe)

 

 

11,759

 

 

*

 

 

*

 

*

Represented less than 15% of the Company’s total proved reserves for the year indicated.  The Company sold its properties in the Hugoton Basin Field in November 2019.

(1)

North Louisiana.

(2)

Excludes royalties.

9


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Reserve Data

Proved Reserves

The following table sets forth estimated proved oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows at December 31, 2019, based on reserve reports prepared by independent engineers, DeGolyer and MacNaughton:

 

 

Proved Reserves

 

 

 

Natural Gas

(Bcf)

 

 

Oil

(MMBbls)

 

 

NGL

(MMBbls)

 

 

Total

(Bcfe)

 

Proved reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proved developed reserves

 

 

250

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

284

 

Proved undeveloped reserves

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32

 

Total proved reserves

 

 

281

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

3

 

 

 

316

 

 

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows (in millions) (1)

 

$

159

 

 

 

 

 

 

Representative NYMEX prices: (2)

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMBtu)

 

$

2.58

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

55.69

 

(1)

This measure is not intended to represent the market value of estimated reserves.

(2)

In accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) regulations, reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.  The average price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company’s PUDs decreased to 32 Bcfe from 65 Bcfe at December 31, 2018, representing a decrease of approximately 33 Bcfe.  The decrease was primarily due to divestitures.  Reserves classified as PUDs at December 31, 2018, that were converted to proved developed reserves during the year ended December 31, 2019, were not material.

Based on the December 31, 2019, reserve reports, the amounts of capital expenditures estimated to be incurred in 2020, 2021 and 2022 to develop the Company’s PUDs are approximately $5 million, $5 million and $5 million, respectively.  The amount and timing of these expenditures will depend on a number of factors, including actual drilling results, service costs and product prices.  None of the 32 Bcfe of PUDs at December 31, 2019, has remained undeveloped for five years or more.  All PUD properties are included in the Company’s current five-year development plan.

Reserve engineering is inherently a subjective process of estimating underground accumulations of oil, natural gas and NGL that cannot be measured exactly.  The accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of available data and engineering and geological interpretation and judgment.  Accordingly, reserve estimates may vary from the quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL that are ultimately recovered.  Future prices received for production may vary, perhaps significantly, from the prices assumed for the purposes of estimating the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows.  The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows should not be construed as the market value of the reserves at the dates shown.  The 10% discount factor required to be used under the provisions of applicable accounting standards may not be the most appropriate discount factor based on interest rates in effect from time to time and risks associated with the Company or the oil and natural gas industry.  The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is materially affected by assumptions regarding the timing of future production, which may prove to be inaccurate.

The reserve estimates reported herein were prepared by independent engineers, DeGolyer and MacNaughton.  The process performed by the independent engineers to prepare reserve amounts included their estimation of reserve quantities, future production rates, future net revenue and the present value of such future net revenue, based in part on data provided by the Company.  When preparing the reserve estimates, the independent engineering firm did not independently verify the accuracy and completeness of the information and data furnished by the Company with respect to ownership interests, production, well test data, historical costs of operation and development, product prices, or any agreements relating to current and future operations of the properties and sales of production.  However, if in the course of their work, something came to their

10


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

attention that brought into question the validity or sufficiency of any such information or data, they did not rely on such information or data until they had satisfactorily resolved their questions relating thereto.  The estimates of reserves conform to the guidelines of the SEC, including the criteria of “reasonable certainty,” as it pertains to expectations about the recoverability of reserves in future years.  The independent engineering firm also prepared estimates with respect to reserve categorization, using the definitions of proved reserves set forth in Regulation S-X Rule 4-10(a) and subsequent SEC staff interpretations and guidance.

The Company’s internal control over the preparation of reserve estimates is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Company’s reserve estimates in accordance with SEC regulations.  The preparation of reserve estimates was overseen by the Company’s Director of Reserves and Business Development who has a Master of Petroleum Engineering degree and 10 years of oil and natural gas industry experience.  The reserve estimates were reviewed and approved by the Company’s senior engineering staff and management, with final approval by its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.  For additional information regarding estimates of reserves, including the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows, see “Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Data (Unaudited)” in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”  The Company has not filed reserve estimates with any federal authority or agency, with the exception of the SEC.

Operational Overview

General

The Company generally seeks to be the operator of its properties so that it can develop drilling programs and optimization projects intended to not only replace production, but also to add value through reserve and production growth and future operational synergies.  Many of the Company’s wells are completed in multiple producing zones with commingled production and long economic lives.

Principal Customers

For the year ended December 31, 2019, sales to ONEOK Hydrocarbon, L.P. accounted for approximately 19% of the Company’s total revenues.  If the Company were to lose any one of its major oil and natural gas purchasers, the loss could temporarily cease or delay production and sale of its oil and natural gas in that particular purchaser’s service area.  If the Company were to lose a purchaser, it believes it could identify a substitute purchaser.  However, if one or more of the large purchasers ceased purchasing oil and natural gas altogether, it could have a detrimental effect on the oil and natural gas market in general and on the prices and volumes of oil, natural gas and NGL that the Company is able to sell.

Competition

The oil and natural gas industry is highly competitive.  The Company encounters strong competition from other independent operators in contracting for drilling and other related services, as well as hiring trained personnel.  The Company is also affected by competition for drilling rigs and the availability of related equipment.  In the past, the oil and natural gas industry has experienced shortages of drilling rigs, equipment, pipe and personnel, which has delayed development drilling and has caused significant price increases.  The Company is unable to predict when, or if, such shortages may occur or how they would affect its drilling program.

Operating Hazards and Insurance

The oil and natural gas industry involves a variety of operating hazards and risks that could result in substantial losses from, among other things, injury or loss of life, severe damage to or destruction of property, natural resources and equipment, pollution or other environmental damage, cleanup responsibilities, regulatory investigation and penalties, and suspension of operations.  The Company may be strictly liable for environmental damages caused by previous owners of property it purchases and leases.  As a result, the Company may incur substantial liabilities to third parties or governmental entities, the payment of which could reduce or eliminate funds otherwise available, or result in the loss of properties.  In addition, the Company participates in wells on a non-operated basis, and therefore may be limited in its ability to control the risks associated with the operation of such wells.

11


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

In accordance with customary industry practices, the Company maintains insurance against some, but not all, potential losses.  The Company cannot provide assurance that any insurance it obtains will be adequate to cover any losses or liabilities.  The Company has elected to self-insure for certain items for which it has determined that the cost of available insurance is excessive relative to the risks presented.  In addition, pollution and environmental risks generally are not fully insurable.  The occurrence of an event not fully covered by insurance could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.  For more information about potential risks that could affect the Company, see Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

Title to Properties

Prior to the commencement of drilling operations, the Company conducts a title examination and performs curative work with respect to significant defects.  To the extent title opinions or other investigations reflect title defects on those properties, the Company is typically responsible for curing any title defects at its expense prior to commencing drilling operations.  Prior to completing an acquisition of producing leases, the Company performs title reviews on the most significant leases and, depending on the materiality of properties, the Company may obtain a title opinion or review previously obtained title opinions.  As a result, the Company has obtained title opinions on a significant portion of its properties and believes that it has satisfactory title to its producing properties in accordance with standards generally accepted in the industry.

Seasonality and Cyclicality

Seasonal weather conditions and lease stipulations can limit the drilling and producing activities and other operations in regions of the U.S. in which the Company operates.  These seasonal conditions can pose challenges for meeting the well drilling objectives and increase competition for equipment, supplies and personnel, which could lead to shortages and increase costs or delay operations.  For example, the Company’s operations may be impacted by ice and snow in the winter and by electrical storms and high temperatures in the spring and summer, as well as by wild fires in the fall.

The demand for natural gas typically decreases during the summer months and increases during the winter months.  Seasonal anomalies sometimes lessen this fluctuation.  In addition, certain natural gas consumers utilize natural gas storage facilities and purchase some of their anticipated winter requirements during the summer, which can also lessen seasonal demand fluctuations.

Environmental Matters and Regulation

The Company’s operations are subject to the same stringent federal, state and local laws and regulations governing the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection as other companies in the oil and natural gas industry.  These laws and regulations may:

 

require the acquisition of various permits before drilling commences;

 

require notice to stakeholders of proposed and ongoing operations;

 

require the installation of expensive pollution control equipment;

 

restrict the types, quantities and concentration of various substances that can be released into the environment in connection with drilling and production activities;

 

limit or prohibit drilling activities on lands located within wilderness, wetlands, areas inhabited by endangered species and other protected areas;

 

require remedial measures to prevent pollution from former operations, such as pit closure, reclamation and plugging and abandonment of wells;

 

require, with little to no notice, the cessation of fluid disposal operations into disposal wells owned or controlled by the Company, or other disposal wells that the Company utilizes, which could in turn cause an unexpected, significant increase in the price to dispose of such fluids and/or cause the Company to shut in proximate producing wells while awaiting disposal capacity;

 

impose substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from operations; and

 

require preparation of a Resource Management Plan, an Environmental Assessment, and/or an Environmental Impact Statement with respect to operations affecting federal lands or leases.

These laws and regulations may also restrict the production rate of oil, natural gas and NGL below the rate that would otherwise be possible.  The regulatory burden on the industry increases the cost of doing business and consequently affects

12


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

profitability.  Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may trigger a variety of administrative, civil and criminal enforcement measures, including the assessment of monetary fines or penalties, the imposition of investigatory or remedial requirements, and the issuance of orders enjoining future operations.  Moreover, accidental releases or spills may occur in the course of the Company’s operations, which may result in significant costs and liabilities, including third-party claims for damage to property, natural resources or persons.  Additionally, Congress and federal and state agencies frequently revise environmental laws and regulations, and any changes that result in more stringent and costly requirements for the oil and natural gas industry could have a significant impact on operating costs.

The environmental laws and regulations applicable to the Company and its operations include, among others, the following U.S. federal laws and regulations:

 

Clean Air Act, which governs air emissions;

 

Clean Water Act (“CWA”), which governs discharges to and excavations within the waters of the U.S.;

 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), which imposes liability where hazardous releases have occurred or are threatened to occur (commonly known as “Superfund”);

 

The Oil Pollution Act of 1990, which amends and augments the CWA and imposes certain duties and liabilities related to the prevention of oil spills and damages resulting from such spills;

 

Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which prescribes new fuel economy standards and other energy saving measures;

 

National Environmental Policy Act, which requires federal agencies to consider the potential environmental effects of federal actions, including oil and natural gas production activities on federal lands;

 

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”), which governs the management of solid waste;

 

Safe Drinking Water Act (“SDWA”), which governs the underground injection and disposal of wastewater;

 

Endangered Species Act (“ESA”), which restricts activities that may affect endangered and threatened species or their habitats; and

 

U.S. Department of Interior regulations, which impose liability for pollution cleanup and damages.

Various states regulate the drilling for, and the production, gathering and sale of, oil, natural gas and NGL, including imposing production taxes and requiring drilling permits.  States also regulate the method of developing new fields, the spacing and operation of wells and the prevention of waste of resources.  States may regulate rates of production and may establish maximum daily production allowables from wells based on market demand or resource conservation, or both.  For example, there is currently pending before the Oklahoma Corporation Commission a proposal to reduce the statewide proration formula for unallocated gas wells that, alone or together in a single unit, have a flow rate of 2,000 mcf per day or greater.  If this proposal is approved, it could reduce the volumes of natural gas that our upstream segment is entitled to recover and reduce the volumes flowing to Blue Mountain’s gathering and processing system from producer customers. States do not regulate wellhead prices or engage in other similar direct economic regulations, but there can be no assurance that they will not do so in the future.  The effect of these regulations may be to limit the amounts of oil, natural gas and NGL that may be produced from the Company’s wells and to limit the number of wells or locations it can drill.  The oil and natural gas industry is also subject to compliance with various other federal, state and local regulations and laws, including those related to occupational safety, resource conservation and equal opportunity employment.

The Company believes that it substantially complies with all current applicable environmental laws and regulations and that continued compliance with existing requirements will not have a material adverse impact on its business, financial condition, and results of operations or cash flows.  Future regulatory issues that could impact the Company or its operations include new rules or legislation relating to the items discussed below.

Climate Change

In December 2009, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) determined that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other “greenhouse gases” (“GHG”) present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to warming of the earth’s atmosphere and other climatic changes.  Based on these findings, the EPA adopted and implemented regulations to restrict emissions of GHGs under existing provisions of the Clean Air Act, but the future of these regulations is not clear.  For example, in May 2016, the EPA finalized rules that set additional emissions limits for volatile organic compounds (“VOCs”) and established new controls for emissions of methane from new, modified or reconstructed sources in the oil and natural gas source category, including production, processing, transmission and storage activities.  The rules included first-time standards to address

13


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

emissions of methane from equipment and processes across the source category, including hydraulically fractured oil and natural gas well completions.  However, in September 2019, under a new administration, the EPA proposed to remove transmission and storage activities from the purview of the rules, thereby rescinding the VOC and methane emissions limits applicable to those activities. The proposed rule would also rescind the methane limit emissions for production and processing sources, but would maintain emissions limits for VOCs. In the alternative, the EPA also proposed to simply rescind the methane requirements for all oil and natural gas sources, without removing any activities from the source category.  A lawsuit filed in April 2018 by a coalition of states in federal district court aiming to force the EPA to establish guidelines for limiting methane emissions from existing sources in the oil and natural gas sector is pending (as of October 2019, the EPA had requested a stay of the litigation pending the outcome of its proposed overhaul of the 2016 methane requirements).  The EPA has also adopted rules requiring the monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions from specified sources in the U.S., including certain onshore oil and natural gas production facilities, on an annual basis.

On an international level, the U.S. was one of 175 countries to sign an international climate change agreement in Paris, France that requires member countries to set their own GHG emission reduction goals beginning in 2020 (the “Paris Agreement”).  However, on June 1, 2017, President Trump announced that the U.S. would withdraw from the Paris Agreement, and on November 4, 2019, the U.S. submitted formal notification of its withdrawal to the United Nations.  The withdrawal will take effect one year from delivery of the notification, although there is a possibility that a new administration could choose to rejoin the Paris Agreement.  Certain U.S. city and state governments have announced their intention to satisfy their proportionate obligations under the Paris Agreement.  In addition, legislation has from time to time been introduced in Congress that would establish measures restricting GHG emissions in the U.S., and a number of states, various corporations, and numerous investors have begun taking actions to control and/or reduce emissions of GHGs.  Any such additional regulation could lead to operational delays, increased operating costs and additional regulatory burdens, and reduced production of oil and natural gas, which could adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and net cash provided by operating activities.

Any legislation or regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions could increase the cost of consuming, and thereby reduce demand for, the oil and natural gas the Company produces.  Consequently, legislation and regulatory programs to reduce emissions of GHGs could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.  Moreover, incentives to conserve energy or use alternative energy sources as a means of addressing climate change could reduce demand for the oil and natural gas the Company produces.  In addition, parties concerned about the potential effects of climate change have directed their attention at sources of funding for energy companies, which has resulted in certain financial institutions, funds and other sources of capital, restricting or eliminating their investment in oil and natural gas activities.  Finally, most scientists have concluded that increasing concentrations of GHGs in the Earth’s atmosphere may produce climate changes that have significant physical effects, such as increased frequency and severity of storms, floods and other climatic events.  If any such effects were to occur, they could adversely affect or delay demand for the oil or natural gas produced or cause the Company to incur significant costs in preparing for or responding to those effects.

Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing is an important and common practice that is used to stimulate production of hydrocarbons from tight formations.  The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production.  The Company performs hydraulic fracturing as part of its operations.  Hydraulic fracturing operations have historically been overseen by state regulators as part of their oil and natural gas regulatory programs.  However, in February 2014, the EPA published permitting guidance under the SDWA addressing the use of diesel in fracturing hydraulic operations, and in May 2014, the EPA issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking under the Toxic Substances Control Act (“TSCA”) relating to chemical substances and mixtures used in oil and natural gas exploration or production.  Further, in March 2015, the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) adopted a rule requiring, among other things, public disclosure to the BLM of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing operations after fracturing operations have been completed and strengthening standards for well-bore integrity and management of fluids that return to the surface during and after fracturing operations on federal and Indian lands.  Following years of litigation, the BLM rescinded the rule in December 2017; however, that rescission has been challenged by several environmental groups and states in ongoing litigation (oral arguments were heard in the case in January 2020 after a long hiatus).  In addition, from time to time legislation has been introduced before Congress that would provide for federal regulation of hydraulic fracturing and would require disclosure of the chemicals used in the fracturing process.  If enacted, these or similar laws or regulations could result in additional permitting requirements for hydraulic fracturing operations as well as various restrictions on those

14


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

operations.  These permitting requirements and restrictions could result in delays in operations at well sites and also increased costs to make wells productive.

There may be other attempts to further regulate hydraulic fracturing under the SDWA, TSCA and/or other statutory or regulatory mechanisms.  In December 2016, the EPA released its final report on the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources, concluding that “water cycle” activities associated with hydraulic fracturing may impact drinking water resources under certain circumstances.  Moreover, some states and local governments have adopted, and other states and local governments are considering adopting, regulations that could restrict hydraulic fracturing in certain circumstances.  For example, many states in which the Company operates have adopted disclosure regulations requiring varying degrees of disclosure of the constituents in hydraulic fracturing fluids.  In addition, the regulation or prohibition of hydraulic fracturing is the subject of significant political activity in a number of jurisdictions, some of which have resulted in tighter regulation, bans, and/or recognition of local government authority to implement such restrictions.  In many instances, litigation has ensued, some of which remains pending.  If new laws or regulations that significantly restrict or ban hydraulic fracturing are adopted, such laws could make it more difficult or costly for the Company to perform fracturing to stimulate production from tight formations.  In addition, any such additional regulation could lead to operational delays, increased operating costs and additional regulatory burdens, and reduced production of oil and natural gas, which could adversely affect the Company’s revenues, results of operations and net cash provided by operating activities.

Hydraulic fracturing operations require the use of a significant amount of water.  The Company’s inability to locate sufficient amounts of water, or dispose of or recycle water used in its drilling and production operations, could adversely impact its operations.  Moreover, new environmental initiatives and regulations could include restrictions on the Company’s ability to conduct certain operations such as hydraulic fracturing or disposal of waste, including, but not limited to, produced water, drilling fluids and other wastes associated with the development or production of natural gas.

The Company disposes of wastewater generated from oil and natural gas production operations, including hydraulic fracturing operations, directly or through the use of third parties.  In some instances, the operation of underground injection or large volume disposal wells has been alleged to cause earthquakes in some of the states where the Company operates.  Such issues have sometimes led to orders prohibiting continued injection or disposal or the suspension of drilling in certain wells identified as possible sources of seismic activity.  Such concerns also have resulted in stricter regulatory requirements in some jurisdictions relating to the location and operation of underground injection wells.  For example, Oklahoma issued rules for wastewater disposal wells that imposed certain permitting and operating restrictions, required additional seismicity protocols in certain defined areas, and from time to time, directs certain injection wells in proximity to seismic events to restrict or suspend operations.  Future orders or regulations addressing concerns about seismic activity from well injection or water disposal could affect the Company, either directly or indirectly, depending on the wells affected, which materially affect its capital expenditures and operating costs.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

Although oil and natural gas wastes generally are exempt from regulation as hazardous wastes under RCRA and some comparable state statutes, it is possible some wastes the Company generates presently or in the future may be subject to regulation under RCRA or other applicable statutes.  The EPA and various state agencies have limited the disposal options for certain wastes, including hazardous wastes, and there is no guarantee that the EPA or the states will not adopt more stringent requirements in the future.  For example, in December 2016, the EPA and several environmental groups entered into a consent decree to address the EPA’s alleged failure to timely assess its regulations exempting certain exploration and production related oil and gas wastes from regulation as hazardous wastes under RCRA.  The consent decree required the EPA to propose a rulemaking for revision of certain regulations pertaining to oil and gas wastes or to sign a determination that revision of the regulations is not necessary, and in April of 2019 the EPA made the determination that revisions to the regulations were not necessary at that time, concluding that any adverse effects related to oil and gas waste were more appropriately and readily addressed within the framework of existing state regulatory programs.  Furthermore, certain wastes generated by the Company’s oil and natural gas operations that are currently exempt from designation as hazardous wastes may in the future be designated as hazardous wastes under RCRA or other applicable statutes, and therefore be subject to more rigorous and costly operating and disposal requirements.

In addition, CERCLA, also known as the Superfund law, imposes cleanup obligations, without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct, on certain classes of persons that are considered to be responsible for the release of a “hazardous substance” into the environment.  These persons include the owner or operator of the disposal site or sites where the release

15


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

occurred and companies that transported or disposed of or arranged for the transport or disposal of the hazardous substances found at the site.  Persons who are or were responsible for releases of hazardous substances under CERCLA and any state analogs may be subject to joint and several liability for the costs of cleaning up the hazardous substances that have been released into the environment and for damages to natural resources, and it is not uncommon for neighboring landowners and other third parties to file corresponding common law claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the hazardous substances released into the environment.  While petroleum and crude oil fractions are not included in the definition of hazardous substances under CERCLA and some of its state analogs because of the so-called “petroleum exclusion,” adulterated petroleum products containing other hazardous substances have been treated as hazardous substances under CERCLA in the past.

Endangered Species Act

Some of the Company’s operations may be located in areas that are designated as habitats for endangered or threatened species under the ESA.  In February 2016, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a final policy which alters how it identifies critical habitat for endangered and threatened species.  A critical habitat designation could result in further material restrictions to federal and private land use and could delay or prohibit land access or development.  Moreover, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service continues to make listing decisions and critical habitat designations where necessary, including for over 250 species as required under a 2011 settlement approved by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, and many hundreds of additional anticipated listing decisions have already been identified beyond those recognized in the 2011 settlement.  The Company believes that it is currently in substantial compliance with the ESA.  However, the designation of previously unprotected species as being endangered or threatened, if located in the areas of the Company’s operations, could cause the Company to incur additional costs or become subject to operating restrictions in areas where the species are known to exist.

Air Emissions

The New Source Performance Standards and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants programs under the Clean Air Act impose specific requirements affecting the oil and gas industry under programs for compressors, controllers, dehydrators, storage tanks, natural gas processing plants, completions, and certain other equipment and processes.  Periodic review and revision of these and other rules by federal and state agencies may require changes to the Company’s operations, including possible installation of new equipment to control emissions.  For example, as described above, in May 2016, the EPA finalized rules to reduce methane and VOC emissions from new, modified or reconstructed sources in the oil and natural gas sector; however, in September 2019, under a new administration, the EPA published proposed amendments that would rescind the methane standards and roll back other requirements of the rules.  Similarly, in September 2018, the BLM issued a rule that relaxes or rescinds certain requirements of regulations it previously enacted to reduce methane emissions from venting, flaring, and leaks during oil and gas operations on public lands; California and New Mexico have challenged the rule in ongoing litigation.  In addition, in April 2018, a coalition of states filed a lawsuit aiming to force the EPA to establish guidelines for limiting methane emissions from existing sources in the oil and natural gas sector; that lawsuit is pending but may be stayed pending the outcome of the EPA’s proposed overhaul of the 2016 rules.  Several states are pursuing similar measures to regulate emissions of methane from new and existing sources within the oil and natural gas source category.  In addition, in June 2016, the EPA finalized rules regarding criteria for aggregating multiple small surface sites into a single source for air-quality permitting purposes applicable to the oil and gas industry.  This rule could cause small facilities, on an aggregate basis, to be deemed a major source, thereby triggering more stringent air permitting requirements.  Further, the EPA lowered the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (“NAAQS”) for ozone from 75 to 70 parts per billion in October 2015.  State implementation of the revised NAAQS could result in stricter permitting requirements or delay, or limit the Company’s ability to obtain permits, and result in increased expenditures for pollution control equipment.  Compliance with these and other air pollution control and permitting requirements has the potential to delay the development of oil and natural gas projects and increase the Company’s costs of development, which costs could be significant.

Water Resources

The CWA and analogous state laws restrict the discharge of pollutants, including produced waters and other oil and natural gas wastes, into “waters of the United States” (“WOTUS”).  Under the CWA, permits must be obtained for the discharge of pollutants into WOTUS.  The CWA provides for administrative, civil and criminal penalties for unauthorized discharges, both routine and accidental, of pollutants and of oil and hazardous substances.  It imposes substantial potential liability for the costs of removal or remediation associated with discharges of oil or hazardous substances.  State laws governing discharges

16


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

to water also provide varying civil, criminal and administrative penalties and impose liabilities in the case of a discharge of petroleum or its derivatives, or other hazardous substances, into state waters.  In addition, the EPA has promulgated regulations that may require permits to discharge storm water runoff, including discharges associated with construction activities.  The CWA also prohibits the discharge of fill materials to regulated waters including wetlands without a permit.  The EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers published a rule to revise the definition of WOTUS for all CWA programs, which went into effect in August 2015, which was stayed nationwide in October 2015 pending several legal challenges to the rule.  In January 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the rule revising the WOTUS definition must be reviewed first in the federal district courts, which resulted in a withdrawal of the stay by the Sixth Circuit.  In October 2019, the EPA published a final rule repealing the rule revising the WOTUS definition, which became effective on December 23, 2019 and has already been challenged in federal district courts in New Mexico, New York, and South Carolina.  In January 2020, the EPA announced a final rule redefining WOTUS. Several groups have already announced their intentions to challenge this rule as well.  To the extent the repeal and revision rules are successfully challenged or the August 2015 rule is enforced in jurisdictions in which the Company operates or a replacement rule expands the scope of the CWA’s jurisdiction, the Company could face increased costs and delays with respect to obtaining permits for dredge and fill activities in wetland areas.

Also, in June 2016, the EPA finalized wastewater pretreatment standards that prohibit onshore unconventional oil and natural gas extraction facilities from sending wastewater to publicly-owned treatment works.  This restriction of disposal options for hydraulic fracturing waste and other changes to CWA requirements may result in increased costs.

Economic Regulation

Regulation of pipeline gathering and transportation services, natural gas, NGLs, and crude oil sales, and transportation of natural gas, NGLs, and crude oil may affect certain aspects of the Company’s business and the market for its products and services.

Regulation of Interstate Natural Gas Pipelines

Blue Mountain Midstream owns and operates the Blue Mountain Delivery Line, which is a natural gas pipeline that extends approximately 10 miles from the Blue Mountain Chisholm Trail Cryogenic Gas Complex to delivery points on the interstate pipelines owned and operated by Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc. and Enable Gas Transmission, LLC.  Blue Mountain Midstream has obtained a limited jurisdiction certificate of public convenience and necessity under the Natural Gas Act of 1938 (“NGA”) for the Blue Mountain Delivery Line.  In the certificate order, among other things, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) waived requirements pertaining to the filing of an initial rate for service, the filing of a tariff and compliance with specified FERC accounting and reporting requirements.  As such, the Blue Mountain Delivery Line is not currently subject to conventional FERC rate regulation; to requirements FERC imposes on “open access” interstate natural gas pipelines; to the obligation to file and maintain a tariff; or to the obligation to conform to certain business practices and to file certain reports.  If, however, the Company receives a bona fide request for firm service on the Blue Mountain Delivery Line from a third party, FERC would reexamine the waivers it has granted the Company and would require the Company to file for authorization to offer “open access” transportation under its regulations, which would impose additional costs upon the Company.

Gathering Pipeline Regulation

The Company’s natural gas gathering operations are typically subject to ratable take and common purchaser statutes in the states in which it operates.  The common purchaser statutes generally require gathering pipelines to purchase or take without undue discrimination as to source of supply or producer.  These statutes are designed to prohibit discrimination in favor of one producer over another or one source of supply over another.  The regulations under these statutes can have the effect of imposing some restrictions on the Company’s ability as an owner of gathering facilities to decide with whom it contracts to gather natural gas.  The states in which the Company operates have adopted complaint-based regulation of natural gas gathering activities, which allows natural gas producers and shippers to file complaints with state regulators in an effort to resolve grievances relating to gathering access and rate discrimination.  The rates the Company charges for gathering are deemed just and reasonable unless challenged in a complaint.  The Company cannot predict whether such a complaint will be filed against it in the future.  Failure to comply with state regulations can result in the imposition of administrative, civil and criminal penalties.

17


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Section 1(b) of the NGA exempts natural gas gathering facilities from regulation as a natural gas company by FERC under the NGA.  Although the FERC has not made any formal determinations with respect to any of the Company’s facilities, the Company believes that the natural gas pipelines in its gathering systems meet the traditional tests FERC has used to establish a pipeline’s status as a gatherer not subject to regulation as a natural gas company.

Natural Gas Processing

The Company’s natural gas processing operations are not presently subject to FERC regulation.  There can be no assurance, however, that its processing operations will continue to be exempt from other FERC regulation in the future.

Sales of Natural Gas, NGLs and Crude Oil

The price at which the Company buys and sells natural gas, NGLs and crude oil is currently not subject to federal rate regulation and, for the most part, is not subject to state rate regulation.  However, with regard to the Company’s physical purchases and sales of these energy commodities and any related hedging activities that it undertakes, it is required to observe anti-market manipulation laws and related regulations enforced by FERC, the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”), and/or the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”).  See “−Other Federal Laws and Regulations Affecting the Company’s Industry−EP Act 2005” and “−Other Federal Laws and Regulations Affecting the Company’s Industry−Derivatives Regulation.”  Should the Company violate the anti-market manipulation laws and regulations, it could also be subject to related third-party damage claims by, among others, market participants, sellers, royalty owners and taxing authorities.

Other State and Local Regulation of Operations

The Company’s business activities are subject to various state and local laws and regulations, as well as orders of regulatory bodies pursuant thereto, governing a wide variety of matters, including marketing, production, pricing, community right-to-know, protection of the environment, safety and other matters.

Other Federal Laws and Regulations Affecting the Company’s Industry

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (the “EP Act 2005”) is a comprehensive compilation of tax incentives, authorized appropriations for grants and guaranteed loans, and significant changes to the statutory policy that affects all segments of the energy industry.  Among other matters, the EP Act 2005 amended the NGA to add an anti-market manipulation provision which makes it unlawful for any entity to engage in prohibited behavior to be prescribed by FERC, and furthermore provides FERC with additional civil penalty authority.  The EP Act 2005 provides FERC with the power to assess civil penalties of up to $1 million per day for violations of the NGA and $1 million per violation per day for violations of the Natural Gas Policy Act (“NGPA”), each subject to annual adjustment to account for inflation.  The civil penalty provisions are applicable to entities that engage in the sale of natural gas for resale in interstate commerce.  In 2006, FERC issued Order No. 670 to implement the anti-market manipulation provision of the EP Act 2005.  Order No. 670 does not apply to activities that relate only to intrastate or other non-jurisdictional sales or gathering, but does apply to activities of gas pipelines and storage companies that provide interstate services, as well as otherwise non-jurisdictional entities to the extent their activities are conducted “in connection with” gas sales, purchases or transportation subject to FERC jurisdiction.

Additional proposals and proceedings that might affect the natural gas industry are pending before Congress, FERC and the courts.  The Company cannot predict the ultimate impact of these or the above regulatory changes to its natural gas operations.  The Company does not believe that it would be affected by any such FERC action materially differently than other upstream and midstream natural gas companies with whom it competes.

Pipeline Safety Regulations

Some of the Company’s pipelines are subject to regulation by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”) pursuant to the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 (“NGPSA”) with respect to natural gas, and the Hazardous Liquids Pipeline Safety Act of 1979, (“HLPSA”) with respect to crude oil and NGLs.  Both the NGPSA and the HLPSA have subsequently been amended legislatively and are implemented through regulations promulgated by the PHMSA (collectively, “Pipeline Safety Laws”).  These laws and regulations establish minimum safety requirements in the design,

18


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

construction, operation and maintenance of certain natural gas, crude oil and NGL pipeline facilities, as well as requirements for inspections and pipeline integrity

For example, pipeline operators must implement integrity management programs, including frequent inspections and other measures to ensure pipeline safety in high-consequence areas (“HCAs”), such as:

 

perform ongoing assessments of pipeline integrity;

 

identify and characterize applicable threats to pipeline segments that could impact a HCA;

 

improve data collection, integration and analysis;

 

repair and remediate pipelines as necessary; and

 

implement preventive and mitigating actions.

The PHMSA has issued rules applying safety regulations to certain rural low-stress hazardous liquid pipelines that were not covered previously by its regulations.  In October 2019, PHMSA finalized rules addressing integrity management requirements and applying new safety regulations to hazardous liquid pipelines, including a requirement that operators inspect affected pipelines following extreme weather events or natural disasters, that all hazardous liquid pipelines have a system for detecting leaks and that pipelines in high consequence areas be capable of accommodating in-line inspection tools within 20 years.  Further regulatory changes have been directed by Congress in other areas where the PHMSA has yet to take final action, notably requirements for certain shut-off valves on transmission lines, mapping all HCAs, and shortening the deadline for accident and incident notifications.

Violations of the Pipeline Safety Laws are punishable by administrative civil penalties of $218,647 per violation per day, with a maximum of $2,186,465 for a series of violations.  The PHMSA may also issue corrective orders to pipeline operators to enforce compliance with the Pipeline Safety Laws.  In 2016, Congress amended the Pipeline Safety Laws to, among other things, grant the PHMSA authority to issue emergency orders requiring owners and operators of regulated pipeline facilities to address imminent hazards without prior notice or an opportunity for a hearing, as well as enhanced release reporting requirements.  PHMSA finalized a rulemaking implementing this new authority in October 2019.  In April 2016, PHMSA published a notice of proposed rulemaking, addressing natural gas transmission and gathering lines, and PHMSA issued a final rule with respect to natural gas transmission lines in October 2019. PHMSA has yet to finalize this rulemaking with respect to gathering lines, although it expects to do so later in 2020. With respect to transmission pipelines, the final rule changes integrity management requirements, expands assessment and repair requirements to pipelines in “moderate-consequence areas,” including areas of medium population density, and increases requirements for monitoring and inspection of pipeline segments not located in HCAs.  The final rule also requires that records or other data relied on to determine operating pressures must be traceable, verifiable and complete.  If the pending gathering pipeline portion of the rulemaking leads to a final rule that applies similar requirements to our gathering lines, then locating such records and, in the absence of any such records, verifying maximum pressures through physical testing or modifying or replacing facilities, could significantly increase the Company’s costs.  Failure to locate such records or verify maximum pressures could also result in the reduction of allowable operating pressures, which would reduce available capacity on the Company’s pipelines.  As PHMSA has yet to finalize this rulemaking as applied to gathering lines, however, the contents and timing of any final rule, as well as their effects on the Company, are uncertain.

The federal Pipeline Safety Laws largely preempt state regulation of pipeline safety for interstate lines but most states are certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation to assume responsibility for enforcing federal intrastate pipeline regulations and inspection of intrastate pipelines.  States may adopt stricter standards for intrastate pipelines than those imposed by the federal government for interstate lines; however, states vary considerably in their authority and capacity to address pipeline safety.  State standards may include requirements for facility design and management in addition to requirements for pipelines.  The Company does not anticipate any significant difficulty in complying with applicable state laws and regulations.

The Company’s natural gas pipelines have inspection and compliance programs designed to keep the facilities in compliance with pipeline safety and pollution control requirements.  The Company regularly reviews all existing and proposed pipeline safety requirements and works to incorporate the new requirements into procedures and budgets.  The Company expects to incur increasing regulatory compliance costs, based on the intensification of the regulatory environment and upcoming changes to regulations.  Costs may also be incurred if there were an accidental release of a commodity transported by the Company’s system, or if a regulatory inspection identified a deficiency in the Company’s required programs.

19


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Worker Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (“OSHA”) and analogous state laws regulate the protection of the safety and health of workers.  The OSHA hazard communication standard requires maintenance of information about hazardous materials used or produced in operations and provision of such information to employees.  Other OSHA standards regulate specific worker safety aspects of the Company’s operations.  For example, under a new OSHA standard limiting respirable silica exposure, the oil and gas industry must implement engineering controls and work practices to limit exposures below the new limits by June 2021.  Failure to comply with OSHA requirements can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Derivatives Regulation

Comprehensive financial reform legislation was signed into law by the President on July 21, 2010, (“Dodd-Frank Act”).  The legislation called for the CFTC to regulate certain markets for derivative products, including over-the-counter derivatives.  While many rules implementing the Dodd-Frank Act have been finalized, some have not, and as a result, the final form of the regulatory regime for commodity derivatives remains uncertain.

Position limits for certain energy commodity futures and options contracts, as well as economically equivalent swaps, futures and options, are subject to ongoing rulemaking activities.  The CFTC’s original position-limits rule was vacated and remanded by a federal district court in 2012.  The CFTC subsequently proposed new rules in November 2013, which it supplemented in June 2016, and then reproposed in revised form in December 2016.  In January 2020, the CFTC withdrew the 2013 proposal, the 2016 supplement, and the 2016 reproposal, and issued a new proposed rule, which includes limits on positions in (1) certain “Core Referenced Futures Contracts,” including contracts for several energy commodities; (2) futures and options on futures that are directly or indirectly linked to the price of a Core Referenced Futures Contract, or to the same commodity for delivery at the same location as specified in that Core Referenced Futures Contract; and (3) economically equivalent swaps.  The proposal also includes exemptions from position limits for bona fide hedging activities, which we expect we will qualify for if the exemptions are finalized as currently proposed.  As the proposal is not yet final, the impact of the proposed rule on the Company and its counterparties is uncertain at this time.

The CFTC requires that market participants must clear certain interest rate swaps and credit default swaps, but clearing is not required for physical commodity swaps.  The CFTC also requires certain market participants to maintain minimum margin requirements for uncleared swaps.  The Company qualifies for end-user exceptions from both the clearing and margin requirements, although the application of these rules to other market participants, such as swap dealers, may affect the cost and availability of the swaps the Company uses for hedging.  In addition, if any of the Company’s swaps do not qualify for the end-user exceptions in the future, then the Company may be required to clear such transactions or execute them on a derivatives contract market or swap execution facility and post collateral, which could impact the Company’s liquidity.

Although the Company cannot predict the ultimate outcome of remaining Dodd-Frank Act rulemakings, or of any new rules that may be proposed pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, to the extent they are applicable to the Company or its derivative counterparties, they may result in increased costs and cash collateral requirements for the types of derivative instruments the Company uses to manage its financial and commercial risks related to fluctuations in commodity prices.

The Company’s derivatives activities and sales of oil and natural gas are also subject to anti-manipulation and anti-disruptive-practices authority under (i) the Commodity Exchange Act (“CEA”), as amended by the Dodd-Frank Act, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the CFTC, and (ii) the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (“EISA”) and regulations promulgated thereunder by the FTC.  The CEA, as amended by the Dodd-Frank Act, prohibits any person from using or employing any manipulative or deceptive device in connection with any swap, or a contract of sale of any commodity, or for future delivery on such commodity. It also prohibits knowingly delivering or causing to be delivered false, misleading or inaccurate reports concerning market information or conditions that affect or tend to affect the price of any commodity.  The FTC’s Petroleum Market Manipulation Rule, issued pursuant to the EISA, prohibits fraudulent or deceptive conduct in connection with wholesale purchases or sales of crude oil or refined petroleum products.  Fines for violations of the CEA and the EISA can be up to $1 million per day per violation, subject to adjustment for inflation, and certain knowing or willful violations may also lead to a felony conviction.

20


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

Future Impacts and Current Expenditures

The Company cannot predict how future environmental laws and regulations may impact its properties or operations.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company did not incur any material capital expenditures for installation of remediation or pollution control equipment at any of its facilities.  The Company is not aware of any environmental issues or claims that will require material capital expenditures during 2020 or that will otherwise have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Employees

As of December 31, 2019, the Company employed approximately 250 personnel.  None of the employees are represented by labor unions or covered by any collective bargaining agreement.  The Company believes that its relationship with its employees is satisfactory.

