U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-KSB

 

ý

 

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

 

For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003

 

o

 

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

 

Commission File Number 1-5103

 

BARNWELL INDUSTRIES, INC.

(Name of small business issuer in its charter)

 

Delaware

 

72-0496921

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

 

 

1100 Alakea Street, Suite 2900, Honolulu, Hawaii  96813-2833

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip code)

 

 

 

(808) 531-8400

(Issuer’s telephone number)

 

 

 

Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:

 

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, par value
$0.50 per share

 

American Stock Exchange
Toronto Stock Exchange

 

 

 

Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:  None

 

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

 

Yes     ý     No     o

 

Check if there is no disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation S-B, and no disclosure will be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB or any amendment to this Form 10-KSB.               ý

 

Issuer’s revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003: $23,680,000

 

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates (640,797 shares) of the Registrant on December 23, 2003, based on the closing price of $32.00 on that date on the American Stock Exchange, was $20,506,000.

 

As of December 23, 2003 there were 1,314,510 shares of common stock, par value $0.50, outstanding.

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference

 

1.                         Proxy statement to be forwarded to shareholders on or about January 22, 2004 is incorporated by reference in Part III hereof.

 

Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format     Yes       o     No     ý

 

 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I

 

Discussion of Forward-Looking Statements

 

Item 1.

Description of Business

 

 

General Development of Business

 

 

Financial Information about Industry Segments

 

 

Narrative Description of Business

 

 

Financial Information about Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales

 

Item 2.

Description of Property

 

 

 Oil and Natural Gas Operations

 

 

General

 

 

Well Drilling Activities

 

 

Oil and Natural Gas Production

 

 

Productive Wells

 

 

Developed Acreage and Undeveloped Acreage

 

 

Reserves

 

 

Estimated Future Net Revenues

 

 

Marketing of Oil and Natural Gas

 

 

Governmental Regulation

 

 

Competition

 

 

 Contract Drilling Operations

 

 

Activity

 

 

Competition

 

 

 Land Investment Operations

 

 

Activity

 

 

Competition

 

 

Corporate Office

 

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings

 

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

PART II

 

 

Item 5.

Market For Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Item 6.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation

 

 

Results of Operations

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Item 7.

Financial Statements

 

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Item 8.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

Item 8A.

Controls and Procedures

 

PART III

 

 

Item 9.

Directors, Executive Officers, Promoters and Control Persons, Compliance With Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act

 

Item 10.

Executive Compensation

 

Item 11.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

 

Item 12.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

 

Item 13.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

Item 14.

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

 

2



 

PART I

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Form 10-KSB, and the documents incorporated herein by reference, contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including various forecasts, projections of Barnwell Industries, Inc.’s (referred to herein together with its subsidiaries as “Barnwell”) future performance, statements of Barnwell’s plans and objectives and other similar types of information.  Although Barnwell believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure that the expectations contained in such forward-looking statements will be achieved.  Such statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to, those relating to the factors discussed below, in other portions of this Form 10-KSB, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and in other documents filed by Barnwell with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in such statements.  These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of filing of this Form 10-KSB, and Barnwell expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to publicly release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein.

 

Barnwell’s oil and natural gas operations are affected by domestic and international political, legislative, regulatory and legal actions.  Such actions may include changes in the policies of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries or other developments involving or affecting oil-producing countries, including military conflict, embargoes, internal instability or actions or reactions of the government of the United States in anticipation of or in response to such developments.  Domestic and international economic conditions, such as recessionary trends, inflation, interest costs, monetary exchange rates and labor costs, as well as changes in the availability and market prices of crude oil, natural gas and other petroleum products, may also have a significant effect on Barnwell’s oil and natural gas operations.  While Barnwell maintains reserves for anticipated liabilities and carries various levels of insurance, Barnwell could be affected by civil, criminal, regulatory or administrative actions, claims or proceedings.  In addition, climate and weather can significantly affect Barnwell in several of its operations.  Barnwell’s oil and gas operations are also affected by political developments and laws and regulations, particularly in the United States and Canada, such as restrictions on production, restrictions on imports and exports, the maintenance of specified reserves, tax increases and retroactive tax claims, expropriation of property, cancellation of contract rights, environmental protection controls, environmental compliance requirements and laws pertaining to workers’ health and safety.  Costs of compliance with environmental laws are ingrained in Barnwell’s expenses and not distinguished from other costs and expenses.

 

Barnwell’s land investment business segment is affected by the condition of Hawaii’s real estate market.  The Hawaii real estate market is affected by Hawaii’s economy in general and Hawaii’s tourism industry in particular.  Any future cash flows from Barnwell’s land development activities are subject to, among other factors, the level of real estate activity and prices, the demand for new housing and second homes on the Island of Hawaii, the rate of increase in the cost of building materials and labor, the introduction of building code modifications, changes to zoning laws, and the level of confidence in Hawaii’s economy.

 

Barnwell’s contract drilling operations, which are located in Hawaii, are also indirectly affected by the factors discussed in the preceding paragraph.  Barnwell’s contract drilling operations are

 

3



 

materially dependent upon levels of land development activity in Hawaii.  Such activity levels are affected by both short-term and long-term trends in Hawaii’s economy.  In prior years, Hawaii’s economy has experienced very slow growth, and as events during previous years have demonstrated, any prolonged reduction or lack of growth in Hawaii’s economy will depress the demand for Barnwell’s contract drilling services.  Such a decline could have a material adverse effect on Barnwell’s contract drilling revenues and profitability.

 

Item 1.            Description of Business

 

(a)       General Development of Business

 

Barnwell was incorporated in Delaware in 1956.  During its last three fiscal years, Barnwell was engaged in 1) oil and natural gas exploration, development, production and sales primarily in Canada (oil and natural gas segment), 2) investment in leasehold land in Hawaii (land investment segment), and 3) water and exploratory well drilling, contract labor servicing for geothermal well drilling and workovers, and water pumping system installation and repair in Hawaii (contract drilling segment).

 

Barnwell’s oil and natural gas activities comprise its largest business segment.  Approximately 82% of Barnwell’s revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003 were attributable to its oil and natural gas activities.  Barnwell’s contract drilling activities accounted for 9% of Barnwell’s revenues in fiscal 2003, land investment activities comprised 5% of fiscal 2003 revenues, and gas processing and other revenues comprised 4% of fiscal 2003 revenues.  Approximately 98% of Barnwell’s capital expenditures for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2003 were attributable to oil and natural gas activities and 2% were applicable to other activities.