Principal Executive Offices

The Company is a Delaware corporation with headquarters in Houston, Texas.  The principal executive offices are located at 600 Travis, Suite 1700, Houston, Texas 77002.  The main telephone number is (281) 840-4000.

Available Information

The Company’s internet website is www.rivieraresourcesinc.com.  The Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to these reports and all other filings pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as amended, are available free of charge on or through its website as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC.  Information on the Company’s website should not be considered a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10‑K.

The SEC maintains an internet website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding the Company at www.sec.gov.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control.  These statements may include discussions about the Company’s:

 

business strategy;

 

acquisition and disposition strategy;

 

financial strategy;

 

ability to comply with the covenants under the Credit Facilities;

 

effects of legal proceedings;

 

drilling locations;

 

oil, natural gas and NGL reserves;

 

realized oil, natural gas and NGL prices;

 

production volumes;

 

midstream asset construction;

 

key relationships with third parties relating to its midstream business;

 

commitments under its midstream operations;

 

capital expenditures;

 

economic and competitive advantages;

 

credit and capital market conditions;

 

regulatory changes;

 

lease operating expenses, general and administrative expenses and development costs;

 

future operating results;

 

plans, objectives, expectations and intentions; and

 

taxes.

21


Table of Contents

Item 1.Business - Continued

All of these types of statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this Annual Report on Form 10K, are forward-looking statements.  These forward-looking statements may be found in Item 1. “Business;” Item 1A. “Risk Factors;” Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and other items within this Annual Report on Form 10K.  In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursue,” “target,” “continue,” the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology.

The forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are largely based on Company expectations, which reflect estimates and assumptions made by Company management.  These estimates and assumptions reflect management’s best judgment based on currently known market conditions and other factors.  Although the Company believes such estimates and assumptions to be reasonable, they are inherently uncertain and involve a number of risks and uncertainties beyond its control.  In addition, management’s assumptions may prove to be inaccurate.  The Company cautions that the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are not guarantees of future performance, and it cannot assure any reader that such statements will be realized or the events will occur.  Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated or implied in forward-looking statements due to factors set forth in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and, other than as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

 

22


Table of Contents

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

Our business has many risks.  Factors that could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results or liquidity and the trading price of our shares are described below.  This information should be considered carefully, together with other information in this report and other reports and materials we file with the SEC.

Business Risks

Commodity prices are volatile, and prolonged depressed prices or a further decline in prices would reduce our revenues, profitability and net cash provided by operating activities and would significantly affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Our revenues, profitability, cash flow and the carrying value of our properties depend on the prices of and demand for oil, natural gas and NGL.  Historically, the oil, natural gas and NGL markets have been very volatile and are expected to continue to be volatile in the future, and prolonged depressed prices or a further decline in prices will significantly affect our financial results and impede our growth.  Changes in oil, natural gas and NGL prices have a significant impact on the value of our reserves and on our net cash provided by operating activities.  In addition, revenues from certain wells may exceed production costs and nevertheless not generate sufficient return on capital.  Prices for these commodities may fluctuate widely in response to relatively minor changes in the supply of and demand for them, market uncertainty and a variety of additional factors that are beyond our control, such as:

 

the domestic and foreign supply of and demand for oil, natural gas and NGL;

 

the price and level of foreign imports;

 

the level of consumer product demand;

 

weather conditions;

 

overall domestic and global economic conditions;

 

political and economic conditions in oil and natural gas producing and consuming countries;

 

the ability of members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to agree to and maintain price and production controls;

 

the impact of the U.S. dollar exchange rates on oil, natural gas and NGL prices;

 

technological advances affecting energy consumption;

 

domestic and foreign governmental regulations and taxation;

 

the impact of energy conservation efforts;

 

the proximity and capacity of pipelines and other transportation facilities;

 

activities by non-governmental organizations to restrict the exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas; and

 

the price and availability of alternative fuels.

Prolonged depressed prices or a further decline in prices would reduce our revenues, profitability and net cash provided by operating activities and would significantly affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Future declines in commodity prices, changes in expected capital development, increases in operating costs or adverse changes in well performance may result in write-downs of the carrying amounts of our assets, which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations in the period incurred.

We evaluate the impairment of our oil and natural gas properties on a field-by-field basis whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  Future declines in oil, natural gas and NGL prices, changes in expected capital development, increases in operating costs or adverse changes in well performance, among other things, may result in us having to make material write-downs of the carrying amounts of our assets, which could materially and adversely affect our results of operations in the period incurred.

Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, continued low commodity prices and other factors may restrict our ability to raise capital on favorable terms, or at all.

Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, in particular with respect to companies in the energy sector, could limit our ability to access these markets or may significantly increase our cost to borrow.  Continued low commodity prices, among other factors, have caused some lenders to increase interest rates, enact tighter lending standards which we may not satisfy,

23


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

and in certain instances have reduced or ceased to provide funding to borrowers.  If we are unable to access the capital and credit markets on favorable terms or at all, it could adversely affect our business and financial condition.

We may not be able to obtain funding under the Credit Facilities because of a decrease in our borrowing base, or obtain new financing, which could adversely affect our operations and financial condition.

The Riviera Credit Facility provides for a senior secured reserve-based revolving loan facility with a borrowing base of $90 million at December 31, 2019.  The maximum commitment amount was $500 million at December 31, 2019.  As of December 31, 2019, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Riviera Credit Facility and there was approximately $89 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a reduction of approximately $701,000 for outstanding letters of credit).  As of January 31, 2020, these amounts were unchanged.

Redeterminations of the borrowing base under the Riviera Credit Facility are based primarily on reserve reports using lender commodity price expectations at such time.  The borrowing base will be redetermined semi-annually, on April 1 and October 1.  The next scheduled borrowing base redetermination will take place on April 1, 2020.  Any reduction in the borrowing base will reduce our available liquidity, and, if the reduction results in the outstanding amount under the Riviera Credit Facility exceeding the borrowing base, we will be required to prepay an amount equal to the excess.  We may not have the financial resources in the future to make such mandatory prepayments required under the Riviera Credit Facility, which could result in an event of default.

In addition, Blue Mountain Midstream has a senior secured revolving loan facility (the “Blue Mountain Credit Facility”) with a borrowing base of $200 million at December 31, 2019.  The maximum commitment amount was $200 million at December 31, 2019.  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility also provides for the ability to increase the aggregate commitments of the lenders to up to $400 million, subject to obtaining commitments for any such increase, which may result in an increase in Blue Mountain Midstream’s available borrowing capacity.  As of December 31, 2019, total borrowings outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility were approximately $70 million and there was approximately $117 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a $13 million reduction for outstanding letters of credit).  As of January 31, 2020, there were $73 million borrowings outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility, and there was approximately $115 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a $12 million reduction for outstanding letters of credit).  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility together with the Riviera Credit Facility, are referred to as the “Credit Facilities”).

In the future, we may not be able to access adequate funding under our Credit Facilities as a result of (i) a decrease in our borrowing base due to the outcome of a borrowing base redetermination or (ii) an unwillingness or inability on the part of our lending counterparties to meet their funding obligations.  Since the process for determining the borrowing base under the Riviera Credit Facility involves evaluating the estimated value of some of our oil and natural gas properties using pricing models determined by the lenders at that time, a decline in those prices used, or further downward reductions of our reserves, likely will result in a redetermination of our borrowing base and a decrease in the available borrowing amount at the time of the next scheduled redetermination.  In such case, we would be required to repay any indebtedness in excess of the borrowing base.

The Credit Facilities also restrict our ability to obtain new financing.  If additional capital is needed, we may not be able to obtain debt or equity financing on terms favorable to us, or at all.  If net cash provided by operating activities or cash available under the Credit Facilities is not sufficient to meet our capital requirements, the failure to obtain such additional debt or equity financing could result in a curtailment of our development operations, which in turn could lead to a decline in our reserves.

We may be unable to maintain compliance with the covenants in the Credit Facilities, which could result in an event of default under the Credit Facilities that, if not cured or waived, would have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

Under the Riviera Credit Facility, we are required to maintain (i) a maximum total net debt to last twelve months EBITDA ratio of 4.0 to 1.0, and (ii) a minimum adjusted current ratio of 1.0 to 1.0, as well as various affirmative and negative covenants.  In addition, under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility, Blue Mountain Midstream is required to maintain (i) a ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense no less than 2.50 to 1.00, (ii) a ratio of consolidated net debt to consolidated EBITDA (the “consolidated total leverage ratio”) no greater than 4.50 to 1.00 or 5.00 to 1.00, as applicable, and (iii) in case certain other kinds of debt are outstanding, a ratio of consolidated net debt secured by a lien on property of Blue

24


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Mountain Midstream to consolidated EBITDA no greater than 3.00 to 1.00.  If we were to violate any of the covenants under the Riviera Credit Facility or the Blue Mountain Credit Facility and were unable to obtain a waiver or amendment, it would be considered a default after the expiration of any applicable grace period.  If we were in default under the Riviera Credit Facility or the Blue Mountain Credit Facility, then the lenders may exercise certain remedies including, among others, declaring all borrowings outstanding thereunder, if any, immediately due and payable.  This could adversely affect our operations and our ability to satisfy our obligations as they come due.

Restrictive covenants in the Credit Facilities could limit our growth and our ability to finance our operations, fund our capital needs, respond to changing conditions and engage in other business activities that may be in our best interests.

Restrictive covenants in the Credit Facilities impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us and our subsidiaries.  These restrictions limit our ability to, among other things:

 

incur additional liens;

 

incur additional indebtedness;

 

merge, consolidate or sell our assets;

 

pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase or redeem our stock;

 

make certain investments; and

 

enter into transactions with our affiliates.

The Credit Facilities also require us to comply with certain financial maintenance covenants as discussed above.  A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under the Credit Facilities.  If a default occurs and remains uncured or unwaived, the administrative agent or majority lenders under the Credit Facilities may elect to declare all borrowings outstanding thereunder, if any, together with accrued interest and other fees, to be immediately due and payable.  The administrative agent or majority lenders under the Credit Facilities would also have the right in these circumstances to terminate any commitments they have to provide further borrowings.  If we are unable to repay our indebtedness when due or declared due, the applicable administrative agent will also have the right to proceed against the collateral pledged to it to secure the indebtedness under the applicable Credit Facility.  If such indebtedness were to be accelerated, our assets may not be sufficient to repay in full our secured indebtedness.

We may be prevented from taking advantage of business opportunities that arise because of the limitations imposed on us by the restrictive covenants in the Credit Facilities.  The restrictions contained in the Credit Facilities could:

 

limit our ability to plan for, or react to, market conditions, to meet capital needs or otherwise restrict our activities or business plan; and

 

adversely affect our ability to finance our operations, enter into acquisitions or to engage in other business activities that would be in our interest.

We may be subject to risks in connection with divestitures.

In 2018 and 2019, we completed divestitures of a significant portion of our assets, as discussed in Item 1. “Business‒Recent Developments.”  In future transactions we may sell our core or non-core assets in order to increase capital resources available for other core assets, create organizational or other operational efficiencies or for other purposes.  Though we continue to evaluate various options for the divestiture of such assets, there is no assurance that this evaluation will result in any specific action.  Various factors could materially affect our ability to divest of such assets, including the availability of buyers willing to acquire assets on terms we find acceptable and the approvals of third parties and governmental agencies.

Sellers often retain certain liabilities or agree to indemnify buyers for certain matters related to the sold assets.  The magnitude of any such retained liability or of the indemnification obligation is difficult to quantify at the time of the transaction and ultimately could be material.  Also, as is typical in divestiture transactions, third parties may be unwilling to release us from guarantees or other credit support provided prior to the sale of the divested assets.  As a result, after a divestiture, we may remain secondarily liable for the obligations guaranteed or supported to the extent that the buyer of the assets fails to perform these obligations.

25


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Electricity prices are volatile and we may be unable to maintain stable and favorable prices and may not be able to obtain stable or favorable prices in the future, which may have a significant impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Because our Blue Mountain segment relies on electricity for many of its operations, electricity prices are an important driver of its operating expenses.  Recent dispositions of assets in our upstream reporting segment have caused our Blue Mountain reporting segment to comprise a larger portion of our portfolio.  As a result, the prices at which our Blue Mountain segment is able to obtain electricity continues to have an increasingly significant impact on our consolidated operating costs and profitability.  Although we enter into long-term contracts for electricity and although our electric service is subject to approved tariffs, regulatory changes, changes in interpretation of laws or other events may make it difficult for us to maintain favorable or stable electricity prices for our Blue Mountain segment and have an adverse effect on our results of operations.  Additionally, the provider of electricity to the Cryo Plant may be changed based on claims pending before the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, which could result in significant increases in electrical costs based on the new providers then prevailing rates.

Our financial information after the impact of fresh start accounting and numerous divestitures may not be meaningful to investors.

Upon LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy in February 2017, the Company adopted fresh start accounting and, as a result, our assets and liabilities were recorded at fair value as of the fresh start reporting date, which differ materially from the recorded values of assets and liabilities on our historical consolidated and combined balance sheets.  As a result of the adoption of fresh start accounting, along with the numerous divestitures of properties in 2017, 2018 and 2019, our historical results of operations and period-to-period comparisons of those results and certain other financial data may not be meaningful or indicative of future results.  The lack of comparable historical financial information may discourage investors from purchasing our common stock.

Our commodity derivative activities could result in financial losses or could reduce our income, which may adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.

To achieve more predictable net cash provided by operating activities and to reduce our exposure to adverse fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and NGLs, we have entered into commodity derivative contracts for a portion of our production and costs.  Commodity derivative arrangements expose us to the risk of financial loss in some circumstances, including situations when production is less than expected.  If we experience a sustained material interruption in our production or if we are unable to perform our drilling activity as planned, we might be forced to satisfy all or a portion of our derivative obligations without the benefit of the sale of our underlying physical commodity, which may adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.

We may be unable to hedge anticipated production and purchased volumes on attractive terms or at all, which would subject us to further potential commodity price uncertainty and could adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.

While we have hedged a portion of our estimated production and purchases for 2020, our anticipated production and purchase volumes remain mostly unhedged.  Based on current expectations for future commodity prices, reduced hedging market liquidity and potential reduced counterparty willingness to enter into new hedges with us, we may be unable to hedge anticipated production volumes on attractive terms or at all, which would subject us to further potential commodity price uncertainty and could adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.

Counterparty failure may adversely affect our derivative positions.

We cannot be assured that our counterparties will be able to perform under our derivative contracts.  If a counterparty fails to perform and the derivative arrangement is terminated, our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

26


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Unless we replace our reserves, our future reserves and production will decline, which would adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.

Producing oil, natural gas and NGL reservoirs are characterized by declining production rates that vary depending on reservoir characteristics and other factors.  The overall rate of decline for our production will change if production from our existing wells declines in a different manner than we have estimated and may change when we drill additional wells, make acquisitions and under other circumstances.  Thus, our future oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and production and, therefore, our cash flow and income, are highly dependent on our success in efficiently developing our current reserves and economically finding or acquiring additional recoverable reserves.  We may not be able to develop, find or acquire additional reserves to replace our current and future production at acceptable costs, which would adversely affect our net cash provided by operating activities, financial condition and results of operations.  In addition, given restrictive covenants under the Riviera Credit Facility and general market conditions, we may be unable to finance potential acquisitions of reserves on terms that are acceptable to us or at all.  Our ability to make the necessary capital investment to maintain or expand our asset base of oil and natural gas reserves would be impaired to the extent cash flow from operations is reduced and external sources of capital become limited or unavailable.

Our estimated reserves are based on many assumptions that may prove to be inaccurate.  Any material inaccuracies in these reserve estimates or underlying assumptions will materially affect the quantities and present value of our reserves.

No one can measure underground accumulations of oil, natural gas and NGL in an exact manner.  Reserve engineering requires subjective estimates of underground accumulations of oil, natural gas and NGL and assumptions concerning future oil, natural gas and NGL prices, production levels and operating and development costs.  As a result, estimated quantities of proved reserves and projections of future production rates and the timing of development expenditures may prove to be inaccurate.  An independent petroleum engineering firm prepares estimates of our proved reserves.  Some of our reserve estimates are made without the benefit of a lengthy production history, which are less reliable than estimates based on a lengthy production history.  Also, we make certain assumptions regarding future oil, natural gas and NGL prices, production levels and operating and development costs that may prove incorrect.  Any significant variance from these assumptions by actual amounts could greatly affect our estimates of reserves, the economically recoverable quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL attributable to any particular group of properties, the classifications of reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of the future net cash flows.  Decreases in commodity prices can result in a reduction of our estimated reserves if development of those reserves would not be economic at those lower prices.  Numerous changes over time to the assumptions on which our reserve estimates are based, as described above, often result in the actual quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL we ultimately recover being different from our reserve estimates.

The present value of future net cash flows from our proved reserves is not necessarily the same as the current market value of our estimated oil, natural gas and NGL reserves.  We base the estimated discounted future net cash flows from our proved reserves on an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the month price for each month during the 12-month calendar year and year-end costs.  However, actual future net cash flows from our oil and natural gas properties also will be affected by factors such as:

 

actual prices we receive for oil, natural gas and NGL;

 

the amount and timing of actual production;

 

capital and operating expenditures;

 

the timing and success of development activities;

 

supply of and demand for oil, natural gas and NGL; and

 

changes in governmental regulations or taxation.

In addition, the 10% discount factor required to be used under the provisions of applicable accounting standards when calculating discounted future net cash flows, may not be the most appropriate discount factor based on interest rates in effect from time to time and risks associated with us or the oil and natural gas industry in general.

27


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Our development and midstream operations require substantial capital expenditures.  We may be unable to obtain needed capital or financing on satisfactory terms, which could adversely affect our ability to sustain our operations at current levels and could lead to a decline in our reserves and affect our future growth.

The oil and natural gas industry is capital intensive.  We make and expect to continue to make substantial capital expenditures in our business for the development and production of oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and to expand our midstream operations and activities.  These expenditures will reduce our cash available for other purposes.  Our net cash provided by operating activities and access to capital are subject to a number of variables, including:

 

our proved reserves;

 

the level of oil, natural gas and NGL we are able to produce from existing wells;

 

the prices at which we are able to sell our oil, natural gas and NGL;

 

the level of operating expenses;

 

our ability to acquire, locate and produce new reserves;

 

the costs of constructing, operating and maintaining our midstream facilities; and

 

our ability to attract third-party customers for our midstream services.

If our net cash provided by operating activities decreases, we may have limited ability to obtain the capital or financing necessary to sustain our operations at current levels and could lead to a decline in our reserves.

We may decide not to drill some of the prospects we have identified, and locations that we decide to drill may not yield oil, natural gas and NGL in commercially viable quantities.

Our prospective drilling locations are in various stages of evaluation, ranging from a prospect that is ready to drill to a prospect that will require additional geological and engineering analysis.  Based on a variety of factors, including future oil, natural gas and NGL prices, the generation of additional seismic or geological information, the current and future availability of drilling rigs and other factors, we may decide not to drill one or more of these prospects.  In addition, the cost of drilling, completing and operating a well is often uncertain, and cost factors can adversely affect the economics of a well.  Our efforts will be uneconomic if we drill dry holes or wells that are productive but do not produce enough oil, natural gas and NGL to be commercially viable after drilling, operating and other costs.  As a result, we may not be able to increase or sustain our reserves or production, which in turn could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Drilling for and producing oil, natural gas and NGL are high risk activities with many uncertainties that could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Our drilling activities are subject to many risks, including the risk that we will not discover commercially productive reservoirs.  Drilling for oil, natural gas and NGL can be uneconomic, not only from dry holes, but also from productive wells that do not produce sufficient revenues to be commercially viable.  In addition, our drilling and producing operations may be curtailed, delayed or canceled as a result of other factors, including:

 

the high cost, shortages or delivery delays of equipment and services;

 

unexpected operational events;

 

adverse weather conditions;

 

facility or equipment malfunctions;

 

title problems;

 

pipeline ruptures or spills;

 

compliance with environmental and other governmental requirements;

 

unusual or unexpected geological formations;

 

loss of drilling fluid circulation;

 

formations with abnormal pressures;

 

fires;

 

lack of availability or sufficient capacity of fluid disposal facilities to allow oil and gas productive wells to produce at economic rates, potential as a result of unexpected, sudden regulatory intervention;

 

blowouts, craterings and explosions; and

 

uncontrollable flows of oil, natural gas and NGL or well fluids.

28


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Any of these events can cause increased costs or restrict our ability to drill the wells and conduct the operations which we currently have planned.  Any delay in the drilling program or significant increase in costs could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Our business depends on midstream gathering and transportation facilities and other market factors that we do not control.  Limitations on the availability to those facilities or adverse pricing differentials could adversely affect our business, results of operations and cash flows by interfering with our ability to consistently market oil, natural gas and NGL.

The marketability of our oil, natural gas and NGL production depends in part on the availability, proximity and capacity of gathering systems and pipelines.  The amount of oil, natural gas and NGL that can be produced and sold is subject to limitation in certain circumstances, such as pipeline interruptions due to scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, excessive pressure, physical damage to the gathering or transportation system, or lack of contracted capacity on such systems.  The curtailments arising from these and similar circumstances may last from a few days to several months.  In many cases, we are provided only with limited, if any, notice as to when these circumstances will arise and their duration.  In addition, some of our wells are drilled in locations that are not serviced by gathering and transportation pipelines, or the gathering and transportation pipelines in the area may not have sufficient capacity to transport additional production.  As a result, we may not be able to sell the oil, natural gas and NGL production from these wells until the necessary gathering and transportation systems are constructed.  Any significant curtailment in gathering system or pipeline capacity, or significant delay in the construction of necessary gathering and transportation facilities, would interfere with our ability to market the oil, natural gas and NGL we produce, and could adversely affect our business, results of operations and cash flows.

We are subject to regulation by multiple governmental agencies, which could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We are subject to regulation by multiple federal, state and local governmental agencies.  Proposals and proceedings that affect the midstream industry are regularly considered by Congress, as well as by state legislatures and federal and state regulatory commissions, agencies and courts.  We cannot predict when or whether any such proposals or proceedings may become effective or the magnitude of the impact changes in laws and regulations may have on our business.  However, additions to the regulatory burden on our industry can increase our cost of doing business and affect our profitability.

If third party pipelines or other midstream facilities interconnected to our gathering and compression systems or our oil gathering systems become partially or fully unavailable, or if the volumes we gather or treat do not meet the quality requirements of such pipelines or facilities, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Our gathering and compression assets and our oil gathering system connect to other pipelines or facilities owned and operated by unaffiliated third parties.  The continuing operation of third-party pipelines, compressor stations and other midstream facilities is not within our control.  These pipelines, plants and other midstream facilities may become unavailable because of testing, turnarounds, line repair, maintenance, reduced operating pressure, lack of operating capacity, regulatory requirements and curtailments of receipt or deliveries due to insufficient capacity or because of damage from severe weather conditions or other operational issues.  In addition, if the costs to us to access and transport on these third-party pipelines significantly increase, our profitability could be reduced.  If any such increase in costs occurs or if any of these pipelines or other midstream facilities become unable to receive or transport natural gas or oil, or if the volumes we gather or transport do not meet the quality requirements of such pipelines or midstream facilities, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Our business relies on certain key personnel.

Our management believes that our continued success will depend to a significant extent upon the efforts and abilities of certain of our key personnel.  The loss of the services of any of these key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business.  We do not maintain “key man” life insurance on any of our officers or other employees.

29


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

We have limited control over the activities on properties we do not operate.

Other companies operate some of the properties in which we have an interest.  As of December 31, 2019, non-operated wells represented approximately 45% of our owned gross wells, or approximately 21% of our owned net wells.  We have limited ability to influence or control the operation or future development of these non-operated properties, including timing of drilling and other scheduled operations activities, compliance with environmental, safety and other regulations, or the amount of capital expenditures that we are required to fund with respect to them.  The failure of an operator of our wells to adequately perform operations, an operator’s breach of the applicable agreements or an operator’s failure to act in ways that are in our best interest could reduce our production and revenues, and lead to unexpected future costs.

Our business could be adversely affected by security threats, including cyber-security threats, and related disruptions.

We face from time to time various security threats, including cyber-security threats, to gain unauthorized access to our sensitive information or to render our information or systems unusable, and threats to the security of our facilities and infrastructure or third-party facilities and infrastructure, such as gathering and processing and other facilities, refineries and pipelines.  These security threats subject our operations to increased risks that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our implementation of various procedures and controls to monitor and mitigate such security threats and to increase security for our information, systems, facilities and infrastructure may result in increased costs.  Moreover, there can be no assurance that such procedures and controls will be sufficient to prevent security breaches from occurring.  We rely heavily on our information systems, and the availability and integrity of these systems are essential for us to conduct our business and operations.  If any security breaches were to occur, they could lead to losses of, or damage to, sensitive information or facilities, infrastructure and systems essential to our business and operations, as well as data corruption, communication interruptions or other disruptions to our operations, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Damage to our reputation could damage our business.

Our reputation is a critical factor in our relationships with employees, investors, customers, suppliers and joint venture partners.  If we fail to address, or appear to fail to address, issues that give rise to reputational risk, including those described throughout this “Risk Factors” section, we could significantly harm our reputation.  Our reputation may also be damaged by how we respond to corporate crises.  Corporate crises can arise from catastrophic events as well as from incidents involving unethical behavior or misconduct; allegations of legal noncompliance; internal control failures; corporate governance issues; data breaches; workplace safety incidents; environmental incidents; media statements; the conduct of our suppliers or representatives; and other issues or incidents that, whether actual or perceived, result in adverse publicity.  If we fail to respond quickly and effectively to address such crises, the ensuing negative public reaction could significantly harm our reputation and could lead to increases in litigation claims and asserted damages or subject us to regulatory actions or restrictions.

Damage to our reputation could negatively affect the demand for our services and consequently, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  It could also reduce investor confidence in us, adversely affecting our stock price.  Moreover, repairing our reputation may be difficult, time-consuming and expensive.

Our assets are located in limited geographical areas.

Following the anticipated consummation of announced divestitures, which are expected to close in the first quarter of 2020, approximately 96% of our total proved reserves will be located in either Oklahoma or Louisiana.  Furthermore all of the midstream assets owned by Blue Mountain Midstream, including the Cryo Plant, are located in Oklahoma.

Because of this concentration in a limited geographical area, the success and profitability of our operations may be disproportionately affected by regional factors relative to our competitors that have more geographically dispersed operations.  These factors include, among others: (i) severe weather events, (ii) regional prices and regional supply and demand for oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, (iii) the costs for and availability of oil and field services and drilling rigs in the region, (iv) infrastructure capacity and the availability and cost of gathering, processing and treating facilities, and (v) local laws and regulations affecting oil and gas development, production, transportation and sales.  Any of these events

30


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

have the potential to shut-in, curtail, or delay development and production, increase the cost of development and production, or decrease the profitability of our operations.  Any of the risks described above could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Concerns over general economic, business or industry conditions may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash available for distribution.

Concerns over global economic conditions, energy costs, geopolitical issues, inflation, the availability and cost of credit in the European, Asian and the U.S. markets contribute to economic uncertainty and diminished expectations for the global economy. These factors, combined with volatile prices of oil, NGL and natural gas, volatility in consumer confidence and job markets, may result in an economic slowdown or recession. In addition, continued hostilities in the Middle East and the occurrence or threat of terrorist attacks in the U.S. or other countries could adversely affect the economies of the U.S. and other countries. Concerns about global economic growth have had a significant adverse impact on global financial markets and commodity prices. If the economic climate in the U.S. or abroad deteriorates, worldwide demand for petroleum products could diminish, which could impact the price at which oil, NGL and natural gas from our properties are sold, affect the ability of vendors, suppliers and customers associated with our properties to continue operations and ultimately adversely impact our results of operations, financial condition and cash available for distribution.

Conservation measures and technological advances could reduce demand for oil and natural gas.

Fuel conservation measures, alternative fuel requirements, increasing consumer demand for alternatives to oil and natural gas, technological advances in fuel economy and energy generation devices could reduce demand for oil and natural gas. The impact of the changing demand for oil and natural gas services and products may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution.

Risks Relating to Regulation of Our Business

Because we handle oil, natural gas and NGL and other hydrocarbons, we may incur significant costs and liabilities in the future resulting from a failure to comply with new or existing environmental regulations or an accidental release of hazardous substances into the environment.

The operations of our wells, gathering systems, compressors, pipelines and other facilities are subject to stringent and complex federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations.  Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may trigger a variety of administrative, civil and criminal enforcement measures, including the assessment of monetary penalties, the imposition of remedial requirements, and the issuance of orders enjoining future operations.  There is an inherent risk that we may incur environmental costs and liabilities due to the nature of our business, the substances we handle and the ownership or operation of our properties.  Certain environmental statutes, including RCRA, CERCLA and analogous state laws and regulations, impose strict, joint and several liability for costs required to clean up and restore sites where hazardous substances have been disposed of or otherwise released.  In addition, an accidental release from one of our wells or gathering pipelines could subject us to substantial liabilities arising from environmental cleanup and restoration costs, claims made by neighboring landowners and other third parties for personal injury and property damage and fines or penalties for related violations of environmental laws or regulations.

Moreover, the possibility exists that stricter laws, regulations or enforcement policies could significantly increase our compliance costs and the cost of any remediation that may become necessary, and these costs may not be recoverable from insurance.  For a more detailed discussion of environmental and regulatory matters impacting our business, see Item 1. “Business‒Environmental Matters and Regulation.”

We are subject to complex and evolving federal, state, local and other laws and regulations that could adversely affect the cost, manner or feasibility of doing business.

Our operations are regulated extensively at the federal, state and local levels.  Environmental and other governmental laws and regulations have resulted in delays and increased the costs to plan, design, drill, install, operate and abandon oil and natural gas wells and have similarly impacted gathering systems, processing facilities, compressors, pipelines and other facilities.  Under these laws and regulations, we could also be liable for personal injuries, property damage and other damages.  Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in the suspension or termination of our operations

31


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

and subject us to administrative, civil and criminal penalties.  Moreover, public interest in environmental protection has increased in recent years, and environmental organizations have opposed, with some success, certain drilling, pipeline, disposal and other projects.

Part of the regulatory environment in which we operate includes, in some cases, legal requirements for obtaining environmental assessments, environmental impact studies and/or plans of development before commencing drilling and production activities and midstream operations.  In addition, our activities are subject to the regulations regarding conservation practices and protection of correlative rights.  These regulations affect our operations and limit the quantity of oil, natural gas and NGL we may produce and sell.  A major risk inherent in our drilling plans is the need to obtain drilling permits from state and local authorities.  Delays in obtaining regulatory approvals or drilling permits, the failure to obtain a drilling permit for a well or the receipt of a permit with unreasonable conditions or costs could have a material adverse effect on our ability to develop our properties.  We are also required to obtain permits and authorizations for the development and operation of natural gas gathering pipelines, compressors and processing facilities and in connection with the gathering, treatment and disposal of produced water and other wastes.  Delays in obtaining or the failure to obtain such permits and authorizations, or the imposition of more stringent or burdensome restrictions or obligations on our operations in connection with the renewal or amendment of such permits and authorizations, could have a material adverse effect on our midstream operations.  Similarly, the disposal of some fluids from producing wells is a necessary part of the Company’s upstream model.  Fluid disposal may be subject to state or federal regulation depending on the jurisdiction.  The regulatory authority could delay or refuse the permitting of a new disposal well.  Such authority could unexpectedly cause the cessation of disposal of fluids into an existing disposal well, or into all disposal wells within a general area.  The lack of adequate disposal availability or capacity could cause in increase in the cost to operate producing wells or negatively affect the Company’s ability to operate producing oil and gas wells at the most economic rates.  Additionally, the regulatory environment could change in ways that might substantially increase the financial and managerial costs of compliance with these laws and regulations and, consequently, adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.  For a description of the laws and regulations that affect us, see Item 1. “Business‒Environmental Matters and Regulation.”

We could also be affected by more stringent laws and regulations adopted in the future, including any related to climate change, engine emissions, greenhouse gases and hydraulic fracturing.  Changes in environmental laws and regulations occur frequently, and any changes that result in delays or restrictions in permitting or development of projects or more stringent or costly construction, drilling, water management, or completion activities or waste handling, storage, transport, remediation or disposal, emission or discharge requirements could require significant expenditures by us or other operators of the properties to attain and maintain compliance and may otherwise have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.

Legislation and regulation of hydraulic fracturing, including with respect to seismic activity allegedly related to hydraulic fracturing and underground water injection or disposal wells, could adversely affect our business and could result in reductions or delays in crude oil and natural gas production.

Hydraulic fracturing is an important and common practice that is used to stimulate production of hydrocarbons from tight formations.  The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production.  For a description of the laws and regulations that affect us, including our hydraulic fracturing operations, see Item 1. “Business‒Environmental Matters and Regulation.”  If adopted, certain bills could result in additional permitting and disclosure requirements for hydraulic fracturing operations as well as various restrictions on those operations.  Any such added regulation could lead to operational delays, increased operating costs and additional regulatory burdens, and reduced production of oil and natural gas, which could adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and net cash provided by operating activities.

Hydraulic fracturing operations require the use of a significant amount of water.  Our inability to locate sufficient amounts of water, or dispose of or recycle water used in our drilling and production operations, could adversely impact our operations.  Moreover, new environmental initiatives and regulations could include restrictions on our ability to conduct certain operations such as hydraulic fracturing or disposal of waste, including, but not limited to, produced water, drilling fluids and other wastes associated with the development or production of natural gas.

We dispose of wastewater generated from oil and natural gas production operations, including hydraulic fracturing operations, directly or through the use of third parties.  In some instances, the operation of underground injection wells has been alleged to cause earthquakes in some of the states where we operate.  Such issues have sometimes led to orders prohibiting continued injection or disposal or the suspension of drilling in certain wells identified as possible sources of

32


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

seismic activity.  Such concerns also have resulted in stricter regulatory requirements in some jurisdictions relating to the location and operation of underground injection wells.  For example, Oklahoma issued rules for wastewater disposal wells that imposed certain permitting and operating restrictions, required additional seismicity protocols in certain defined areas, and from time to time, directs certain injection wells in proximity to seismic events to restrict or suspend operations.  Future orders or regulations addressing concerns about seismic activity from well injection could affect us, either directly or indirectly, depending on the wells affected, which materially affect our capital expenditures and operating costs.  Similar restrictions may also be applied due to other events such as saltwater purges or other pollution events.

At the federal level, several agencies have asserted jurisdiction over certain aspects of the hydraulic fracturing process. For example, the EPA has moved forward with various regulatory actions, including the issuance of new regulations requiring reduced emission completions, i.e., “green completions” for hydraulically fractured wells, and emission requirements for certain midstream equipment. Also, in June 2016, the EPA finalized rules which prohibit the discharge of wastewater from hydraulic fracturing operations to publicly owned wastewater treatment plants. Certain environmental groups have also suggested that additional laws may be needed to more closely and uniformly regulate the hydraulic fracturing process. We cannot predict whether any such legislation will be enacted and if so, what its provisions would be. Additional levels of regulation and permits required through the adoption of new laws and regulations at the federal, state or local level could lead to delays, increased operating costs and process prohibitions that could reduce the volumes of crude oil and natural gas that move through our gathering systems and decrease demand for our water services, which in turn could materially adversely impact our revenues.

A change in the jurisdictional characterization of some of our assets by federal or state regulatory agencies or a change in policy by those agencies may result in increased regulation of our assets, which may cause our operating expenses to increase, limit the rates we charge for certain services and decrease the amount of cash we have available for distribution.

With the exception of the Blue Mountain Delivery Line, which is subject to limited FERC regulation, our natural gas pipeline operations are generally exempt from FERC regulation under the NGA.  We believe that our natural gas gathering pipelines meet the traditional tests that FERC has used to determine that pipelines perform primarily a gathering function and are, therefore, not subject to FERC jurisdiction.  However, the distinction between FERC-regulated interstate transportation services and federally unregulated gathering services has been the subject of litigation, and FERC determines whether facilities are gathering facilities on a case-by-case basis, so the classification and regulation of our gathering facilities is subject to change based on future determinations by FERC, the courts or Congress.  If FERC were to consider the status of an individual facility and determine that the facility or services provided by it are not exempt from FERC regulation under the NGA, and that the facility provides interstate transportation service, the rates for, and terms and conditions of, services provided by such facility would be subject to regulation by FERC under the NGA or, in certain cases, the NGPA.  Such regulation could decrease revenue, increase operating costs, and, depending upon the facility in question, adversely affect our results of operations and cash flow.  In addition, if any of our facilities were found to have provided services or otherwise operated in violation of the NGA or NGPA, this could result in the imposition of substantial civil penalties, as well as a requirement to disgorge revenues collected for such services in excess of the maximum rates established by FERC.  Under the EP Act 2005, FERC has civil penalty authority under the NGA and NGPA to impose penalties for violations of up to $1 million per day for each violation, subject to annual adjustment for inflation, and disgorgement of profits associated with any violation.

Even though we consider our natural gas gathering pipelines to be exempt from the jurisdiction of FERC under the NGA, FERC regulation of interstate natural gas transportation pipelines may indirectly affect gathering services.  FERC’s policies and practices across the range of its natural gas regulatory activities, including, for example, its policies on interstate open access transportation, ratemaking, construction and abandonment of interstate natural gas pipeline facilities, capacity release, and market center promotion may indirectly affect gathering services.  In recent years, FERC has pursued pro-competitive policies in its regulation of interstate natural gas pipelines on which we ship natural gas.  However, we cannot assure you that the FERC will continue to pursue this approach as it considers matters such as pipeline rates and rules and policies that may indirectly affect natural gas gathering services.

Our business is also exposed to state-level regulation.  Our non-proprietary gathering lines are typically subject to state-level ratable take and common purchaser statutes.  Ratable take statutes generally require gatherers to take, without undue discrimination, oil or natural gas production that may be tendered to the gatherer for handling.  Similarly, common purchaser statutes generally require gatherers to purchase without undue discrimination as to source of supply or producer.  These statutes restrict our right as an owner of gathering facilities to decide with whom we contract to purchase or transport oil or natural gas.

33


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Federal law leaves economic regulation of natural gas gathering to the states.  The states in which we operate have adopted complaint-based regulation of oil and natural gas gathering activities, which allows oil and natural gas producers and shippers to file complaints with state regulators in an effort to resolve grievances relating to oil and natural-gas gathering access and rate discrimination.  Other state regulations may not directly regulate our business, but may nonetheless affect the availability of natural gas for purchase, processing and sale, including state regulation of production rates and maximum daily production allowable from gas wells.

While our proprietary gathering lines are currently subject only to limited state regulation, there is a risk that state laws will change, which may give producers a stronger basis to challenge the proprietary status of a line, or the rates, terms and conditions of a gathering line providing transportation service.  We cannot predict what effect, if any, such changes might have on our operations, but we could be required to incur additional capital expenditures and increased operating costs depending on future legislative and regulatory changes.

We cannot predict what effect, if any, such changes might have on our operations, but we could be required to incur additional capital expenditures and increased operating costs depending on future legislative and regulatory changes.

New laws, policies, regulations, rulemaking and oversight, as well as changes to those currently in effect, could adversely impact our earnings, cash flows and operations.