 

(i)            Oil and Natural Gas Activities. Barnwell’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Barnwell of Canada, Limited, is involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties, principally in Alberta, Canada.  Barnwell of Canada, Limited initiates and participates in exploratory and developmental operations for oil and natural gas on property in which it has an interest, and evaluates proposals by third parties with regard to participation in such exploratory and developmental operations elsewhere.  Barnwell’s oil and natural gas segment received 64% of its oil and natural gas revenues in fiscal 2003 from four individually significant customers, ProGas Limited, Coral Energy Canada Inc., Plains Marketing Canada, L.P., and Petrogas Marketing Ltd.

 

(ii)           Contract Drilling. Barnwell’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Water Resources International, Inc., drills water, geothermal and exploratory wells and installs and repairs water pumping systems in Hawaii.  Water Resources International, Inc. owns and operates four rotary drill rigs, pump installation and service equipment, leases one rotary drill/workover rig to an oil company, and maintains drilling materials and pump inventory in Hawaii.  Water Resources International, Inc.’s contracts are usually fixed price per lineal foot drilled or day rate contracts that are either negotiated with private entities or are obtained through competitive bidding with various private entities or local, state and federal agencies.  Barnwell’s contract drilling subsidiary derived 66%, 70% and 49% of its contract drilling revenues in fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, pursuant to Federal, State of Hawaii and county contracts.

 

(iii)          Land Investment. Barnwell owns a 77.6% controlling interest in Kaupulehu Developments, a Hawaii general partnership which owns interests in leasehold land and development rights for property located approximately six miles north of the Kona International Airport in the North

 

4



 

Kona District of the Island of Hawaii.  Between 1986 and 1989, Kaupulehu Developments obtained the state and county zoning changes necessary to permit development of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu and Hualalai Golf Club, which opened in 1996, a second golf course, and single and multiple family residential units.  These projects were developed on leasehold land acquired from Kaupulehu Developments by Kaupulehu Makai Venture, an unrelated entity that is an affiliate of Kajima Corporation of Japan.  Kaupulehu Developments later obtained the state and county zoning changes necessary to permit development of single and multi-family residential units, a golf course and a limited commercial area on approximately 870 leasehold acres located adjacent to and north of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu.

 

Kaupulehu Developments currently owns the leasehold rights in these approximately 870 acres and leasehold rights in another approximately 1,000 acres of conservation-zoned land, located adjacent to and contiguous with the 870 acres.  Kaupulehu Developments also owns development rights in residentially zoned leasehold land adjacent to and interspersed within the Hualalai Golf Club golf course and the second golf course currently under construction.  The development rights are under option to Kaupulehu Makai Venture, the owner of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu.

 

(b)           Financial Information about Industry Segments

 

Revenues of each industry segment for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are summarized as follows (all revenues were from unaffiliated customers with no intersegment sales or transfers):

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Oil and natural gas

 

$

19,350,000

 

82

%

$

11,320,000

 

71

%

$

19,870,000

 

82

%

Contract drilling

 

2,050,000

 

9

%

3,480,000

 

22

%

3,290,000

 

14

%

Land investment

 

1,220,000

 

5

%

220,000

 

1

%

 

 

Other

 

720,000

 

3

%

598,000

 

4

%

601,000

 

3

%

Revenues from
segments

 

23,340,000

 

99

%

15,618,000

 

98

%

23,761,000

 

99

%

Interest income

 

340,000

 

1

%

262,000

 

2

%

329,000

 

1

%

Total revenues

 

$

23,680,000

 

100

%

$

15,880,000

 

100

%

$

24,090,000

 

100

%

 

For further discussion see Note 12 (SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION) and Note 14 (CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK) of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in Item 7.

 

(c)           Narrative Description of Business

 

See the table above in Item 1(b) detailing revenue of each industry segment and description of each industry segment of Barnwell’s business under Item 2.

 

As of September 30, 2003, Barnwell employed 37 employees, 35 of which are on a full-time basis.  Ten are employed in contract drilling activities, 16 are employed in oil and natural gas activities, and 11 are members of the corporate and administrative staff.

 

For further discussion see the “Governmental Regulation” section and the “Competition” section in Item 2 hereof.

 

5



 

(d)                                 Financial Information about Foreign and Domestic Operations and Export Sales

 

Revenues and long-lived assets by geographic area for the three years ended and as of September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are set forth in Note 12 (SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION) of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” in Item 7.

 

Item 2.            Description of Property

 

OIL AND NATURAL GAS OPERATIONS

 

General

 

Barnwell’s investments in oil and natural gas properties consist of investments in Canada, principally in the Province of Alberta, with minor holdings in Saskatchewan and British Columbia.  These property interests are principally held under governmental leases or licenses.  Under the typical Canadian provincial governmental lease, Barnwell must perform exploratory operations and comply with certain other conditions.  Lease terms vary with each province, but, in general, the terms grant Barnwell the right to remove oil, natural gas and related substances subject to payment of specified royalties on production.

 

Barnwell initiates and participates in exploratory and developmental operations for oil and natural gas on property in which it has an interest.  Barnwell also evaluates proposals by third parties for participation in other exploratory and developmental opportunities.  All exploratory and developmental operations are overseen by Barnwell’s Calgary, Alberta staff along with independent consultants as necessary.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell participated in exploratory and developmental operations in the Canadian Provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, although Barnwell does not limit its consideration of exploratory and developmental operations to these areas.

 

Barnwell’s producing natural gas properties are located principally in Alberta.  A small number of producing properties are located in British Columbia and Saskatchewan.  The Province of Alberta determines its royalty share of natural gas by using a reference price that averages all natural gas sales in Alberta.  Royalty rates are calculated on a sliding scale basis, increasing as prices increase.  Additionally, Barnwell pays gross overriding royalties on a portion of its natural gas sales to other parties.

 

In fiscal 2003, the weighted average rate of all royalties paid to governments and others on natural gas from the Dunvegan Unit, Barnwell’s principal oil and natural gas property, before the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit, was approximately 31%.  The weighted average rate of royalties paid on all of Barnwell’s natural gas was approximately 28% in fiscal 2003, versus approximately 26% in fiscal 2002.  The increase in the weighted average royalty rate was primarily due to higher average annual gas prices in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002.

 

6



 

In fiscal 2003, virtually all of Barnwell’s oil production was from properties located in Alberta.  The Province of Alberta determines its royalty share of oil by using a reference price that averages all oil sales in Alberta.  Royalty rates are calculated on a sliding scale basis, increasing as prices increase.  Additionally, Barnwell pays gross overriding royalties and leasehold royalties on a portion of its oil sales to parties other than the Province of Alberta.  In fiscal 2003 and 2002, the weighted average royalty rate paid on oil was approximately 24% and  25%, respectively.  The decrease in the weighted average royalty rate on oil was primarily due to lower royalty rates on new oil production.

 

Prices of natural gas are typically higher in the winter than at other times due to demand for heating.  Prices of oil are also subject to seasonal fluctuations, but to a lesser degree.  Unit sales of oil and natural gas are based on the quantity produced from the properties by the operator based on sound petroleum practices and applicable rules and regulations.  During periods of low demand for natural gas, the operator of the Dunvegan property may re-inject natural gas into underground storage facilities for delivery at a future date.

 

Well Drilling Activities

 

During fiscal 2003, Barnwell participated in the drilling of 52 gross development wells and 13 gross exploratory wells, of which management believes 53 should be capable of production.  Barnwell also participated in the recompletion of ten gross wells.  The most significant drilling operations took place in the Bonanza, Leduc, Dunvegan, Progress, Pouce Coupe South and Bashaw areas.  New drilling operations took place in the Armada, Bashaw, Bonanza, Doris, Pine Creek, and Pouce Coupe South areas.

 

The following table sets forth more detailed information with respect to the number of exploratory (“Exp.”) and development (“Dev.”) wells drilled for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 in which Barnwell participated:

 

 

 

Productive
Oil Wells

 

Productive
Gas Wells

 

Total Productive
Wells

 

Dry Holes

 

Total Wells

 

 

 

Exp.

 

Dev.

 

Exp.

 

Dev.

 

Exp.

 

Dev.

 

Exp.

 

Dev.

 

Exp.

 

Dev.

 

2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross*

 

 

5.0

 

8.0

 

40.0

 

8.0

 

45.0

 

5.0

 

7.0

 

13.0

 

52.0

 

Net*

 

 

1.5

 

2.1

 

7.5

 

2.1

 

9.0

 

1.5

 

2.1

 

3.6

 

11.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross*

 

3.0

 

3.0

 

1.0

 

5.0

 

4.0

 

8.0

 

1.0

 

3.0

 

5.0

 

11.0

 

Net*

 

0.6

 

1.1

 

0.2

 

2.3

 

0.8

 

3.4

 

0.1

 

1.1

 

0.9

 

4.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross*

 

 

11.0

 

1.0

 

11.0

 

1.0

 

22.0

 

3.0

 

4.0

 

4.0

 

26.0

 

Net*

 

 

1.5

 

0.2

 

1.5

 

0.2

 

3.0

 

1.2

 

1.4

 

1.4

 

4.4

 

 


*                The term “Gross” refers to the total number of wells in which Barnwell owns an interest, and “Net” refers to Barnwell’s aggregate interest therein.  For example, a 50% interest in a well represents 1 gross well, but 0.5 net well.  The gross figure includes interests owned of record by Barnwell and, in addition, the portion owned by others.

 

7



 

The Dunvegan Unit, in which Barnwell holds an 8.9% interest, is Barnwell’s principal oil and natural gas property and is located in Alberta, Canada.  The Dunvegan Unit has 130 natural gas wells producing from 130 well zones.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell participated in the drilling of twelve gross (1.1 net) development gas wells and recompletion of 5 gas wells (0.4 net wells) in the Dunvegan area.  While these new wells did not add to Barnwell’s proved reserves, they are expected to increase the rate of future production from the area.  Total capital expenditures at Dunvegan were $1,223,000 in fiscal 2003 as compared to $325,000 and $696,000 in fiscal 2002 and 2001, respectively.

 

Capital expenditures totaled $1,552,000 in the Bonanza area, a new area for Barnwell, where three gross wells (1.4 net wells) were drilled in fiscal 2003.  All three wells were tied in and producing at September 30, 2003.

 

In the Leduc area, Barnwell drilled three gross successful wells (0.8 net wells) and acquired one gross (0.3 net) well, all of which were producing at September 30, 2003.  Capital expenditures in the Leduc area totaled $1,483,000 in fiscal 2003.

 

In the Progress area, where capital expenditures totaled $1,069,000 in fiscal 2003, one unsuccessful well was drilled and Barnwell made significant investments in acquiring leases and seismic data.

 

In the Pouce Coupe South area, where capital expenditures totaled $692,000 in fiscal 2003, Barnwell drilled two successful gross wells (one net well), one of which was producing as of September 30, 2003; the other is expected to be placed in production in early fiscal 2004.

 

Capital expenditures totaled $409,000 in fiscal 2003 in the Bashaw area, a new area.  Barnwell participated in drilling one gross (0.4 net) well, a successful gas well which began producing in March 2003, and one gross (0.4 net) well which was dry and abandoned.

 

Barnwell’s average net interest in wells drilled in fiscal 2003 was approximately 23%, as compared to 34% in fiscal 2002 and 19% in fiscal 2001.  The decrease in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002, was due principally to drilling programs at Dunvegan, 12 gross (1.1 net) wells, and Hatton, Saskatchewan, 13 gross (2.0 net) wells, for a total of 25 gross (3.1 net) wells or an average net well interest of 12.4% for these two drilling programs.  The average net interest in all other wells drilled in fiscal 2003 was 29%.  Of the wells drilled in fiscal 2003, 32 were on prospects developed by Barnwell.

 

Oil and Natural Gas Production

 

The following table summarizes (a) Barnwell’s net unit production for the last three fiscal years, based on sales of crude oil, natural gas, condensate and other natural gas liquids, from all wells in which Barnwell has or had an interest, and (b) the average sales prices and average production costs for such production during the same periods.  Production amounts reported are net of royalties and the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit.  Barnwell’s net production in fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001 was derived primarily from the Province of Alberta.  All dollar amounts in this table are in U.S. dollars.

 

8



 

 

 

Year Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Annual net production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natural gas liquids (BBLS)*

 

85,000

 

94,000

 

98,000

 

Oil (BBLS)*

 

142,000

 

148,000

 

174,000

 

Natural gas (MCF)*

 

3,175,000

 

3,277,000

 

3,269,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annual average sale price per unit of production:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BBL of liquids**

 

$

21.50

 

$

12.46

 

$

22.60

 

BBL of oil**

 

$

27.69

 

$

21.28

 

$

25.44

 

MCF of natural gas**

 

$

4.27

 

$

2.12

 

$

4.02

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annual average production cost per MCFE produced***

 

$

0.93

 

$

0.66

 

$

0.72

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annual average depletion cost per MCFE produced***

 

$

0.90

 

$

0.71

 

$

0.70

 

 


*                                         When used in this report, the term “BBL(S)” means stock tank barrel(s) of oil equivalent to 42 U.S. gallons and the term “MCF” means 1,000 cubic feet of natural gas at 14.65 pounds per square inch absolute and 60 degrees F.

**                                  Calculated on revenues before royalty expense and royalty tax credit divided by gross production.

***                           Natural gas liquids, oil and natural gas units were combined by converting barrels of natural gas liquids and oil to an MCF equivalent (“MCFE”) on the basis of 1 BBL = 5.8 MCF.