Our assets and operations are subject to regulation and oversight by federal, state, provincial and local regulatory authorities.  Legislative changes, as well as regulatory actions taken by these agencies, have the potential to adversely affect our profitability.  In addition, a certain degree of regulatory uncertainty is created by the current U.S. presidential administration because it remains unclear specifically what the current administration may do with respect to future policies and regulations that may affect us.  Regulation affects almost every part of our business and extends to such matters as (i) federal, state, provincial and local taxation; (ii) rates (which include tax, reservation, commodity, surcharges, fuel and gas lost and unaccounted for) and operating terms and conditions of service; (iii) the types of services we may offer to our customers; (iv) the contracts for service entered into with our customers; (v) the certification and construction of new facilities; (vi) the costs of raw materials, such as steel; (vii) the integrity, safety and security of facilities and operations; (viii) the acquisition of other businesses; (ix) the acquisition, extension, disposition or abandonment of services or facilities; (x) reporting and information posting requirements; (xi) the maintenance of accounts and records; and (xii) relationships with affiliated companies involved in various aspects of the energy businesses.  Should we fail to comply with any applicable statutes, rules, regulations, and orders of regulatory authorities, we could be subject to substantial penalties and fines and potential loss of government contracts.  Furthermore, new laws, regulations or policy changes sometimes arise from unexpected sources and could impose additional increased operating costs or necessitate new capital expenditures.

Federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to pipeline safety that require the use of new or more stringent safety controls or result in more stringent enforcement of applicable legal requirements could subject us to increased capital costs, operational delays and costs of operation.

The U.S. Department of Transportation, through the PHMSA and state agencies, enforces safety regulations with respect to the design, construction, operation, maintenance, inspection and management of certain of our pipeline facilities.  The PHMSA requires pipeline operators to implement integrity management programs, including more frequent inspections and other measures to ensure pipeline safety in high-consequence areas, or HCAs, defined as those areas that are unusually sensitive to environmental damage, that cross a navigable waterway, or that have a high population density.  The regulations require operators to (i) perform ongoing assessments of pipeline integrity, (ii) identify and characterize applicable threats to pipeline segments that could impact a HCA, (iii) improve data collection, integration and analysis, (iv) repair and remediate pipelines as necessary and (v) implement preventive and mitigating actions.  These regulations contain requirements for the development and implementation of pipeline integrity management programs, which include the inspection and testing of pipelines and the correction of anomalies.  The PHMSA’s regulations also require that pipeline operation and maintenance personnel meet certain qualifications and that pipeline operators develop comprehensive spill response plans, including extensive spill response training for pipeline personnel.

In addition, states have adopted regulations similar to—and, in some cases, more stringent than—existing PHMSA regulations for certain intrastate gas and hazardous liquid pipelines.

34


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

At this time, we cannot predict the ultimate cost of compliance with applicable pipeline integrity management regulations, as the cost will vary significantly depending on the number and extent of any repairs or upgrades found to be necessary as a result of pipeline integrity testing, but the results of these tests could cause us to incur significant and unanticipated capital and operating expenditures for repairs or upgrades deemed necessary to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our pipelines.

Changes to pipeline safety laws by Congress and promulgation of regulations by PHMSA or states that result in more stringent or costly safety standards could have a significant adverse effect on us and similarly situated midstream operators.  For example, in October 2019, PHMSA published three final rules, including regulations relating to the transportation of hazardous liquids and transmission of natural gas.  These rules include increased owner/operator requirements related to reporting, inspection, and integrity management for both hazardous liquid and gas transmission pipelines, which may impose costs on us and our operations either directly or when costs imposed on others are passed along to us in the form of higher rates or fees for transportation.  In addition, a related rulemaking to address safety regulations for gas-gathering pipelines remains pending.  The contents and timing of a final rule in that proceeding remains uncertain, although PHMSA expects to act later in 2020.  That rulemaking, along with remaining safety enhancement requirements and other provisions of the 2011 Pipeline Safety Act, as well as any future implementation of PHMSA rules thereunder, could require us to install new or modified safety controls, pursue additional capital projects, or conduct maintenance or compliance programs on an accelerated basis, any or all of which tasks could result in our incurring increased costs that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial position.

Legislation and regulation of greenhouse gases could adversely affect our business, and we are subject to risks associated with climate change.

In December 2009, the EPA determined that emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other GHGs present an endangerment to public health and the environment because emissions of such gases are, according to the EPA, contributing to warming of the earth’s atmosphere and other climatic changes.  Based on these findings, the EPA has adopted and implemented regulations to restrict emissions of GHGs under existing provisions of the Clean Air Act.  In May 2016, the EPA finalized rules that set additional emissions limits for volatile organic compounds and established new controls for emissions of methane from new, modified or reconstructed sources in the oil and natural gas source category, including production, processing, transmission and storage activities.  The rule includes first-time standards to address emissions of methane from equipment and processes across the source category, including hydraulically fractured oil and natural gas well completions.  However, in September 2019, under a new administration, the EPA published proposed amendments that would rescind the methane standards and roll back other requirements of these rules.  In addition, in April 2018, a coalition of states filed a lawsuit in federal district court aiming to force the EPA to establish guidelines for limiting methane emissions from existing sources in the oil and natural gas sector; that lawsuit is pending but may be stayed pending the outcome of the EPA’s proposed overhaul of the 2016 rules.  The EPA has also adopted rules requiring the monitoring and reporting of GHG emissions from specified sources in the U.S., including, among other things, certain onshore oil and natural gas production facilities, on an annual basis.

On an international level, the U.S. was one of 175 countries to sign an international climate change agreement in Paris, France that requires member countries to set their own GHG emission reduction goals beginning in 2020 (the “Paris Agreement”).  However, on June 1, 2017, President Trump announced that the U.S. would withdraw from the Paris Agreement and on November 4, 2019, the U.S. submitted formal notification of its withdrawal to the United Nations.  The withdrawal will take effect one year from delivery of the notification, although there is a possibility that a new administration could choose to rejoin the Paris Agreement.  Certain U.S. city and state governments have announced their intention to satisfy their proportionate obligations under the Paris Agreement.  In addition, legislation has from time to time been introduced in Congress that would establish measures restricting GHG emissions in the U.S., and a number of states, various corporations, and numerous investors have begun taking actions to control and/or reduce emissions of GHGs.  Any such additional regulation could lead to operational delays, increased operating costs and additional regulatory burdens, and reduced production of oil and natural gas, which could adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and net cash provided by operating activities.

Any legislation or regulatory programs to reduce GHG emissions could increase the cost of consuming, and thereby reduce demand for, the oil and natural gas we produce.  Consequently, legislation and regulatory programs to reduce emissions of GHGs could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  Moreover, incentives to conserve energy or use alternative energy sources as a means of addressing climate change could reduce demand for the oil

35


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

and natural gas we produce.  In addition, parties concerned about the potential effects of climate change have directed their attention at sources of funding for energy companies, which has resulted in certain financial institutions, funds and other sources of capital, restricting or eliminating their investment in oil and natural gas activities.  Finally, most scientists have concluded that increasing concentrations of GHGs in the Earth’s atmosphere may produce climate changes that have significant physical effects, such as increased frequency and severity of storms, floods and other climatic events.  If any such effects were to occur, they could adversely affect or delay demand for the oil or natural gas produced or cause us to incur significant costs in preparing for or responding to those effects.

Uncertainty regarding derivatives legislation could have an adverse impact on our ability to hedge risks associated with our business.

Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Act, enacted in 2010, expands federal oversight and regulation of the derivatives markets and entities, such as us, that participate in those markets.  Those markets involve derivative transactions, which include certain instruments, such as interest rate swaps, forward contracts, option contracts, financial contracts and other contracts, used in our risk management activities.  The Dodd-Frank Act requires that most swaps ultimately will be cleared through a registered clearing facility and that they be traded on a designated exchange or swap execution facility, with certain exceptions for entities that use swaps to hedge or mitigate commercial risk.  The Dodd-Frank Act requirements relating to derivative transactions have not been fully implemented by the SEC and the Commodities Futures Trading Commission and the current presidential administration has indicated a desire to repeal and/or replace certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act.  Uncertainty regarding the current law and any new regulations could increase the operational and transactional cost of derivatives contracts and affect the number and/or creditworthiness of available counterparties.  Even though monitored by management, our hedging activities may fail to protect us and could reduce our earnings and cash flow. Our hedging activity may be ineffective or adversely affect cash flow and earnings because, among other factors, hedging can be expensive, particularly during periods of volatile prices;  our counterparty in the hedging transaction may default on its obligation to pay or otherwise fail to perform; and  available hedges may not correspond directly with the risks against which we seek protection.

In addition, we may transact with counterparties based in the European Union, Canada or other jurisdictions which are in the process of implementing regulations to regulate derivatives transactions, some of which are currently in effect and impose operational and transactional costs on our derivatives activities.

Certain U.S. federal income tax deductions currently available with respect to oil and natural gas exploration and production may be eliminated as a result of future legislation.

In past years, legislation has been proposed that would, if enacted into law, make significant changes to U.S. tax laws, including the elimination of certain key U.S. federal income tax incentives currently available to oil and natural gas exploration and production companies.  These changes include, but are not limited to, (i) the repeal of the percentage depletion allowance for oil and natural gas properties, (ii) the elimination of current deductions for intangible drilling and development costs, and (iii) an extension of the amortization period for certain geological and geophysical expenditures.  Although these provisions were largely unchanged in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (which was signed on December 22, 2017), Congress could consider, and could include, some or all of these proposals as part of future tax reform legislation.  It is unclear whether any of the foregoing or similar proposals will be considered and enacted as part of future tax reform legislation and if enacted, how soon any such changes could become effective.  The passage of any legislation as a result of these proposals or any other similar changes in U.S. federal income tax laws could eliminate or postpone certain tax deductions that are currently available with respect to oil and natural gas exploration and development and any such change could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Relating to Our Common Stock

There may be circumstances in which the interests of our significant stockholders could be in conflict with the interests of our other stockholders.

Funds associated with Elliott Associates, L.P., Fir Tree Capital Management LP and York Capital Management, L.P. collectively owned approximately 65% of our common stock as of December 31, 2019.  Circumstances may arise in which these stockholders may have an interest in pursuing or preventing acquisitions, divestitures or other transactions that, in their

36


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

judgment, could enhance their investment in the Company.  Such transactions might adversely affect us or other holders of our common stock.

Our significant concentration of share ownership may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock.

As of December 31, 2019, approximately 65% of our common stock was beneficially owned by three holders each of which has a representative on the Board.  Our significant concentration of share ownership may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock because of the lack of trading volume in our common stock and because investors may perceive disadvantages in owning shares in companies with significant stockholders.

Our ability to pay dividends may impact the trading price of our common stock.

Although we paid a one-time cash distribution on December 12, 2019, we are not currently paying a regular cash dividend; however, the Board of Directors periodically reviews our liquidity position to evaluate whether or not to pay a cash dividend.  Any future payment of cash dividends would be subject to the restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.  Our ability to pay dividends or for us to receive dividends from our operating companies may negatively impact the trading price of our common stock.

Certain provisions in our certificate of incorporation, bylaws and Delaware law may make it difficult for stockholders to change the composition of our Board of Directors and may prevent or delay an acquisition of Riviera, which could decrease the trading price of our common stock.

Our certificate of incorporation, bylaws and Delaware corporate law contain provisions that may have the effect of deterring or delaying coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids.  For example, our certificate of incorporation and bylaws require advance notice for stockholder proposals to nominate directors or present matters at stockholder meetings, place limitations on convening stockholder meetings and authorize our board of directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock.  These provisions could enable our board of directors to delay or prevent a transaction that some, or a majority, of our stockholders may believe to be in their best interests and, in that case, may discourage or prevent attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors.  These provisions may also discourage or prevent any attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management by making it more difficult for stockholders to replace members of our board of directors, which is responsible for appointing the members of our management.

Risks Relating to Our Midstream Business

Because substantially all revenue in the Blue Mountain segment is derived from selling volumes purchased from Roan Resources LLC (“Roan”), a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Citizen Operating, LLC (“Citizen Operating” and together with Roan, “Citizen”), any development that materially and adversely affects the operations, financial condition or market reputation of Citizen could have a material and adverse impact on us.

Citizen is the most significant counterparty for our wholly owned subsidiary, Blue Mountain Midstream, and selling volumes purchased from Citizen accounted for substantially all the revenues for the Blue Mountain segment in 2019.  We expect Blue Mountain Midstream to derive a material portion of its revenues from selling volumes purchased from Citizen for the foreseeable future.  As a result, any event, whether in our area of operations or otherwise, that adversely affects Citizen’s production, drilling and completion schedule, financial condition, leverage, market reputation, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows may adversely affect Blue Mountain Midstream’s business, results of operations and cash flows.

For example, Blue Mountain Midstream’s acreage dedication and commitments from Citizen cover midstream and water management services in a number of areas that are at the early stages of development and in areas that Citizen is still determining whether to develop.  In addition, Citizen owns acreage in areas that are not dedicated to Blue Mountain Midstream.  We cannot predict which of these areas Citizen will determine to develop and at what time.  Citizen may decide to explore and develop areas in which Blue Mountain Midstream has a smaller operating interest in the midstream or water treatment assets that service that area, or where the acreage is not dedicated to Blue Mountain Midstream, rather than areas in which Blue Mountain Midstream has a larger operating interest in the midstream or water management assets that service that area.  Citizen’s decision to develop acreage that is not dedicated to Blue Mountain Midstream or in which Blue Mountain Midstream has a smaller operating interest in may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

37


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Further, Blue Mountain Midstream is subject to the risk of non-performance by Citizen, with respect to our natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water management services agreements.  We cannot predict the extent to which Citizen’s business would be impacted if conditions in the energy industry deteriorate, nor can we estimate the impact such conditions would have on Citizen’s ability to execute its drilling and development program or perform under our natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water management services agreements.  Any material non-performance by Citizen could adversely affect the Blue Mountain segment’s business, results of operations and cash flows.

Our construction of Blue Mountain Midstream’s natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water treatment or other assets, may not be completed on schedule, at the budgeted cost or at all, and they may not result in revenue increases and may be subject to regulatory, environmental, political, legal and economic risks, which could adversely affect our cash flows, results of operations and financial condition.

The construction of additions or modifications to our existing systems and the construction or purchase of new assets, involves numerous regulatory, environmental, political and legal uncertainties beyond our control and may require the expenditure of significant amounts of capital.  Financing may not be available on economically acceptable terms or at all.  If we undertake these projects, we may not be able to complete them on schedule, at the budgeted cost or at all.  Moreover, our revenues may not increase immediately upon the expenditure of funds on a particular project.

Moreover, we may construct facilities to capture anticipated future production growth in an area in which such growth does not materialize.  As a result, new natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water treatment or other assets may not be able to attract enough throughput to achieve our expected investment return, which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.  In addition, the construction of our assets, or additions to our existing assets, may require us to obtain rights-of-way prior to constructing pipelines or facilities.  We may be unable to timely obtain such rights-of-way or capitalize on other attractive expansion opportunities.  Additionally, it may become more expensive for us to obtain rights-of-way or to expand or renew existing rights-of-way.  If the cost of renewing or obtaining rights-of-way increases, our cash flows could be adversely affected.

Blue Mountain Midstream’s significant natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water management services agreements are not supported by minimum volume commitments.

Blue Mountain Midstream’s natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, and water management services agreements with Citizen are not supported by minimum volume commitments from Citizen.  Any decrease in the current levels of throughput on Blue Mountain Midstream’s natural gas gathering, processing and compression, oil gathering, or water management systems could adversely affect Blue Mountain Midstream’s business, results of operations and cash flows.

Blue Mountain Midstream’s dedication from Citizen under its natural gas gathering, processing and compression agreement is not the only dedication in Citizen’s area of operations.

Blue Mountain Midstream’s natural gas gathering, processing and compression agreement with Citizen contains an acreage dedication through November 2030.  However, Citizen has multiple dedications in certain of its area of operations that Blue Mountain Midstream services.  If Citizen is unable to effectively manage these split dedications within a section with multiple dedications, or if competition from other midstream providers results in Citizen focusing on acreage that is not dedicated to Blue Mountain, it could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

If Citizen sells any of the dedicated acreage to a third party, the third party’s financial condition could be materially worse than Citizen’s, and thus we could be subject to the non-payment or non-performance by the third party.

Under Blue Mountain Midstream’s agreements with Citizen, Citizen is required to deliver its natural gas production, produced water and oil from the contract areas (the “dedicated acreage”).  If Citizen sells any of the dedicated acreage to a third party, the third party’s financial condition could be materially worse than Citizen’s.  In such a case, we may be subject to risks of loss resulting from non-payment or non-performance by the third party, which risks may increase during periods of economic uncertainty.  Furthermore, the third party may be subject to their own operating and regulatory risks, which could increase the risk that that third party may default on its obligations to Blue Mountain Midstream.  Any material non-payment

38


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

or non-performance by the third party could adversely affect Blue Mountain Midstream’s business, results of operations and cash flows.

Blue Mountain Midstream may not be successful in balancing our purchases and sales and may be subject to adverse pricing differentials.

Blue Mountain Midstream is party to certain long-term gas, NGL and condensate sales commitments that it satisfies through supplies purchased under long-term gas and NGL purchase agreements.  Over time, the supplies that it has under contract may decline due to reduced drilling or other causes, and it risks losing offtake capacity.  In addition, a producer could fail to deliver expected volumes or deliver in excess of expected volumes.  Any of these actions could cause our purchases and sales not to be balanced.  Over time, the costs of covering those imbalances could affect Blue Mountain’s competitive position and its financial results.  If Blue Mountain Midstream’s purchases and sales are not balanced, we will face increased exposure to commodity price risks and could have increased volatility in our operating income.

In addition, Blue Mountain Midstream has in the past experienced a negative impact on its financial results from the spread between the index price at which it is committed to purchase natural gas and associated natural gas liquids in production areas and the index price at which it can sell natural gas and natural gas liquids into market areas.  Changes in this basis spread could significantly affect our margins or even result in losses.

Our contracts are subject to renewal risks.

We are a party to certain long term, fixed fee contracts with terms of various durations.  As these contracts expire, we will have to negotiate extensions or renewals with existing suppliers and customers or enter into new contracts with other suppliers and customers.  We may not be able to obtain new contracts on favorable commercial terms, if at all.  We also may be unable to maintain the economic structure of a particular contract with an existing customer or maintain the overall mix of our contract portfolio.  The extension or replacement of existing contracts depends on a number of factors beyond our control, including:

the level of existing and new competition to provide services to our markets;

the macroeconomic factors affecting our current and potential customers;

the balance of supply and demand, on a short-term, seasonal and long-term basis, in our markets;

the extent to which the customers in our markets are willing to contract on a long-term basis; and

the effects of federal, state or local regulations on the contracting practices of our customers.

Our inability to renew our existing contracts on terms that are favorable or to successfully manage our overall contract mix over time may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Mergers among our customers and competitors could result in lower volumes being shipped on our pipelines or products stored in or distributed through our terminals, thereby reducing the amount of cash we generate.

Mergers among our existing customers and our competitors could provide strong economic incentives for the combined entities to utilize their existing systems instead of ours in those markets where our systems compete.  As a result, we could lose some or all of the volumes and associated revenue from these customers.  As a significant portion of our operating costs are fixed, a reduction in volumes would result not only in less revenue, but also a decline in cash flow of a similar magnitude, which could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

We do not own all of the land on which our pipelines and facilities are located, which could result in disruptions to our operations.

We do not own all of the land on which our pipelines and facilities have been constructed, and we are, therefore, subject to the possibility of more onerous terms and/or increased costs to retain necessary land use if we do not have valid rights-of-way or if such rights-of-way lapse or terminate or if our pipelines are not properly located within the boundaries of such rights-of-way.  We obtain the rights to construct and operate our pipelines on land owned by third parties and governmental agencies for a specific period of time.  If we were to be unsuccessful in renegotiating rights-of-way, we might have to relocate our facilities.  Our loss of these rights, through our inability to renew right-of-way contracts or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

39


Table of Contents

Item 1A.Risk Factors - Continued

Our assets may not be adequately insured, and we could experience losses that exceed our insurance coverage.

We are not fully insured against all hazards or operational risks related to our businesses, and the insurance we carry requires that we meet certain deductibles before we can collect for any losses we sustain.  If a significant accident or event occurs that is not fully insured, it could materially adversely affect our results of operations, financial position or cash flows and our ability to pay cash distributions.

In addition to the foregoing risks affecting our midstream business, many of the risks that apply to our upstream business also apply to our midstream business.

 

 

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

None

Item 2.

Properties

Information concerning proved reserves, production, wells, acreage and related matters are contained in Item 1. “Business.”

The Company’s obligations under its Credit Facilities are secured by mortgages on substantially all of the Company’s oil and natural gas properties.  See Note 6 for additional details about the Credit Facilities.

Offices

The Company’s principal corporate office is located at 600 Travis, Suite 1700, Houston, Texas 77002.  The Company maintains additional offices in Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Item 3.

On May 11, 2016, Linn Energy, LLC, certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, and LinnCo, LLC (collectively, the “LINN Debtors”) and Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry” and collectively with the LINN Debtors, the “Debtors”) filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (the “Bankruptcy Court”).  The Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases were administered jointly under the caption In re Linn Energy, LLC, et al., Case No. 16‑60040.  On January 27, 2017, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order approving and confirming the plan (the “Plan”) of reorganization of the Debtors (the “Confirmation Order”).  Consummation of the Plan was subject to certain conditions set forth in the Plan.  On February 28, 2017, all of the conditions were satisfied or waived and the Plan became effective and was implemented in accordance with its terms.  On September 27, 2018, the Bankruptcy Court closed the LINN Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases, but retained jurisdiction as provided in the Confirmation Order.

The commencement of the Chapter 11 proceedings automatically stayed certain actions against the Company, including actions to collect prepetition liabilities or to exercise control over the property of the Company’s bankruptcy estates.  However, the Company is, and will continue to be until the final resolution of all claims, subject to certain contested matters and adversary proceedings stemming from the Chapter 11 proceedings, which are not affected by the closure of the LINN Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases.

The Company is not currently a party to any litigation or pending claims that it believes would have a material adverse effect on its overall business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity; however, cash flow could be significantly impacted in the reporting periods in which such matters are resolved.

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable

 

40


Table of Contents

Part II

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Riviera’s common stock is quoted on the OTCQX Market under the trading symbol “RVRA” and has been trading since August 8, 2018.  No established public trading market existed for the Company’s common stock prior to August 8, 2018.  Over-the-counter market quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.

At the close of business on January 31, 2020, there were approximately 14 stockholders of record based on information provided by the Company’s transfer agent.

Dividends

Although the Company paid a one-time cash distribution on December 12, 2019, the Company is not currently paying a regular cash dividend; however, the Board of Directors periodically reviews the Company’s liquidity position to evaluate whether or not to pay a cash dividend.  Any future payment of cash dividends would be subject to the restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.  See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this Annual Report on Form 10‑K.

Cash Distributions

On November 21, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash distribution of $4.25 per share.  A cash distribution totaling approximately $249 million was paid on December 12, 2019, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2019.  In addition, approximately $11 million for potential future distributions was recorded in restricted cash at December 31, 2019.  In December 2019, distributions payable of approximately $2 million related to outstanding share-based compensation awards was also recorded.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in any of the Company’s previous or future filings under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the Exchange Act, as amended that might incorporate this Annual Report on Form 10-K or future filings with the SEC, in whole or in part, the preceding performance information shall be deemed furnished and shall neither be deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC or incorporated by reference into any filing except to the extent this performance presentation is specifically incorporated by reference therein.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

See the information incorporated by reference in Item 12. “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” regarding securities authorized for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans, which information is incorporated by reference into this Item 5.

Sales of Unregistered Securities

None

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The Board has authorized the repurchase of up to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  Purchases may be made from time to time in negotiated purchases or in the open market, including through Rule 10b5-1 prearranged stock trading plans designed to facilitate the repurchase of the Company’s shares during times it would not otherwise be in the market due to self-imposed trading blackout periods or possible possession of material nonpublic information.  The timing and amounts of any such repurchases of shares will be subject to market conditions and certain other factors, and will be in accordance with applicable securities laws and other legal requirements, including restrictions contained in the Company’s then current credit facility.  The repurchase plan does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares and may be discontinued at any time.

41


Table of Contents

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities - Continued

The following sets forth information with respect to the Company’s repurchases of shares of its common stock during the fourth quarter of 2019.

Period

 

Total Number

of Shares

Purchased

 

 

Average Price

Paid Per Share

 

 

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

 

 

Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 1 – 31

 

 

94,374

 

 

$

13.22

 

 

 

94,374

 

 

$

27,926

 

November 1– 30

 

 

44,551

 

 

$

12.85

 

 

 

44,551

 

 

$

27,354

 

December 1 – 31

 

 

366,042

 

 

$

9.11

 

 

 

366,042

 

 

$

24,020

 

Total

 

 

504,967

 

 

$

10.21

 

 

 

504,967

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

On July 18, 2019, the Board authorized the repurchase of up to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  On June 13, 2019, the Company announced the intention to commence a tender offer to purchase $40 million of the Company’s common stock.  In July 2019, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated June 18, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 2,666,666 shares of common stock at a price of $15.00 per share for a total cost of approximately $40 million (excluding expenses of approximately $440,000 related to the tender offer).

 

42


Table of Contents

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data

The selected financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Because of numerous acquisitions and divestitures of properties, as well as the impact of the adoption of fresh start accounting on February 28, 2017, the Company’s historical results of operations and period-to-period comparisons of those results and certain other financial data may not be meaningful or indicative of future results.  The Company’s historical investment in Roan is reported as discontinued for the period from September 1, 2017 through July 25, 2018.  The results of operations of its California properties are reported as discontinued operations for the period from January 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017, and the years ended December 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015 (see Note 4).

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months Ended December 31,

2017

 

 

 

 

Two Months Ended February 28,

2017

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statement of operations data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas

    liquids sales

 

$

236,053

 

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

709,363

 

 

 

 

$

188,885

 

 

$

874,161

 

 

$

1,065,795

 

Gains (losses) on commodity

   derivatives

 

 

10,091

 

 

 

(23,404

)

 

 

13,533

 

 

 

 

 

92,691

 

 

 

(164,330

)

 

 

1,027,014

 

Depreciation, depletion and

   amortization

 

 

77,089

 

 

 

94,958

 

 

 

133,711

 

 

 

 

 

47,155

 

 

 

342,614

 

 

 

513,508

 

Interest expense, net of

   amounts capitalized

 

 

6,997

 

 

 

2,417

 

 

 

12,380

 

 

 

 

 

16,725

 

 

 

184,870

 

 

 

456,749

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

 

 

127,859

 

 

 

29,587

 

 

 

385,654

 

 

 

 

 

(166

)

 

 

11,300

 

 

 

(6,307

)

(Loss) income from continuing

   operations

 

 

(297,570

)

 

 

20,933

 

 

 

345,131

 

 

 

 

 

2,587,557

 

 

 

(343,733

)

 

 

(3,812,416

)

Income (loss) from

   discontinued operations

 

 

3,824

 

 

 

19,674

 

 

 

90,064

 

 

 

 

 

(548

)

 

 

(18,354

)

 

 

9,586

 

Net (loss) income

 

 

(293,746

)

 

 

40,607

 

 

 

435,195

 

 

 

 

 

2,587,009

 

 

 

(362,087

)

 

 

(3,802,830

)

(Loss) income from continuing

   operations per share – basic

   and diluted

 

 

(4.71

)

 

 

0.28

 

 

 

4.53

 

 

 

 

 

33.96

 

 

 

(4.51

)

 

 

(50.04

)

Income (loss) from

   discontinued operations per

   share – basic and diluted

 

 

0.06

 

 

 

0.26

 

 

 

1.18

 

 

 

 

 

(0.01

)

 

 

(0.24

)

 

 

0.13

 

Net (loss) income per

   share – basic and diluted

 

 

(4.65

)

 

 

0.54

 

 

 

5.71

 

 

 

 

 

33.95

 

 

 

(4.75

)

 

 

(49.91

)

Weighted average shares

   outstanding –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

basic

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

74,935

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

diluted

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

75,360

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

Distributions declared per

   share

 

$

4.25

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

43


Table of Contents

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data - Continued

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

At or for the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

At or for the Ten Months

Ended December 31,

2017

 

 

 

 

Two Months

Ended February 28,

2017

 

 

At or for the Year Ended

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flow data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating activities

 

$

114,441

 

 

$

(6,594

)

 

$

231,021

 

 

 

 

$

152,714

 

 

$

875,306

 

 

$

1,127,700

 

Investing activities

 

 

265,336

 

 

 

168,162

 

 

 

1,257,352

 

 

 

 

 

(58,756

)

 

 

(230,438

)

 

 

(276,023

)

Financing activities

 

 

(280,385

)

 

 

(632,713

)

 

 

(1,111,473

)

 

 

 

 

(437,730

)

 

 

(164,150

)

 

 

(850,886

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance sheet data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

816,259

 

 

$

1,592,834

 

 

$

2,868,125

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

4,444,151

 

 

$

6,018,375

 

Current portion of long-term

   debt, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,937,729

 

 

 

2,841,518

 

Long-term debt, net

 

 

69,800

 

 

 

24,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,447,308

 

Liabilities subject to

   compromise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,280,005

 

 

 

 

Total equity (deficit)

 

 

573,551

 

 

 

1,262,374

 

 

 

2,339,046

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,587,009

)

 

 

(2,110,804

)

 


44


Table of Contents

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data - Continued

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

At or for the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

At or for the Ten Months

Ended December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended February 28,

2017

 

 

At or for the Year Ended

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

2016

 

 

2015

 

Production data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average daily production –

   continuing operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf/d)

 

 

197

 

 

 

247

 

 

 

386

 

 

 

495

 

 

 

511

 

 

 

549

 

Oil (MBbls/d)

 

 

1.7

 

 

 

3.2

 

 

 

17.8

 

 

 

20.2

 

 

 

22.1

 

 

 

27.4

 

NGL (MBbls/d)

 

 

5.8

 

 

 

10.3

 

 

 

20.5

 

 

 

21.4

 

 

 

25.4

 

 

 

25.6

 

Total (MMcfe/d)

 

 

242

 

 

 

328

 

 

 

616

 

 

 

745

 

 

 

796

 

 

 

867

 

Average daily production –

   discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity method investments –

   Total (MMcfe/d) (1)

 

 

 

 

 

64

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

California - Total

   (MMcfe/d) (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reserves data: (3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proved reserves – continuing

   operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (Bcf)

 

 

281

 

 

 

1,260

 

 

 

1,377

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,290

 

 

 

2,212

 

Oil (MMBbls)

 

 

2

 

 

 

4

 

 

 

27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

73

 

 

 

74

 

NGL (MMBbls)

 

 

3

 

 

 

56

 

 

 

72

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

97

 

Total (Bcfe)

 

 

316

 

 

 

1,618

 

 

 

1,968

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,350

 

 

 

3,240

 

Proved reserves – discontinued

   operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity method investments –

   Total (Bcfe) (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

694

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

California - Total (Bcfe) (2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

170

 

 

 

195

 

(1)

Represents the Company’s historical 50% equity interest in Roan.  Production of Roan for 2018 is for the period from January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018.  Production of Roan for 2017 is for the period from September 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017.

(2)

Production of the Company’s California properties reported as discontinued operations for 2017 is for the period from January 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017.

(3)

In accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission regulations, reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.  The average price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves.

 

 

45


Table of Contents

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”  The following discussion contains forward-looking statements based on expectations, estimates and assumptions.  Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements.  Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, market prices for oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGL”), production volumes, estimates of proved reserves, capital expenditures, economic and competitive conditions, credit and capital market conditions, regulatory changes and other uncertainties, as well as those factors set forth in “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Item 1. “Business” and in Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

The reference to a “Note” herein refers to the accompanying Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements contained in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to the “Company” refer (i) prior to the Spin-off (as defined below) to Linn Energy, Inc. (the “Parent”) and its consolidated subsidiaries, and (ii) after the Spin-off, to Riviera Resources, Inc. (“Riviera”) and its consolidated subsidiaries.  Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to “LINN Energy” refer to Linn Energy, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.  References to “Successor” relate to the financial position and results of operations of the Company subsequent to LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy on February 28, 2017.  References to “Predecessor” relate to the financial position of the Company prior to, and results of operations through and including February 28, 2017.

In April 2018, the Parent announced its intention to separate Riviera from LINN Energy.  To effect the separation, the Parent and certain of its then direct and indirect subsidiaries undertook an internal reorganization (including the conversion of Riviera Resources, LLC from a limited liability company to a corporation named Riviera Resources, Inc.), following which Riviera holds, directly or through its subsidiaries, substantially all of the assets of LINN Energy, other than LINN Energy’s 50% equity interest in Roan Resources LLC (“Roan”).  A subsidiary of the Company held the equity interest in Roan until the Parent’s internal reorganization on July 25, 2018 (the “Reorganization Date”).  Following the internal reorganization, the Parent distributed all of the outstanding shares of Riviera common stock to the Parent’s shareholders on a pro rata basis (the “Spin-off”).  The Spin-off was completed on August 7, 2018.

Prior to the Spin-off, the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements were prepared on a stand-alone basis and derived from the Parent’s consolidated financial statements and accounting records for the periods presented as the Company was historically managed as a subsidiary of the Parent.

Historically, a subsidiary of the Company also owned a 50% equity interest in Roan.  The Company’s equity earnings (losses), consisting of its share of Roan’s earnings or losses, are included in the consolidated and combined financial statements through the Reorganization Date.  However, on the Reorganization Date, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  As such, the Company has classified the investment and equity earnings (losses) in Roan as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  See Note 4 for additional information.  In December 2019, stockholders of Roan Resources, Inc. approved an Agreement and Plan of Merger (“Merger”) between Roan Resources, Inc. and a subsidiary of Citizen Energy Operating, LLC (“Citizen Operating”) under which Roan Resources, Inc., including its subsidiary Roan Resources LLC, became wholly owned subsidiaries of Citizen Operating.  The effective date of the Merger was December 6, 2019, and as a result of the Merger, the Company and Roan no longer share certain mutual directors and significant stockholders.

Following the Spin-off, Riviera is an independent oil and natural gas company with a strategic focus on efficiently operating its mature low-decline assets, developing its growth-oriented assets, and returning capital to shareholders.  Riviera is quoted for trading on the OTCQX Market under the ticker “RVRA,” and the Parent did not retain any ownership interest in the Company.

On August 7, 2018, Riviera entered into a Transition Services Agreement (the “TSA”) with the Parent to facilitate an orderly transition following the Spin-off.  Pursuant to the TSA, Riviera agreed to provide the Parent with certain finance, financial reporting, information technology, investor relations, legal, payroll, tax and other services during the term of the TSA.  Riviera reimbursed the Parent for, or paid on the Parent’s behalf, all direct and indirect costs and expenses incurred by the Parent during the term of the TSA in connection with the fees for any such services.  Prior to the completion of the Spin-off, a then subsidiary of the Parent distributed $40 million to the Parent to pay the Parent’s obligations during the transition period

46


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

under the TSA (as defined below).  Linn Energy, Inc. returned such $40 million to Riviera on September 24, 2018, which included approximately $7 million for the reimbursement of cash paid to settle the Parent’s restricted stock units held by Riviera’s employees and approximately $1 million for the payment of income taxes on shares withheld from participants upon vesting (see Note 13).  The TSA terminated in accordance with its terms on September 24, 2018.

During the reporting period, the Parent was a successor issuer of Linn Energy, LLC pursuant to Rule 15d-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).  As discussed further in Note 2, on May 11, 2016, (the “Petition Date”), Linn Energy, LLC, certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, and LinnCo, LLC (collectively, the “LINN Debtors”) and Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry” and collectively with the LINN Debtors, the “Debtors”), filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (“Bankruptcy Code”) in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (“Bankruptcy Court”).  The Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases were administered jointly under the caption In re Linn Energy, LLC, et al., Case No. 16-60040.  During the pendency of the Chapter 11 proceedings, the Debtors operated their businesses as “debtors-in-possession” under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code.  LINN Energy emerged from bankruptcy effective February 28, 2017, (the “Effective Date”).

Riviera is a successor issuer of the Parent pursuant to Rule 15d-5 of the Exchange Act.

Executive Overview

The Company’s upstream reporting segment properties are currently primarily located in two operating regions in the United States (“U.S.”):

 

Mid-Continent, which includes properties in the Northwest STACK in northwestern Oklahoma and various other oil and natural gas producing properties throughout Oklahoma; and

 

North Louisiana, which includes oil and natural gas properties producing primarily from the Hosston, Cotton Valley Bossier and Smackover formations.

In the first quarter of 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin, the Overton field in East Texas and the Personville field in East Texas.  These properties are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.  Reserve information as of December 31, 2019, includes amounts associated with these properties.  See Note 4 for additional information.

During 2019, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Hugoton Basin and Michigan/Illinois operating regions.  During 2018, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Permian Basin operating region.  During 2017, the Company divested all of its properties located in the California and South Texas operating regions.  As a result of the Company’s strategic exit from California in 2017 (completed by the sale of its interest in properties located in the San Joaquin Basin and the Los Angeles Basin in California), the Company classified the results of operations and cash flows of its California properties as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  See Note 4 for details of the Company’s divestitures.

The Blue Mountain reporting segment consists of a state of the art cryogenic natural gas processing facility, a network of gathering pipelines and compressors and produced water services and a crude oil gathering system located in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play, each of which is owned by Blue Mountain Midstream LLC (“Blue Mountain Midstream”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

In addition to the activities described above, the Company has also engaged an investment bank to explore a potential sale or merger of Riviera or Blue Mountain Midstream.

For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company’s results included the following:

 

oil, natural gas and NGL sales of approximately $236 million compared to $420 million for the year ended December 31, 2018;

 

average daily production of approximately 242 MMcfe/d compared to 328 MMcfe/d for the year ended December 31, 2018;

47


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

net loss of approximately $294 million compared to net income of $41 million for the year ended December 31, 2018;

 

net cash provided by operating activities of approximately $114 million compared to net cash used in operating activities of approximately $7 million for the for the year ended December 31, 2018;

 

capital expenditures of approximately $172 million compared to $170 million for the year ended December 31, 2018; and

 

61 wells drilled (all successful) compared to 52 wells drilled (all successful) for 2018.

Predecessor and Successor Reporting

As a result of the application of fresh start accounting (see Note 2), the Company’s consolidated and combined financial statements and certain note presentations are separated into two distinct periods, the period before the Effective Date (labeled Predecessor) and the period after that date (labeled Successor), to indicate the application of a different basis of accounting between the periods presented.  Despite this separate presentation, there was continuity of the Company’s operations.

Divestitures

Below are the Company’s completed divestitures in 2019:

On November 22, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in the remaining properties located in the Hugoton Basin (the “Hugoton Basin Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $286 million.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $100 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.  In connection with the Hugoton Basin Assets Sale, the buyer also acquired the Company’s interests in Mayzure, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, which was the counterparty to the volumetric production payment agreements based on helium produced from certain oil and natural gas properties in the Hugoton Basin.

Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with a potential customer to construct a gathering system, as well as gather and process gas.  During the third quarter of 2019, a decision was made not to proceed with the gas gathering and processing contract, and as a result, the customer reimbursed Blue Mountain Midstream for capital deployed and operating expenses incurred, in addition to paying a success fee for constructing the assets.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream received a capital reimbursement of approximately $20 million.  Blue Mountain Midstream also received approximately $4 million for the success fee and the expense reimbursement, which is included in “(gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statement of operations.

On September 5, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Illinois.  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $4 million.

On August 30, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-core assets located in North Louisiana.  Cash proceeds from the sale were approximately $2 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $376,000.

On July 3, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Michigan (the “Michigan Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $39 million.  The Company recorded a noncash impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value of approximately $18 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.

On May 31, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-operated properties located in the Hugoton Basin in Kansas.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million and the Company recognized a net loss of approximately $10 million.

On January 17, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Arkoma Basin in Oklahoma (the “Arkoma Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $64 million (including a deposit of approximately $5 million received in 2018), and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $28 million.

48


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Divestitures – Subsequent Events

On January 15, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin (the “Drunkards Wash Asset Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million (including a deposit of approximately $450,000 received in 2019).