 

In fiscal 2003, approximately 71%, 20% and 9% of Barnwell’s oil and natural gas revenues were from the sale of natural gas, the sale of oil and the sale of natural gas liquids, respectively.

 

In fiscal 2003, Barnwell’s net production after royalties for natural gas averaged 8,700 MCF per day, a decrease of 3% from 8,980 MCF per day in fiscal 2002.  Gross natural gas production remained constant, while, on a net basis, natural gas production decreased due to an increase in royalty rates attributable to increased natural gas prices.  Dunvegan contributed approximately 43% of Barnwell’s net natural gas production in fiscal 2003.

 

Barnwell’s major oil producing properties are the Red Earth, Chauvin and Manyberries areas in Canada.  In fiscal 2003, net production after royalties for oil averaged 390 barrels per day, a decrease of 3% from 400 barrels per day in fiscal 2002.  This decrease was due to natural declines in production from certain of Barnwell’s older oil properties, which was partially offset by new production at Wizard Lake, Bonanza and Boundary Lake.

 

In fiscal 2003, net production after royalties for natural gas liquids averaged 230 barrels per day, a decrease of 12% from 260 barrels per day in fiscal 2002.  This decrease was due primarily to a fire in early October 2002 at a Dunvegan gas plant that prevented stripping of natural gas liquids from the natural gas, resulting in an approximately 6,000 barrel decline in liquids net production in fiscal 2003.  Barnwell did, however, receive a higher price for its natural gas than it would have if the liquids had

 

9



 

been removed, thereby mitigating some of the impact of the liquids production decline.  The damage to the gas plant was repaired and the plant resumed operations in late December 2002.

 

The average production cost per MCFE was $0.93 for fiscal 2003, a 41% increase from $0.66 for fiscal 2002.  The increase is due partly to an oil and natural gas operating expense credit for overcharges of operating expenses for fiscal years 1998 through 2001 from the operator of the Dunvegan property totaling $470,000 which was received in fiscal 2002.  The increase was also attributable to higher well repair and maintenance, electricity, fuel, insurance, and general maintenance costs.

 

In fiscal 2002, approximately 62%, 28% and 10% of Barnwell’s oil and natural gas revenues were from the sale of natural gas, the sale of oil and the sale of natural gas liquids, respectively.  In fiscal 2001, approximately 66%, 23% and 11% of Barnwell’s oil and natural gas revenues were from the sale of natural gas, the sale of oil and the sale of natural gas liquids, respectively.

 

 In fiscal 2002, Barnwell’s net production after royalties for natural gas averaged 8,980 MCF per day, comparable to 8,950 MCF per day in fiscal 2001.  Gross natural gas production declined 5% as natural declines in gas production at Barnwell’s more mature properties and the watering out of wells at Sunnynook and Pembina were only partially offset by recent development and new production from the Progress and Pollockville areas.  However, natural gas production was relatively unchanged on a net basis due to a decrease in royalties attributable to decreased natural gas prices.  Dunvegan contributed approximately 47% of Barnwell’s net natural gas production in fiscal 2002.

 

In fiscal 2002, net production after royalties for oil averaged 400 barrels per day, a decrease of 17% from 480 barrels per day in fiscal 2001.  This decrease was due to natural declines in production from certain of Barnwell’s older oil properties.

 

In fiscal 2002, net production after royalties for natural gas liquids averaged 260 barrels per day, a decrease of 4% from 270 barrels per day in fiscal 2001.  This decrease was due to declines in production from the Dunvegan and Pembina areas.

 

The following table sets forth the gross and net number of productive wells Barnwell has an interest in as of September 30, 2003.

 

Productive Wells

 

 

 

Productive Wells*

 

 

 

Gross**

 

Net**

 

Location

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Oil

 

Gas

 

Canada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alberta

 

175

 

470

 

29.0

 

51.9

 

Saskatchewan

 

2

 

26

 

0.2

 

4.3

 

British Columbia

 

 

1

 

 

0.5

 

Total

 

177

 

497

 

29.2

 

56.7

 

 


*                                         Seventy-two gross natural gas wells have dual or multiple completions and six gross oil wells have dual completions.

**                                  Please see note (2) on the following table.

 

10



 

Developed Acreage and Undeveloped Acreage

 

The following table sets forth certain information with respect to oil and natural gas properties of Barnwell as of September 30, 2003:

 

 

 

Developed
Acreage(1)

 

Undeveloped
Acreage(1)

 

Developed and
Undeveloped
Acreage(1)

 

Location

 

Gross(2)

 

Net(2)

 

Gross(2)

 

Net(2)

 

Gross(2)

 

Net(2)

 

Canada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alberta

 

250,832

 

35,670

 

152,831

 

39,717

 

403,663

 

75,387

 

British Columbia

 

1,753

 

555

 

4,401

 

1,653

 

6,154

 

2,208

 

Saskatchewan

 

3,336

 

530

 

 

 

3,336

 

530

 

Total

 

255,921

 

36,755

 

157,232

 

41,370

 

413,153

 

78,125

 

 


(1)                                  “Developed Acreage” includes the acres covered by leases upon which there are one or more producing wells.  “Undeveloped Acreage” includes acres covered by leases upon which there are no producing wells and which are maintained in effect by the payment of delay rentals or the commencement of drilling thereon.

 

(2)                                  “Gross” also refers to the total number of acres in which Barnwell owns an interest, and “Net” refers to Barnwell’s aggregate interest therein.  For example, a 50% interest in a 320 acre lease represents 320 Gross Acres and 160 Net Acres.  The gross acreage figures include interests owned of record by Barnwell and, in addition, the portion owned by others.

 

Barnwell’s leasehold interests in its undeveloped acreage expire over the next five fiscal years, if not developed, as follows: 18% expire during fiscal 2004; 5% expire during fiscal 2005; 11% expire during fiscal 2006; 15% expire during fiscal 2007 and 51% expire during fiscal 2008.  There can be no assurance that Barnwell will be successful in renewing its leasehold interests in the event of expiration.

 

Barnwell’s undeveloped acreage includes major concentrations in Alberta, at Thornbury (5,842 net acres), Swalwell (4,045 net acres), Red Earth (2,411 net acres), Pouce Coupe South (1,920 net acres), Gere (1,676 net acres), Bonanza (1,520 net acres), Foley Lake (1,200 net acres), and Progress (1,120 net acres).

 

Reserves

 

The amounts set forth in the table below, prepared by Paddock Lindstrom & Associates Ltd., Barnwell’s independent reservoir engineering consultants, summarize the estimated net quantities of proved developed producing reserves and proved developed reserves of crude oil (including condensate and natural gas liquids) and natural gas as of September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 on all properties in which Barnwell has an interest.  These reserves are before deductions for indebtedness secured by the properties and are based on constant dollars.  No estimates of total proved net oil or natural gas reserves have been filed with or included in reports to any federal authority or agency since October 1, 2001.

 

11



 

Proved Producing Reserves

 

 

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Oil – barrels (BBLS) (including condensate and natural gas liquids)

 

1,262,000

 

1,303,000

 

1,327,000

 

Natural gas – thousand cubic feet (MCF)

 

21,463,000

 

19,612,000

 

21,847,000

 

 

Total Proved Reserves

  (Includes Proved Producing Reserves)

 

 

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Oil – barrels (BBLS) (including condensate and natural gas liquids)

 

1,401,000

 

1,527,000

 

1,536,000

 

Natural gas – thousand cubic feet (MCF)

 

27,639,000

 

27,166,000

 

28,371,000

 

 

As of September 30, 2003, essentially all of Barnwell’s proved producing and total proved reserves were located in the Province of Alberta, with minor volumes located in the Provinces of Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

 

During fiscal 2003, Barnwell’s total net proved reserves, including proved producing reserves, of oil, condensate and natural gas liquids decreased by 126,000 barrels, and total net proved reserves of natural gas increased by 473,000 MCF.  The change in oil, condensate and natural gas liquids reserves was the net result of production during the year of 227,000 barrels, the addition of 136,000 barrels from the drilling of productive wells, and the independent engineer’s 35,000 barrel downward revision of Barnwell’s oil reserves.  The change in natural gas reserves was the net result of production during the year of 3,175,000 MCF, the addition of 4,683,000 MCF from the drilling of productive natural gas wells, and the independent engineer’s 1,035,000 MCF downward revision of Barnwell’s natural gas reserves.

 

Barnwell’s working interest in the Dunvegan area accounted for approximately 58% and 66% of its total proved natural gas reserves at September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and approximately 40% and 41% of total proved oil and condensate reserves at September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

 

The following table sets forth Barnwell’s oil and natural gas reserves at September 30, 2003, by property name, based on information prepared by Paddock Lindstrom & Associates Ltd.  Gross reserves are before the deduction of royalties; net reserves are after the deduction of royalties net of the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit.  This table is based on constant dollars where reserve estimates are based on sales prices, costs and statutory tax rates in existence at the date of the projection.  Oil, which includes natural gas liquids, is shown in thousands of barrels (“MBBLS”) and natural gas is shown in millions of cubic feet (“MMCF”).

 

12



 

OIL AND NATURAL GAS RESERVES AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2003

 

 

 

 

Total Proved Producing

 

Total Proved

 

 

 

Oil & NGL’s

 

Gas

 

Oil & NGL’s

 

Gas

 

Property Name

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

 

 

(MBBLS)

 

(MMCF)

 

(MBBLS)

 

(MMCF)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dunvegan

 

663

 

479

 

16,980

 

13,598

 

784

 

559

 

20,171

 

16,095

 

Red Earth

 

446

 

393

 

30

 

30

 

469

 

412

 

30

 

30

 

Pouce Coupe

 

14

 

11

 

1,537

 

1,221

 

18

 

14

 

2,578

 

2,030

 

Thornbury

 

 

 

1,249

 

1,041

 

 

 

1,496

 

1,254

 

Hillsdown

 

18

 

13

 

738

 

589

 

36

 

28

 

904

 

724

 

Medicine River

 

58

 

42

 

1,192

 

750

 

58

 

42

 

1,192

 

750

 

Armada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

48

 

45

 

Barrhead

 

 

 

237

 

268

 

 

 

237

 

268

 

Bashaw

 

2

 

1

 

79

 

52

 

2

 

1

 

79

 

52

 

Belloy

 

 

 

102

 

78

 

 

 

153

 

119

 

Bonanza

 

53

 

42

 

813

 

624

 

53

 

42

 

813

 

624

 

Charlotte Lake

 

 

 

302

 

275

 

 

 

703

 

619

 

Chauvin

 

153

 

135

 

15

 

13

 

153

 

135

 

15

 

13

 

Clive

 

 

 

7

 

7

 

 

 

7

 

7

 

Coyote

 

 

 

 

11

 

 

 

 

11

 

Doris

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

442

 

340

 

Drumheller

 

 

 

59

 

49

 

 

 

59

 

49

 

Faith South

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,011

 

792

 

Gilby

 

7

 

5

 

121

 

105

 

7

 

5

 

121

 

105

 

Highvale

 

6

 

5

 

2

 

2

 

6

 

5

 

2

 

2

 

Hilda

 

 

 

59

 

56

 

 

 

59

 

56

 

Leduc

 

24

 

17

 

1,036

 

800

 

24

 

17

 

1,092

 

850

 

Malmo

 

1

 

1

 

28

 

27

 

1

 

1

 

28

 

27

 

Manyberries

 

15

 

14

 

3

 

2

 

15

 

14

 

3

 

2

 

Mikwan

 

 

 

17

 

15

 

 

 

17

 

15

 

Mitsue

 

 

 

47

 

41

 

 

 

47

 

41

 

Pembina

 

36

 

28

 

370

 

312

 

36

 

28

 

370

 

312

 

Pine Creek, Alberta

 

 

 

218

 

154

 

 

 

218

 

154

 

Pollockville

 

 

 

244

 

151

 

 

 

244

 

151

 

Progress

 

10

 

7

 

1,036

 

768

 

10

 

7

 

1,036

 

768

 

Staplehurst

 

15

 

13

 

 

 

16

 

14

 

 

 

Wizard Lake

 

48

 

40

 

21

 

17

 

48

 

40

 

21

 

17

 

Wood River

 

7

 

7

 

233

 

205

 

7

 

7

 

1,008

 

819

 

Zama

 

8

 

7

 

120

 

81

 

10

 

9

 

404

 

275

 

Rigel, British Columbia

 

 

 

10

 

8

 

 

 

10

 

8

 

Boundary Lake, British Columbia

 

 

 

 

 

19

 

19

 

108

 

102

 

Hatton, Saskatchewan

 

 

 

158

 

113

 

 

 

158

 

113

 

Webb-Beverley, Saskatchewan

 

2

 

2

 

 

 

2

 

2

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

1,586

 

1,262

 

27,063

 

21,463

 

1,774

 

1,401

 

34,884

 

27,639

 

 

Properties are located in Alberta, Canada unless otherwise noted.

 

13



 

Estimated Future Net Revenues

 

The following table sets forth Barnwell’s “Estimated Future Net Revenues” from total proved oil, natural gas and condensate reserves and the present value of Barnwell’s “Estimated Future Net Revenues” (discounted at 10%).  Estimated future net revenues for total proved reserves are net of estimated development costs.  Net revenues have been calculated using current sales prices and costs, after deducting all royalties net of the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit, operating costs, future estimated capital expenditures, and income taxes.