On January 31, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Overton field in East Texas (the “Overton Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $17 million (including a deposit of approximately $2 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $13 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On February 14, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Personville field in East Texas (the “Personville Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million (including a deposit of approximately $3 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $72 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On November 20, 2019, the Company signed an agreement to sell its building located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for an amended contract price of $21 million.  The sale is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $5 million to reduce the carrying value of this asset to fair value.

The assets and liabilities associated with the sale of the Oklahoma office building, the Drunkards Wash Asset Sale, the Overton Assets Sale and the Personville Assets Sale are classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Oil Services Agreement

On July 17, 2019, a subsidiary of Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with Roan to gather Roan’s oil in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play.  The agreement provides for a 10-year term covering an 89,000 net acre dedicated area in nine Townships in central Oklahoma.  Blue Mountain plans to construct an initial crude system consisting of approximately 28 miles of gathering pipelines with two downstream interconnections providing Roan with direct access to the Cushing market.  The Blue Mountain system will initially be capable of transporting up to 60,000 barrels per day of crude oil.  Services will commence in the first half of 2020.  On December 6, 2019, Roan became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Citizen Operating.

Water Services Agreement

On January 31, 2019, a subsidiary of Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with Roan to exclusively manage all of Roan’s water needs for its drilling and completion operations in Central Oklahoma.  Blue Mountain Midstream provides comprehensive water management services including pipeline gathering, disposal, treatment and redelivery of recycled water for re-use.  The agreement is supported by a 10-year acreage dedication in 67 Townships covering portions of seven Oklahoma Counties.  On December 6, 2019, Roan became a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Citizen Operating.

2019 Oil and Natural Gas and Midstream Capital Expenditures

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company had total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, of approximately $172 million, including approximately $63 million related to its oil and natural gas capital program and approximately $105 million related to Blue Mountain Midstream.

2020 Oil and Natural Gas and Midstream Capital Budget

For 2020, the Company estimates its total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, will be approximately $52 million, including approximately $25 million related to its oil and natural gas capital program and approximately $27 million related to Blue Mountain Midstream.  This estimate is under continuous review and subject to ongoing adjustments.

49


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Financing Activities

Riviera Credit Facility

Riviera’s credit agreement provides for a senior secured reserve-based revolving loan facility (the “Riviera Credit Facility”).  On September 27, 2019, the Company entered into an amendment to the Riviera Credit Facility to, among other things, extend its maturity date to August 4, 2021.  The amendment resulted in a borrowing commitment reduction from $230 million to $90 million, primarily due to asset sales, with the next scheduled borrowing base redetermination to occur on April 1, 2020.

Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility

Blue Mountain Midstream’s credit agreement provides for a senior secured revolving loan facility (the “Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility”).  On February 8, 2019, the borrowing commitment under the Blue Mountain Midstream Credit Facility was increased to $200 million.  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility together with the Riviera Credit Facility, are referred to as the “Credit Facilities.”

Cash Distributions

On November 21, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash distribution of $4.25 per share.  A cash distribution totaling approximately $249 million was paid on December 12, 2019, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2019.  In addition, approximately $11 million for potential future distributions was recorded in restricted cash at December 31, 2019.  In December 2019, distributions payable of approximately $2 million related to outstanding share-based compensation awards was also recorded.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Share Repurchase Program

On July 18, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the share repurchase authorization to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 8,475,514 shares of common stock at an average price of $12.72 per share for a total cost of approximately $108 million.  Included in this number are private purchases of 2,380,425 shares of common stock purchased at a discount to market, at an average price of $10.91 for a total cost of approximately $26 million.  See Note 12 for additional information.  For the period from January 1, 2020 through February 21, 2020, the Company repurchased 171,107 shares of common stock at an average price of $7.84 for a total cost of approximately $1 million.  At February 21, 2020, approximately $23 million was available for share repurchases under the program.  Any share repurchases are subject to restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Tender Offer

On June 13, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors announced the intention to commence a tender offer to purchase $40 million of the Company’s common stock.  In July 2019, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated June 18, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 2,666,666 shares of common stock at a price of $15.00 per share for a total cost of approximately $40 million (excluding expenses of approximately $440,000 related to the tender offer).

Commodity Derivatives

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company entered into commodity derivative contracts consisting of natural gas fixed price swaps and NGL fixed price swaps for 2019 and oil fixed price swaps and natural gas basis swaps for 2020.  In July 2019, in connection with the closing of the Michigan Assets Sale, the Company canceled its MichCon natural gas basis swaps for 2019 and 2020.

50


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Results of Operations

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018

The following table reflects the Company’s results of operations for each of the periods presented:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Revenues and other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas sales

 

$

163,778

 

 

$

250,831

 

 

$

(87,053

)

Oil sales

 

 

35,253

 

 

 

74,696

 

 

 

(39,443

)

NGL sales

 

 

37,022

 

 

 

94,575

 

 

 

(57,553

)

Total oil, natural gas and NGL sales

 

 

236,053

 

 

 

420,102

 

 

 

(184,049

)

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

10,091

 

 

 

(23,404

)

 

 

33,495

 

Marketing and other revenues

 

 

233,635

 

 

 

268,961

 

 

 

(35,326

)

 

 

 

479,779

 

 

 

665,659

 

 

 

(185,880

)

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

77,719

 

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

(42,378

)

Transportation expenses

 

 

64,149

 

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

(19,413

)

Marketing expenses

 

 

166,651

 

 

 

220,971

 

 

 

(54,320

)

General and administrative expenses (1)

 

 

61,671

 

 

 

245,291

 

 

 

(183,620

)

Exploration costs

 

 

5,122

 

 

 

5,178

 

 

 

(56

)

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

 

77,089

 

 

 

94,958

 

 

 

(17,869

)

Impairment of assets held for sale and long-lived assets

 

 

208,376

 

 

 

15,697

 

 

 

192,679

 

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

 

15,374

 

 

 

29,730

 

 

 

(14,356

)

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(20,743

)

 

 

(208,598

)

 

 

187,855

 

 

 

 

655,408

 

 

 

606,886

 

 

 

48,522

 

Other income and (expenses)

 

 

(7,441

)

 

 

(3,094

)

 

 

(4,347

)

Reorganization items, net

 

 

13,359

 

 

 

(5,159

)

 

 

18,518

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

(169,711

)

 

 

50,520

 

 

 

(220,231

)

Income tax expense

 

 

127,859

 

 

 

29,587

 

 

 

98,272

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

 

(297,570

)

 

 

20,933

 

 

 

(318,503

)

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

 

 

3,824

 

 

 

19,674

 

 

 

(15,850

)

Net (loss) income

 

$

(293,746

)

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

(334,353

)

(1)

General and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, include approximately $11 million and $132 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expenses and approximately $5 million and $27 million, respectively, of severance costs.  General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, include approximately $8 million of Spin-off related costs.


51


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

Average daily production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf/d)

 

 

197

 

 

 

247

 

 

 

(20

%)

Oil (MBbls/d)

 

 

1.7

 

 

 

3.2

 

 

 

(47

%)

NGL (MBbls/d)

 

 

5.8

 

 

 

10.3

 

 

 

(44

%)

Total (MMcfe/d)

 

 

242

 

 

 

328

 

 

 

(26

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average prices: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (Mcf)

 

$

2.28

 

 

$

2.78

 

 

 

(18

%)

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

57.15

 

 

$

62.99

 

 

 

(9

%)

NGL (Bbl)

 

$

17.36

 

 

$

25.14

 

 

 

(31

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average NYMEX prices:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMBtu)

 

$

2.63

 

 

$

3.09

 

 

 

(15

%)

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

57.03

 

 

$

64.77

 

 

 

(12

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs per Mcfe of production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

$

0.88

 

 

$

1.00

 

 

 

(12

%)

Transportation expenses

 

$

0.73

 

 

$

0.70

 

 

 

4

%

General and administrative expenses (2)

 

$

0.70

 

 

$

2.05

 

 

 

(66

%)

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

$

0.87

 

 

$

0.79

 

 

 

10

%

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

$

0.17

 

 

$

0.25

 

 

 

(30

%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average daily production – discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity method investments – Total (MMcfe/d) (3)

 

 

 

 

 

64

 

 

 

(100

%)

(1)

Does not include the effect of gains (losses) on derivatives.

(2)

General and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, include approximately $11 million and $132 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expenses and approximately $5 million and $27 million, respectively, of severance costs.  General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, include approximately $8 million of Spin-off related costs.

(3)

Represents the Company’s historical 50% equity interest in Roan.  Production of Roan for 2018 is for the period from January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018.


52


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Upstream Reporting Segment

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and NGL sales

 

$

236,053

 

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

(184,049

)

Marketing and other revenues

 

 

73,929

 

 

 

126,943

 

 

 

(53,014

)

 

 

 

309,982

 

 

 

547,045

 

 

 

(237,063

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

77,719

 

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

(42,378

)

Transportation expenses

 

 

64,149

 

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

(19,413

)

Marketing expenses

 

 

40,389

 

 

 

91,869

 

 

 

(51,480

)

Severance taxes and ad valorem taxes

 

 

17,930

 

 

 

28,598

 

 

 

(10,668

)

Total direct operating expenses

 

 

200,187

 

 

 

324,126

 

 

 

(123,939

)

Field level cash flow (1)

 

$

109,795

 

 

$

222,919

 

 

$

(113,124

)

(1)

Refer to Note 19 for a reconciliation of field level cash flow to income from continuing operations before income taxes.

Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Sales

Oil, natural gas and NGL sales decreased by approximately $184 million or 44% to approximately $236 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $420 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, due to lower production volumes as a result of divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019, as well as lower commodity prices.  Lower oil and NGL prices resulted in a decrease in revenues of approximately $4 million and $16 million, respectively.  Lower natural gas prices resulted in a decrease in revenues of approximately $37 million.

Average daily production volumes decreased to approximately 242 MMcfe/d for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately 328 MMcfe/d for the year ended December 31, 2018.  Lower oil, natural gas and NGL production volumes resulted in a decrease in revenues of approximately $36 million, $50 million and $41 million, respectively.

The following table sets forth average daily production by region:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

Average daily production (MMcfe/d):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugoton Basin

 

 

101

 

 

 

138

 

 

 

(37

)

 

 

(27

%)

Mid-Continent

 

 

36

 

 

 

53

 

 

 

(17

)

 

 

(32

%)

East Texas

 

 

42

 

 

 

50

 

 

 

(8

)

 

 

(16

%)

Michigan/Illinois

 

 

14

 

 

 

28

 

 

 

(14

)

 

 

(50

%)

North Louisiana

 

 

31

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

19

%

Uinta Basin

 

 

18

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

(5

)

 

 

(22

%)

Permian Basin

 

 

 

 

 

10

 

 

 

(10

)

 

 

(100

%)

 

 

 

242

 

 

 

328

 

 

 

(86

)

 

 

(26

%)

The decreases in average daily production volumes in the Hugoton Basin and Mid-Continent regions primarily reflect lower production volumes as a result of divestitures completed during 2018 and 2019, partially offset by increased development capital spending in the Mid-Continent region.  Additionally, Hugoton Basin volumes were impacted by the election to reject ethane prior to its sale in November 2019.  The decreases in average daily production volumes in the Uinta Basin and Permian Basin regions primarily reflect lower production volumes as a result of divestitures completed during 2018.  The decrease in average daily production in the Michigan/Illinois region reflect lower production volumes, as a result of the Michigan and Illinois Assets Sales in the third quarter of 2019.  See Note 4 for additional information about divestitures.  The decreases in average daily production volumes in the East Texas region reflect lower production volumes as a result of reduced development capital spending and natural declines.  The increase in production volumes in North Louisiana is due to new wells drilled in 2019.

53


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Marketing and Other Revenues

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jayhawk Plant

 

$

48,861

 

 

$

99,361

 

 

$

(50,500

)

Helium

 

 

18,072

 

 

 

22,135

 

 

 

(4,063

)

Other

 

 

6,996

 

 

 

5,447

 

 

 

1,549

 

 

 

$

73,929

 

 

$

126,943

 

 

$

(53,014

)

 

Marketing and other revenues decreased by approximately $53 million or 42% to approximately $74 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $127 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to third party take-in-kind elections.  Other primarily includes revenues from other midstream systems in the East Texas and North Louisiana regions.

Lease Operating Expenses

Lease operating expenses include expenses such as labor, field office, vehicle, supervision, maintenance, tools and supplies, and workover expenses.  Lease operating expenses decreased by approximately $42 million or 35% to approximately $78 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $120 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to the divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019.  Lease operating expenses per Mcfe decreased to $0.88 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2019, from $1.00 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Transportation Expenses

Transportation expenses decreased by approximately $20 million or 23% to approximately $64 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $84 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was due to reduced costs as a result of lower production volumes primarily as a result of the divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019.  Transportation expenses per Mcfe increased to $0.73 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2019, from $0.70 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The increase in the rate per Mcfe is primarily driven by increased expenses in the Hugoton Basin prior to its sale in November 2019.

Marketing Expenses

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jayhawk Plant

 

$

37,600

 

 

$

88,109

 

 

$

(50,509

)

Other

 

 

2,789

 

 

 

3,760

 

 

 

(971

)

 

 

$

40,389

 

 

$

91,869

 

 

$

(51,480

)

Marketing expenses represent third-party activities associated with company-owned gathering systems, plants and facilities.  Marketing expenses decreased by approximately $52 million or 56% to approximately $40 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $92 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to third party take-in-kind elections.

Severance and Ad Valorem Taxes

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Severance taxes

 

$

6,925

 

 

$

14,447

 

 

$

(7,522

)

Ad valorem taxes

 

 

11,005

 

 

 

14,151

 

 

 

(3,146

)

 

 

$

17,930

 

 

$

28,598

 

 

$

(10,668

)

54


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Severance taxes, which are a function of revenues generated from production, decreased primarily due to lower production volumes due to divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019.  Ad valorem taxes, which are based on the value of reserves and production equipment and vary by location, decreased primarily due to divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019.

Field Level Cash Flow

Field level cash flow decreased by approximately $113 million to approximately $110 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $223 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to the divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019.

Blue Mountain Reporting Segment

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing revenues

 

$

159,706

 

 

$

142,018

 

 

$

17,688

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

120,014

 

 

 

127,263

 

 

 

(7,249

)

Severance taxes and ad valorem taxes

 

 

1,378

 

 

 

883

 

 

 

495

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

 

121,392

 

 

 

128,146

 

 

 

(6,754

)

Field level cash flow (1)

 

$

38,314

 

 

$

13,872

 

 

$

24,442

 

(1)

Refer to Note 19 for a reconciliation of field level cash flow to income from continuing operations before income taxes.

Marketing Revenues

Marketing revenues increased by approximately $18 million or 12% to approximately $160 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $142 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The increase was due to revenues from the new water services business in 2019 and higher throughput volumes related to the commissioning of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility in 2018.  These increases were partially offset by lower prices.  Average daily throughput volumes increased to approximately 117 MMcf/d for the year ended December 31, 2019, from 95 MMcf/d for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Marketing Expenses

Marketing expenses decreased by approximately $7 million or 6% to approximately $120 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $127 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was due to lower prices during 2019, partially offset by expenses related to the new water services business in 2019 and higher volumes.

Field Level Cash Flow

Field level cash flow increased by approximately $24 million or 176% to approximately $38 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $14 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The increase was due to increased revenues from the new water services business in 2019, higher throughput volumes and the operations of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility in 2018.

Indirect Income and Expenses Not Allocated to Segments

Gains (Losses) on Commodity Derivatives

Gains on commodity derivatives were approximately $10 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to losses of approximately $23 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, representing a variance of approximately $33 million.  Gains and losses on commodity derivatives were primarily due to changes in fair value of the derivative contracts.  The fair value on unsettled derivative contracts changes as future commodity price expectations change compared to the contract prices on the derivatives.  If the expected future commodity prices increase compared to the contract prices on the derivatives, losses are recognized; and if the expected future commodity prices decrease compared to the contract prices on the derivatives, gains are recognized.

The Company determines the fair value of its commodity derivatives utilizing pricing models that use a variety of techniques, including market quotes and pricing analysis.  See “Item 7A‒Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”

55


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

and Note 7 and Note 8 for additional details about the Company’s commodity derivatives.  For information about the Company’s credit risk related to derivative contracts, see “‒Liquidity and Capital Resources‒Counterparty Credit Risk” below.

General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses are costs not directly associated with field operations and reflect the costs of employees including executive officers, related benefits, office leases and professional fees.  General and administrative expenses decreased by approximately $183 million or 75% to approximately $62 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $245 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to lower share-based compensation expenses, lower severance costs and lower salaries and benefits related expenses due to lower headcount primarily offset by lower transition service fees recorded as a reduction of general and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2018.  General and administrative expenses per Mcfe decreased to $0.70 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2019, from $2.05 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018.

For professional services expenses related to the Chapter 11 proceedings that were incurred since the Petition Date, see “Reorganization Items, Net.”

Exploration Costs

Exploration costs, which consisted primarily of seismic data expenses, remained constant at approximately $5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, and approximately $5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization

Depreciation, depletion and amortization decreased by approximately $18 million or 19% to approximately $77 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from approximately $95 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to lower total production volumes partially offset by Blue Mountain Midstream’s increase in depreciation expense related to the commissioning of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility at the end of the second quarter of 2018 and related compression and gathering systems.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded noncash impairment charges of approximately $207 million to reduce the carrying value of its properties sold located in the Hugoton Basin and Michigan and to reduce the carrying value of properties held for sale located in Oklahoma and Texas.  During the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company recorded noncash impairment charges of approximately $1 million and $16 million, respectively, associated with proved oil and natural gas properties in the Texas, Uinta Basin and Michigan/Illinois regions due to a decline in commodity prices and higher operating costs.

(Gains) Losses on Sale of Assets and Other, Net

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded the following amounts related to divestitures (see Note 4):

 

Net gain of approximately $4 million on the sale of its interest in properties located in Illinois;

 

Net gain of approximately $376,000 on the sale of its interests in properties located in North Louisiana;

 

Net loss of approximately $10 million on the sale of its interest in non-operated properties in the Hugoton Basin; and

 

Net gain of approximately $28 million on the Arkoma Assets Sale.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded the following amounts related to divestitures (see Note 4):

 

Net gain of approximately $12 million on the sale of its interest in properties located in New Mexico (the “New Mexico Assets Sale”);

 

Net gain of approximately $83 million, including costs to sell of approximately $2 million, on the sale of its interest in properties located in the Altamont Bluebell Field in Utah (the “Altamont Bluebell Assets Sale”);

 

Net gain of approximately $54 million, including costs to sell of approximately $2 million, on the sale of its interest in properties located in West Texas (the “West Texas Assets Sale”); and

 

Net gain of approximately $46 million, including costs to sell of approximately $1 million, on the sale of its Oklahoma and Texas Panhandle properties (the “Oklahoma and Texas Assets Sale”).

56


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Other Income and (Expenses)

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

Variance

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

$

(6,997

)

 

$

(2,417

)

 

$

(4,580

)

Other, net

 

 

(444

)

 

 

(677

)

 

 

233

 

 

 

$

(7,441

)

 

$

(3,094

)

 

$

(4,347

)

Interest expense increased primarily due to higher outstanding debt during 2019.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, “other, net” is primarily related to writing off a portion of the unamortized deferred financing fees of approximately $700,000 and commitment fees for the undrawn portion of the Credit Facilities, partially offset by interest and rental income.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, “other, net” is primarily interest income, partially offset by commitment fees for the undrawn portion of the Credit Facilities.  See “Debt” under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below for additional details.

Reorganization Items, Net

The Company incurred significant costs and recognized significant gains associated with the reorganization of the Company in connection with the Chapter 11 proceedings.  Reorganization items represent costs directly associated with the Chapter 11 proceedings since the Petition Date.  For the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, reorganization items were approximately $13 million and $5 million, respectively.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recognized a gain of approximately $14 million related to rulings regarding costs and income associated with the Chapter 11 proceeding.  Costs incurred for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, primarily related to legal and professional fees.

Income Tax Expense

The Company recognized an income tax expense of approximately $128 million compared to $30 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively.  During the third quarter of 2019, and for the first time since inception, the Company’s earnings show a cumulative loss which was primarily due to losses generated during 2019.  Based on the cumulative loss and projections of future taxable income for the periods in which our deferred tax assets are deductible, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of approximately $171 million to reduce its federal and state net deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, the effective tax rate is higher than the statutory tax rate primarily due to nondeductible compensation in connection with the Spin-off.

Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Income Taxes

As a result of the Company’s internal reorganization in connection with the Spin-off, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent on the Reorganization Date and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  As such, the Company has classified the equity earnings in Roan as discontinued operations.  As a result of the Company’s strategic exit from California in 2017, the Company classified the results of operations of its California properties as discontinued operations.  In 2019, the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $4 million for a contingent payment received related to the sale of its California properties.  Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes was approximately $20 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  See Note 4 for additional information.

Net (Loss) Income

Net (loss) income decreased by approximately $335 million to a net loss of approximately $294 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, from net income of approximately $41 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The decrease was primarily due to a noncash impairment charge recorded to the Company’s properties sold, the Hugoton Basin Assets Sale and the Michigan Asset Sale, a valuation allowance, lower production revenue, lower gains on sales of assets and lower commodity revenues, partially offset by lower expenses and gains on commodity derivatives during the year ended December 31, 2019. See discussion above for explanations of variances.

 

57


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Results of Operations

Comparison of the Year Ended December 31, 2018, and the Ten Months Ended December 31, 2017, and the Two Months Ended February 28, 2017

The following table reflects the Company’s results of operations for each of the Successor and Predecessor periods presented:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues and other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas sales

 

$

250,831

 

 

$

317,529

 

 

$

99,561

 

Oil sales

 

 

74,696

 

 

 

258,055

 

 

 

58,560

 

NGL sales

 

 

94,575

 

 

 

133,779

 

 

 

30,764

 

Total oil, natural gas and NGL sales

 

 

420,102

 

 

 

709,363

 

 

 

188,885

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

(23,404

)

 

 

13,533

 

 

 

92,691

 

Marketing and other revenues (1)

 

 

268,961

 

 

 

103,782

 

 

 

16,551

 

 

 

 

665,659

 

 

 

826,678

 

 

 

298,127

 

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

208,446

 

 

 

49,665

 

Transportation expenses

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

113,128

 

 

 

25,972

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

220,971

 

 

 

69,008

 

 

 

4,820

 

General and administrative expenses (2)

 

 

245,291

 

 

 

117,347

 

 

 

71,745

 

Exploration costs

 

 

5,178

 

 

 

3,137

 

 

 

93

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

 

94,958

 

 

 

133,711

 

 

 

47,155

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

 

15,697

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

 

29,730

 

 

 

47,553

 

 

 

14,877

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(208,598

)

 

 

(623,583

)

 

 

672

 

 

 

 

606,886

 

 

 

68,747

 

 

 

214,999

 

Other income and (expenses)

 

 

(3,094

)

 

 

(18,613

)

 

 

(16,874

)

Reorganization items, net

 

 

(5,159

)

 

 

(8,533

)

 

 

2,521,137

 

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

50,520

 

 

 

730,785

 

 

 

2,587,391

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

 

 

29,587

 

 

 

385,654

 

 

 

(166

)

Income from continuing operations

 

 

20,933

 

 

 

345,131

 

 

 

2,587,557

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

 

 

19,674

 

 

 

90,064

 

 

 

(548

)

Net income

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

435,195

 

 

$

2,587,009

 

(1)

Marketing and other revenues for the two months ended February 28, 2017, include approximately $6 million of management fee revenues recognized by the Company from Berry.  Management fee revenues are included in “other revenues” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

(2)

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, the two months ended February 28, 2017, include approximately $132 million, $41 million and $50 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expenses and approximately $27 million, $2 million and $787,000, respectively, of severance costs.  General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, include approximately $8 million of Spin-off related costs.  In addition, general and administrative expenses for the two months ended February 28, 2017, include expenses incurred by LINN Energy associated with the operations of Berry.  On February 28, 2017, LINN Energy and Berry emerged from bankruptcy as stand-alone, unaffiliated entities.


58


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

Average daily production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMcf/d)

 

 

247

 

 

 

386

 

 

 

495

 

Oil (MBbls/d)

 

 

3.2

 

 

 

17.8

 

 

 

20.2

 

NGL (MBbls/d)

 

 

10.3

 

 

 

20.5

 

 

 

21.4

 

Total (MMcfe/d)

 

 

328

 

 

 

616

 

 

 

745

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average prices: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (Mcf)

 

$

2.78

 

 

$

2.69

 

 

$

3.41

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

62.99

 

 

$

47.42

 

 

$

49.16

 

NGL (Bbl)

 

$

25.14

 

 

$

21.28

 

 

$

24.37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average NYMEX prices:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMBtu)

 

$

3.09

 

 

$

3.00

 

 

$

3.66

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

64.77

 

 

$

50.53

 

 

$

53.04

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs per Mcfe of production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

$

1.00

 

 

$

1.11

 

 

$

1.13

 

Transportation expenses

 

$

0.70

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

$

0.59

 

General and administrative expenses (2)

 

$

2.05

 

 

$

0.62

 

 

$

1.63

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

$

0.79

 

 

$

0.71

 

 

$

1.07

 

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

$

0.25

 

 

$

0.25

 

 

$

0.34

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average daily production – discontinued operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity method investments – Total (MMcfe/d) (3)

 

 

64

 

 

 

30

 

 

 

 

California – Total (MMcfe/d) (4)

 

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

30

 

 

(1)

Does not include the effect of gains (losses) on derivatives.

(2)

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, include approximately $132 million, $41 million and $50 million, respectively, of share-based compensation expenses and approximately $27 million, $2 million and $787,000, respectively, of severance costs.  General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018, include approximately $8 million of Spin-off related costs.  In addition, general and administrative expenses for the two months ended February 28, 2017, include expenses incurred by LINN Energy associated with the operations of Berry.  On February 28, 2017, LINN Energy and Berry emerged from bankruptcy as stand-alone, unaffiliated entities.

(3)

Represents the Company’s historical 50% equity interest in Roan.  Production of Roan for 2018 is for the period from January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018.  Production of Roan for 2017 is for the period from September 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017.

(4)

Production of California properties is for the period from January 1, 2017 through July 31, 2017.

59


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Upstream Reporting Segment

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and NGL sales

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

709,363

 

 

$

188,885

 

Marketing and other revenues

 

 

126,943

 

 

 

96,595

 

 

 

15,914

 

 

 

 

547,045

 

 

 

805,958

 

 

 

204,799

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

208,446

 

 

 

49,665

 

Transportation expenses

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

113,128

 

 

 

25,972

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

91,869

 

 

 

64,225

 

 

 

4,602

 

Severance taxes and ad valorem taxes

 

 

28,598

 

 

 

47,290

 

 

 

14,773

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

 

324,126

 

 

 

433,089

 

 

 

95,012

 

Field level cash flow (1)

 

$

222,919

 

 

$

372,869

 

 

$

109,787

 

(1)

Refer to Note 19 for a reconciliation of field level cash flow to income from continuing operations before income taxes.

Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Sales

Oil, natural gas and NGL sales decreased by approximately $478 million or 53% to approximately $420 million or the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $709 million and $189 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, due to lower production volumes as a result of divestitures completed in 2017 and 2018 partially offset by higher commodity prices.  Higher oil and NGL prices resulted in an increase in revenues of approximately $18 million and $12 million, respectively.  Lower natural gas prices resulted in a decrease in revenues of approximately $3 million.

Average daily production volumes decreased to approximately 328 MMcfe/d for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately 616 MMcfe/d and 745 MMcfe/d for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  Lower oil, natural gas and NGL production volumes resulted in a decrease in revenues of approximately $260 million, $162 million and $83 million, respectively.

The following table sets forth average daily production by region:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

Average daily production (MMcfe/d):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugoton Basin

 

 

138

 

 

 

166

 

 

 

158

 

Mid-Continent

 

 

53

 

 

 

98

 

 

 

110

 

East Texas

 

 

50

 

 

 

53

 

 

 

52

 

Michigan/Illinois

 

 

28

 

 

 

29

 

 

 

29

 

North Louisiana

 

 

26

 

 

 

29

 

 

 

28

 

Uinta Basin

 

 

23

 

 

 

184

 

 

 

294

 

Permian Basin

 

 

10

 

 

 

44

 

 

 

49

 

South Texas

 

 

 

 

 

13

 

 

 

25

 

 

 

 

328

 

 

 

616

 

 

 

745

 

The decrease in average daily production volumes in the Mid-Continent region primarily reflects lower production volumes as a result of LINN Energy’s contribution of certain upstream assets located in Oklahoma to Roan on August 31, 2017, in

60


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

exchange for a 50% equity interest in Roan (the “Roan Contribution”) partially offset by increased development capital spending in the region.  The decreases in average daily production volumes in the Hugoton Basin, Uinta Basin, Permian Basin and South Texas regions primarily reflect lower production volumes as a result of divestitures completed during 2017 and 2018.  See Note 4 for additional information of divestitures.  In addition, the decreases in average daily production volumes in these and the remaining regions reflect lower production volumes as a result of natural declines and reduced development capital spending driven by continued low commodity prices and other capital allocation decisions.

Marketing and Other Revenues

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jayhawk Plant

 

$

99,361

 

 

$

71,990

 

 

$

5,242

 

Helium

 

 

22,135

 

 

 

19,461

 

 

 

3,795

 

Other

 

 

5,447

 

 

 

5,144

 

 

 

6,877

 

 

 

$

126,943

 

 

$

96,595

 

 

$

15,914

 

 

Marketing and other revenues increased by approximately $14 million or 13% to approximately $127 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $97 million and $16 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  Jayhawk Plant revenues increased primarily due to a change in contract terms.  Other primarily includes revenues from other midstream systems in the East Texas and North Louisiana regions as well as management fee revenues recognized by the Company from Berry in the Predecessor period.

Lease Operating Expenses

Lease operating expenses include expenses such as labor, field office, vehicle, supervision, maintenance, tools and supplies, and workover expenses.  Lease operating expenses decreased by approximately $138 million or 53% to approximately $120 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $208 million and $50 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease was primarily due to the divestitures completed in 2017 and 2018 and reduced labor costs for field operations as a result of cost savings initiatives.  Lease operating expenses per Mcfe decreased to $1.00 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018, from $1.11 per Mcfe and $1.13 per Mcfe for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, due to change in the asset mix.

Transportation Expenses

Transportation expenses decreased by approximately $55 million or 40% to approximately $84 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $113 million and $26 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease was due to reduced costs as a result of lower production volumes primarily as a result of the divestitures completed in 2017 and 2018.  Transportation expenses per Mcfe increased to $0.70 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018, from $0.60 per Mcfe and $0.59 per Mcfe for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, due to change in the asset mix.

Marketing Expenses

Marketing expenses represent third-party activities associated with company-owned gathering systems, plants and facilities.  Marketing expenses increased by approximately $23 million or 33% to approximately $92 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $64 million and $5 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The increase was primarily due to higher expenses associated with the Jayhawk Plant, principally driven by a change in contract terms.

61


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Severance and Ad Valorem Taxes

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Severance taxes

 

$

14,447

 

 

$

30,074

 

 

$

9,107

 

Ad valorem taxes

 

 

14,151

 

 

 

17,216

 

 

 

5,666

 

 

 

$

28,598

 

 

$

47,290

 

 

$

14,773

 

Severance taxes, which are a function of revenues generated from production, decreased primarily due to lower production volumes.  Ad valorem taxes, which are based on the value of reserves and production equipment and vary by location, decreased primarily due to divestitures completed in 2017 and 2018.

Field Level Cash Flow

Field level cash flow decreased by approximately $260 million to approximately $223 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $373 million and $110 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease was primarily due to the divestitures completed in 2017 and 2018.

Blue Mountain Reporting Segment

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing revenues

 

$

142,018

 

 

$

7,187

 

 

$

637

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

127,263

 

 

 

4,783

 

 

 

218

 

Severance taxes and ad valorem taxes

 

 

883

 

 

 

121

 

 

 

78

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

 

128,146

 

 

 

4,904

 

 

 

296

 

Field level cash flow (1)

 

$

13,872

 

 

$

2,283

 

 

$

341

 

(1)

Refer to Note 19 for a reconciliation of field level cash flow to income from continuing operations before income taxes.

Marketing Revenues

Marketing revenues increased by approximately $134 million to approximately $142 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $7 million and $637,000 for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The increase was due to higher throughput volumes sold related to the commissioning of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility at the end of the second quarter of 2018.  In addition, the Company implemented a new accounting standard related to revenues from contracts with customers adopted on January 1, 2018.  As of January 1, 2018, the Company recognizes service fees for the processing of commodities purchased as a reduction to the purchase price of those commodities rather than as revenues.  This recognition results in a decrease to revenues and expenses with no impact on net income.

Marketing Expenses

Marketing expenses increased by approximately $122 million to approximately $127 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $5 million and $218,000 for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The increase was due to higher throughput volumes purchased related to the commissioning of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility at the end of the second quarter of 2018.  In addition, the Company implemented a new accounting standard related to revenues from contracts with customers adopted on January 1,

62


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

2018.  As of January 1, 2018, the Company recognizes service fees for the processing of commodities purchased as a reduction to the purchase price of those commodities rather than as revenues.  This recognition results in a decrease to revenues and expenses with no impact on net income.

Field Level Cash Flow

Field level cash flow increased by approximately $11 million primarily due to increased throughput volumes and the operations of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility during the second half of 2018.

Indirect Income and Expenses Not Allocated to Segments

Gains (Losses) on Commodity Derivatives

Gains and losses on commodity derivatives were losses of approximately $23 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to gains of approximately $14 million and $93 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, representing a variance of approximately $130 million.  Gains and losses on commodity derivatives were primarily due to changes in fair value of the derivative contracts.  The fair value on unsettled derivative contracts changes as future commodity price expectations change compared to the contract prices on the derivatives.  If the expected future commodity prices increase compared to the contract prices on the derivatives, losses are recognized; and if the expected future commodity prices decrease compared to the contract prices on the derivatives, gains are recognized.

The Company determines the fair value of its commodity derivatives utilizing pricing models that use a variety of techniques, including market quotes and pricing analysis.  See “Item 7A‒Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” and Note 7 and Note 8 for additional details about the Company’s commodity derivatives.  For information about the Company’s credit risk related to derivative contracts, see “‒Liquidity and Capital Resources‒Counterparty Credit Risk” below.

General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses are costs not directly associated with field operations and reflect the costs of employees including executive officers, related benefits, office leases and professional fees.  In addition, general and administrative expenses in the Predecessor period includes costs incurred by LINN Energy associated with the operations of Berry.  General and administrative expenses increased by approximately $56 million or 30% to approximately $245 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $117 million and $72 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The increase was primarily due to higher share-based compensation expenses, higher severance costs, transition service fees received from Berry in the prior year, higher professional services expenses primarily related to the Spin-off and accelerated rent expense, partially offset by lower salaries and benefits related expenses.  General and administrative expenses per Mcfe increased to $2.05 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018, from $0.62 per Mcfe and $1.63 per Mcfe for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.

For professional services expenses related to the Chapter 11 proceedings that were incurred since the Petition Date, see “Reorganization Items, Net.”

Exploration Costs

Exploration costs increased by approximately $2 million to approximately $5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $3 million and $93,000 for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The increase was primarily due to higher seismic data expenses in the Northwest STACK.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization

Depreciation, depletion and amortization decreased by approximately $86 million or 47% to approximately $95 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from approximately $134 million and $47 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease was primarily due to lower total production volumes, as well as lower rates as a result of the application of fresh start accounting.  Depreciation, depletion and amortization per Mcfe was $0.79 per Mcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to $0.71 per Mcfe and $1.07 per Mcfe for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.

63


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded an impairment charge of approximately $16 million associated with proved oil and natural gas properties in the Uinta Basin and Michigan/Illinois regions due to a decline in commodity prices and higher operating costs.  The Company recorded no impairment charges for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

(Gains) Losses on Sale of Assets and Other, Net

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded the following amounts related to divestitures (see Note 4):

 

Net gain of approximately $12 million on the New Mexico Assets Sale;

 

Net gain of approximately $83 million, including costs to sell of approximately $2 million, on the Altamont Bluebell Assets Sale;

 

Net gain of approximately $54 million, including costs to sell of approximately $2 million, on the West Texas Assets Sale; and

 

Net gain of approximately $46 million, including costs to sell of approximately $1 million, on the Oklahoma and Texas Assets Sale.

During the ten months ended December 31, 2017, the Company recorded the following amounts related to divestitures (see Note 4):

 

Net gain of approximately $277 million, including costs to sell of approximately $6 million, on the sale of its interest in properties located in western Wyoming to Jonah Energy LLC on May 31, 2017 (the “Jonah Assets Sale”);

 

Net gain of approximately $175 million, including costs to sell of approximately $2 million, on the sale of its interest in properties located in Wyoming on November 30, 2017;

 

Net gain of approximately $116 million, including costs to sell of approximately $3 million, on the sale of its interest in properties located in the Williston Basin on November 30, 2017;

 

Net gain of approximately $30 million, including costs to sell of approximately $1 million, on the sale of its interest in the Salt Creek Field in Wyoming (the “Salt Creek Assets Sale”);

 

Net gain of approximately $29 million on the sale of its interest in certain properties located in Texas and New Mexico on August 31, 2017;

 

Advisory fees of approximately $17 million associated with the Roan Contribution; and

 

Net gain of approximately $14 million, including costs to sell of approximately $1 million, on the sales of its interests in certain properties located in south Texas on September 12, 2017, August 1, 2017, and July 31, 2017 (collectively, the “South Texas Assets Sales”).

Other Income and (Expenses)

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended

December 31,

2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

$

(2,417

)

 

$

(12,380

)

 

$

(16,725

)

Other, net

 

 

(677

)

 

 

(6,233

)

 

 

(149

)

 

 

$

(3,094

)

 

$

(18,613

)

 

$

(16,874

)

Interest expense decreased primarily due to lower outstanding debt during 2018.  For the two months ended February 28, 2017, contractual interest, which was not recorded, on the Predecessor’s senior notes was approximately $37 million.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, interest expense is primarily related to amortization of financing fees.  See “Debt” under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below for additional details.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, “other, net” is primarily related to interest income, partially offset by commitment fees for the undrawn portion of the Credit Facilities.  For the ten months ended December 31, 2017, “other, net” is primarily related to commitment fees for the undrawn portion of the Riviera Credit Facility and the write-off of financing fees.

64


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Reorganization Items, Net

The Company incurred significant costs and recognized significant gains associated with the reorganization of the Company in connection with the Chapter 11 proceedings.  Reorganization items represent costs and income directly associated with the Chapter 11 proceedings since the Petition Date, and also include adjustments to reflect the carrying value of certain liabilities subject to compromise at their estimated allowed claim amounts, as such adjustments were determined.  The following table summarizes the components of reorganization items included on the consolidated and combined statements of operations:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on settlement of liabilities subject to compromise

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

3,914,964

 

Recognition of an additional claim for the

   Predecessor’s second lien notes settlement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,000,000

)

Fresh start valuation adjustments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(591,525

)

Income tax benefit related to implementation of

   the Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

264,889

 

Legal and other professional fees

 

 

(5,055

)

 

 

(8,584

)

 

 

(46,961

)

Terminated contracts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(6,915

)

Other

 

 

(104

)

 

 

51

 

 

 

(13,315

)

Reorganization items, net

 

$

(5,159

)

 

$

(8,533

)

 

$

2,521,137

 

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

The Successor was formed as a C corporation.  For federal and state income tax purposes (with the exception of the state of Texas), the Predecessor was a limited liability company treated as a partnership, in which income tax liabilities and/or benefits were passed through to the Predecessor’s unitholders.  Limited liability companies are subject to Texas margin tax.  In addition, certain of the Predecessor’s subsidiaries were C corporations subject to federal and state income taxes.  The Company recognized income tax expense of approximately $30 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to income tax expense of approximately $386 million and an income tax benefit of approximately $166,000 for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease is primarily due to a decrease in taxable earnings and a decrease in the federal statutory income tax rate.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, the effective tax rate is higher than the statutory tax rate primarily due to nondeductible compensation in connection with the Spin-off.

Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Income Taxes

As a result of the Company’s internal reorganization in connection with the Spin-off, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent on the Reorganization Date and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  As such, the Company has classified the equity earnings in Roan as discontinued operations.  As a result of the Company’s strategic exit from California in 2017, the Company classified the results of operations of its California properties as discontinued operations.  In 2018, the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $5 million for a contingent payment received related to the sale of its California properties.  Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes was approximately $20 million, $90 million and a loss of $548,000 for the year ended December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  See Note 4 for additional information.

Net Income

Net income decreased by approximately $3.0 billion to approximately $41 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, from a net income of approximately $435 million and $2.6 billion for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.  The decrease was primarily due to gains included in reorganization items in

65


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

the Predecessor period, lower production revenue, lower gains on sales of assets and losses compared to gains on commodity derivatives, partially offset by lower expenses.  See discussion above for explanations of variances.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company’s sources of cash have primarily consisted of proceeds from its divestitures of oil and natural gas properties, net cash provided by operating activities and borrowing under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility.  As a result of divesting certain oil and natural gas properties during the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company received approximately $447 million in net cash proceeds.  The Company has also used its cash to fund capital expenditures, principally for the development of its oil and natural gas properties, and plant and pipeline construction, for distributions to shareholders, the Parent’s repurchases of LINN Energy, Inc. Class A common stock prior to the Spin-off, and repurchases of Riviera’s common stock subsequent to the Spin-off.  Based on current expectations, the Company believes its liquidity and capital resources will be sufficient to conduct its business and operations.

Statements of Cash Flows

The following is a comparative cash flow summary:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   operating activities

 

$

114,441

 

 

$

(6,594

)

 

$

231,021

 

 

$

152,714

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   investing activities

 

 

265,336

 

 

 

168,162

 

 

 

1,257,352

 

 

 

(58,756

)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

 

(280,385

)

 

 

(632,713

)

 

 

(1,111,473

)

 

 

(437,730

)

Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents

   and restricted cash

 

$

99,392

 

 

$

(471,145

)

 

$

376,900

 

 

$

(343,772

)

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities was approximately $114 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to cash used in operating activities of approximately $7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  Cash used in operating activities was approximately $7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to cash provided by operating activities of approximately $231 million and $153 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and for the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.

66


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Investing Activities

The following provides a comparative summary of cash flow from investing activities:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flow from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

(178,216

)

 

$

(207,129

)

 

$

(260,316

)

 

$

(58,006

)

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment

 

 

(3,380

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment

   and other

 

 

446,932

 

 

 

368,291

 

 

 

1,172,025

 

 

 

(166

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing

   activities – continuing operations

 

 

265,336

 

 

 

161,162

 

 

 

911,709

 

 

 

(58,172

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing

   activities – discontinued operations

 

 

 

 

 

7,000

 

 

 

345,643

 

 

 

(584

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing

   activities

 

$

265,336

 

 

$

168,162

 

 

$

1,257,352

 

 

$

(58,756

)

The primary use of cash in investing activities is for the development of the Company’s oil and natural gas properties and construction of Blue Mountain Midstream’s cryogenic natural gas processing facility, water facilities and related compression and gathering systems.  Capital expenditures decreased primarily due to lower spending on plant and pipeline construction related to Blue Mountain Midstream partially offset by higher oil and natural gas capital spending.  The Company made no material acquisitions of properties during the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment and other for the year ended December 31, 2019, include cash proceeds received of approximately $286 million from the Hugoton Basin Assets Sale, approximately $59 million (excluding a deposit of approximately $5 million received in 2018) from the Arkoma Assets Sale, approximately $29 million from the sale of non-operated properties in the Hugoton Basin, approximately $39 million from the Michigan Assets Sale, approximately $4 million from the sale of its interest in properties located in Illinois, approximately $2 million from the sale of its interests in properties located in North Louisiana, and approximately $20 million from Blue Mountain’s agreement with a customer.  Proceeds for the year ended December 31, 2019, also include deposits of approximately $6 million for 2020 divestitures.  Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment and other for the year ended December 31, 2018, include cash proceeds received of approximately $107 million from the West Texas Assets Sale, approximately $97 million (excluding a deposit of approximately $12 million received in 2017) from the Oklahoma and Texas Assets Sale, approximately $131 million related to the Altamont Bluebell Assets Sale, approximately $14 million related to the New Mexico Assets Sale and a deposit of approximately $5 million received from the Arkoma Assets Sale.  Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment and other for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, include cash proceeds received of approximately $258 million from the Williston Asset Sale, approximately $195 million from the Washakie Asset Sale, approximately $49 million from the South Texas Assets Sales, approximately $31 million from the Permian Basin Asset Sales, approximately $74 million from the Salt Creek Assets Sale and approximately $565 million from the Jonah Assets Sale.  See Note 4 for additional details of divestitures.

67


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

See below for details regarding accrued and paid capital expenditures for the periods presented:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and natural gas

 

$

63,457

 

 

$

36,251

 

 

$

199,866

 

 

$

39,409

 

Plant and pipeline

 

 

103,885

 

 

 

131,576

 

 

 

93,318

 

 

 

4,990

 

Other

 

 

4,489

 

 

 

2,434

 

 

 

5,626

 

 

 

1,243

 

Capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions

 

$

171,831

 

 

$

170,261

 

 

$

298,810

 

 

$

45,642

 

Capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions –

   discontinued operations

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

2,033

 

 

$

436

 

The increase in capital expenditures was primarily due to higher oil and natural gas development activities partially offset by lower plant and pipeline construction activities associated with Blue Mountain Midstream.  For 2020, the Company estimates its total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, will be approximately $52 million, including approximately $25 million related to its oil and natural gas capital program and approximately $27 million related to Blue Mountain Midstream.  This estimate is under continuous review and subject to ongoing adjustments.

Financing Activities

Cash used in financing activities was approximately $280 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, compared to approximately $633 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  During the year ended December 31, 2018, prior to the Spin-off the primary use of cash in financing activities was transfers to the Parent to fund repurchases of the Parent’s common stock and settlement of the Parent’s restricted stock units (see Note 13).  Since the Spin-off, the primary use of cash in financing activities was for distributions to shareholders and repurchases of Riviera’s common stock.  During the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, the primary use of cash in financing activities was for repayments of debt.

The following provides a comparative summary of proceeds from borrowings and repayments of debt:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 30,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from borrowings:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Riviera Credit Facility

 

$

 

 

$

40,000

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Blue Mountain Credit Facility

 

 

72,600

 

 

 

4,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Successor’s previous credit facility

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

190,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

72,600

 

 

$

44,500

 

 

$

190,000

 

 

$

 

Repayments of debt:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Riviera Credit Facility

 

$

(20,000

)

 

$

(20,000

)

 

$

 

 

$

 

Blue Mountain Credit Facility

 

 

(7,300

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Successor’s previous credit facility

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(790,000

)

 

 

 

Successor term loan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(300,000

)

 

 

 

Predecessor’s credit facility

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,038,986

)

 

 

$

(27,300

)

 

$

(20,000

)

 

$

(1,090,000

)

 

$

(1,038,986

)

On February 28, 2017, the Company canceled its obligations under the Predecessor’s credit facility and entered into the Successor’s previous credit facility, which was a net transaction and is reflected as such on the consolidated and combined

68


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

statement of cash flows.  In addition, in February 2017, the Company made a $30 million payment to holders of claims under the Predecessor’s second lien notes.  See Note 16 for details about the Company’s borrowings and repayments of debt that were reflected as noncash transactions.

Debt

At January 31, 2020, there were no borrowings outstanding and approximately $89 million of available borrowing capacity under the Riviera Credit Facility (which includes a $701,000 reduction for outstanding letters of credit).  As of January 31, 2020, total borrowings outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility were approximately $73 million and there was approximately $115 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a $12 million reduction for outstanding letters of credit).  For additional information related to the Company’s debt, see Note 6.

Dividends

Although the Company paid a one-time cash distribution on December 12, 2019, the Company is not currently paying a regular cash dividend; however, the Board of Directors periodically reviews the Company’s liquidity position to evaluate whether or not to pay a cash dividend.  Any future payment of cash dividends would be subject to the restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Cash Distributions

On November 21, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash distribution of $4.25 per share.  A cash distribution totaling approximately $249 million was paid on December 12, 2019, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2019.  In addition, approximately $11 million for potential future distributions was recorded in restricted cash at December 31, 2019.  In December 2019, distributions payable of approximately $2 million related to outstanding share-based compensation awards was also recorded.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Share Repurchase Program

On July 18, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the share repurchase authorization to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 8,475,514 shares of common stock at an average price of $12.72 per share for a total cost of approximately $108 million.  Included in this number are private purchases of 2,380,425 shares of common stock purchased at a discount to market, at an average price of $10.91 for a total cost of approximately $26 million.  See Note 12 for additional information.  For the period from January 1, 2020 through February 21, 2020, the Company repurchased 171,107 shares of common stock at an average price of $7.84 for a total cost of approximately $1 million.  At February 21, 2020, approximately $23 million was available for share repurchases under the program.  Any share repurchases are subject to restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Tender Offer

On June 13, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors announced the intention to commence a tender offer to purchase $40 million of the Company’s common stock.  In July 2019, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated June 18, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 2,666,666 shares of common stock at a price of $15.00 per share for a total cost of approximately $40 million (excluding expenses of approximately $440,000 related to the tender offer).

Counterparty Credit Risk

The Company accounts for its commodity derivatives at fair value.  The Company’s counterparties are participants in the Credit Facilities.  The Credit Facilities are secured by certain of the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and personal property; therefore, the Company is not required to post any collateral.  The Company does not receive collateral from its counterparties. The Company minimizes the credit risk in derivative instruments by: (i) limiting its exposure to any single counterparty; (ii) entering into derivative instruments only with counterparties that meet the Company’s minimum credit quality standard, or have a guarantee from an affiliate that meets the Company’s minimum credit

69


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

quality standard; and (iii) monitoring the creditworthiness of the Company’s counterparties on an ongoing basis.  In accordance with the Company’s standard practice, its commodity derivatives are subject to counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives and therefore the risk of loss due to counterparty non-performance is somewhat mitigated.

Contingencies

See Part I. Item 3. “Legal Proceedings” for information regarding legal proceedings that the Company is party to and any contingencies related to these legal proceedings.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company enters into certain off-balance sheet arrangements and transactions, including operating lease arrangements and undrawn letters of credit.  In addition, the Company enters into other contractual agreements in the normal course of business for processing and transportation as well as for other oil and natural gas activities.  Other than the items discussed above, there are no other arrangements, transactions or other relationships with unconsolidated entities or other persons that are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s liquidity or capital resource positions.

Commitments and Contractual Obligations

The following is a summary of the Company’s commitments and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2019:

 

 

Payments Due

 

Contractual Obligations

 

Total

 

 

2020

 

 

2021-2022

 

 

2023-2024

 

 

2025-Beyond

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt obligations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Facilities

 

$

69,800

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

69,800

 

 

$

 

Interest (1)

 

 

9,370

 

 

 

2,597

 

 

 

5,194

 

 

 

1,579

 

 

 

 

Operating lease obligations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Office, property and equipment

   leases

 

 

6,225

 

 

 

3,557

 

 

 

2,668

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

 

1,087

 

 

 

1,087

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Asset retirement obligations

 

 

21,497

 

 

 

1,184

 

 

 

1,689

 

 

 

1,734

 

 

 

16,890

 

 

 

$

107,979

 

 

$

8,425

 

 

$

9,551

 

 

$

73,113

 

 

$

16,890

 

(1)

Represents interest on the Blue Mountain Credit Facility computed at approximately 3.72% through its maturity in 2023.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The discussion and analysis of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations is based on the consolidated and combined financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.  The preparation of these financial statements requires management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.  These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment.  Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate.  Actual results may differ from these estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the financial statements.

Below are expanded discussions of the Company’s more significant accounting policies, estimates and judgments, i.e., those that reflect more significant estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of its financial statements.  See Note 1 for details about additional accounting policies and estimates made by Company management.

70


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

For a discussion of recently issued accounting standards, see Note 1.

Oil and Natural Gas Reserves

Proved reserves are based on the quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL that by analysis of geoscience and engineering data can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible from a given date forward, from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods and government regulations prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that renewal is reasonably certain.  The independent engineering firm, DeGolyer and MacNaughton, prepared a reserve and economic evaluation of all of the Company properties on a well-by-well basis as of December 31, 2019, and the reserve estimates reported herein were prepared by DeGolyer and MacNaughton.  The reserve estimates were reviewed and approved by the Company’s senior engineering staff and management, with final approval by its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Reserves and their relation to estimated future net cash flows impact the Company’s depletion and impairment calculations as well as the Company’s application of fresh start accounting and the deferred tax asset recorded upon completion of the Spin-off.  As a result, adjustments to depletion and impairment are made concurrently with changes to reserve estimates.  The process performed by the independent engineers to prepare reserve amounts included their estimation of reserve quantities, future production rates, future net revenue and the present value of such future net revenue, based in part on data provided by the Company.  The estimates of reserves conform to the guidelines of the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the criteria of “reasonable certainty,” as it pertains to expectations about the recoverability of reserves in future years.

The accuracy of reserve estimates is a function of many factors including the following: the quality and quantity of available data, the interpretation of that data, the accuracy of various economic assumptions and the judgments of the individuals preparing the estimates.  In addition, reserve estimates are a function of many assumptions, all of which could deviate significantly from actual results.  As such, reserve estimates may materially vary from the ultimate quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL eventually recovered.  For additional information regarding estimates of reserves, including the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows, see “Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Data (Unaudited)” in the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements.

Oil and Natural Gas Properties

Proved Properties

The Company accounts for oil and natural gas properties in accordance with the successful efforts method.  In accordance with this method, all leasehold and development costs of proved properties are capitalized and amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the remaining life of the proved reserves and proved developed reserves, respectively.  Costs of retired, sold or abandoned properties that constitute a part of an amortization base are charged or credited, net of proceeds, to accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization unless doing so significantly affects the unit-of-production amortization rate, in which case a gain or loss is recognized currently.  Gains or losses from the disposal of other properties are recognized currently.  Expenditures for maintenance and repairs necessary to maintain properties in operating condition are expensed as incurred.  Estimated dismantlement and abandonment costs are capitalized, net of salvage, at their estimated net present value and amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the remaining life of the related proved developed reserves.  The Company capitalizes interest on borrowed funds related to its share of costs associated with the drilling and completion of new oil and natural gas wells.  Interest is capitalized only during the periods in which these assets are brought to their intended use.

The Company evaluates the impairment of its proved oil and natural gas properties on a field-by-field basis whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  The carrying values of proved properties are reduced to fair value when the expected undiscounted future cash flows of proved and risk-adjusted probable and possible reserves are less than net book value.  The fair values of proved properties are measured using valuation techniques consistent with the income approach, converting future cash flows to a single discounted amount.  Significant inputs used to determine the fair values of proved properties include estimates of: (i) reserves; (ii) future operating and development costs; (iii) future commodity prices; and (iv) a market-based weighted average cost of capital rate.  These inputs require assumptions by the Company’s management at the time of the valuation and are the most sensitive and subject to

71


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

change.  The underlying commodity prices embedded in the Company’s estimated cash flows are the product of a process that begins with NYMEX forward curve pricing, adjusted for estimated location and quality differentials, as well as other factors that Company management believes will impact realizable prices.

Based on the analysis described above, for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company recorded noncash impairment charges of approximately $208 million and $16 million, respectively, associated with proved oil and natural gas properties.  In 2019, approximately $207 million relates to assets sold or assets held for sale at December 31, 2019.  The carrying values of the impaired proved properties were reduced to fair value, estimated using inputs characteristic of a Level 3 fair value measurement.  The impairment charges are included in “impairment of assets held for sale and long-lived assets” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  The Company recorded no impairment charges associated with proved properties during the ten months ended December 31, 2017, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Unproved Properties

Costs related to unproved properties include costs incurred to acquire unproved reserves.  Because these reserves do not meet the definition of proved reserves, the related costs are not classified as proved properties.  Unproved leasehold costs are capitalized and amortized on a composite basis if individually insignificant, based on past success, experience and average lease-term lives.  Individually significant leases are reclassified to proved properties if successful and expensed on a lease by lease basis if unsuccessful or the lease term expires.  Unamortized leasehold costs related to successful exploratory drilling are reclassified to proved properties and depleted on a unit-of-production basis.

The Company evaluates the impairment of its unproved oil and natural gas properties whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  The carrying values of unproved properties are reduced to fair value based on management’s experience in similar situations and other factors such as the lease terms of the properties and the relative proportion of such properties on which proved reserves have been found in the past.

The Company recorded no impairment charges associated with unproved properties for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes expense for share-based compensation over the requisite service period in an amount equal to the fair value of share-based awards granted.  The fair value of liability classified awards is remeasured at each reporting date through the settlement date with the change in fair value recognized as compensation expense over that period.  The Company has made a policy decision to recognize compensation expense for service-based awards on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.  The Company accounts for forfeitures as they occur.  See Note 13 for additional details about the Company’s accounting for share-based compensation.

Income Taxes

The Company has recorded deferred taxes for temporary differences and operating losses.  Deferred tax assets may be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  The Company routinely assesses whether its deferred tax assets are realizable by considering the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies.

During the third quarter of 2019, and for the first time since Riviera’s inception, the Company’s earnings show a cumulative loss which is primarily due to losses generated during 2019.  Based on the cumulative loss and projections of future taxable income for the periods in which our deferred tax assets are deductible, during the third quarter of 2019, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of approximately $171 million to reduce its federal and state net deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.

For periods prior to the Spin-off, income tax expense and deferred tax balances were calculated on a separate tax return basis although Riviera’s operations have historically been included in the tax returns filed by the Parent, of which Riviera’s business was a part.  Beginning August 8, 2018, as a stand-alone entity, Riviera files tax returns on its own behalf and its deferred taxes and effective tax rate may differ from those in the historical periods.  Upon completion of the Spin-off, on

72


Table of Contents

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Continued

August 8, 2018, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset, the calculation of which, relied on estimates and assumptions related to the value of the company and its oil and natural gas reserves.  The Company believes that the assumptions and estimates used to determine these tax amounts are reasonable.

Fresh Start Accounting

Upon LINN Energy’s emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, it adopted fresh start accounting in accordance with the provisions of ASC 852 which resulted in the Parent becoming a new entity for financial reporting purposes.  In accordance with ASC 852, the Parent was required to adopt fresh start accounting upon its emergence from Chapter 11 because (i) the holders of existing voting ownership interests of the Predecessor of the Parent received less than 50% of the voting shares of the Successor of the Parent and (ii) the reorganization value of the Parent’s assets immediately prior to confirmation of the Plan was less than the total of all postpetition liabilities and allowed claims.

Upon adoption of fresh start accounting, the reorganization value derived from the enterprise value as disclosed in the Plan was allocated to the Company’s assets and liabilities based on their fair values (except for deferred income taxes) in accordance with ASC 805 “Business Combinations.”  The amount of deferred income taxes recorded was determined in accordance with ASC 740 “Income Taxes.”  The Effective Date fair values of the Company’s assets and liabilities differed materially from their recorded values as reflected on the historical balance sheet.  The effects of the Plan and the application of fresh start accounting were reflected on the consolidated and combined balance sheet as of February 28, 2017, and the related adjustments thereto were recorded on the consolidated and combined statement of operations for the two months ended February 28, 2017.  As a result of the application of fresh start accounting and the effects of the implementation of the plan of reorganization, the consolidated and combined financial statements on or after February 28, 2017, are not comparable with the consolidated and combined financial statements prior to that date.  See Note 2 for additional information.

 

73


Table of Contents

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

The Company’s primary market risk is attributable to fluctuations in commodity prices.  This risk can affect the Company’s business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows.  See below for quantitative and qualitative information about this risk.

The following should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The reference to a “Note” herein refers to the accompanying Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements contained in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Commodity Price Risk

The Company’s most significant market risk relates to prices of oil, natural gas and NGL.  The Company expects commodity prices to remain volatile and unpredictable.  As commodity prices decline or rise significantly, revenues and cash flows are likewise affected.  In addition, future declines in commodity prices may result in noncash write-downs of the Company’s carrying amounts of its assets.

Historically, the Company has hedged a portion of its forecasted production to reduce exposure to fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices and provide long-term cash flow predictability to manage its business.  The Company does not enter into derivative contracts for trading purposes.  The appropriate level of production to be hedged is an ongoing consideration based on a variety of factors, including among other things, current and future expected commodity market prices, the Company’s overall risk profile, including leverage and size and scale considerations, as well as any requirements for or restrictions on levels of hedging contained in any credit facility or other debt instrument applicable at the time.  In addition, when commodity prices are depressed and forward commodity price curves are flat or in backwardation, the Company may determine that the benefit of hedging its anticipated production at these levels is outweighed by its resultant inability to obtain higher revenues for its production if commodity prices recover during the duration of the contracts.  As a result, the appropriate percentage of production volumes to be hedged may change over time.

At December 31, 2019, the fair value of fixed price swaps was a net asset of approximately $6 million.  A 10% increase in the NYMEX WTI oil and NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas prices above the December 31, 2019, prices would result in a net asset of approximately $3 million, which represents a decrease in the fair value of approximately $3 million; conversely, a 10% decrease in the NYMEX oil and Henry Hub natural gas prices below the December 31, 2019, prices would result in a net asset of approximately $10 million, which represents an increase in the fair value of approximately $4 million.

At December 31, 2018, the fair value of fixed price swaps and collars was a net asset of approximately $17 million.  A 10% increase in the NYMEX WTI oil and NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas prices above the December 31, 2018, prices would result in a net liability of approximately $4 million, which represents a decrease in the fair value of approximately $21 million; conversely, a 10% decrease in the NYMEX oil and Henry Hub natural gas prices below the December 31, 2018, prices would result in a net asset of approximately $38 million, which represents an increase in the fair value of approximately $21 million.

The Company determines the fair value of its commodity derivatives utilizing pricing models that use a variety of techniques, including market quotes and pricing analysis.  Inputs to the pricing models include publicly available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation of data gathered from third parties.  Company management validates the data provided by third parties by understanding the pricing models used, obtaining market values from other pricing sources, analyzing pricing data in certain situations and confirming that those instruments trade in active markets.

The prices of oil, natural gas and NGL have been extremely volatile, and the Company expects this volatility to continue.  Prices for these commodities may fluctuate widely in response to relatively minor changes in the supply of and demand for such commodities, market uncertainty, including regional conditions and a variety of additional factors that are beyond its control.  Actual gains or losses recognized related to the Company’s derivative contracts depend exclusively on the price of the commodities on the specified settlement dates provided by the derivative contracts.  Additionally, the Company cannot be assured that its counterparties will be able to perform under its derivative contracts.  If a counterparty fails to perform and the derivative arrangement is terminated, the Company’s cash flows could be impacted.

74


Table of Contents

Interest Rate Risk

At December 31, 2019, the Company had debt outstanding under the Credit Facilities of $69.8 million in the aggregate which debt incurred interest at floating rates.  A 1% increase in the respective market rates would result in an estimated $698,000 increase in annual interest expense.  At December 31, 2018, the Company had debt outstanding under the Credit Facilities of $24.5 million in the aggregate which debt incurred interest at floating rates. A 1% increase in the respective market rates would result in an estimated $245,000 increase in annual interest expense.

75


Table of Contents

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

 

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

 

Page

 

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

77

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Consolidated Financial Statements)

78

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Internal Control Over Financial Reporting)

79

Consolidated Balance Sheets

80

Consolidated and Combined Statements of Operations

81

Consolidated and Combined Statements of Equity (Deficit)

82

Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows

83

Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements

85

Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Data (Unaudited)

122

Supplemental Quarterly Data (Unaudited)

128

 

 

76


Table of Contents

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 Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated 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 detect or prevent misstatements.  Projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or processes may deteriorate.

As of December 31, 2019, management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal Control  Integrated Framework (2013) by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  Based on the assessment, management determined that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on those criteria.

KPMG LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements of the Company included in this Annual Report on Form 10‑K, has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, which is included herein.

/s/ Riviera Resources, Inc.

 

77


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors

Riviera Resources, Inc.:

Opinion on the Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Riviera Resources, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated and combined statements of operations, equity (deficit), and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2019, and from March 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 (Successor periods), and from January 1, 2017 to February 28, 2017 (Predecessor period), and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated and combined financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated and combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the Successor and Predecessor periods in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated February 27, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Change in Accounting Principle

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated and combined financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for revenue recognition in 2018 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.

Basis of Presentation

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated and combined financial statements, the Company completed its spin-off from Linn Energy, Inc., the former parent company of Riviera Resources, Inc. on August 7, 2018.  Prior to the spin-off, the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements were prepared on a carve-out combined basis and derived from the former parent’s consolidated financial statements and accounting records for the periods presented.

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated and combined financial statements, Linn Energy, Inc. (formerly known as Linn Energy, LLC), the former parent company of Riviera Resources, Inc. emerged from bankruptcy on February 28, 2017.  Accordingly, the consolidated and combined financial statements have been prepared in conformity with ASC 852-10, Reorganizations, for the Successor as a new entity with assets, liabilities and a capital structure having carrying amounts not comparable with the amounts presented in the Predecessor period.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated and combined financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated and combined financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated and combined financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated and combined financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated and combined financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated and combined financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ KPMG LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2017.

Houston, Texas

February 27, 2020

78


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Riviera Resources, Inc.:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited Riviera Resources, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated and combined statements of operations, equity (deficit), and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2019, and from March 1 2017 to December 31, 2017 (Successor periods), and from January 1, 2017 to February 28, 2017 (Predecessor period), and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated and combined financial statements), and our report dated February 27, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated and combined financial statements.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

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 the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Houston, Texas
February 27, 2020

 

79


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands, except share amounts)

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

116,237

 

 

$

18,529

 

Accounts receivable – trade, net

 

 

51,355

 

 

 

114,489

 

Derivative instruments

 

 

7,283

 

 

 

10,758

 

Restricted cash

 

 

32,932

 

 

 

31,248

 

Other current assets

 

 

12,853

 

 

 

26,721

 

Assets held for sale

 

 

104,773

 

 

 

38,396

 

Total current assets

 

 

325,433

 

 

 

240,141

 

Noncurrent assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and natural gas properties (successful efforts method)

 

 

180,307

 

 

 

756,552

 

Less accumulated depletion and amortization

 

 

(35,603

)

 

 

(93,507

)

 

 

 

144,704

 

 

 

663,045

 

Other property and equipment

 

 

388,851

 

 

 

606,244

 

Less accumulated depreciation

 

 

(50,381

)

 

 

(62,368

)

 

 

 

338,470

 

 

 

543,876

 

Derivative instruments

 

 

 

 

 

4,603

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

129,091

 

Other noncurrent assets

 

 

7,652

 

 

 

12,078

 

 

 

 

7,652

 

 

 

145,772

 

Total noncurrent assets

 

 

490,826

 

 

 

1,352,693

 

Total assets

 

$

816,259

 

 

$

1,592,834

 

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

$

80,579

 

 

$

159,228

 

Derivative instruments

 

 

1,087

 

 

 

4,719

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

 

26,728

 

 

 

34,474

 

Liabilities held for sale

 

 

35,177

 

 

 

3,725

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

143,571

 

 

 

202,146

 

Noncurrent liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit facilities

 

 

69,800

 

 

 

24,500

 

Asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities

 

 

29,337

 

 

 

103,814

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

 

99,137

 

 

 

128,314

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred Stock ($0.01 par value, 30,000,000 shares authorized and no

   shares issued at December 31, 2019; no shares authorized or issued at

   December 31, 2018)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock ($0.01 par value, 270,000,000 shares authorized

   and 58,168,756 shares issued at December 31, 2019; 69,197,284 shares

   authorized or issued at December 31, 2018)

 

 

581

 

 

 

692

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

 

861,764

 

 

 

1,256,730

 

Retained (deficit) earnings

 

 

(288,794

)

 

 

4,952

 

Total equity

 

 

573,551

 

 

 

1,262,374

 

Total liabilities and equity

 

$

816,259

 

 

$

1,592,834

 

 

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

 

 

80


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues and other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

 

$

236,053

 

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

709,363

 

 

$

188,885

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

10,091

 

 

 

(23,404

)

 

 

13,533

 

 

 

92,691

 

Marketing revenues

 

 

214,280

 

 

 

245,081

 

 

 

82,943

 

 

 

6,636

 

Other revenues

 

 

19,355

 

 

 

23,880

 

 

 

20,839

 

 

 

9,915

 

 

 

 

479,779

 

 

 

665,659

 

 

 

826,678

 

 

 

298,127

 

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

77,719

 

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

208,446

 

 

 

49,665

 

Transportation expenses

 

 

64,149

 

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

113,128

 

 

 

25,972

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

166,651

 

 

 

220,971

 

 

 

69,008

 

 

 

4,820

 

General and administrative expenses

 

 

61,671

 

 

 

245,291

 

 

 

117,347

 

 

 

71,745

 

Exploration costs

 

 

5,122

 

 

 

5,178

 

 

 

3,137

 

 

 

93

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

 

77,089

 

 

 

94,958

 

 

 

133,711

 

 

 

47,155

 

Impairment of assets held for sale and long-lived assets

 

 

208,376

 

 

 

15,697

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxes, other than income taxes

 

 

15,374

 

 

 

29,730

 

 

 

47,553

 

 

 

14,877

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(20,743

)

 

 

(208,598

)

 

 

(623,583

)

 

 

672

 

 

 

 

655,408

 

 

 

606,886

 

 

 

68,747

 

 

 

214,999

 

Other income and (expenses):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

 

(6,997

)

 

 

(2,417

)

 

 

(12,380

)

 

 

(16,725

)

Other, net

 

 

(444

)

 

 

(677

)

 

 

(6,233

)

 

 

(149

)

 

 

 

(7,441

)

 

 

(3,094

)

 

 

(18,613

)

 

 

(16,874

)

Reorganization items, net

 

 

13,359

 

 

 

(5,159

)

 

 

(8,533

)

 

 

2,521,137

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

(169,711

)

 

 

50,520

 

 

 

730,785

 

 

 

2,587,391

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

 

 

127,859

 

 

 

29,587

 

 

 

385,654

 

 

 

(166

)

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

 

(297,570

)

 

 

20,933

 

 

 

345,131

 

 

 

2,587,557

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income

   taxes

 

 

3,824

 

 

 

19,674

 

 

 

90,064

 

 

 

(548

)

Net (loss) income

 

$

(293,746

)

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

435,195

 

 

$

2,587,009

 

(Loss) income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations per share –

   basic and diluted

 

$

(4.71

)

 

$

0.28

 

 

$

4.53

 

 

$

33.96

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations per share –

   basic and diluted

 

$

0.06

 

 

$

0.26

 

 

$

1.18

 

 

$

(0.01

)

Net (loss) income per share – basic and diluted

 

$

(4.65

)

 

$

0.54

 

 

$

5.71

 

 

$

33.95

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – basic

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

74,935

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

75,360

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

Distributions declared per share

 

$

4.25

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

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

 

 

81


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY (DEFICIT)

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

 

 

Accumulated Earnings (Deficit)

 

 

Net Parent Company Investment

 

 

Total Equity (Deficit)

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Amount

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2016 (Predecessor)

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

(2,587,009

)

 

$

(2,587,009

)

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,587,009

 

 

 

2,587,009

 

February 28, 2017 (Predecessor)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issuances of equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,064,331

 

 

 

2,064,331

 

February 28, 2017 (Successor)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,064,331

 

 

 

2,064,331

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

435,195

 

 

 

435,195

 

Net transfers to parent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(160,480

)

 

 

(160,480

)

December 31, 2017 (Successor)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,339,046

 

 

 

2,339,046

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,952

 

 

 

35,655

 

 

 

40,607

 

Net transfers to parent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(966,724

)

 

 

(966,724

)

Spin-off related adjustments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,973

 

 

 

2,973

 

Issuances of common stock and

   reclassification of former

   parent company investment

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

762

 

 

 

1,410,188

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,410,950

)

 

 

 

Repurchases of common stock

 

 

(6,994

)

 

 

(70

)

 

 

(153,458

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(153,528

)

December 31, 2018 (Successor)

 

 

69,197

 

 

 

692

 

 

 

1,256,730

 

 

 

4,952

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,262,374

 

Net loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(293,746

)

 

 

 

 

 

(293,746

)

Repurchases of common stock

 

 

(11,116

)

 

 

(112

)

 

 

(148,149

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(148,261

)

Issuances of common stock

 

 

88

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

1,800

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,801

 

Distributions to shareholders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(248,617

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(248,617

)

December 31, 2019 (Successor)

 

 

58,169

 

 

$

581

 

 

$

861,764

 

 

$

(288,794

)

 

$

 

 

$

573,551

 

 

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

 

 

82


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flow from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(293,746

)

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

435,195

 

 

$

2,587,009

 

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net

  cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Income) loss from discontinued operations

 

 

(3,824

)

 

 

(19,674

)

 

 

(90,064

)

 

 

548

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

 

77,089

 

 

 

94,958

 

 

 

133,711

 

 

 

47,155

 

Impairment of assets held for sale and long-

   lived assets

 

 

208,376

 

 

 

15,697

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

127,873

 

 

 

29,701

 

 

 

378,512

 

 

 

(166

)

Total (gains) losses on derivatives, net

 

 

(4,001

)

 

 

25,243

 

 

 

(13,533

)

 

 

(92,691

)

Cash settlements on derivatives

 

 

8,447

 

 

 

(38,739

)

 

 

26,793

 

 

 

(11,572

)

Share-based compensation expenses

 

 

8,180

 

 

 

16,605

 

 

 

41,285

 

 

 

50,255

 

Amortization and write-off of deferred

   financing fees

 

 

3,172

 

 

 

1,909

 

 

 

3,711

 

 

 

1,338

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(14,319

)

 

 

(204,534

)

 

 

(656,198

)

 

 

1,069

 

Reorganization items, net

 

 

(14,316

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,456,074

)

Changes in assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable –

   trade, net

 

 

50,190

 

 

 

26,956

 

 

 

41,094

 

 

 

(7,216

)

(Increase) decrease in other assets

 

 

(6,604

)

 

 

64,033

 

 

 

(265

)

 

 

528

 

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and

   accrued expenses

 

 

(27,741

)

 

 

(46,792

)

 

 

(92,664

)

 

 

20,949

 

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

 

 

(4,335

)

 

 

(12,564

)

 

 

7,253

 

 

 

2,801

 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating

   activities – continuing operations

 

 

114,441

 

 

 

(6,594

)

 

 

214,830

 

 

 

143,933

 

Net cash provided by operating activities –

   discontinued operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16,191

 

 

 

8,781

 

Net cash provided by (used in)

   operating activities

 

 

114,441

 

 

 

(6,594

)

 

 

231,021

 

 

 

152,714

 

Cash flow from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment

 

 

(3,380

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Development of oil and natural gas properties

 

 

(72,852

)

 

 

(64,756

)

 

 

(171,721

)

 

 

(50,597

)

Purchases of other property and equipment

 

 

(105,364

)

 

 

(142,373

)

 

 

(88,595

)

 

 

(7,409

)

Proceeds from sale of properties and equipment

   and other

 

 

446,932

 

 

 

368,291

 

 

 

1,172,025

 

 

 

(166

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing

   activities – continuing operations

 

 

265,336

 

 

 

161,162

 

 

 

911,709

 

 

 

(58,172

)

Net cash provided by (used in) investing

   activities – discontinued operations

 

 

 

 

 

7,000

 

 

 

345,643

 

 

 

(584

)

Net cash provided by (used in)

   investing activities

 

 

265,336

 

 

 

168,162

 

 

 

1,257,352

 

 

 

(58,756

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

83


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - Continued

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flow from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net transfers (to) from parent

 

 

 

 

 

(481,449

)

 

 

(202,533

)

 

 

636,000

 

Repurchases of shares

 

 

(148,588

)

 

 

(153,314

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from borrowings

 

 

154,525

 

 

 

44,500

 

 

 

190,000

 

 

 

 

Repayments of debt

 

 

(34,433

)

 

 

(20,000

)

 

 

(1,090,000

)

 

 

(1,038,986

)

Debt issuance costs paid

 

 

(3,272

)

 

 

(2,892

)

 

 

(7,729

)

 

 

(151

)

Payment to holders of claims under the

   Predecessor’s second lien notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(30,000

)

Distributions to shareholders

 

 

(248,617

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Distributions to unitholders

 

 

 

 

 

(18,717

)

 

 

(1,211

)

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

(841

)

 

 

 

 

 

(4,593

)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

 

(280,385

)

 

 

(632,713

)

 

 

(1,111,473

)

 

 

(437,730

)

Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents

   and restricted cash

 

 

99,392

 

 

 

(471,145

)

 

 

376,900

 

 

 

(343,772

)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning

 

 

49,777

 

 

 

520,922

 

 

 

144,022

 

 

 

487,794

 

Ending

 

$

149,169

 

 

$

49,777

 

 

$

520,922

 

 

$

144,022

 

 

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

 

 


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1 – Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to the “Company” refer (i) prior to the Spin-off (as defined below) to Linn Energy, Inc. (the “Parent”) and its consolidated subsidiaries, and (ii) after the Spin-off, to Riviera Resources, Inc. (“Riviera”) and its consolidated subsidiaries.  Unless otherwise indicated or the context otherwise requires, references herein to “LINN Energy” refer to Linn Energy, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

In April 2018, the Parent announced its intention to separate Riviera from LINN Energy.  To effect the separation, the Parent and certain of its then direct and indirect subsidiaries undertook an internal reorganization (including the conversion of Riviera Resources, LLC from a limited liability company to a corporation named Riviera Resources, Inc.), following which Riviera holds, directly or through its subsidiaries, substantially all of the assets of LINN Energy, other than LINN Energy’s 50% equity interest in Roan Resources LLC (“Roan”).  A subsidiary of the Company held the equity interest in Roan until the Parent’s internal reorganization on July 25, 2018 (the “Reorganization Date”).  Following the internal reorganization, the Parent distributed all of the outstanding shares of Riviera common stock to the Parent’s shareholders on a pro rata basis (the “Spin-off”).  The Spin-off was completed on August 7, 2018.  Prior to the completion of the Spin-off, a then subsidiary of the Parent distributed $40 million to the Parent to pay the Parent’s obligations during the transition period under the TSA (as defined below).  Linn Energy, Inc. returned such $40 million to Riviera on September 24, 2018, which included approximately $7 million for the reimbursement of cash paid to settle the Parent’s restricted stock units (“LINN RSUs”) held by Riviera’s employees and approximately $1 million for the payment of income taxes on shares withheld from participants upon vesting (see Note 13).

On August 7, 2018, Riviera entered into a Transition Services Agreement (the “TSA”) with the Parent to facilitate an orderly transition following the Spin-off.  Pursuant to the TSA, Riviera agreed to provide the Parent with certain finance, financial reporting, information technology, investor relations, legal, payroll, tax and other services during the term of the TSA.  Riviera reimbursed the Parent for, or paid on the Parent’s behalf, all direct and indirect costs and expenses incurred by the Parent during the term of the TSA in connection with the fees for any such services.  The TSA terminated in accordance with its terms on September 24, 2018.

Prior to the Spin-off, the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements were prepared on a stand-alone basis and derived from the Parent’s consolidated financial statements and accounting records for the periods presented as the Company was historically managed as a subsidiary of the Parent.