 

 

 

Proved Producing
Reserves

 

Total Proved
Reserves

 

Year ending September 30,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2004

 

$

9,978,000

 

$

10,582,000

 

2005

 

8,658,000

 

9,972,000

 

2006

 

7,250,000

 

8,358,000

 

Thereafter

 

34,320,000

 

41,623,000

 

 

 

$

60,206,000

 

$

70,535,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Present value (discounted at 10%)
at September 30, 2003

 

$

42,282,000

 

$

49,537,000

 

 

Marketing of Oil and Natural Gas

 

Barnwell sells substantially all of its oil and condensate production under short-term contracts between itself and marketers of oil.  The price of oil is freely negotiated between the buyers and sellers.

 

Natural gas sold by Barnwell is generally sold under both long-term and short-term contracts with prices indexed to market prices.  The price of natural gas and natural gas liquids is freely negotiated between buyers and sellers.  In 2003, 2002 and 2001, Barnwell took virtually all of its oil and natural gas “in kind” where Barnwell markets the products instead of having the operator of a producing property market the products on Barnwell’s behalf.

 

In fiscal 2003, natural gas production from the Dunvegan Unit was responsible for approximately 41% of Barnwell’s natural gas revenues, as compared to 45% in fiscal 2002.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell had four individually significant customers that accounted for 64% of Barnwell’s oil and natural gas revenues.  A substantial portion of Barnwell’s Dunvegan natural gas production and natural gas production from other properties is sold to aggregators and marketers under various short-term and long-term contracts, with the price of natural gas determined by negotiations between the aggregators and the final purchasers.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell continued to increase the volumes of natural gas sold into spot markets, reaching approximately 46% of natural gas volumes, to take advantage of new pipeline access to premium markets and higher prices.

 

Governmental Regulation

 

The jurisdictions in which the oil and natural gas properties of Barnwell are located have regulatory provisions relating to permits for the drilling of wells, the spacing of wells, the prevention of

 

14



 

oil and natural gas waste, allowable rates of production and other matters.  The amount of oil and natural gas produced is subject to control by regulatory agencies in each province and state that periodically assign allowable rates of production.  The Province of Alberta and Government of Canada also monitor and regulate the volume of natural gas that may be removed from the province and the conditions of removal.

 

There is no current government regulation of the price that may be charged on the sale of Canadian oil or natural gas production.  Canadian natural gas production destined for export is priced by market forces subject to export contracts meeting certain criteria prescribed by Canada’s National Energy Board and the Government of Canada.

 

The right to explore for and develop oil and natural gas on lands in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia is controlled by the governments of each of those provinces.  Changes in royalties and other terms of provincial leases, permits and reservations may have a substantial effect on Barnwell’s operations.  In addition to the foregoing, in the future, Barnwell’s Canadian operations may be affected from time to time by political developments in Canada and by Canadian Federal, provincial and local laws and regulations, such as restrictions on production and export, oil and natural gas allocation and rationing, price controls, tax increases, expropriation of property, modification or cancellation of contract rights, and environmental protection controls.  Furthermore, operations may also be affected by United States import fees and restrictions.

 

Different royalty rates are imposed by the provincial governments, the Government of Canada and private interests with respect to the production and sale of crude oil, natural gas and liquids.  In addition, provincial governments receive additional revenue through the imposition of taxes on crude oil and natural gas owned by private interests within the province.  Essentially, provincial royalties are calculated as a percentage of revenue, and vary depending on production volumes, selling prices and the date of discovery.

 

In fiscal 2001 and 2002, Canadian taxpayers were not permitted to deduct royalties, taxes, rentals and similar levies paid to the Federal or provincial governments in connection with oil and natural gas production in computing income for purposes of Canadian Federal income tax.  However, they were allowed to deduct a “Resource Allowance” which is 25% of the taxpayer’s “Resource Profits for the Year” (essentially, net income from the production of oil, natural gas or minerals) in computing their taxable income.

 

In October 2003, the Parliament of Canada held first and second readings on a bill to reduce Canada’s corporate tax rate on “resource” income (income derived from oil and natural gas operations) over a four-year period beginning January 1, 2003 from 29% to 21% beginning January 1, 2007.  Additionally, the bill phases in over the same four-year period tax deductions for royalties, which previously were not tax deductible, and phases out the Resource Allowance deduction along with other changes.  In November 2003, the bill passed on third reading, received Royal Assent and was enacted into law.  The reduction in the tax will reduce Barnwell’s deferred income tax liabilities by approximately $1,500,000 in the quarter ending December 31, 2003, Barnwell’s fiscal 2004 first quarter.

 

In Alberta, a producer of oil or natural gas is entitled to a credit against the royalties payable to the Crown by virtue of the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit program.  The Alberta Royalty Tax Credit rate is based on a price-sensitive formula and varies between 75% at prices below a specified royalty tax credit reference price and 25% at prices above a specified royalty tax credit reference price.  The Alberta

 

15



 

Royalty Tax Credit will be applied to a maximum annual amount of $2,000,000 Canadian dollars of Alberta Crown royalties payable for each producer or associated group of producers.  Crown royalties on production from producing properties acquired from corporations claiming maximum entitlements to Alberta Royalty Tax Credit will generally not be eligible for Alberta Royalty Tax Credit.  The rate is established quarterly based on the average royalty tax credit reference price, as determined by the Alberta Department of Energy.  The royalty tax credit reference price is based on a weighted average oil and gas price.

 

The Province of Alberta has stated that changes in the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit will be announced three years in advance.  The government of Alberta has considered limiting the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit on some basis, as yet undetermined, to entities that invest in oil and natural gas in Alberta.  Barnwell currently does such investing.  The Alberta Royalty Tax Credit program has been in effect in various forms since 1974 and Barnwell anticipates that it will be continued in some form for the foreseeable future.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell’s Alberta Royalty Tax Credit totaled approximately $342,000.  If the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit is not continued, it will have an adverse effect on Barnwell.

 

Competition

 

The majority of Barnwell’s natural gas sales take place in Alberta, Canada.  Natural gas prices in Alberta are generally competitive with other major North American areas due to increased pipeline capacity into the United States.  Barnwell’s oil and natural gas liquids are sold in Alberta with prices determined by the world price for oil.

 

Barnwell competes in the sale of oil and natural gas on the basis of price, and on the ability to deliver products.  The oil and natural gas industry is intensely competitive in all phases, including the exploration for new production and reserves and the acquisition of equipment and labor necessary to conduct drilling activities.  The competition comes from numerous major oil companies as well as numerous other independent operators.  There is also competition between the oil and natural gas industry and other industries in supplying the energy and fuel requirements of industrial, commercial and individual consumers.  Barnwell is a minor participant in the industry and competes in its oil and natural gas activities with many other companies having far greater financial and other resources.