Historically, a subsidiary of the Company also owned a 50% equity interest in Roan.  The Company’s equity earnings (losses), consisting of its share of Roan’s earnings or losses, are included in the consolidated and combined financial statements through the Reorganization Date.  However, on the Reorganization Date, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  As such, the Company has classified the investment and equity earnings (losses) in Roan as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  See Note 4 for additional information.

Following the Spin-off, Riviera is an independent oil and natural gas company with a strategic focus on efficiently operating its mature low-decline assets, developing its growth-oriented assets, and returning capital to shareholders.  Riviera is quoted for trading on the OTCQX Market under the ticker “RVRA,” and the Parent did not retain any ownership interest in the Company.

85


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Nature of Business

At December 31, 2019, the Company’s upstream reporting segment properties were located in three operating regions in the United States (“U.S.”): East Texas, the Mid-Continent and North Louisiana.  The Blue Mountain reporting segment consists of a cryogenic natural gas processing facility and a network of gathering pipelines and compressors and produced water services located in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play, each of which is owned by Blue Mountain Midstream LLC (“Blue Mountain Midstream”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.  In the first quarter of 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin, the Overton field in East Texas and the Personville field in East Texas.  These properties are included in “assets held for sale” on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019.  During 2019, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Hugoton Basin and Michigan/Illinois operating regions.  During 2018, the Company divested all of its properties located in the Permian Basin operating region.  During 2017, the Company divested all of its properties located in the California and South Texas operating regions.  The Company has classified the results of operations and cash flows of its California properties as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  See Note 4 for additional information.

Principles of Consolidation and Combination

The Company presents its consolidated and combined financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).  The consolidated and combined financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.  Prior to the Spin-off, the consolidated and combined financial statements were prepared on a carve-out basis and reflect significant assumptions and allocations.  The consolidated and combined financial statements for previous periods include certain reclassifications that were made to conform to current presentation.  Such reclassifications have no impact on previously reported net income (loss), stockholders’ equity, or cash flows.

Investments in noncontrolled entities over which the Company exercises significant influence are accounted for under the equity method.  At December 31, 2019, the Company had no investments accounted for under the equity method.  See Note 4.

Allocations

Cash and cash equivalents held by the Parent were not allocated to Riviera unless they were held in a legal entity that transferred to Riviera.  All intracompany transactions between the Parent and Riviera are considered to be effectively settled in the consolidated and combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded.  The total net effect of the settlement of these intracompany transactions is reflected in the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity and in the consolidated balance sheets as net parent company investment.  Net parent company investment is primarily impacted by contributions from the Parent which are the result of treasury activities and net funding provided by or distributed to the Parent.

Historically, the Parent had no assets or operations independent from its subsidiaries.  Accordingly, the consolidated and combined financial statements include materially all of the Parent’s historical general and administrative expenses, including 100% of its employee-related expenses, as its personnel were employed by Riviera Operating, LLC (“Riviera Operating” formerly known as Linn Operating, LLC), a former subsidiary of the Parent that became a subsidiary of Riviera as part of the Spin-off.  The Company considers the methodology and results to be reasonable for all periods presented; however, these costs may not be indicative of the actual expenses that Riviera would have incurred as an independent public company or the costs it may incur in the future.

Bankruptcy Accounting

Upon LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy on February 28, 2017, the Parent adopted fresh start accounting which resulted in the Parent becoming a new entity for financial reporting purposes.  As a result of the adoption of fresh start accounting and the effects of the implementation of the Plan (as defined in Note 2), the Company’s consolidated financial statements subsequent to February 28, 2017, are not comparable to its consolidated and combined financial statements prior to February 28, 2017.  References to “Successor” relate to the financial position and results of operations of the reorganized

86


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Company subsequent to February 28, 2017.  References to “Predecessor” relate to the financial position of the Company prior to, and results of operations through and including, February 28, 2017.  The Company’s consolidated and combined financial statements and related footnotes are presented with a black line division, which delineates the lack of comparability between amounts presented after February 28, 2017, and amounts presented on or prior to February 28, 2017.  See Note 2 for additional information.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the accompanying consolidated and combined financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions about future events.  These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amount of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses.  The estimates that are particularly significant to the financial statements include estimates of the Company’s reserves of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGL”), future cash flows from oil and natural gas properties, depreciation, depletion and amortization, asset retirement obligations, certain revenues and operating expenses, fair values of commodity derivatives and deferred taxes.  In addition, as part of fresh start accounting, the Company made estimates and assumptions related to its reorganization value, the fair value of assets and liabilities recorded as a result of the adoption of fresh start accounting and income taxes.

As fair value is a market-based measurement, it is determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use.  These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment.  Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate.  As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ from these estimates.  Any changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) that is intended to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet.  The Company adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective effective date method and applied practical expedients which, among other things, allowed the Company to carryforward its historical lease classification, for the nonrecognition of short-term leases and for the combination of lease and non-lease components, by asset class.  The adoption of this ASU resulted in an increase in both assets and liabilities of approximately $1 million as of January 1, 2019, related to the Company’s leasing activities with no material impact to the Company’s results of operations.  The Company’s leases primarily include buildings, office equipment, and field equipment.  The Company elected to combine lease and non-lease components for leases of office equipment and field equipment.

New Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that is intended to change the impairment model for trade receivables, net investments in leases, debt securities, loans and certain other instruments.  Adoption of this standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those years.  Modified retrospective application of this standard is required upon adoption.  The Company does not expect that adoption will have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position.

Cash Equivalents

For purposes of the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.  Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit are included in “accounts payable and accrued expenses” on the consolidated balance sheets and are classified as financing activities on the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows.

87


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Accounts Receivable – Trade, Net

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest.  The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses inherent in its accounts receivable portfolio.  In establishing the required allowance, management considers historical losses, current receivables aging, and existing industry and national economic data.  The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts monthly.  Past due balances over 90 days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential recovery is remote.  The balance in the Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable was approximately $1 million and $397,000 at December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively.

Inventories

Materials, supplies and commodity inventories are valued at the lower of average cost and net realizable value and are included in “other current assets” on the consolidated balance sheets.

Oil and Natural Gas Properties

As a result of the application of fresh start accounting, the Company recorded its oil and natural gas properties at fair value as of the Effective Date (as defined in Note 2).  See Note 2 for additional information.

Proved Properties

The Company accounts for oil and natural gas properties in accordance with the successful efforts method.  In accordance with this method, all leasehold and development costs of proved properties are capitalized and amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the remaining life of the proved reserves and proved developed reserves, respectively.  Costs of retired, sold or abandoned properties that constitute a part of an amortization base are charged or credited, net of proceeds, to accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization unless doing so significantly affects the unit-of-production amortization rate, in which case a gain or loss is recognized currently.  Gains or losses from the disposal of other properties are recognized currently.  Expenditures for maintenance and repairs necessary to maintain properties in operating condition are expensed as incurred.  Estimated dismantlement and abandonment costs are capitalized, net of salvage, at their estimated net present value and amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the remaining life of the related proved developed reserves.  The Company capitalizes interest on borrowed funds related to its share of costs associated with the drilling and completion of new oil and natural gas wells.  Interest is capitalized only during the periods in which these assets are brought to their intended use.  Capitalized interest costs were not material for the year ended December 31, 2019, or the ten months ended December 31, 2017.  The Company did not capitalize any interest costs during the year ended December 31, 2018, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

The Company evaluates the impairment of its proved oil and natural gas properties on a field-by-field basis whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  The carrying values of proved properties are reduced to fair value when the expected undiscounted future cash flows of proved and risk-adjusted probable and possible reserves are less than net book value.  The fair values of proved properties are measured using valuation techniques consistent with the income approach, converting future cash flows to a single discounted amount.  Significant inputs used to determine the fair values of proved properties include estimates of: (i) reserves; (ii) future operating and development costs; (iii) future commodity prices; and (iv) a market-based weighted average cost of capital rate.  These inputs require assumptions by the Company’s management at the time of the valuation and are the most sensitive and subject to change.  The underlying commodity prices embedded in the Company’s estimated cash flows are the product of a process that begins with New York Mercantile Exchange (“NYMEX”) forward curve pricing, adjusted for estimated location and quality differentials, as well as other factors that Company management believes will impact realizable prices.

Based on the analysis described above, for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company recorded noncash impairment charges of approximately $208 million and $16 million, respectively, associated with proved oil and natural gas properties.  In 2019, approximately $207 million relates to assets sold or assets held for sale at December 31, 2019.  The impairment charges recorded in 2019 and 2018 were primarily due to a decline in commodity prices and higher operating costs. The carrying values of the impaired proved properties were reduced to fair value, estimated using inputs characteristic of a Level 3 fair value measurement.  The impairment charges are included in

88


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

“impairment of assets held for sale and long-lived assets” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  The Company recorded no impairment charges associated with proved properties during the ten months ended December 31, 2017, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Unproved Properties

Costs related to unproved properties include costs incurred to acquire unproved reserves.  Because these reserves do not meet the definition of proved reserves, the related costs are not classified as proved properties.  Unproved leasehold costs are capitalized and amortized on a composite basis if individually insignificant, based on past success, experience and average lease-term lives.  Individually significant leases are reclassified to proved properties if successful and expensed on a lease by lease basis if unsuccessful or the lease term expires.  Unamortized leasehold costs related to successful exploratory drilling are reclassified to proved properties and depleted on a unit-of-production basis.

The Company evaluates the impairment of its unproved oil and natural gas properties whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.  The carrying values of unproved properties are reduced to fair value based on management’s experience in similar situations and other factors such as the lease terms of the properties and the relative proportion of such properties on which proved reserves have been found in the past.

The Company recorded no impairment charges associated with unproved properties for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Exploration Costs

Exploratory geological and geophysical costs, delay rentals, amortization and impairment of unproved leasehold costs and costs to drill exploratory wells that do not find proved reserves are expensed as exploration costs.  The costs of any exploratory wells are carried as an asset if the well finds a sufficient quantity of reserves to justify its capitalization as a producing well and as long as the Company is making sufficient progress towards assessing the reserves and the economic and operating viability of the project.

Other Property and Equipment

Other property and equipment includes natural gas gathering systems, pipelines, furniture and office equipment, buildings, vehicles, information technology equipment, software and other fixed assets.  These assets are recorded at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method based on expected lives ranging from one to 10 years for vehicles, equipment and other fixed assets, 20 to 39 years for buildings and 20 to 30 years for plants and pipelines.

Derivative Instruments

The Company hedges a portion of its forecasted production to reduce exposure to fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices and provide long-term cash flow predictability to manage its business.  The Company also hedges its exposure to natural gas differentials in certain operating areas.  In addition, the Company has hedged purchase costs and margins of its Blue Mountain Midstream Business.

The Company enters into commodity hedging transactions primarily in the form of fixed price swap contracts that are designed to provide a fixed price, collars, basis swaps, margin spreads and, from time to time, put options that are designed to provide a fixed price floor with the opportunity for upside.  The Company enters into these transactions with respect to a portion of its projected production to provide an economic hedge of the risk related to the future commodity prices received or paid.  The Company does not enter into derivative contracts for trading purposes.

A fixed price swap contract specifies a fixed price that the Company will receive from the counterparty as compared to floating market prices, and on the settlement date the Company will receive or pay the difference between the swap price and the market price.  Collar contracts specify floor and ceiling prices to be received as compared to floating market prices.  A basis swap specifies a fixed basis differential to the NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas price.  A margin spread specifies a fixed basis spread between specified market hubs.  A put option requires the Company to pay the counterparty a premium equal to the fair value of the option at the purchase date and receive from the counterparty the excess, if any, of the fixed price floor over the market price at the settlement date.

89


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Derivative instruments are recorded at fair value and included on the consolidated balance sheets as assets or liabilities.  The Company did not designate any of its contracts as cash flow hedges; therefore, the changes in fair value of these instruments are recorded in current earnings.  The Company determines the fair value of its commodity derivatives utilizing pricing models that use a variety of techniques, including market quotes and pricing analysis.  Inputs to the pricing models include publicly available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation of data gathered from third parties.  Company management validates the data provided by third parties by understanding the pricing models used, obtaining market values from other pricing sources, analyzing pricing data in certain situations and confirming that those instruments trade in active markets.  Assumed credit risk adjustments, based on published credit ratings and public bond yield spreads are applied to the Company’s commodity derivatives.  See Note 7 and Note 8 for additional details about the Company’s derivative financial instruments.

Revenue from Contracts with Customers

Revenues representative of the Company’s ownership interest in its properties are presented on a gross basis on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  The Company recognizes sales of oil, natural gas and NGL when it satisfies a performance obligation by transferring control of the product to a customer, in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for a product.

Natural Gas and NGL Sales

The Company’s natural gas production is primarily sold under market-sensitive contracts that are typically priced at a differential to the published natural gas index price for the producing area due to the natural gas quality and the proximity to major consuming markets.

For its natural gas contracts, the Company generally records its wet gas sales at the wellhead or inlet of the plant as revenues net of transportation, gathering and processing expenses, and its residual natural gas and NGL sales at the tailgate of the plant on a gross basis along with the associated transportation, gathering and processing expenses.  All facts and circumstances of an arrangement are considered and judgment is often required in making this determination.

Oil Sales

The Company’s oil production is primarily sold under market-sensitive contracts that are typically priced at a differential to the NYMEX price or at purchaser posted prices for the producing area.  For its oil contracts, the Company generally records its sales based on the net amount received.

Production Imbalances

Upon adoption of fresh start accounting on February 28, 2017, the Company elected the sales method to account for natural gas production imbalances.  If the Company’s sales volumes for a well exceed the Company’s proportionate share of production from the well, a liability is recognized to the extent that the Company’s share of estimated remaining recoverable reserves from the well is insufficient to satisfy this imbalance.  No receivables are recorded for those wells on which the Company has taken less than its proportionate share of production.  The Predecessor had applied the entitlements method to account for natural gas production imbalances in previous periods.

Marketing Revenues

The Company engages in the purchase, gathering and transportation of third-party natural gas and subsequently markets such natural gas to independent purchasers under separate arrangements.  As such, the Company separately reports third-party marketing revenues and marketing expenses.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes expense for share-based compensation over the requisite service period in an amount equal to the fair value of share-based awards granted.  The fair value of liability classified awards is remeasured at each reporting date through the settlement date with the change in fair value recognized as compensation expense over that period.  The Company has made a policy decision to recognize compensation expense for service-based awards on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.  The Company accounts for forfeitures as they occur.  See Note 13 for additional details about the Company’s accounting for share-based compensation.

90


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Deferred Financing Fees

The Company has incurred legal and bank fees related to the issuance of debt.  At December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, net deferred financing fees of approximately $3 million and $5 million, respectively, were included in “other noncurrent assets” on the consolidated balance sheets.  These debt issuance costs are amortized over the life of the debt agreement.  Upon early retirement or amendment to the debt agreement, certain fees are written off to expense.

For the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, amortization expense of approximately $3 million, $2 million, $1 million and $1 million, respectively, is included in “interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, and the ten months ended December 31, 2017, approximately $700,000 and $3 million, respectively, was written off to expense and included in “other, net” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations related to amendments of the credit facilities.  No fees were written off to expense for the year ended December 31, 2018, or the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying values of the Company’s receivables, payables and credit facilities are estimated to be substantially the same as their fair values at December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018.  As noted above, the Company carries its derivative financial instruments at fair value.  See Note 8 for details about the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments.

Income Taxes

For periods prior to the Spin-off, income tax expense and deferred tax balances were calculated on a separate tax return basis although Riviera’s operations have historically been included in the tax returns filed by the Parent, of which Riviera’s business was a part.  Beginning August 8, 2018, as a stand-alone entity, Riviera files tax returns on its own behalf and its deferred taxes and effective tax rate may differ from those in the historical periods.  Upon completion of the Spin-off, on August 8, 2018, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset, the calculation of which, relied on estimates and assumptions related to the value of the company and its oil and natural gas reserves.

During the third quarter of 2019, and for the first time since Riviera’s inception, the Company’s earnings show a cumulative loss which is primarily due to losses generated during 2019.  Based on the cumulative loss and projections of future taxable income for the periods in which our deferred tax assets are deductible, during the third quarter of 2019, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance to reduce its federal and state net deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.

Effective February 28, 2017, upon LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy, LINN Energy became a C corporation subject to federal and state income taxes.  Prior to February 28, 2017, the Predecessor to LINN Energy was a limited liability company treated as a partnership for federal and state income tax purposes, with the exception of the state of Texas, in which income tax liabilities and/or benefits were passed through to its unitholders.  Limited liability companies are subject to Texas margin tax.  In addition, certain of the Predecessor’s subsidiaries were C corporations subject to federal and state income taxes.  As such, with the exception of the state of Texas and certain subsidiaries prior to February 28, 2017, the Predecessor did not directly pay federal and state income taxes and recognition was not given to federal and state income taxes for the operations of the Predecessor.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and tax carryforwards.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.  See Note 15 for additional details of the Company’s accounting for income taxes.

91


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Note 2 – Emergence From Voluntary Reorganization Under Chapter 11 and Fresh Start Accounting

On May 11, 2016, (the “Petition Date”), Linn Energy, LLC, certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, and LinnCo, LLC (collectively, the “LINN Debtors”) and Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry”) (collectively with the LINN Debtors, the “Debtors”) filed Bankruptcy Petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the Bankruptcy Court.  The Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases were administered jointly under the caption In re Linn Energy, LLC, et al., Case No. 16‑60040.

On December 3, 2016, the LINN Debtors filed the Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of Linn Energy, LLC and Its Debtor Affiliates Other Than Linn Acquisition Company, LLC and Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (the “Plan”).  The LINN Debtors subsequently filed amended versions of the Plan with the Bankruptcy Court.

On December 13, 2016, LAC and Berry filed the Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of Linn Acquisition Company, LLC and Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (the “Berry Plan” and together with the Plan, the “Plans”).  LAC and Berry subsequently filed amended versions of the Berry Plan with the Bankruptcy Court.

On January 27, 2017, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order approving and confirming the Plans (the “Confirmation Order”).  On February 28, 2017, (the “Effective Date”), the Debtors satisfied the conditions to effectiveness of the respective Plans, the Plans became effective in accordance with their respective terms and LINN Energy and Berry emerged from bankruptcy as stand-alone, unaffiliated entities.

The consolidated and combined financial statements include an allocation of Linn Energy, LLC’s third-party debt that was outstanding prior to its emergence from bankruptcy on February 28, 2017.  As a result of this allocation, the Company’s consolidated and combined statements of operations include interest expense, amortization of deferred financing fees and gains on debt extinguishment related to such debt.  On the Effective Date of the Plan (as defined below), all outstanding obligations under Linn Energy, LLC’s credit facility, second lien notes and senior notes were canceled pursuant to the terms of the Plan.  Subsequent to LINN Energy’s emergence from bankruptcy, Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, (“Holdco II”) a newly formed wholly owned subsidiary of the Parent, was the borrower of all third-party debt.  Such debt and related interest expense are also included in the consolidated financial statements.

Reorganization Items, Net

For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recognized a gain of approximately $14 million related to settlement of liabilities subject to compromise associated with the Chapter 11 proceeding.  The Company incurred reorganization costs of approximately $957,000, $5 million and $9 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, and the ten months ended December 31, 2017, respectively, and recognized significant gains associated with the reorganization of the Company in connection with the Chapter 11 proceedings in the two months ended February 28, 2017.  Reorganization items represent costs and income directly associated with the Chapter 11 proceedings since the Petition Date, and also include adjustments to reflect the carrying value of certain liabilities subject to compromise at their estimated allowed claim amounts, as such adjustments were determined.

92


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on settlement of liabilities subject to

   compromise

 

$

14,316

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

3,914,964

 

Recognition of an additional claim for the

   Predecessor’s second lien notes settlement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,000,000

)

Fresh start valuation adjustments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(591,525

)

Income tax benefit related to implementation of

   the Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

264,889

 

Legal and other professional fees

 

 

(957

)

 

 

(5,055

)

 

 

(8,584

)

 

 

(46,961

)

Terminated contracts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(6,915

)

Other

 

 

 

 

 

(104

)

 

 

51

 

 

 

(13,315

)

Reorganization items, net

 

$

13,359

 

 

$

(5,159

)

 

$

(8,533

)

 

$

2,521,137

 

 

Note 3 – Revenues

In May 2014, the FASB issued an ASU that is intended to improve and converge the financial reporting requirements for revenue from contracts with customers (“ASC 606”).  The Company adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective transition method.  Accordingly, the comparative information for the year ended December 31, 2017, has not been adjusted and continues to be reported under the previous revenue standard.  The adoption of this ASU impacted the Company’s gross revenues and expenses as reported on its consolidated statements of operations (see below), and resulted in increased disclosures regarding the Company’s disaggregation of revenue.

Under ASC 606, the Company recognizes revenues based on a determination of when control of its commodities is transferred and whether it is acting as a principal or agent in certain transactions.  All facts and circumstances of an arrangement are considered and judgment is often required in making this determination.  For its natural gas contracts, the Company generally records its sales at the wellhead or inlet of the plant as revenues net of transportation, gathering and processing expenses if the processor is the customer and there is no redelivery of commodities to the Company.  Conversely, the Company generally records its sales at the tailgate of the plant on a gross basis along with the associated transportation, gathering and processing expenses if the processor is a service provider and there is redelivery of commodities to the Company.

In its midstream operations, the Company recognizes service fees for processing of commodities purchased as a reduction to the purchase price of those commodities rather than as revenues.  This recognition results in a decrease to revenues and expenses with no material impact on net income.

93


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

The items discussed above impacted the Company’s reported “oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales,” “marketing revenues,” “other revenues,” “transportation expenses,” “marketing expenses” and “interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.”  The impact of adoption on the Company’s current period results is as follows:

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Under

ASC 606

 

 

Under Prior

Rule

 

 

Increase/

(Decrease)

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas sales

 

$

250,831

 

 

$

251,810

 

 

$

(979

)

Oil sales

 

 

74,696

 

 

 

74,696

 

 

 

 

NGL sales

 

 

94,575

 

 

 

93,728

 

 

 

847

 

Total oil, natural gas and NGL sales

 

 

420,102

 

 

 

420,234

 

 

 

(132

)

Marketing revenues

 

 

245,081

 

 

 

270,101

 

 

 

(25,020

)

Other revenues

 

 

23,880

 

 

 

22,669

 

 

 

1,211

 

 

 

 

689,063

 

 

 

713,004

 

 

 

(23,941

)

Expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transportation expenses

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

83,694

 

 

 

(132

)

Marketing expenses

 

 

220,971

 

 

 

245,991

 

 

 

(25,020

)

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

 

 

2,417

 

 

 

2,088

 

 

 

329

 

Net income

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

39,725

 

 

$

882

 

 

Disaggregation of Revenue

The following tables present the Company’s disaggregated revenues by source and geographic area:

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019

 

 

 

Natural

Gas

 

 

Oil

 

 

NGL

 

 

Oil, Natural

Gas and

NGL Sales

 

 

Marketing

Revenues

 

 

Other

Revenues

 

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugoton Basin

 

$

57,752

 

 

$

1,394

 

 

$

27,115

 

 

$

86,261

 

 

$

49,639

 

 

$

19,126

 

 

$

155,026

 

Mid-Continent

 

 

15,320

 

 

 

24,937

 

 

 

6,486

 

 

 

46,743

 

 

 

7

 

 

 

112

 

 

 

46,862

 

East Texas

 

 

35,906

 

 

 

3,335

 

 

 

2,325

 

 

 

41,566

 

 

 

3,464

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

45,038

 

Michigan/Illinois

 

 

13,551

 

 

 

1,869

 

 

 

47

 

 

 

15,467

 

 

 

 

 

 

85

 

 

 

15,552

 

North Louisiana

 

 

24,981

 

 

 

2,690

 

 

 

1,044

 

 

 

28,715

 

 

 

1,464

 

 

 

23

 

 

 

30,202

 

Uinta Basin

 

 

16,268

 

 

 

86

 

 

 

5

 

 

 

16,359

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

 

 

16,360

 

Permian Basin

 

 

 

 

 

942

 

 

 

 

 

 

942

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

942

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

159,706

 

 

 

 

 

 

159,706

 

Total

 

$

163,778

 

 

$

35,253

 

 

$

37,022

 

 

$

236,053

 

 

$

214,280

 

 

$

19,355

 

 

$

469,688

 

 

94


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Natural

Gas

 

 

Oil

 

 

NGL

 

 

Oil, Natural

Gas and

NGL Sales

 

 

Marketing

Revenues

 

 

Other

Revenues

 

 

Total

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hugoton Basin

 

$

86,995

 

 

$

3,352

 

 

$

70,619

 

 

$

160,966

 

 

$

100,331

 

 

$

23,655

 

 

$

284,952

 

Mid-Continent

 

 

36,336

 

 

 

26,765

 

 

 

14,046

 

 

 

77,147

 

 

 

 

 

 

58

 

 

 

77,205

 

East Texas

 

 

54,278

 

 

 

4,302

 

 

 

3,991

 

 

 

62,571

 

 

 

1,621

 

 

 

15

 

 

 

64,207

 

Michigan/Illinois

 

 

30,472

 

 

 

3,112

 

 

 

42

 

 

 

33,626

 

 

 

 

 

 

113

 

 

 

33,739

 

North Louisiana

 

 

25,253

 

 

 

4,997

 

 

 

985

 

 

 

31,235

 

 

 

1,111

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

32,352

 

Uinta Basin

 

 

15,171

 

 

 

11,480

 

 

 

2,702

 

 

 

29,353

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

29,353

 

Permian Basin

 

 

2,326

 

 

 

20,688

 

 

 

2,190

 

 

 

25,204

 

 

 

 

 

 

33

 

 

 

25,237

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

142,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

142,018

 

Total

 

$

250,831

 

 

$

74,696

 

 

$

94,575

 

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

245,081

 

 

$

23,880

 

 

$

689,063

 

 

Contract Balances

Under the Company’s product sales contracts, its customers are invoiced once the Company’s performance obligations have been satisfied, at which point payment is unconditional.  Accordingly, the Company’s product sales contracts do not give rise to material contract assets or contract liabilities.

The Company had trade accounts receivable related to revenue from contracts with customers of approximately $43 million and $107 million as of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively.

Performance Obligations

The majority of the Company’s sales are short-term in nature with a contract term of one year or less.  For those contracts, the Company utilized the practical expedient in ASC 606-10-50-14 exempting the Company from disclosure of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations if the performance obligation is part of a contract that has an original expected duration of one year or less.

For the Company’s product sales that have a contract term greater than one year, the Company utilized the practical expedient in ASC 606-10-50-14(A) which states the Company is not required to disclose the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations if the variable consideration is allocated entirely to a wholly unsatisfied performance obligation.  Under these sales contracts, each unit of product generally represents a separate performance obligation; therefore future volumes are wholly unsatisfied and disclosure of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations is not required.

Note 4 – Divestitures and Discontinued Operations

Divestitures – 2019

On November 22, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in the remaining properties located in the Hugoton Basin (the “Hugoton Basin Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $286 million.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $100 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.  In connection with the Hugoton Basin Assets Sale, the buyer also acquired the Company’s interests in Mayzure, LLC (“Mayzure”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, which was the counterparty to the volumetric production payment agreements based on helium produced from certain oil and natural gas properties in the Hugoton Basin.

The Company recognized a pre-tax loss of approximately $88 million, pre-tax income of approximately $50 million, pre-tax income of $50 million and pre-tax income of approximately $12 million for the years ended December 31, 2019,

95


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, from the Hugoton Basin.

On September 5, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Illinois.  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $4 million.

On August 30, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-core assets located in North Louisiana.  Cash proceeds from the sale were approximately $2 million and the Company recorded a net gain of approximately $376,000.

On July 3, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Michigan (the “Michigan Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $39 million.  The Company recorded a noncash impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value of approximately $18 million for the year ended December 31, 2019.

On May 31, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in non-operated properties located in the Hugoton Basin in Kansas.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million and the Company recognized a net loss of approximately $10 million.

On January 17, 2019, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Arkoma Basin in Oklahoma (the “Arkoma Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $64 million (including a deposit of approximately $5 million received in 2018), and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $28 million.

The divestitures discussed above are not presented as discontinued operations because they do not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.  The gains and losses on these divestitures are included in “(gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations and were included in the upstream reporting segment.

Blue Mountain Midstream entered into an agreement with a potential customer to construct a gathering system, as well as gather and process gas.  During the third quarter of 2019, a decision was made not to proceed with the gas gathering and processing contract, and as a result, the customer reimbursed Blue Mountain Midstream for capital deployed and operating expenses incurred, in addition to paying a success fee for constructing the assets.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream received a capital reimbursement of approximately $20 million.  Blue Mountain Midstream also received approximately $4 million for the success fee and the expense reimbursement, which is included in “(gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statement of operations.

Divestitures – Subsequent Events

On January 15, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interests in non-operated properties located in the Drunkards Wash field in the Uinta Basin (the “Drunkards Wash Asset Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $4 million (including a deposit of approximately $450,000 received in 2019).

On January 31, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Overton field in East Texas (the “Overton Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $17 million (including a deposit of approximately $2 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $13 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On February 14, 2020, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Personville field in East Texas (the “Personville Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds from the sale of these properties were approximately $29 million (including a deposit of approximately $3 million received in 2019).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $72 million to reduce the carrying value of these assets to fair value.

On November 20, 2019, the Company signed an agreement to sell its building located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for an amended contract price of $21 million.  The sale is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020.  During the year ended

96


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a noncash impairment charge of approximately $5 million to reduce the carrying value of this asset to fair value.

The assets and liabilities associated with the sale of the Oklahoma office building, the Drunkards Wash Asset Sale, the Overton Assets Sale and the Personville Assets Sale are classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.  The assets and liabilities associated with the Arkoma Assets Sale are classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018.

The following table presents carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities of the Company’s properties classified as held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and natural gas properties

 

$

17,732

 

 

$

38,083

 

Other property and equipment

 

 

85,798

 

 

 

152

 

Other

 

 

1,243

 

 

 

161

 

Total assets held for sale

 

$

104,773

 

 

$

38,396

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Asset retirement obligations

 

$

33,542

 

 

$

2,700

 

Other

 

 

1,635

 

 

 

1,025

 

Total liabilities held for sale

 

$

35,177

 

 

$

3,725

 

Other assets primarily include inventories and other liabilities primarily include accounts payable.

Divestitures – 2018

On April 10, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its conventional properties located in New Mexico.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $14 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $12 million.

On April 4, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Altamont Bluebell Field in Utah (the “Altamont Bluebell Assets Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $129 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $2 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $83 million.

On March 29, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its interest in conventional properties located in west Texas.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $105 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $2 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $54 million.

On February 28, 2018, the Company completed the sale of its Oklahoma waterflood and Texas Panhandle properties.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $108 million (including a deposit of approximately $12 million received in 2017), net of costs to sell of approximately $1 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $46 million.

The divestitures discussed above are not presented as discontinued operations because they do not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.  The gains on these divestitures are included in “(gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations and were included in the upstream reporting segment.

97


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Divestitures – 2017

On November 30, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Williston Basin.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $255 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $3 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $116 million.

On November 30, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Wyoming.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $193 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $2 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $175 million.

On September 12, 2017, August 1, 2017, and July 31, 2017, the Company completed the sales of its interest in certain properties located in south Texas.  Combined cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $48 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $1 million, and the Company recognized a combined net gain of approximately $14 million.

On August 23, 2017, July 28, 2017, and May 9, 2017, the Company completed the sales of its interest in certain properties located in Texas and New Mexico.  Combined cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $31 million and the Company recognized a combined net gain of approximately $29 million.

On June 30, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the Salt Creek Field in Wyoming.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $73 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $1 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $30 million.

On May 31, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in western Wyoming.  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $559 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $6 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $277 million.

The divestitures discussed above are not presented as discontinued operations because they do not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.  The gains on these divestitures are included in “gains (losses) on sale of assets and other, net” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

Discontinued Operations

As discussed in Note 1, historically, a subsidiary of the Company owned the equity interest in Roan.  However, on the Reorganization Date, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.  On August 31, 2017, the Parent, through certain of its then subsidiaries, completed the transaction in which the Company and Citizen Energy II, LLC (“Citizen II”) each contributed certain upstream assets located in Oklahoma to a newly formed company, Roan (such contribution, the “Roan Contribution”), which was focused on the accelerated development of the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play.  In exchange for their respective contributions, a subsidiary of the Company and Citizen II each received a 50% equity interest in Roan.

The Company used the equity method of accounting for its investment in Roan.  The Company’s equity earnings (losses) consisted of its share of Roan’s earnings or losses and the amortization of the difference between the Company’s investment in Roan and Roan’s underlying net assets attributable to certain assets and were classified as discontinued operations on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

98


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

The following are summarized statements of operations information for Roan.

 

 

January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018

 

 

Four Months Ended December 31, 2017

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues and other

 

$

176,341

 

 

$

75,461

 

Expenses

 

 

150,096

 

 

 

61,790

 

Other income and (expenses)

 

 

(4,260

)

 

 

(1,180

)

Net income

 

$

21,985

 

 

$

12,491

 

 

For the period from January 1, 2018 through July 25, 2018, the Company recorded equity losses from its historical 50% interest in Roan of approximately $16 million (net of income tax expense of approximately $6 million).  For the four months ended December 31, 2017, the Company’s equity earnings from its historical 50% interest in Roan was approximately $7 million (net of income tax expense of approximately $4 million).  The equity earnings and losses are included in “income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

On July 31, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in the San Joaquin Basin in California to Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (the “San Joaquin Basin Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $253 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $4 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $120 million.  The gain is included in “income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

On July 21, 2017, the Company completed the sale of its interest in properties located in Los Angeles Basin in California to Bridge Energy LLC (the “Los Angeles Basin Sale”).  Cash proceeds received from the sale of these properties were approximately $93 million, net of costs to sell of approximately $2 million, and the Company recognized a net gain of approximately $2 million.  In addition, in 2019 and 2018, the Company received additional contingent payments of approximately $5 million and $7 million, respectively, related to the satisfaction of certain operational requirements resulting in net gains of approximately $4 million and $5 million, respectively.  The gains are included in “income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

As a result of the Company’s strategic exit from California in 2017 (completed by the San Joaquin Basin Sale and the Los Angeles Basin Sale), the Company classified the results of operations and cash flows of its California properties as discontinued operations on its consolidated and combined financial statements.  The California properties were included in the upstream reporting segment.

The following table presents summarized financial results of the Company’s California properties classified as discontinued operations on the consolidated and combined statements of operations:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31, 2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28, 2017

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues and other

 

$

34,096

 

 

$

14,891

 

Expenses

 

 

19,479

 

 

 

13,758

 

Other income and (expenses)

 

 

(3,541

)

 

 

(1,681

)

Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes

 

 

11,076

 

 

 

(548

)

Income tax expense

 

 

4,165

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income

    taxes

 

$

6,911

 

 

$

(548

)

99


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Other income and (expenses) includes an allocation of interest expense for the California properties which represents interest on debt that was required to be repaid as a result of the sales.  In addition, for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, the Company recognized a net gain on the sale of the California properties of approximately $76 million (net of income tax expense of approximately $46 million).

Note 5 – Other Property and Equipment

Other property and equipment consists of the following:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas plant and pipeline

 

$

346,861

 

 

$

523,253

 

Furniture and office equipment

 

 

34,797

 

 

 

40,277

 

Buildings and leasehold improvements

 

 

2,230

 

 

 

24,974

 

Vehicles

 

 

2,672

 

 

 

9,011

 

Land

 

 

2,101

 

 

 

6,258

 

Drilling and other equipment

 

 

190

 

 

 

2,471

 

 

 

 

388,851

 

 

 

606,244

 

Less accumulated depreciation

 

 

(50,381

)

 

 

(62,368

)

 

 

$

338,470

 

 

$

543,876

 

 

Note 6 – Debt

Fair Value

The Company’s debt is recorded at the carrying amount on the consolidated balance sheets.  The carrying amounts of the Credit Facilities approximate fair value because the interest rates are variable and reflective of market rates.

Riviera Credit Facility

On August 4, 2017, the Parent entered into a credit agreement with Holdco II, as borrower, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, and the lenders and agents party thereto, providing for a new senior secured reserve-based revolving loan facility (the “Riviera Credit Facility”) with $500 million in borrowing commitments and an initial borrowing base of $500 million.  In January 2019, in connection with the closing of the Arkoma Assets Sale, the borrowing base was reduced to $385 million.  In March 2019, the Company entered into an amendment to the Riviera Credit Facility to, among other things, allow for the issuance of the Mayzure Notes.  The amendment did not result in a change to the borrowing base or maximum commitment.  In connection with the April 2019 semi-annual redetermination and the closing of the Hugoton non-operated properties in May 2019, the borrowing base was reduced from $385 million to $245 million.  In July 2019 in connection with the closing of the Michigan Asset Sale, the borrowing base was reduced from $245 million to $230 million.  On September 27, 2019, the Company entered into an amendment to the Riviera Credit Facility to, among other things, extend its maturity date to August 4, 2021.  The amendment resulted in a borrowing commitment reduction from $230 million to $90 million, primarily due to asset sales, with the next scheduled borrowing base redetermination to occur on April 1, 2020.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded a finance fee expense of approximately $700,000 related to writing off a portion of the unamortized deferred financing fees due to the reduction of the Riviera Credit Facility borrowing base in September 2019.

As of December 31, 2019, there were no borrowings outstanding under the Riviera Credit Facility and there was approximately $89 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a reduction of approximately $701,000 for outstanding letters of credit).  The maturity date is August 4, 2021.

100


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Redetermination of the borrowing base under the Riviera Credit Facility, based primarily on reserve reports using lender commodity price expectations at such time, occurs semi-annually, in April and October.

At the Company’s election, interest on borrowings under the Riviera Credit Facility is determined by reference to either the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin ranging from 2.00% to 3.00% per annum or the alternate base rate (“ABR”) plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.00% to 2.00% per annum, depending on utilization of the borrowing base.  Interest is generally payable in arrears quarterly for loans bearing interest based at the ABR and at the end of the applicable interest period for loans bearing interest at the LIBOR, or if such interest period is longer than three months, at the end of the three-month intervals during such interest period.  The Company is required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the Riviera Credit Facility, which accrues at a rate per annum of 0.50% on the average daily unused amount of the available revolving loan commitments of the lenders.

The obligations under the Riviera Credit Facility are secured by mortgages covering approximately 85% of the total value of the proved reserves of the oil and natural gas properties of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, along with liens on substantially all personal property of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries excluding Blue Mountain Midstream, and are guaranteed by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries, subject to customary exceptions.  Under the Riviera Credit Facility, the Company is required to maintain (i) a maximum total net debt to last twelve months EBITDA ratio of 4.0 to 1.0, and (ii) a minimum adjusted current ratio of 1.0 to 1.0.

The Riviera Credit Facility also contains affirmative and negative covenants, including compliance with laws (including environmental laws, ERISA and anti-corruption laws), maintenance of required insurance, delivery of quarterly and annual financial statements, oil and gas engineering reports and budgets, maintenance and operation of property (including oil and gas properties), restrictions on the incurrence of liens and indebtedness, mergers, consolidations and sales of assets, paying dividends or other distributions in respect of, or repurchasing or redeeming, the Company’s capital stock, making certain investments and transactions with affiliates.

The Riviera Credit Facility contains events of default and remedies customary for credit facilities of this nature.  Failure to comply with the financial and other covenants in the Riviera Credit Facility would allow the lenders, subject to customary cure rights, to require immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Riviera Credit Facility.

Blue Mountain Credit Facility

On August 10, 2018, Blue Mountain Midstream entered into a credit agreement with Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, and the lenders and agents party thereto, providing for a new senior secured revolving loan facility (the “Blue Mountain Credit Facility”), providing for an initial borrowing commitment of $200 million.  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility together with the Riviera Credit Facility, are referred to as the “Credit Facilities”).