 

CONTRACT DRILLING OPERATIONS

 

Barnwell owns 100% of Water Resources International, Inc. which drills water and exploratory wells and installs and repairs water pumping systems in Hawaii.  Water Resources International, Inc. owns and operates four Spencer-Harris portable rotary drill rigs ranging in drilling capacity from 3,500 feet to 7,000 feet, and leases an IDECO H-35 rotary drill/workover rig to an oil company.  Additionally, Water Resources International, Inc. owns a two acre parcel of real estate in an industrial park 11 miles south of Hilo, Hawaii, leases a three-quarter of an acre maintenance facility in Honolulu and a one acre maintenance and storage facility with 2,800 square feet of interior space in Kawaihae, Hawaii, and maintains an inventory of drilling and pump supplies.  As of September 30, 2003, Water Resources International, Inc. employed ten drilling, pump and administrative employees, none of whom are union members.

 

Water Resources International, Inc. drills water, water monitoring and geothermal wells of varying depths in Hawaii and also installs and repairs water pumps and is the State of Hawaii’s

 

16



 

distributor for Floway pumps and equipment.  The demand for Water Resources International, Inc.’s services is primarily dependent upon land development activities in Hawaii.  Water Resources International, Inc. markets its services to land developers and government agencies, and identifies potential contracts through public notices, its officers’ involvement in community activities and referrals.  Contracts are usually fixed price per lineal foot or day rate contracts and are negotiated with private entities or obtained through competitive bidding with private entities or with local, state and Federal agencies.  Contract revenues are not dependent upon the discovery of water, geothermal production zones or other, similar targets, and contracts are not subject to renegotiation of profits or termination at the election of the governmental entities involved.  Contracts provide for arbitration in the event of disputes.

 

Barnwell’s contract drilling subsidiary derived 66%, 70% and 49% of its contract drilling revenues in fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, pursuant to Federal, State of Hawaii and county contracts.  At September 30, 2003, Barnwell had accounts receivable from the State of Hawaii and county entities totaling approximately $177,000.  Barnwell has lien rights on wells drilled and pumps installed for Federal, State of Hawaii, county and private entities.

 

Barnwell’s contract drilling segment currently operates in Hawaii and is not subject to seasonal fluctuations.

 

Activity

 

In fiscal 2003, Water Resources International, Inc. started five well drilling contracts and five pump installation contracts and completed six well drilling contracts and nine pump installation contracts.  Two of the six completed well contracts and four of the nine completed pump contracts were started in the prior year.  Eighty-two percent (82%) of well drilling and pump installation jobs, representing 66% of total contract drilling revenues in fiscal 2003, have been pursuant to government contracts.

 

At September 30, 2003, Water Resources International, Inc. had a backlog of two well drilling contracts and three pump installation and repair contracts, one of which was in progress as of September 30, 2003.

 

The dollar amount of Barnwell’s backlog of firm well drilling and pump installation and repair contracts at November 30, 2003 and 2002 is as follows:

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

Well drilling

 

$

1,470,000

 

$

1,700,000

 

Pump installation and repair

 

880,000

 

100,000

 

 

 

$

2,350,000

 

$

1,800,000

 

 

All of the contracts in backlog at November 30, 2003 are expected to be completed within fiscal year 2004.

 

17



 

Competition

 

Water Resources International, Inc. utilizes rotary drill rigs and competes with other drilling contractors in Hawaii which use cable tool rigs, which require less labor to operate but generally drill slower, rotary drill rigs similar to Water Resources International, Inc.’s drilling rigs, and top head rotary drilling rigs that drill as quickly as Water Resources International, Inc.’s equipment but require less labor.  These competitors are also capable of installing and repairing vertical turbine and submersible water pumping systems in Hawaii.  These contractors compete actively with Water Resources International, Inc. for government and private contracts.  Pricing is Barnwell’s major method of competition; reliability of service is also a significant factor.

 

The number of available water well drilling jobs has not changed significantly from the prior year.  Barnwell expects competitive pressures within the industry to remain high as demand for well drilling and pump installation in Hawaii is not expected to increase in fiscal year 2004 and may decrease.

 

LAND INVESTMENT OPERATIONS

 

Barnwell owns a 77.6% controlling interest in Kaupulehu Developments, a Hawaii general partnership which owns interests in leasehold land and development rights for property located approximately six miles north of the Kona International Airport in the North Kona District of the Island of Hawaii.  In previous years, between 1986 and 1989, Kaupulehu Developments obtained the state and county zoning changes necessary to permit development of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu and Hualalai Golf Club, which opened in 1996, a second golf course, and single and multiple family residential units.  These projects were developed on land acquired from Kaupulehu Developments by Kaupulehu Makai Venture, an unrelated entity that is an affiliate of Kajima Corporation of Japan.

 

Activity

 

The leasehold land interests held by Kaupulehu Developments are for approximately 870 acres of land zoned for resort/residential development and another approximately 1,000 acres of land zoned conservation district.  These approximately 1,870 acres are located adjacent to and north of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu, between the Queen Kaahumanu Highway and the Pacific Ocean.

 

Kaupulehu Developments is negotiating with an independent third party interested in developing the approximately 870 leasehold acres zoned for resort/residential development, of which approximately 186 acres were designated by the State Land Use Commission as preservation areas with no residential or golf course development.  The independent third party and Kaupulehu Developments have made significant progress in negotiation of a revised development agreement and residential fee simple purchase prices with the lessor of the 870 acres.  Management cannot predict the outcome of these negotiations.

 

The development rights held by Kaupulehu Developments are for residentially zoned leasehold land within and adjacent to the Hualalai Golf Club and are under option to Kaupulehu Makai Venture.  On December 31, 2002, Kaupulehu Makai Venture exercised the portion of its development rights option due on that date and paid Kaupulehu Developments $2,125,000, reducing the amount of acreage

 

18



 

originally under option to approximately 110 acres at September 30, 2003.  Barnwell accounts for sales of development rights under option by use of the cost recovery method.  Under the cost recovery method, no operating profit is recognized until cash received exceeds the cost and the estimated future costs related to development rights sold.  Accordingly, in consolidation, $1,277,000 of the proceeds from the sales of development rights were applied to reduce the carrying value of the underlying development rights recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption “Investment in land” to zero.  Additionally, sales of development rights were further reduced by $128,000 representing fees paid to Nearco, Inc., (a company controlled by Mr. Terry Johnston, a director of Barnwell and an indirect 21.8% owner of Kaupulehu Developments) related to the sale.  The remaining $720,000 of sales proceeds is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for fiscal 2003 as “Sale of development rights, net.”  The total amount of the remaining option proceeds, if fully exercised, was $21,250,000 at September 30, 2003, comprised of eight payments of $2,656,250 due on each December 31 of years 2003 to 2010.  If any annual option payment is not made, the then remaining development right options will expire.  There is no assurance that any portion of the remaining options will be exercised.