Before Blue Mountain Midstream completed certain operational milestones (such completion of the operational milestones, the “Covenant Changeover Date”), a condition to any borrowing was that Blue Mountain Midstream’s consolidated total indebtedness to capitalization ratio (the “Debt/Cap Ratio”) be not greater than 0.35 to 1.00 upon giving effect to such borrowing.  As such, prior to the Covenant Changeover Date, the available borrowing capacity under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility was less than the aggregate amount of the lenders’ commitments at such time.  The Covenant Changeover Date occurred February 8, 2019, which increased the current borrowing availability to $200 million.  Blue Mountain Midstream no longer has to comply with the Debt/Cap Ratio as a condition to drawing and may borrow up to the total amount of the lenders’ aggregate commitments.  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility also provides for the ability to increase the aggregate commitments of the lenders to up to $400 million, subject to obtaining commitments for any such increase, which may result in an increase in Blue Mountain Midstream’s available borrowing capacity.  As of December 31, 2019, total borrowings outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility were approximately $70 million and there was approximately $117 million of available borrowing capacity (which includes a $13 million reduction for outstanding letters of credit).  The Blue Mountain Credit Facility matures on August 10, 2023.  As of January 31, 2020, total borrowings outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility were approximately $73 million and there was approximately $115 million of available capacity (which includes a $12 million reduction for outstanding letters of credit).

101


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

At Blue Mountain Midstream’s election, interest on borrowings under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility is determined by reference to either the LIBOR plus an applicable margin ranging from 2.00% to 3.00% per annum or the ABR plus an applicable margin ranging from 1.00% to 2.00% per annum, both depending on Blue Mountain Midstream’s consolidated total leverage ratio.  Interest is generally payable in arrears on the last day of March, June, September and December for loans bearing interest based at the ABR and at the end of the applicable interest period for loans bearing interest at the LIBOR, or if such interest period is longer than three months, at the end of three-month intervals during such interest period.

Blue Mountain Midstream is required under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility to pay a commitment fee to the lenders, which accrues at a rate per annum of 0.375% or 0.50% (depending on Blue Mountain Midstream’s consolidated total leverage ratio) on the average daily unused amount of the available revolving loan commitments of the lenders.

The Blue Mountain Credit Facility is secured by a first priority lien on substantially all the assets of Blue Mountain Midstream.  Under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility, Blue Mountain Midstream is required to maintain (i) a ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense no less than 2.50 to 1.00, (ii) a ratio of consolidated net debt to consolidated EBITDA (the “consolidated total leverage ratio”) no greater than 4.50 to 1.00 or 5.00 to 1.00, as applicable, and (iii) in case certain other kinds of indebtedness are outstanding, a ratio of consolidated net debt secured by a lien on property of Blue Mountain Midstream to consolidated EBITDA no greater than 3.00 to 1.00.

The Blue Mountain Credit Facility also contains affirmative and negative covenants customary for credit facilities of this nature, including compliance with laws (including environmental laws, ERISA and anti-corruption laws), maintenance of required insurance, delivery of quarterly and annual financial statements, budgets, maintenance and operation of property, restrictions on the incurrence of liens and indebtedness, mergers, consolidations and sales of assets and transactions with affiliates.

The Blue Mountain Credit Facility contains events of default and remedies customary for credit facilities of this nature.  If Blue Mountain Midstream does not comply with the covenants in the Blue Mountain Credit Facility, the lenders may, subject to customary cure rights, require immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Blue Mountain Credit Facility.

Note 7 – Derivatives

Commodity Derivatives

The following table presents derivative positions for the periods indicated as of December 31, 2019:

 

 

2020

 

Natural gas positions:

 

 

 

 

Fixed price swaps (NYMEX Henry Hub):

 

 

 

 

Hedged volume (MMMBtu)

 

 

10,980

 

Average price ($/MMBtu)

 

$

2.82

 

Oil positions:

 

 

 

 

Fixed price swaps (NYMEX WTI):

 

 

 

 

Hedged volume (MBbls)

 

 

201

 

Average price ($/Bbl)

 

$

63.85

 

Natural gas basis differential positions: (1)

 

 

 

 

PEPL basis swaps:

 

 

 

 

Hedged volume (MMMBtu)

 

 

7,320

 

Hedge differential

 

$

(0.45

)

(1)

Settled or to be settled, as applicable, on the indicated pricing index to hedge basis differential to the NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas price.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company entered into commodity derivative contracts consisting of natural gas fixed price swaps and NGL fixed price swaps for 2019 and oil fixed price swaps and natural gas basis swaps for 2020.  In July 2019, in connection with the closing of the Michigan Assets Sale, the Company canceled its MichCon natural gas basis

102


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

swaps for 2019 and 2020.  During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company entered into commodity derivative contracts consisting of natural gas basis swaps for March 2018 through December 2020, oil fixed price swaps for October 2018 through December 2020, natural gas fixed price swaps for 2019 and 2020, natural gas collars for 2019.  In addition, the Company entered into NGL fixed price swaps for 2019 to hedge purchase costs and margins of its Blue Mountain Midstream Business.  In April 2018, in connection with the closing of the Altamont Bluebell Assets Sale, the Company canceled its oil collars for 2018 and 2019.  The Company paid net cash settlements of approximately $20 million for the cancellations.

During the ten months ended December 31, 2017, the Company entered into commodity derivative contracts consisting of oil fixed price swaps for 2018 and natural gas fixed price swaps for 2018 and 2019.  The Company did not enter into any commodity derivative contracts during the two months ended February 28, 2017.

The natural gas derivatives are settled based on the closing price of NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas on the last trading day for the delivery month, which occurs on the third business day preceding the delivery month, or the relevant index prices of natural gas published in Inside FERC’s Gas Market Report on the first business day of the delivery month.  The oil derivatives are settled based on the average closing price of NYMEX WTI crude oil for each day of the delivery month.

Balance Sheet Presentation

The Company’s commodity derivatives are presented on a net basis in “derivative instruments” on the consolidated balance sheets.  See Note 8 for fair value disclosures about oil and natural gas commodity derivatives.  The following table summarizes the fair value of derivatives outstanding on a gross basis:

 

 

December

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

7,439

 

 

$

21,851

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

1,243

 

 

$

11,209

 

By using derivative instruments to economically hedge exposures to changes in commodity prices, the Company exposes itself to credit risk and market risk.  Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract.  When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes the Company, which creates credit risk.  A majority of the Company’s counterparties are participants in its Credit Facilities.  The Credit Facilities are secured by certain of the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and personal property.  The Company is not required to post any collateral.  The Company does not receive collateral from its counterparties.

The maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that the Company would incur if its counterparties failed completely to perform according to the terms of the contracts, based on the gross fair value of financial instruments, was approximately $7 million at December 31, 2019.  The Company minimizes the credit risk in derivative instruments by: (i) limiting its exposure to any single counterparty; (ii) entering into derivative instruments only with counterparties that meet the Company’s minimum credit quality standard, or have a guarantee from an affiliate that meets the Company’s minimum credit quality standard; and (iii) monitoring the creditworthiness of the Company’s counterparties on an ongoing basis.  In accordance with the Company’s standard practice, its commodity derivatives are subject to counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives and therefore the risk of loss due to counterparty nonperformance is somewhat mitigated.

103


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Gains and Losses on Derivatives

A summary of gains and losses on derivatives included on the consolidated and combined statements of operations is presented below:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

$

10,091

 

 

$

(23,404

)

 

$

13,533

 

 

$

92,691

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

(6,090

)

 

 

(1,839

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

$

4,001

 

 

$

(25,243

)

 

$

13,533

 

 

$

92,691

 

 

The Company received net cash settlements of approximately $8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, and paid approximately $39 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The Company received net cash settlements of approximately $27 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and paid net cash settlements of approximately $12 million for the two months ended February 28, 2017.

Note 8 – Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis

The Company accounts for its commodity derivatives at fair value (see Note 7) on a recurring basis.  The Company determines the fair value of its commodity derivatives utilizing pricing models that use a variety of techniques, including market quotes and pricing analysis.  Inputs to the pricing models include publicly available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation of data gathered from third parties.  Company management validates the data provided by third parties by understanding the pricing models used, obtaining market values from other pricing sources, analyzing pricing data in certain situations and confirming that those instruments trade in active markets.  Assumed credit risk adjustments, based on published credit ratings and public bond yield spreads, are applied to the Company’s commodity derivatives.

Fair Value Hierarchy

In accordance with applicable accounting standards, the Company has categorized its financial instruments into a three-level fair value hierarchy based on the priority of inputs to the valuation technique.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3).

Financial assets and liabilities recorded in the consolidated balance sheets are categorized based on the inputs to the valuation techniques as follows:

Level 1

 

Financial assets and liabilities for which values are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market that management has the ability to access.

 

 

Level 2

 

Financial assets and liabilities for which values are based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or model inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term of the asset or liability (commodity derivatives).

 

 

 

Level 3

 

Financial assets and liabilities for which values are based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.  These inputs reflect management’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the asset or liability.

When the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy in a liquid environment, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value

104


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

measurement in its entirety.  The Company conducts a review of fair value hierarchy classifications on a quarterly basis.  Changes in the observability of valuation inputs may result in a reclassification for certain financial assets or liabilities.

The following presents the fair value hierarchy for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

 

 

 

December 31, 2019

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Netting (1)

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

7,439

 

 

$

(156

)

 

$

7,283

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

1,243

 

 

$

(156

)

 

$

1,087

 

(1)

Represents counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives.

 

 

December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Level 2

 

 

Netting (1)

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

21,851

 

 

$

(6,490

)

 

$

15,361

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commodity derivatives

 

$

11,209

 

 

$

(6,490

)

 

$

4,719

 

(1)

Represents counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives.

Note 9 – Asset Retirement Obligations

The Company has the obligation to plug and abandon oil and natural gas wells and related equipment at the end of production operations.  Estimated asset retirement costs are recognized as liabilities with an increase to the carrying amounts of the related long-lived assets when the obligation is incurred.  The liabilities are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheets.  Accretion expense is included in “depreciation, depletion and amortization” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  The fair value of additions to the asset retirement obligations is estimated using valuation techniques that convert future cash flows to a single discounted amount.  Significant inputs to the valuation include estimates of: (i) plug and abandon costs per well based on existing regulatory requirements; (ii) remaining life per well; (iii) future inflation factors; and (iv) a credit-adjusted risk-free interest rate.  These inputs require significant judgments and estimates by the Company’s management at the time of the valuation and are the most sensitive and subject to change.

In addition, there is insufficient information to reasonably determine the timing and/or method of settlement for purposes of estimating the fair value of the asset retirement obligation of the majority of Blue Mountain Midstream’s assets.  In such cases, asset retirement obligation cost is considered indeterminate because there is no data or information that can be derived from past practice, industry practice, management’s experience, or the asset’s estimated economic life.  Indeterminate asset retirement obligation costs associated with Blue Mountain Midstream will be recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to reasonably estimate potential settlement dates and methods.

105


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

The following table presents a reconciliation of the Company’s asset retirement obligations:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Asset retirement obligations at beginning of period

 

$

105,259

 

 

$

164,553

 

Liabilities added from drilling

 

 

624

 

 

 

356

 

Liabilities associated with assets divested

 

 

(56,362

)

 

 

(62,388

)

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale

 

 

(33,542

)

 

 

(2,700

)

Current year accretion expense

 

 

5,521

 

 

 

7,235

 

Settlements

 

 

(1,525

)

 

 

(2,824

)

Revision of estimates

 

 

1,522

 

 

 

1,027

 

Asset retirement obligations at end of period

 

$

21,497

 

 

$

105,259

 

 

Note 10 – Commitments and Contingencies

On May 11, 2016, the Debtors filed voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (the “Bankruptcy Court”).  The Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases were administered jointly under the caption In re Linn Energy, LLC, et al., Case No. 16‑60040.  On January 27, 2017, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order approving and confirming the plan (the “Plan”) of reorganization of the Debtors.  Consummation of the Plan was subject to certain conditions set forth in the Plan.  On February 28, 2017, all of the conditions were satisfied or waived and the Plan became effective and was implemented in accordance with its terms.  On September 27, 2018, the Bankruptcy Court closed the LINN Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases, but retained jurisdiction as provided in the Confirmation Order.

The commencement of the Chapter 11 proceedings automatically stayed certain actions against the Company, including actions to collect prepetition liabilities or to exercise control over the property of the Company’s bankruptcy estates.  However, the Company is, and will continue to be until the final resolution of all claims, subject to certain contested matters and adversary proceedings stemming from the Chapter 11 proceedings, which are not affected by the closure of the LINN Debtors’ Chapter 11 cases.

The Company is not currently a party to any litigation or pending claims that it believes would have a material adverse effect on its overall business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity; however, cash flow could be significantly impacted in the reporting periods in which such matters are resolved.

Except for in connection with its Chapter 11 proceedings, the Company made no significant payments to settle any legal, environmental or tax proceedings during the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, or December 31, 2017.  The Company regularly analyzes current information and accrues for probable liabilities on the disposition of certain matters as necessary.  Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation or other sources are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated.

Note 11 – Operating Leases

Lessee

The Company leases office space and other property and equipment under lease agreements expiring on various dates through 2021.  The Company recognized expense under operating leases of approximately $3 million, $10 million, $6 million and $1 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively.

106


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

As of December 31, 2019, future minimum lease payments were as follows (in thousands):

2020

 

$

3,557

 

2021

 

 

1,751

 

2022

 

 

917

 

2023

 

 

 

2024

 

 

 

Thereafter

 

 

 

 

 

$

6,225

 

 

Lessor

At December 31, 2019, the Company leased a building located in Oklahoma to Roan and to a third party under lease agreements that had expiration dates in 2023 and 2024.  On November 20, 2019, the Company signed an agreement to sell the building (see Note 4).  The sale of the building is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020 and the leases will be terminated effective with the close of the sale.  The Company has no other lease agreements for which it is the lessor.  We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception.  None of our leases allow the lessee to purchase the leased asset.

Lease income for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, totaled approximately $2 million, $200,000, $200,000 and $40,000, respectively, not including amounts of variable lease payments that is excluded from the table below as the amounts cannot be reasonably estimated for future periods.

As of December 31, 2019, future minimum lease revenues were as follows (in thousands):

 

2020

 

$

1,998

 

2021

 

 

1,998

 

2022

 

 

1,998

 

2023

 

 

517

 

2024

 

 

129

 

Thereafter

 

 

 

 

 

$

6,640

 

 

Note 12 – Equity (Deficit)

For periods prior to the Spin-off, the Company’s equity consisted of net parent company investment.  “Net transfers to parent” on the consolidated and combined statements of equity is primarily related to cash distributed to the Parent, and for 2018, also includes the distribution of the investment in Roan of approximately $473 million on the Reorganization Date (see Note 1).  During the Successor period, cash distributions to the Parent were used primarily for the purposes of repurchasing shares of the Parent’s Class A common stock.  Upon completion of the Spin-off, net parent company investment was reclassified to “common stock” and “additional paid-in capital” on the consolidated balance sheet and consolidated and combined statement of equity.

Shares Issued and Outstanding

On August 7, 2018, upon completion of the Spin-off, there were 76,190,908 shares of Riviera’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share issued and outstanding.  As of December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, there were 58,168,756 shares and 69,197,284 shares, respectively, of common stock issued and outstanding.

107


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Share Repurchase Program

On July 18, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors increased the share repurchase authorization to $150 million of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 8,475,514 shares of common stock at an average price of $12.72 per share for a total cost of approximately $108 million.  Included in this number are private purchases of 2,380,425 shares of common stock purchased at a discount to market, at an average price of $10.91 for a total cost of approximately $26 million.  For the period from January 1, 2020 through February 21, 2020, the Company repurchased 171,107 shares of common stock at an average price of $7.84 for a total cost of approximately $1 million.  At February 21, 2020, approximately $23 million was available for share repurchases under the program.  Any share repurchases are subject to restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Tender Offer

On June 13, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors announced the intention to commence a tender offer to purchase $40 million of the Company’s common stock.  In July 2019, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Offer to Purchase dated June 18, 2019, the Company repurchased an aggregate of 2,666,666 shares of common stock at a price of $15.00 per share for a total cost of approximately $40 million (excluding expenses of approximately $440,000 related to the tender offer).

Dividends

Although the Company paid a one-time cash distribution on December 12, 2019, the Company is not currently paying a regular cash dividend; however, the Board of Directors periodically reviews the Company’s liquidity position to evaluate whether or not to pay a cash dividend.  Any future payment of cash dividends would be subject to the restrictions in the Riviera Credit Facility.

Cash Distributions

On November 21, 2019, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a cash distribution of $4.25 per share.  A cash distribution totaling approximately $249 million was paid on December 12, 2019, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2019.  In addition, approximately $11 million for potential future distributions was recorded in restricted cash at December 31, 2019.  In December 2019, distributions payable of approximately $2 million related to outstanding share-based compensation awards was also recorded.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

Note 13 – Share-Based Compensation and Other Benefits

Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan

In August 2018, the Company implemented the Riviera Resources, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan”) pursuant to which employees, consultants and non-employee directors of the Company and its affiliates are eligible to receive stock options, restricted stock, dividend equivalents, performance awards, other stock-based awards and other cash-based awards.

Pursuant to the Spin-off, on August 7, 2018, certain employees of the Company received 520,837 restricted stock units of the Company (“Riviera Legacy RSUs”).  Such Riviera Legacy RSUs were originally granted as LINN RSUs pursuant to the Linn Energy, Inc. 2017 Omnibus Plan (the “LINN Incentive Plan”), and in connection with the Spin-off, the holders of such LINN RSUs were issued one Riviera RSU in respect of each such outstanding LINN RSU.

As of December 31, 2019, 2,337,669 shares were issuable under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan pursuant to outstanding Riviera RSUs, including (i) the Riviera Legacy RSUs, (ii) 293,973 restricted stock units of the Company granted to certain employees of the Company (the “Restricted Shares” and together with Riviera Legacy RSUs, the “Riviera RSUs”) and (iii) 1,847,950 restricted stock units of the Company granted as performance units to certain employees of the Company (the “Performance Shares”) that, in the case of the Performance Shares, vest, if at all, based on the achievement of certain performance conditions specified in the award agreements.

108


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

The Committee (as defined in the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan) has broad authority under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan to, among other things: (i) select participants; (ii) determine the types of awards that participants receive and the number of shares that are subject to such awards; and (iii) establish the terms and conditions of awards, including the price (if any) to be paid for the shares or the award.  As of December 31, 2019, up to 1,618,159 shares of common stock were available for issuance under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan within the share reserve established under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan, 214,086 of which the Committee has designated for issuance as Restricted Shares and 89,958 of which the Committee has designated for issuance as Performance Shares.  If any stock option or other stock-based award granted under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan expires, terminates or is canceled for any reason without having been exercised in full, the number of shares of common stock underlying any unexercised award shall again be available for the purpose of awards under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan.  If any shares of restricted stock, performance awards or other stock-based awards denominated in shares of common stock awarded under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan are forfeited for any reason, the number of forfeited shares shall again be available for purposes of awards under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan.  Any award under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan settled in cash shall not be counted against the maximum share limitation.

As is customary in incentive plans of this nature, each share limit and the number and kind of shares available under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan and any outstanding awards, as well as the exercise or purchase prices of awards, and performance targets under certain types of performance-based awards, are subject to adjustment in the event of certain reorganizations, mergers, combinations, recapitalizations, stock splits, stock dividends or other similar events that change the number or kind of shares outstanding, and extraordinary dividends or distributions of property to the Company’s shareholders.

Blue Mountain Midstream Omnibus Incentive Plan

Blue Mountain Midstream is governed by its Second Amended and Restated Limited Liability Operating Agreement (as amended, the “BMM LLC Agreement”), which provides for two classes of membership units: Class A Units, of which 100% are held by Linn Holdco II (a wholly owned subsidiary of Riviera) and Class B Units.  Pursuant to the BMM LLC Agreement, Blue Mountain Midstream has the authority to issue an unlimited number of Class A Units and up to 58,750 Class B Units.  As of December 31, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream has issued 701,350 Class A Units and no Class B Units.

In July 2018, Blue Mountain Midstream adopted the Blue Mountain Midstream LLC 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (as amended, the “BMM Incentive Plan”) pursuant to which employees and consultants of Blue Mountain Midstream and its affiliates are eligible to receive unit options, restricted units, dividend equivalents, performance awards, other unit-based awards and other cash-based awards.  The Committee (as defined in the BMM Incentive Plan) has broad authority under the BMM Incentive Plan to, among other things: (i) select participants; (ii) determine the types of awards that participants receive and the number of units that are subject to such awards; and (iii) establish the terms and conditions of awards, including the price (if any) to be paid for the units or the award.  The aggregate number of units available for issuance under the BMM Incentive Plan matches the maximum number of Class B Units issuable by Blue Mountain Midstream.

As of December 31, 2019, under the BMM Incentive Plan, Blue Mountain Midstream had granted awards that could result in the issuance of 56,594 Class B Units or an equivalent value in cash, at the Board’s discretion.  The issued awards include 11,216 restricted security units (“BMM RSUs”) and 22,807 performance stock units (“BMM PSUs”) (45,614 at 200% of target).  The BMM RSUs can be paid, at the Board’s discretion, in cash or an equivalent number of Class B Units.  Payment for the BMM PSUs only occurs upon the achievement by Blue Mountain Midstream of a certain equity value (subject to certain adjustments) specified in the award agreements.  If such equity value is achieved, the recipient of the BMM PSU will receive a number of Class B Units (or an equivalent value in cash, at the Board’s discretion) equal to 50% to 200% of the target number of BMM PSUs held by such individual, as specified in the award agreements.

If any unit option or other unit-based award granted under the BMM Incentive Plan expires, terminates or is canceled for any reason without having been exercised in full, the number of units underlying any unexercised award shall again be available for the purpose of awards under the BMM Incentive Plan.  If any restricted units, performance awards or other unit-based awards denominated in units awarded under the BMM Incentive Plan are forfeited for any reason, the number of forfeited units shall again be available for purposes of awards under the BMM Incentive Plan.  Any award under the BMM Incentive Plan settled in cash shall not be counted against the maximum unit limitation.

109


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

As is customary in incentive plans of this nature, each unit limit and the number and kind of units available under the BMM Incentive Plan and any outstanding awards, as well as the exercise or purchase prices of awards, and performance targets under certain types of performance-based awards, are subject to adjustment in the event of certain reorganizations, mergers, combinations, recapitalizations, unit dividends or other similar events that change the number or kind of units outstanding, and extraordinary dividends or distributions of property to Blue Mountain Midstream’s unitholders.

LINN Awards

In January 2018, the Parent’s board of directors’ compensation committee approved a then one-time liquidity program under which the Parent agreed, at the option of the participant, to 1) settle all or a portion of an eligible participant’s LINN RSUs vesting on or before March 1, 2018, in cash, 2) repurchase all or a portion of any shares of LINN Class A common stock held by an eligible participant as a result of a prior vesting of restricted stock units, and/or 3) settle all or a portion of an eligible participant’s LINN RSUs vesting after March 1, 2018, upon involuntary termination of employment, in each case at an agreed upon price (the “Liquidity Program”).  For the period from January 1, 2018 through August 7, 2018, the Parent settled 1,028,875 LINN RSUs in cash and repurchased 120,829 shares of LINN Class A common stock for approximately $45 million pursuant to the Liquidity Program.

In April 2018, the Parent entered into agreements with each of its then serving executive officers, under which the Parent agreed, at the option of each officer, to repurchase certain of their LINN RSU awards and outstanding LINN Class A common stock.  Pursuant to those agreements immediately prior to the Spin-off, on August 7, 2018, the Parent repurchased an aggregate of 2,477,834 shares of LINN Class A common stock for a total cost of approximately $102 million.

Under the LINN Incentive Plan, upon a participant’s termination of employment and/or service (as applicable), the Parent had the right (but not the obligation) to repurchase all or any portion of the shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.001 per share of Linn Energy, Inc. (“LINN Class A common stock”), acquired pursuant to an award at a price equal to the fair market value (as determined under the LINN Incentive Plan) of the shares of LINN Class A common stock to be repurchased, measured as of the date of the Parent’s repurchase notice.  During May 2018, the Parent began exercising its right to repurchase vesting awards under the LINN Incentive Plan, which resulted in the modification of all awards then outstanding to liability classification.  For the period from May 11, 2018 through August 7, 2018, the Parent repurchased 302,410 LINN RSUs for a total cost of approximately $12 million pursuant to its right to repurchase vesting awards.

In addition, for the period from January 1, 2018 through August 7, 2018, the Parent paid approximately $24 million for the payment of income taxes on 585,397 shares withheld from participants upon vesting of LINN RSUs.

On August 2, 2018, the Parent’s board of directors authorized the termination of the LINN Incentive Plan following the settlement of all outstanding LINN RSUs and restricted common stock of the Parent.  In addition, all remaining unvested LINN RSUs were vested upon the Spin-off, exclusive of the one Riviera Legacy RSU issued associated with each unvested LINN RSU, which Riviera Legacy RSUs remain outstanding and unvested under the Riviera Omnibus Incentive Plan.  During August 2018 and September 2018, the Company settled 391,422 vested LINN RSUs in cash for approximately $7 million and approximately $1 million for the payment of income taxes on 50,537 shares withheld from participants upon vesting of LINN RSUs.  The LINN Incentive Plan terminated on September 17, 2018, following the settlement of all outstanding LINN RSUs and restricted common stock of the Parent.

Accounting for Share-Based Compensation

The consolidated and combined financial statements include 100% of the Parent’s employee-related expenses, as its personnel were employed by Riviera Operating, LLC, formerly known as Linn Operating, LLC, a subsidiary of the Parent that became a subsidiary of Riviera in connection with the Spin-off.  Compensation cost related to the grant of share-based awards has been recorded at the subsidiary level with a corresponding credit to liability or equity, representing the Parent’s capital contribution.

As a result of the Company’s history of cash settling awards, all unvested share-based compensation awards are liability classified.  At December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company recognized liabilities of approximately $10 million and $4 million, respectively, related to outstanding share based compensation awards.  These amounts are included in “other accrued liabilities” and “asset retirement obligations and other noncurrent liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheets.  All cash settlements of liability classified awards are classified as operating activities on the consolidated and combined

110


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

statements of cash flows.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company offered a partial cash conversion option to 118 grantees.  Incremental share-based compensation expense related to this modification was not material.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recorded incremental share-based compensation expense of approximately $28 million related to awards modified to liability classification in May 2018.

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General and administrative expenses (1)

 

$

10,618

 

 

$

131,828

 

 

$

41,285

 

 

$

50,255

 

Marketing expenses

 

 

159

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total share-based compensation expenses

 

$

10,777

 

 

$

131,828

 

 

$

41,285

 

 

$

50,255

 

Income tax benefit

 

$

 

 

$

8,846

 

 

$

9,861

 

 

$

5,170

 

(1)

The year ended December 31, 2018, includes approximately $123 million recorded by the Parent prior to the Spin-off.

Riviera Restricted Stock Units

The following summarizes Riviera’s restricted stock units activity:

 

 

Number of Nonvested Units

 

 

Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nonvested units at December 31, 2018

 

 

969,974

 

 

$

15.42

 

Granted

 

 

4,813

 

 

$

14.53

 

Vested

 

 

(436,158

)

 

$

15.45

 

Forfeited

 

 

(19,925

)

 

$

16.27

 

Modified

 

 

(28,985

)

 

$

15.41

 

Nonvested units at December 31, 2019

 

 

489,719

 

 

$

15.35

 

 

The total fair value of Riviera RSUs that vested during the year ended December 31, 2019, and during the period from August 7, 2018 through December 31, 2018, was approximately $6 million and $570,000, respectively.  As of December 31, 2019, there was approximately $2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested Riviera RSUs (inclusive of Restricted Shares).  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately one year.

During the year ended December 31, 2019, upon vesting of Riviera RSUs and at the election of participants, the Company repurchased 159,863 Riviera RSUs for a total cost of approximately $2 million.  In addition, 88,136 shares of common stock were issued to participants (net of statutory tax withholdings) upon vesting of Riviera RSUs.

111


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Blue Mountain Midstream Restricted Security Units

The following summarizes Blue Mountain Midstream’s restricted stock unit activity:

 

 

Number of Nonvested Units

 

 

Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nonvested units at December 31, 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

 

11,399

 

 

$

1,086.29

 

Vested

 

 

3,779

 

 

$

1,086.29

 

Forfeited

 

 

183

 

 

$

1,086.29

 

Nonvested units at December 31, 2019

 

 

7,437

 

 

$

1,086.29

 

 

Blue Mountain Midstream issued BMM RSUs for the first time during the year ended December 31, 2019.  The total fair value of BMM RSUs that vested during the year ended December 31, 2019, was approximately $4 million.  As of December 31, 2019, there was approximately $3 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested BMM RSUs.  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.3 years.

Performance Shares

Riviera

In December 2018, the Company granted 1,899,156 (the maximum number of shares available to be earned) Performance Shares to certain members of management.  The vesting of these awards is determined based on the Company’s equity value (subject to adjustment for distributions to shareholders and certain other items) at a specified time.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, there were 51,206 Performance Shares forfeited.  As of December 31, 2019, there was approximately $44,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested Performance Shares.  The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.5 years.  To date, no performance targets have been met.

The fair value of share-based compensation for Riviera Performance Shares was estimated on the balance sheet date using a Monte Carlo pricing model based on certain assumptions.  The Company’s determination of the fair value of share-based payment awards is affected by the Company’s share price as well as assumptions regarding a number of complex and subjective variables.  For the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, expected volatility of 35% was used in the estimation of fair value of the Performance Share grants.  It was determined using available volatility data for the Company as well as an average of volatility computations of other identified peer companies in the oil and natural gas industry.  For the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the risk-free rate of 1.58% and 2.46% was based on the U.S. constant maturity treasury rate at the time of valuation with maturity corresponding to the expected vesting date.  The dividend yield of zero percent was based on historical and projected Company data.

Blue Mountain Midstream

During the year ended December 31, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream granted 22,807 BMM PSUs (45,614 at 200% of target) (the maximum number of awards available to be earned) with a fair value of approximately $144,000 as of December 31, 2019.  During the year ended December 31, 2019, 118 PSUs were forfeited.  As of December 31, 2019, there was no unrecognized cost related to nonvested BMM PSUs.  The vesting of these awards is determined based on Blue Mountain Midstream’s equity value (subject to certain adjustments) at a specified time.  To date, no performance targets have been met.  The cost is expected to be recognized over the life of the award.

The fair value of share-based compensation for BMM PSU grants was estimated on the balance sheet date using a Monte Carlo pricing model based on certain assumptions.  Expected volatility of 30% used in the estimation of fair value of the BMM PSU grants was determined using available volatility data for the Company as well as an average of volatility computations of other identified peer companies in the oil and natural gas industry.  The risk-free rate of 1.59% was based on the U.S. constant maturity treasury rate at the time of valuation with maturity corresponding to the expected vesting date.  The dividend yield of zero percent was based on historical and projected Company data.

112


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Defined Contribution Plan

The Company sponsors a 401(k) defined contribution plan for eligible employees.  For the years 2019 and 2018, Company contributions to the 401(k) plan consisted of a discretionary matching contribution equal to 100% of the first 4% of eligible compensation contributed by the employee on a before-tax basis.  The Company contributed approximately $2 million, $3 million, $3 million and $812,000 during the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, respectively, to the 401(k) plan’s trustee account.  The 401(k) plan funds are held in a trustee account on behalf of the plan participants.

Note 14 – Earnings Per Share

On August 7, 2018, the Parent distributed 76,190,908 shares of Riviera common stock to LINN Energy shareholders.  The Parent did not retain any ownership in Riviera.  Each shareholder of the Parent received one share of Riviera common stock for each share of LINN Class A common stock held by such shareholder of the Parent at the close of business on August 3, 2018, the record date.

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share is computed by adjusting the average number of shares outstanding for the dilutive effect, if any, of potential common shares.  The diluted earnings per share calculation excludes the Riviera Performance Shares for the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, because no performance targets have been met.  The diluted earnings per share calculation excludes approximately 208,000 restricted stock units that were anti-dilutive for the year ended December 31, 2019.  No restricted stock units were anti-dilutive for the year ended December 31, 2018.  Basic and diluted earnings per share and the average number of shares outstanding were retrospectively restated for the number of shares of Riviera common stock outstanding immediately following the Spin-off and the same number of shares was used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share in 2017 and 2016 since there were no Riviera equity awards outstanding prior to the Spin-off.

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations

 

$

(297,570

)

 

$

20,933

 

 

$

345,131

 

 

$

2,587,557

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of

   income taxes

 

 

3,824

 

 

 

19,674

 

 

 

90,064

 

 

 

(548

)

Net (loss) income

 

$

(293,746

)

 

$

40,607

 

 

$

435,195

 

 

$

2,587,009

 

(Loss) income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations

   per share ‒ basic and diluted

 

$

(4.71

)

 

$

0.28

 

 

$

4.53

 

 

$

33.96

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

   per share ‒ basic and diluted

 

$

0.06

 

 

$

0.26

 

 

$

1.18

 

 

$

(0.01

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income per share ‒ basic

   and diluted

 

$

(4.65

)

 

$

0.54

 

 

$

5.71

 

 

$

33.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding ‒ basic

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

74,935

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

Dilutive effect of unit equivalents

 

 

 

 

 

425

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding ‒ diluted

 

 

63,118

 

 

 

75,360

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

 

76,191

 

 

113


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Note 15 – Income Taxes

For periods prior to the Spin-off, income tax expense and deferred tax balances were calculated on a separate tax return basis although Riviera’s operations have historically been included in the tax returns filed by the Parent, of which Riviera’s business was a part.  Beginning August 8, 2018, as a stand-alone entity, Riviera files tax returns on its own behalf and its deferred taxes and effective tax rate may differ from those in the historical periods.  For federal income tax purposes, the Spin-off was treated as a sale of assets resulting in new deferred taxes being recorded.

Income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current taxes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

 

 

$

3

 

 

$

7,140

 

 

$

 

State

 

 

(14

)

 

 

(117

)

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

Deferred taxes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

 

111,148

 

 

 

25,816

 

 

 

363,027

 

 

 

 

State

 

 

16,725

 

 

 

3,885

 

 

 

15,485

 

 

 

(166

)

 

 

$

127,859

 

 

$

29,587

 

 

$

385,654

 

 

$

(166

)

The deferred tax effects of the Parent’s change to a C corporation are included in income from continuing operations for the two months ended February 28, 2017.  Amounts recognized as income taxes are included in “income tax expense (benefit),” as well as discontinued operations, on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.

A reconciliation of the federal statutory tax rate to the effective tax rate is as follows:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal statutory rate

 

 

21.0

%

 

 

21.0

%

 

 

35.0

%

 

 

35.0

%

Valuation allowance

 

 

(100.5

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nondeductible compensation

 

 

(0.4

)

 

 

40.6

 

 

 

0.8

 

 

 

 

Federal statutory rate change

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.8

 

 

 

 

State, net of federal tax benefit

 

 

4.8

 

 

 

3.2

 

 

 

2.6

 

 

 

 

Loss excluded from nontaxable entities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(35.0

)

Share-based compensation

 

 

(0.1

)

 

 

(8.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other

 

 

(0.1

)

 

 

1.8

 

 

 

0.6

 

 

 

 

Effective rate

 

 

(75.3

)%

 

 

58.6

%

 

 

52.8

%

 

 

%

On December 22, 2017, H.R. 1 (the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”) was signed into law.  The Company conducted an assessment of the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and concluded that a noncash charge of approximately $101 million for the ten months ended December 31, 2017, against net deferred income taxes was necessary due to the decrease in the statutory federal income tax rate from 35% to 21%.  This charge is included in “income tax expense (benefit)” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations and resulted in a 13.8% increase in the Company’s effective tax rate for the ten months ended December 31, 2017.

114


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating loss carryforwards

 

$

60,480

 

 

$

2,503

 

Share-based compensation

 

 

1,674

 

 

 

642

 

Oil and natural gas properties

 

 

105,797

 

 

 

125,021

 

Other

 

 

2,600

 

 

 

925

 

Less: valuation allowance

 

 

(170,551

)

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets

 

$

 

 

$

129,091

 

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

$

 

 

$

 

The net deferred tax assets are recorded in “deferred income taxes” on the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences become deductible.  Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment.  During the third quarter of 2019, and for the first time since Riviera’s inception, the Company’s earnings show a cumulative loss which is primarily due to losses generated during 2019.  Based on the cumulative loss and projections of future taxable income for the periods in which our deferred tax assets are deductible, the Company recorded a full valuation allowance of approximately $171 million to reduce its federal and state net deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.  The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable could materially increase in the future, and the amount of valuation allowance recorded could materially decrease, if estimates of future taxable income are increased.

In accordance with the applicable accounting standards, the Company recognizes only the impact of income tax positions that, based on their merits, are more likely than not to be sustained upon audit by a taxing authority.  To evaluate its current tax positions in order to identify any material uncertain tax positions, the Company developed a policy of identifying and evaluating uncertain tax positions that considers support for each tax position, industry standards, tax return disclosures and schedules and the significance of each position.  It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  The Company had no material uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2019, or December 31, 2018.  The tax years 2018 and 2019 remain open to examination for federal and state income tax purposes.

As of December 31, 2019, the Company had approximately $246 million of indefinite lived net operating loss carryforwards for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

115


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Note 16 – Supplemental Disclosures to the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows

“Other current assets” reported on the consolidated balance sheets include the following:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prepaids

 

$

11,737

 

 

$

13,493

 

Receivable from related party

 

 

 

 

 

8,300

 

Inventories

 

 

1,116

 

 

 

3,720

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

1,208

 

Other current assets

 

$

12,853

 

 

$

26,721

 

“Other accrued liabilities” reported on the consolidated balance sheets include the following:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued compensation

 

$

11,314

 

 

$

16,820

 

Asset retirement obligations (current portion)

 

 

1,184

 

 

 

1,445

 

Deposits

 

 

6,111

 

 

 

10,060

 

Other

 

 

8,119

 

 

 

6,149

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

$

26,728

 

 

$

34,474

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets to cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash on the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

116,237

 

 

$

18,529

 

Restricted cash

 

 

32,932

 

 

 

31,248

 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

 

$

149,169

 

 

$

49,777

 

116


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Supplemental disclosures to the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows are presented below:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash payments for interest, net of amounts

   capitalized

 

$

4,232

 

 

$

132

 

 

$

15,165

 

 

$

17,651

 

Cash payments for income taxes

 

$

5

 

 

$

 

 

$

275

 

 

$

 

Cash payments for reorganization items, net

 

$

1,236

 

 

$

5,572

 

 

$

11,889

 

 

$

21,571

 

Noncash investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued capital expenditures

 

$

10,087

 

 

$

10,438

 

 

$

31,447

 

 

$

22,191

 

For purposes of the consolidated and combined statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.  At December 31, 2019, “restricted cash” on the consolidated balance sheet consists of approximately $16 million that will be used to settle certain claims in accordance with the Plan (which is the remainder of approximately $80 million transferred to restricted cash in February 2017 to fund such items), approximately $6 million related to deposits and approximately $11 million related to distributions.  At December 31, 2018, “restricted cash” on the consolidated balance sheet consists of approximately $21 million that will be used to settle certain claims in accordance with the Plan and approximately $10 million related to deposits.

Note 17 – Significant Customers

The Company has a concentration of customers who are engaged in oil and natural gas purchasing, transportation and/or refining within the U.S.  This concentration of customers may impact the Company’s overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that the customers may be similarly affected by changes in economic or other conditions.  The Company’s customers consist primarily of major oil and natural gas purchasers and the Company generally does not require collateral since it has not experienced significant credit losses on such sales.  The Company routinely assesses the recoverability of all material trade and other receivables to determine collectibility (see Note 1).

For the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company’s largest customer represented approximately 19% and 22%, respectively, of the Company’s sales.  For the ten months ended December 31, 2017, and the two months ended February 28, 2017, no individual customer exceeded 10% of the Company’s sales.

At December 31, 2019, two customers accounted for 30% of the Company’s trade accounts receivable.  At December 31, 2018, one customer accounted for 18% of the Company’s trade accounts receivable.

Private Share Repurchases

In May 2019, the Company purchased at a discount to market, 278,587 shares of common stock from York Select Strategy Master Fund, L.P. at an average price of $13.55 for a total cost of approximately $4 million.  In July 2019, the Company purchased at a discount to market, 285,024 shares of common stock from Fir Tree Capital Opportunity Master Fund, L.P. and 39,485 shares of common stock from Fir Tree Capital Opportunity Fund (E), L.P. at an average price of $10.90 for a total cost of approximately $4 million.

117


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Roan Resources LLC

During the periods covered by these financial statements, certain members of the Company’s Board of Directors were also members of the board of directors of Roan Resources, Inc.  Additionally certain of our principal stockholders were also significant stockholders of Roan Resources, Inc.

Merger with Citizen Energy

In December 2019, stockholders of Roan Resources, Inc. approved an Agreement and Plan of Merger (“Merger”) between Roan Resources, Inc. and a subsidiary of Citizen Energy Operating, LLC (“Citizen Operating”) under which Roan Resources, Inc., including its subsidiary Roan Resources LLC, became wholly owned subsidiaries of Citizen Operating.  The effective date of the Merger was December 6, 2019, and as a result of the Merger, the Company and Roan Resources, Inc. no longer share certain mutual directors and significant stockholders. Consequently future transactions with Roan as of the date of effective date of the Merger will no longer be considered related party transactions.

Related Party Transactions

On August 31, 2017, the Company completed the Roan Contribution.  In exchange for their respective contributions, a subsidiary of the Company and Citizen each received a 50% equity interest in Roan.  However, on the Reorganization Date, July 25, 2018, the equity interest in Roan was distributed to the Parent and is no longer affiliated with Riviera.

On August 31, 2017, Roan entered into a Master Services Agreement (the “MSA”) with Riviera Operating, a subsidiary of the Company, pursuant to which Riviera Operating provided certain operating, administrative and other services in respect of the assets contributed to Roan during a transitional period.

Under the MSA, Roan reimbursed Riviera Operating for certain costs and expenses incurred by Riviera Operating in connection with providing the services, and Roan paid to Riviera Operating a service fee of $1.25 million per month, prorated for partial months.  For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company recognized service fees of approximately $5 million under the MSA, as a reduction to general and administrative expense.  The MSA terminated according to its terms on April 30, 2018.

On March 1, 2018, the Company commenced a lease agreement with Roan to lease office space in the Company’s building located in Oklahoma.  The lease term was for five years and is recorded in “other, net” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  On November 20, 2019, the Company signed an agreement to sell the building (see Note 4).  The sale of the building is expected to close in the first quarter of 2020 and the leases will be terminated effective with the close of the sale.

On January 31, 2019, a subsidiary of the Company’s subsidiary, Blue Mountain Midstream, entered into an agreement to gather, treat or dispose of produced water from Roan.  On April 1, 2019, Blue Mountain Midstream began providing services under the agreement.  The original term of the agreement is until January 31, 2029.  For the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded revenue from Roan of approximately $21 million, included in “marketing revenues” on the consolidated and combined statement of operations.

In addition, Blue Mountain Midstream has an agreement in place with Roan for the purchase and processing of natural gas from certain of Roan’s properties.  For the years ended December 31, 2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company made natural gas purchases from Roan of approximately $101 million, and $102 million, respectively, included in “marketing expenses” on the consolidated and combined statements of operations.  At December 31, 2018, the Company had approximately $9 million due from Roan, primarily associated with amounts due to Riviera under the agreements related to the Spin-off, included in “other current assets” and approximately $14 million due to Roan, primarily associated with joint interest billings and natural gas purchases, included in “accounts payable and accrued expenses” on the consolidated balance sheet.

On July 17, 2019, a subsidiary of Blue Mountain Midstream entered into a 10-year agreement with Roan to gather Roan’s oil in a nine Township area in central Oklahoma.

118


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

Note 19 – Segments

The Company has two reporting segments: upstream and Blue Mountain.  The upstream reporting segment is engaged in the exploration, development, production, and sale of oil, natural gas, and NGLs.  At December 31, 2019, the upstream segment consisted of the Company’s properties in East Texas, the Mid-Continent, North Louisiana and the Uinta Basin.  The Blue Mountain reporting segment was new for the second quarter of 2018 as a result of a change in the way the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) assesses the Company’s results of operations following the hiring of a segment manager to lead the Blue Mountain reporting segment and the commissioning of the cryogenic natural gas processing facility during the second quarter of 2018.  The Blue Mountain reporting segment consists of a cryogenic natural gas processing facility and a network of gathering pipelines and compressors and produced water services and a crude oil gathering system located in the Merge/SCOOP/STACK play.  To assess the performance of the Company’s reporting segments, the CODM analyzes field level cash flow, a non-GAAP financial metric.  The Company defines field level cash flow as revenues less direct operating expenses.  Other indirect income (expenses) include “general and administrative expenses,” “exploration costs,” “depreciation, depletion and amortization,” “(gains) on sale of assets and other, net,” “impairment of assets held for sale and long-lived assets,” “other income and (expenses)” and “reorganization items, net.”  Prior period amounts are presented on a comparable basis.  In addition, information regarding total assets by reporting segment is not presented because it is not reviewed by the CODM.

The following tables present the Company’s financial information by reporting segment:

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019

 

 

Upstream

 

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

Not Allocated to Segments

 

 

Consolidated

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

$

236,053

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

236,053

 

Marketing revenues

 

54,574

 

 

 

159,706

 

 

 

 

 

 

214,280

 

Other revenues

 

19,355

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,355

 

 

 

309,982

 

 

 

159,706

 

 

 

 

 

 

469,688

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

77,719

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

77,719

 

Transportation expenses

 

64,149

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

64,149

 

Marketing expenses

 

40,389

 

 

 

120,014

 

 

 

6,248

 

 

 

166,651

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

17,930

 

 

 

1,378

 

 

 

(3,934

)

 

 

15,374

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

200,187

 

 

 

121,392

 

 

 

2,314

 

 

 

323,893

 

Field level cash flow

$

109,795

 

 

$

38,314

 

 

 

(2,314

)

 

 

145,795

 

Gains on commodity derivatives

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10,091

 

 

 

10,091

 

Other indirect income (expenses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(325,597

)

 

 

(325,597

)

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(169,711

)

 

 

119


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

 

Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

Upstream

 

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

Not Allocated to Segments

 

 

Consolidated

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

$

420,102

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

420,102

 

Marketing revenues

 

103,063

 

 

 

142,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

245,081

 

Other revenues

 

23,880

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23,880

 

 

 

547,045

 

 

 

142,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

689,063

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

120,097

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

120,097

 

Transportation expenses

 

83,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

83,562

 

Marketing expenses

 

91,869

 

 

 

127,263

 

 

 

1,839

 

 

 

220,971

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

28,598

 

 

 

883

 

 

 

249

 

 

 

29,730

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

324,126

 

 

 

128,146

 

 

 

2,088

 

 

 

454,360

 

Field level cash flow

$

222,919

 

 

$

13,872

 

 

 

(2,088

)

 

 

234,703

 

Losses on commodity derivatives

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(23,404

)

 

 

(23,404

)

Other indirect income (expenses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(160,779

)

 

 

(160,779

)

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

50,520

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

Ten Months Ended December 31, 2017

 

 

Upstream

 

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

Not Allocated to Segments

 

 

Consolidated

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

$

709,363

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

709,363

 

Marketing revenues

 

75,756

 

 

 

7,187

 

 

 

 

 

82,943

 

Other revenues

 

20,839

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,839

 

 

 

805,958

 

 

 

7,187

 

 

 

 

 

 

813,145

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

208,446

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

208,446

 

Transportation expenses

 

113,128

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

113,128

 

Marketing expenses

 

64,225

 

 

 

4,783

 

 

 

 

 

 

69,008

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

47,290

 

 

 

121

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

47,553

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

433,089

 

 

 

4,904

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

438,135

 

Field level cash flow

$

372,869

 

 

$

2,283

 

 

 

(142

)

 

 

375,010

 

Gains on commodity derivatives

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13,533

 

 

 

13,533

 

Other indirect income (expenses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

342,242

 

 

 

342,242

 

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

730,785

 

 

120


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

 

Predecessor

 

 

Two Months Ended February 28, 2017

 

 

Upstream

 

 

Blue Mountain

 

 

Not Allocated to Segments

 

 

Consolidated

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

$

188,885

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

188,885

 

Marketing revenues

 

5,999

 

 

 

637

 

 

 

 

 

6,636

 

Other revenues

 

9,915

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,915

 

 

 

204,799

 

 

 

637

 

 

 

 

 

 

205,436

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

49,665

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

49,665

 

Transportation expenses

 

25,972

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25,972

 

Marketing expenses

 

4,602

 

 

 

218

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,820

 

Taxes other than income taxes

 

14,773

 

 

 

78

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

14,877

 

Total direct operating expenses

 

95,012

 

 

 

296

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

95,334

 

Field level cash flow

$

109,787

 

 

$

341

 

 

 

(26

)

 

 

110,102

 

Gains on commodity derivatives

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

92,691

 

 

 

92,691

 

Other indirect income (expenses)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,384,598

 

 

 

2,384,598

 

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

2,587,391

 

 

 

 

121


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited)

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the “Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements” and “Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements,” which are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities

Costs incurred in oil and natural gas property acquisition, exploration and development, whether capitalized or expensed, are presented below:

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property acquisition costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proved

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Unproved

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exploration costs

 

 

43,122

 

 

 

17,017

 

 

 

103,689

 

 

 

15,153

 

Development costs

 

 

20,335

 

 

 

19,271

 

 

 

96,178

 

 

 

24,256

 

Asset retirement costs

 

 

463

 

 

 

(131

)

 

 

376

 

 

 

312

 

Total costs incurred – continuing operations

 

$

63,920

 

 

$

36,157

 

 

$

200,243

 

 

$

39,721

 

Total costs incurred – discontinued operations

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

1,313

 

 

$

269

 

 

Oil and Natural Gas Capitalized Costs

Aggregate capitalized costs related to oil, natural gas and NGL production activities with applicable accumulated depletion and amortization are presented below:

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proved properties

 

$

174,845

 

 

$

709,053

 

Unproved properties

 

 

5,462

 

 

 

47,499

 

 

 

 

180,307

 

 

 

756,552

 

Less accumulated depletion and amortization

 

 

(35,603

)

 

 

(93,507

)

 

 

$

144,704

 

 

$

663,045

 

 

122


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

Results of Oil and Natural Gas Producing Activities

The results of operations for oil, natural gas and NGL producing activities (excluding corporate overhead and interest costs):

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

Predecessor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

Ten Months

Ended

December 31,

2017

 

 

Two Months

Ended

February 28,

2017

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues and other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

 

$

236,053

 

 

$

420,102

 

 

$

709,363

 

 

$

188,885

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

10,632

 

 

 

(25,109

)

 

 

13,533

 

 

 

92,691

 

 

 

 

246,685

 

 

 

394,993

 

 

 

722,896

 

 

 

281,576

 

Production costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lease operating expenses

 

 

77,719

 

 

 

120,097

 

 

 

208,446

 

 

 

49,665

 

Transportation expenses

 

 

64,149

 

 

 

83,562

 

 

 

113,128

 

 

 

25,972

 

Severance taxes, ad valorem taxes

 

 

17,930

 

 

 

28,598

 

 

 

47,411

 

 

 

14,851

 

 

 

 

159,798

 

 

 

232,257

 

 

 

368,985

 

 

 

90,488

 

Other costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exploration costs

 

 

5,122

 

 

 

5,178

 

 

 

3,137

 

 

 

93

 

Depletion and amortization

 

 

43,455

 

 

 

58,347

 

 

 

101,360

 

 

 

39,689

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

 

208,376

 

 

 

15,697

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(19,259

)

 

 

(219,237

)

 

 

(678,200

)

 

 

18

 

Income tax benefit

 

 

 

 

 

(54,588

)

 

 

(4,640

)

 

 

(166

)

 

 

 

237,694

 

 

 

(194,603

)

 

 

(578,343

)

 

 

39,634

 

Results of operations – continuing operations

 

$

(150,807

)

 

$

357,339

 

 

$

932,254

 

 

$

151,454

 

Results of operations – discontinued operations

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

142,175

 

 

$

1,246

 

 

There is no federal tax provision included in the Predecessor’s results above because the Predecessor’s subsidiaries subject to federal income taxes did not own any of the Predecessor’s oil and natural gas interests.  Limited liability companies are subject to Texas margin tax.  See Note 15 for additional information about income taxes.

123


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

Proved Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Reserves

The proved reserves of oil, natural gas and NGL of the Company have been prepared by the independent engineering firm, DeGolyer and MacNaughton.  In accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) regulations, reserves at December 31, 2019, December 31, 2018, and December 31, 2017, were estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.  An analysis of the change in estimated quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL reserves, all of which are located within the U.S., is shown below:

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019

 

 

 

Natural Gas

(Bcf)

 

 

Oil

(MMBbls)

 

 

NGL

(MMBbls)

 

 

Total

(Bcfe)

 

Proved developed and undeveloped

   reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

1,260

 

 

 

3.8

 

 

 

55.9

 

 

 

1,618

 

Revisions of previous estimates

 

 

(147

)

 

 

(0.7

)

 

 

(1.0

)

 

 

(157

)

Sales of minerals in place

 

 

(789

)

 

 

(1.1

)

 

 

(50.0

)

 

 

(1,095

)

Extensions and discoveries

 

 

29

 

 

 

1.0

 

 

 

0.6

 

 

 

38

 

Production

 

 

(72

)

 

 

(0.6

)

 

 

(2.1

)

 

 

(88

)

End of year

 

 

281

 

 

 

2.4

 

 

 

3.4

 

 

 

316

 

Proved developed reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

1,203

 

 

 

3.7

 

 

 

54.7

 

 

 

1,553

 

End of year

 

 

250

 

 

 

2.3

 

 

 

3.4

 

 

 

284

 

Proved undeveloped reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

57

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

1.2

 

 

 

65

 

End of year

 

 

31

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2018

 

 

 

Natural Gas

(Bcf)

 

 

Oil

(MMBbls)

 

 

NGL

(MMBbls)

 

 

Total

(Bcfe)

 

Proved developed and undeveloped

   reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

1,377

 

 

 

27.1

 

 

 

71.5

 

 

 

1,968

 

Revisions of previous estimates

 

 

24

 

 

 

(0.9

)

 

 

(2.1

)

 

 

7

 

Sales of minerals in place

 

 

(52

)

 

 

(21.3

)

 

 

(9.8

)

 

 

(239

)

Extensions and discoveries

 

 

1

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

2

 

Production

 

 

(90

)

 

 

(1.2

)

 

 

(3.8

)

 

 

(120

)

End of year

 

 

1,260

 

 

 

3.8

 

 

 

55.9

 

 

 

1,618

 

Proved developed reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

1,323

 

 

 

27.0

 

 

 

70.5

 

 

 

1,908

 

End of year

 

 

1,203

 

 

 

3.7

 

 

 

54.7

 

 

 

1,553

 

Proved undeveloped reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

54

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

1.0

 

 

 

60

 

End of year

 

 

57

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

1.2

 

 

 

65

 

 

124


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2017

 

 

 

Natural Gas

(Bcf)

 

 

Oil

(MMBbls)

 

 

NGL

(MMBbls)

 

 

Total

Continuing

Operations

(Bcfe)

 

 

Total

Discontinued

Operations

(Bcfe)

 

 

Total (Bcfe)

 

Proved developed and undeveloped

   reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

2,290

 

 

 

72.6

 

 

 

104.1

 

 

 

3,350

 

 

 

170

 

 

 

3,520

 

Revisions of previous estimates

 

 

(102

)

 

 

(5.6

)

 

 

9.7

 

 

 

(78

)

 

 

 

 

 

(78

)

Sales of minerals in place

 

 

(754

)

 

 

(37.0

)

 

 

(39.6

)

 

 

(1,213

)

 

 

(164

)

 

 

(1,377

)

Extensions and discoveries

 

 

90

 

 

 

3.7

 

 

 

4.9

 

 

 

142

 

 

 

 

 

 

142

 

Production

 

 

(147

)

 

 

(6.6

)

 

 

(7.6

)

 

 

(233

)

 

 

(6

)

 

 

(239

)

End of year

 

 

1,377

 

 

 

27.1

 

 

 

71.5

 

 

 

1,968

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,968

 

Proved developed reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

2,118

 

 

 

66.7

 

 

 

94.4

 

 

 

3,084

 

 

 

170

 

 

 

3,254

 

End of year

 

 

1,323

 

 

 

27.0

 

 

 

70.5

 

 

 

1,908

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,908

 

Proved undeveloped reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of year

 

 

172

 

 

 

5.9

 

 

 

9.7

 

 

 

266

 

 

 

 

 

 

266

 

End of year

 

 

54

 

 

 

0.1

 

 

 

1.0

 

 

 

60

 

 

 

 

 

 

60

 

The tables above include changes in estimated quantities of oil and NGL reserves shown in Mcf equivalents using the ratio of one barrel to six Mcf.  Reserves for the Company’s California properties are reported as discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Proved reserves from continuing operations decreased by approximately 1,302 Bcfe to approximately 316 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2019, from 1,618 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018.  The year ended December 31, 2019, includes approximately 157 Bcfe of negative revisions of previous estimates (51 Bcfe of negative revisions due to lower commodity prices as well as 106 Bcfe of negative revisions primarily due to a lack of future committed capital).  During the year ended December 31, 2019, several divestitures decreased reserves by approximately 1,095 Bcfe (see Note 4 for additional information of divestitures).  In addition, extensions and discoveries, primarily from 61 productive wells drilled during the year, increased proved reserves by 38 Bcfe.

Proved reserves from continuing operations decreased by approximately 350 Bcfe to approximately 1,618 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2018, from 1,968 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2017.  The year ended December 31, 2018, includes approximately 7 Bcfe of positive revisions of previous estimates (87 Bcfe of positive revisions due to higher commodity prices partially offset by 80 Bcfe of negative revisions due to asset performance).  During the year ended December 31, 2018, several divestitures decreased reserves by approximately 239 Bcfe (see Note 4 for additional information of divestitures).  In addition, extensions and discoveries, primarily from 52 productive wells drilled during the year, contributed approximately 2 Bcfe to the increase in proved reserves.

Proved reserves from continuing operations decreased by approximately 1,382 Bcfe to approximately 1,968 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2017, from 3,350 Bcfe for the year ended December 31, 2016.  The year ended December 31, 2017, includes approximately 78 Bcfe of negative revisions of previous estimates (264 Bcfe of negative revisions due to asset performance partially offset by 186 Bcfe of positive revisions due to higher commodity prices).  During the year ended December 31, 2017, several divestitures decreased reserves by approximately 1,213 Bcfe (see Note 4 for additional information of divestitures).  In addition, extensions and discoveries, primarily from 90 productive wells drilled during the year, contributed approximately 142 Bcfe to the increase in proved reserves.

125


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows and Changes Therein Relating to Proved Reserves

Information with respect to the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved reserves is summarized below.  Future cash inflows are computed by applying applicable prices relating to the Company’s proved reserves to the year-end quantities of those reserves.  Future production, development, site restoration and abandonment costs are derived based on current costs assuming continuation of existing economic conditions.  Future income tax expenses are calculated by applying the year-end statutory tax rates (with consideration of any known future changes) to the pretax net cash flows, reduced by the applicable tax basis and giving effect to any tax deductions, tax credits and allowances relating to the proved oil and natural gas reserves.  See Note 15 for additional information about income taxes.

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Future cash inflows

 

$

860,324

 

 

$

5,167,664

 

 

$

6,730,186

 

Future production costs

 

 

(545,422

)

 

 

(3,139,932

)

 

 

(3,810,932

)

Future development costs

 

 

(122,539

)

 

 

(337,808

)

 

 

(486,989

)

Future income tax expenses

 

 

 

 

 

(226,425

)

 

 

(303,803

)

Future net cash flows

 

 

192,363

 

 

 

1,463,499

 

 

 

2,128,462

 

10% annual discount for estimated timing of cash flows

 

 

(33,568

)

 

 

(716,210

)

 

 

(1,083,331

)

Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows –

   continuing operations

 

$

158,795

 

 

$

747,289

 

 

$

1,045,131

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Representative NYMEX prices: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas (MMBtu)

 

$

2.58

 

 

$

3.10

 

 

$

2.98

 

Oil (Bbl)

 

$

55.69

 

 

$

65.66

 

 

$

51.34

 

(1)

In accordance with SEC regulations, reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.  The average price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves.

126


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

The following table summarizes the principal sources of change in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows:

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2019

 

 

2018

 

 

2017

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales and transfers of oil, natural gas and NGL produced during the

   period

 

$

(76,255

)

 

$

(187,845

)

 

$

(438,775

)

Changes in estimated future development costs

 

 

50,184

 

 

 

3,835

 

 

 

(5,276

)

Net change in sales and transfer prices and production costs related

   to future production

 

 

(180,824

)

 

 

(89,459

)

 

 

400,411

 

Sales of minerals in place

 

 

(542,517

)

 

 

(206,636

)

 

 

(685,050

)

Extensions, discoveries and improved recovery

 

 

38,008

 

 

 

2,683

 

 

 

187,223

 

Previously estimated development costs incurred during the period

 

 

4,696

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,704

 

Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates

 

 

(58,991

)

 

 

(10,022

)

 

 

(65,935

)

Net change in income taxes

 

 

124,621

 

 

 

30,637

 

 

 

(155,257

)

Accretion of discount

 

 

87,191

 

 

 

120,039

 

 

 

169,576

 

Changes in production rates and other

 

 

(34,607

)

 

 

38,926

 

 

 

(67,247

)

Change – continuing operations

 

$

(588,494

)

 

$

(297,842

)

 

$

(650,626

)

Change – discontinued operations

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

(232,941

)

 

The data presented should not be viewed as representing the expected cash flow from, or current value of, existing proved reserves since the computations are based on a large number of estimates and assumptions.  The required projection of production and related expenditures over time requires further estimates with respect to pipeline availability, rates of demand and governmental control.  Actual future prices and costs are likely to be substantially different from the current prices and costs utilized in the computation of reported amounts.  Any analysis or evaluation of the reported amounts should give specific recognition to the computational methods utilized and the limitations inherent therein.

 

 

127


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY DATA (Unaudited)

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the “Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements” and “Notes to Consolidated and Combined Financial Statements,” which are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Quarterly Financial Data

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

First Quarter

 

 

Second

Quarter

 

 

Third Quarter

 

 

Fourth

Quarter

 

 

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

2019:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

 

$

76,345

 

 

$

66,757

 

 

$

51,029

 

 

$

41,922

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

(13,241

)

 

 

20,249

 

 

 

5,665

 

 

 

(2,582

)

Total revenues and other

 

 

136,454

 

 

 

145,550

 

 

 

108,054

 

 

 

89,721

 

Total expenses (1)

 

 

144,940

 

 

 

142,337

 

 

 

211,422

 

 

 

177,500

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(27,265

)

 

 

9,885

 

 

 

(7,587

)

 

 

4,224

 

Reorganization items, net

 

 

 

 

 

(424

)

 

 

(284

)

 

 

14,115

 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

 

 

12,726

 

 

 

(6,676

)

 

 

(225,635

)

 

 

(77,985

)

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of

   income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,824

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

12,726

 

 

 

(6,676

)

 

 

(225,635

)

 

 

(74,161

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations –

  basic and diluted

 

$

0.18

 

 

$

(0.10

)

 

$

(3.76

)

 

$

(1.33

)

Income (loss) per share from discontinued operations –

   basic and diluted

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

0.07

 

Net income (loss) per share – basic and diluted

 

$

0.18

 

 

$

(0.10

)

 

$

(3.76

)

 

$

(1.26

)

(1)

Includes the following expenses: lease operating, transportation, marketing, general and administrative, exploration, depreciation, depletion and amortization, impairment of long-lived assets and assets held for sale and taxes, other than income taxes.

128


Table of Contents

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY DATA (Unaudited) - Continued

 

 

Successor

 

 

 

First Quarter

 

 

Second

Quarter

 

 

Third Quarter

 

 

Fourth

Quarter

 

 

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

2018:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids sales

 

$

136,876

 

 

$

87,004

 

 

$

89,653

 

 

$

106,569

 

Gains (losses) on commodity derivatives

 

 

(15,030

)

 

 

(7,525

)

 

 

(3,175

)

 

 

2,326

 

Total revenues and other

 

 

174,007

 

 

 

128,833

 

 

 

159,601

 

 

 

203,218

 

Total expenses (1)

 

 

191,631

 

 

 

207,171

 

 

 

230,478

 

 

 

186,204

 

(Gains) losses on sale of assets and other, net

 

 

(106,296

)

 

 

(101,934

)

 

 

221

 

 

 

(589

)

Reorganization items, net

 

 

(1,951

)

 

 

(1,259

)

 

 

(1,277

)

 

 

(672

)

Income (loss) from continuing operations

 

 

34,608

 

 

 

8,955

 

 

 

(33,236

)

 

 

10,606

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of

   income taxes

 

 

36,331

 

 

 

(1,758

)

 

 

(14,899

)

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

 

 

70,939

 

 

 

7,197

 

 

 

(48,135

)

 

 

10,606

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

basic and diluted

 

$

0.45

 

 

$

0.11

 

 

$

(0.43

)

 

$

0.15

 

Income (loss) per share from discontinued operations –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

basic and diluted

 

$

0.48

 

 

$

(0.02

)

 

$

(0.20

)

 

$

 

Net income (loss) per share –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

basic and diluted

 

$

0.93

 

 

$

0.09

 

 

$

(0.63

)

 

$

0.15

 

 

(1)

Includes the following expenses: lease operating, transportation, marketing, general and administrative, exploration, depreciation, depletion and amortization, impairment of long-lived assets and taxes, other than income taxes.

 

 

129


Table of Contents

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s reports under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, and the Company’s Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

The Company carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2019.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

See “Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Changes in the Company’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company’s management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act.  The Company’s internal controls were designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the reliability of its financial reporting and the preparation and presentation of the consolidated 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 detect or prevent misstatements.  Projections of any evaluation of the 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 the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2019 that materially affected, or were reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B.

Other Information

None

 

130


Table of Contents

Part III

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

A list of the Company’s executive officers and biographical information appears below under the caption “Executive Officers of the Company.”  Additional information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on June 5, 2020 (the “2020 Proxy Statement”).

Each of the Company’s executive officers, with the exception of Daniel Furbee and C. Gregory Harper, served as an officer of LINN Energy prior to and during its Chapter 11 proceedings.

Executive Officers of the Company

Name

 

Age

 

Position with the Company

 

 

 

 

 

David B. Rottino

 

53

 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Riviera Resources, Inc.

Daniel Furbee

 

37

 

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Riviera Resources, Inc.

James G. Frew

 

42

 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Riviera Resources, Inc.

Darren Schluter

 

50

 

Executive Vice President, Finance, Administration and Chief Accounting Officer of Riviera Resources, Inc.

Holly Anderson

 

42

 

Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Riviera Resources, Inc.

C. Gregory Harper

 

55

 

President and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Mountain Midstream LLC, and Director of Riviera Resources, Inc.

David B. Rottino is the President and Chief Executive Officer in addition to serving on Riviera Resources, Inc.’s board of directors and has served in such capacity since August 2018.  He previously served as Linn Energy, Inc.’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and as a member of the LINN Energy board of directors from February 2017 to August 2018, as Linn Energy, LLC’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from August 2015 to February 2017, as Executive Vice President, Business Development and Chief Accounting Officer from January 2014 to August 2015, as Senior Vice President of Finance, Business Development and Chief Accounting Officer from July 2010 to January 2014, and as Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer from June 2008 to July 2010.

Daniel Furbee is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and has served in such capacity since August 2018.  He previously served as Linn Energy Inc.’s Vice President of Asset and Business Development from March 2018 to August 2018 and as Vice President of Business Development and Asset Development for Sanchez Energy Corporation from August 2013 to April 2018.  From 2005 to August 2013, Mr. Furbee served in various engineering positions, including most recently as a Senior Staff Engineer-Business Development, at Linn Energy, LLC.

James G. Frew is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and has served in such capacity since August 2018.  He previously served as Linn Energy, Inc.’s Vice President, Marketing and Midstream from February 2017 to August 2018, as Linn Energy, LLC’s Vice President, Marketing and Midstream from 2014 to February 2017 and Director, Strategy, Planning and Business Development from 2011 to 2014.

Darren Schluter is the Executive Vice President, Finance, Administration and Chief Accounting Officer, and as served in such capacity since August 2018.  He previously served as Linn Energy, Inc.’s Vice President and Controller from February 2017 to August 2018, as Linn Energy, LLC’s Vice President and Controller from July 2010 to February 2017 and as Controller from February 2007 to July 2010.

Holly Anderson is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel and as served in such capacity since August 2018.  She previously served as Linn Energy, Inc.’s Vice President and Assistant General Counsel from March 2017 to August 2018, as Linn Energy, LLC’s Assistant General Counsel from March 2014 to March 2017 and Senior Counsel from June 2010 to March 2014.

131


Table of Contents

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance - Continued

C. Gregory Harper is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Mountain Midstream LLC, Riviera Resources, Inc.’s wholly owned subsidiary, and has served in such capacity since April 2018, in addition to serving on Riviera Resources, Inc.’s board of directors since August 2018.  From May 2017 until March 2018, Mr. Harper managed his personal investments.  Mr. Harper retired from Enbridge Inc. in April 2017 where he served as President, Gas Pipelines and Processing and as the Principal Executive Officer of Midcoast Holdings L.L.C. since January 2014.  Before joining Enbridge, Mr. Harper served as Senior Vice President of Midstream with Southwestern Energy Company, from August 2013 to January 2014.  Before joining Southwestern Energy, Mr. Harper served as Senior Vice President and Group President of CenterPoint Energy Pipelines and Field Services from December 2008 to June 2013.  Before joining CenterPoint Energy in 2008, Mr. Harper served as President, Chief Executive Officer and as a Director of Spectra Energy Partners, LP from March 2007 to December 2008.  From January 2007 to March 2007, Mr. Harper was Group Vice President of Spectra Energy Corp., and he was Group Vice President of Duke Energy from January 2004 to December 2006.  Mr. Harper served as Senior Vice President of Energy Marketing and Management for Duke Energy North America from January 2003 until January 2004 and Vice President of Business Development for Duke Energy Gas Transmission and Vice President of East Tennessee Natural Gas, LLC from March 2002 until January 2003.  Mr. Harper currently serves on the board of Sprague Resources where he has served as the chair of the audit committee since Sprague’s initial public offering in 2013, and previously served on the boards of Midcoast Holdings, L.L.C., Enbridge Energy Company, Inc. and Enbridge Energy Management, L.L.C.

No family relationships exist among any of the executive officers, directors or director nominees.

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

Information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2020 Proxy Statement.

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2020 Proxy Statement.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following summarizes information regarding the number of shares of common stock that are available for issuance under all of the Company’s equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2019:

Plan Category

 

Number of Securities to be

Issued Upon Exercise of

Outstanding Unit Options,

Warrants and Rights

 

 

Weighted Average Exercise

Price of Outstanding Unit

Options, Warrants

and Rights

 

 

Number of Securities

Remaining Available for

Future Issuance Under

Equity Compensation Plans

(Excluding Securities

Reflected in Column (a))

 

 

 

(a)

 

 

(b)

 

 

(c)

 

Equity compensation plans approved

   by security holders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,618,159

 

Equity compensation plans not approved

   by security holders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,618,159

 

Item 13.

Information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2020 Proxy Statement.

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the 2020 Proxy Statement.

 

132


Table of Contents

Part IV

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) - 1.  Financial Statements:

All financial statements are omitted for the reason that they are not required or the information is otherwise supplied in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(a) - 2.  Financial Statement Schedules:

All schedules are omitted for the reason that they are not required or the information is otherwise supplied in Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(a) - 3.  Exhibits:

The exhibits required to be filed by this Item 15 are set forth in the “Index to Exhibits” accompanying this report.

 

 

133


Table of Contents

Index to Exhibits

Exhibit

Number

 

Description

2.1+

Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 28, 2019, by and between Riviera Upstream, LLC and Riviera Operating, LLC, as seller, and Scout Energy Group V LP, as buyer (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q filed November 7, 2019)

2.2+*

Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated December 19, 2019, by and between Riviera Operating, LLC, as seller, and Crescent Pass Energy, LLC, as buyer

3.1

Certificate of Conversion of Riviera Resources, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8‑K filed on August 10, 2018)

3.2

Certificate of Incorporation of Riviera Resources, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed on August 7, 2018)

3.3

Bylaws of Riviera Resources, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed on August 7, 2018)

10.1++

Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 28, 2019, by and between Riviera Upstream, LLC and Riviera Operating, LLC, as seller, and Scout Energy Group V LP, as buyer (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q filed November 7, 2019)

10.2

Credit Agreement, dated as of August 10, 2018, among Blue Mountain Midstream LLC, as borrower, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent and issuing bank, Citibank, N.A. and Capital One, National Association, as co-syndication agents, ABN AMRO Capital USA LLC and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed August 15, 2018)

10.3

Credit Agreement, dated as of August 4, 2017, among Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, as borrower, Linn Energy Holdco LLC, as parent, Linn Energy, Inc., as holdings, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, Citibank, N.A., as syndication agent, Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.4

First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of September 29, 2017, to the Credit Agreement, dated as of August 4, 2017, among Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, as borrower, Linn Energy Holdco LLC, as parent, Linn Energy, Inc., as holdings, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, Citibank, N.A., as syndication agent, Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S‑1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.5

Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of April 30, 2018, to Credit Agreement dated as of August 4, 2017, among Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, as borrower, Linn Energy Holdco LLC, as parent, Linn Energy, Inc. as holdings, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, Citibank, N.A., as syndication agent, Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S‑1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.6

Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated March 12, 2019, to the Credit Agreement dated as of August 4, 2017, among Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, as borrower, Linn Energy Holdco LLC, as parent, Linn Energy, Inc. as holdings, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, Citibank, N.A., as syndication agent, Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8‑K filed March 14, 2019)

10.7

Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement dated September 27, 2019, to the Credit Agreement dated as of August 4, 2017, among Linn Energy Holdco II LLC, as borrower, Linn Energy Holdco LLC, as parent, Linn Energy, Inc. as holdings, Royal Bank of Canada, as administrative agent, Citibank, N.A., as syndication agent, Barclays Bank PLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and PNC Bank National Association, as co-documentation agents, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8‑K filed October 3, 2019)

134


Table of Contents

Index to Exhibits - Continued

Exhibit

Number

 

Description

10.8

Second Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement of Blue Mountain Midstream LLC, dated as of July 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 8, 2018)

10.9

First Amendment to Blue Mountain Midstream LLC Second Amended and Restated Limited Liability Operating Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q filed May 9, 2019)

10.10†

Form of Indemnity Agreement between Riviera Resources, Inc. and the directors and officers of Riviera Resources, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form S-8 filed August 7, 2018)

10.11

Tax Matters Agreement, dated August 7, 2018, between Linn Energy, Inc., Riviera Resources, Inc. and the subsidiaries of Riviera Resources, Inc. party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed August 10, 2018)

10.12

Transition Services Agreement, dated August 7, 2018, between Linn Energy, Inc. and Riviera Resources, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed August 10, 2018)

10.13

Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of August 7, 2018, among Riviera Resources, Inc. and the holders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K filed August 10, 2018)

10.14†

Third Amended and Restated Employment Agreement of David B. Rottino, dated February 28, 2017, (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.15†

Letter Agreement, dated April 19, 2018, between David B. Rottino and Linn Energy, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.16†

 

Offer Letter to Daniel Furbee, dated March 19, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.17†

Employment Agreement of Greg Harper, dated March 29, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.18†

Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement of Greg Harper, dated July 17, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1/A filed on July 19, 2018)

10.19†

Riviera Resources, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form S-8 filed August 7, 2018)

10.20†

Form of Performance-Vesting Stock Unit Agreement pursuant to the Riviera Resources, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form S-8 filed August 7, 2018)

10.21†

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement pursuant to the Riviera Resources, Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form S-8 filed August 7, 2018)

10.22†

Blue Mountain Midstream LLC 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 8, 2018)

10.23†

First Amendment to the Blue Mountain Midstream LLC 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q filed May 9, 2019)

10.24†

Form of Performance-Vesting Security Unit Agreement pursuant to the Blue Mountain Midstream LLC 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Form S-1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.25†

Form of Restricted Security Unit Agreement pursuant to the Blue Mountain Midstream LLC 2018 Omnibus Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to Form S‑1 filed on June 27, 2018)

10.26*#

Amended and Restated Gas Gathering and Processing Agreement, dated April 1, 2017, between Linn Energy Holdings, LLC and Linn Midstream, LLC

10.27*

Release from Dedication to the Amended and Restated Gas Gathering and Processing Agreement, dated October 9, 2018, between Blue Mountain Midstream LLC and Roan Resources LLC

10.28*

Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Gas Gathering and Processing Agreement, dated November 1, 2018, between Blue Mountain Midstream LLC (as successor to Linn Midstream, LLC) and Roan Resources LLC (as successor to Linn Energy Holdings, LLC)

21.1*

List of Significant Subsidiaries

135


Table of Contents

Index to Exhibits - Continued

Exhibit

Number

 

Description

23.1*

Consent of KPMG LLP

23.2*

Consent of DeGolyer and MacNaughton – Riviera

31.1*

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer

31.2*

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer

32.1*

Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer

32.2*

Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer

99.1*

2019 Report of DeGolyer and MacNaughton

101.INS*

Inline XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).

Management contract or compensatory plan or agreement.

*

Filed herewith.

+

Schedules and similar attachments have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K.  Riviera agrees to furnish a supplemental copy of any omitted schedule or attachment to the SEC upon request.

++

Certain schedules and similar attachments have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K.  The Company agrees to furnish a supplemental copy of any omitted schedule or attachment to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

#

Certain confidential portions of this exhibit have been redacted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K. The omitted information is (i) not material and (ii) would likely cause us competitive harm if publicly disclosed. We agree to furnish supplementally an unredacted copy of the exhibit to the Securities and Exchange Commission on its request.

 

 

 

136


Table of Contents

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.

 

RIVIERA RESOURCES, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:  February 27, 2020

By:

 

/s/ David B. Rottino

 

 

 

David B. Rottino

 

 

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:  February 27, 2020

By:

 

/s/ James G. Frew

 

 

 

James G. Frew

 

 

 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:  February 27, 2020

By:

 

/s/ Darren R. Schluter

 

 

 

Darren R. Schluter

 

 

 

Executive Vice President, Finance, Administration and Chief Accounting Officer

 

 

 

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

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 dates indicated.

 

Signature

 

Title

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ David B. Rottino

 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

February 27, 2020

David B. Rottino

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ James G. Frew

 

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

 

February 27, 2020

James G. Frew

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Darren R. Schluter

 

Executive Vice President, Finance, Administration and Chief Accounting Officer

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

 

February 27, 2020

Darren R. Schluter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Matthew Bonanno

 

Director

 

February 27, 2020

Matthew Bonanno

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Joseph A. Mills

 

Director

 

February 27, 2020

Joseph A. Mills

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ C. Gregory Harper

 

Director

 

February 27, 2020

C. Gregory Harper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Evan Lederman

 

Director

 

February 27, 2020

Evan Lederman

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Director

 

February 27, 2020

Andrew Taylor

 

 

 

 

 

137