 

Competition

 

Barnwell’s land investment segment is subject to intense competition in all phases of its operations including the acquisition of new properties, the securing of approvals necessary for land rezoning, and the search for potential buyers of property interests presently owned.  The competition comes from numerous independent land development companies and other industries involved in land investment activities.  The principal factors affecting competition are the location of the project and pricing.  Kaupulehu Developments is a minor participant in the land development industry and competes in its land investment activities with many other entities having far greater financial and other resources.

 

For the past several years, Hawaii’s economy has experienced little or no growth.  However, the South Kohala/North Kona area of the island of Hawaii, the area in which Kaupulehu Developments’ property is located, has experienced strong demand for residential real estate in recent years.  This trend continued through fiscal 2003 and is not expected to decline significantly in the near term, although there can be no assurance this trend will in fact continue.

 

CORPORATE OFFICE

 

In December 2003, Barnwell purchased the space it was leasing for its corporate offices located at 1100 Alakea Street, Suite 2900, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 for $1,104,000.  The seller was A&B Alakea LLC, an independent third party.  This purchase was funded by $221,000 of cash and long-term debt of $883,000.  The long-term debt was financed by First Hawaiian Bank and is payable in monthly principal payments of approximately $3,000, plus interest at the three-month London Interbank Offer Rate, 1.25% at the time of closing, plus 2%, and is due in full in December 2006.  The space purchased has 4,662 useable square feet on the 28th floor of a 31-story office building built in 1993 in downtown Honolulu.

 

19



 

Item 3.            Legal Proceedings

 

Barnwell is occasionally involved in routine litigation and is subject to governmental and regulatory controls that are incidental to the business.  Barnwell’s management believes that routine claims and litigation involving Barnwell are not likely to have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Item 4.            Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

None.

 

PART II

 

Item 5.            Market For Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters

 

The principal market on which Barnwell’s common stock is being traded is the American Stock Exchange.  The following tables present the quarterly high and low sales prices, on the American Stock Exchange, for Barnwell’s common stock during the periods indicated:

 

Quarter Ended

 

High

 

Low

 

Quarter Ended

 

High

 

Low

 

December 31, 2001

 

$

20.75

 

$

17.90

 

December 31, 2002

 

$

20.45

 

$

19.75

 

March 31, 2002

 

20.60

 

19.75

 

March 31, 2003

 

22.80

 

20.01

 

June 30, 2002

 

20.75

 

20.00

 

June 30, 2003

 

25.05

 

22.25

 

September 30, 2002

 

20.05

 

19.40

 

September 30, 2003

 

25.15

 

24.00

 

 

As of December 2, 2003, there were 1,314,510 shares of common stock, par value $0.50, outstanding.  There were approximately 400 holders of the common stock of the registrant as of December 2, 2003.

 

In March 2001, Barnwell declared a dividend of $0.20 per share payable March 30, 2001, to stockholders of record as of March 16, 2001.

 

In September 2001, Barnwell declared a dividend of $0.15 per share payable October 17, 2001, to stockholders of record as of October 2, 2001.

 

In November 2001, Barnwell declared a dividend of $0.15 per share payable January 2, 2002, to stockholders of record as of December 17, 2001.

 

In December 2003, Barnwell declared a dividend of $0.20 per share payable January 6, 2004 to stockholders of record as of December 22, 2003.

 

20



 

Item 6.            MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OR PLAN OF OPERATION

 

The following discussion is intended to assist in the understanding of the consolidated balance sheets of Barnwell Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively referred to herein as “Barnwell”) as of September 30, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2003.  This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

 

In response to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Release No. 33-8040, “Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies,” Barnwell has identified certain of its policies as being of particular importance to the understanding of its financial position and results of operations and which require the application of significant judgment by management.

 

Oil and natural gas properties

 

Barnwell uses the full cost method of accounting under which all costs incurred in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and natural gas reserves, including unsuccessful wells, are capitalized until such time as the aggregate of such costs, on a country-by-country basis, equals the discounted present value (at 10%) of Barnwell’s estimated future net cash flows from estimated production of proved oil and natural gas reserves, from such country, as determined by independent petroleum engineers, less related income tax effects.  Any capitalized costs, net of oil and gas related deferred income taxes, in excess of the discounted present value of proved properties and the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproved properties are charged to expense.  Depletion of all such costs, except costs related to major development projects, is provided by the unit-of-production method based upon proved oil and natural gas reserves of all properties on a country-by-country basis.  Investments in major development projects are not amortized until either proved reserves are associated with the projects or impairment has been determined.  At September 30, 2003, Barnwell had no investments in major oil and natural gas development projects that were not being amortized.  General and administrative costs related to oil and natural gas operations are expensed as incurred.  Estimated future site restoration and abandonment costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of oil and natural gas properties and depleted over the life of the related reserves.  Proceeds from the disposition of minor producing oil and natural gas properties are credited to the cost of oil and natural gas properties.  Gains or losses are recognized on the disposition of significant oil and natural gas properties.

 

Investment in land and revenue recognition

 

Barnwell’s investment in land is comprised of development rights under option and leasehold land interests in land zoned resort/residential and land zoned conservation, both of which are not under

 

21



 

option.  Investment in land is reported at the lower of the asset carrying value or fair value, less costs to sell, and is evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the recorded investment balance may not be fully recoverable.

 

Costs incurred for the acquisition and improvement of leasehold land interests, including capitalized interest, and the acquisition of interests in development rights under option are included in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Investment in Land.”

 

Sales of development rights under option are accounted for under the cost recovery method.  Under the cost recovery method, no operating profit is recognized until cash received exceeds the cost and the estimated future costs related to the development rights sold.

 

Contract drilling

 

Revenues, costs and profits applicable to contract drilling contracts are included in the consolidated statements of operations using the percentage of completion method, principally measured by the percentage of labor dollars incurred to date for each contract to total estimated labor dollars for each contract.  Contract losses are recognized in full in the period the losses are identified.  The performance of drilling contracts may extend over more than one year and, in the interim periods, estimates of total contract costs and profits are used to determine revenues and profits earned for reporting the results of the contract drilling operations.  Revisions in the estimates required by subsequent performance and final contract settlements are included as adjustments to the results of operations in the period such revisions and settlements occur.  Contracts are normally less than one year in duration.

 

Income taxes

 

Deferred income taxes are determined using the asset and liability method.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year 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.

 

A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.  Barnwell has established a valuation allowance primarily for the U.S. tax effect of deferred Canadian taxes, foreign tax credits, accrued expenses and state of Hawaii net operating loss carryforwards which may not be realizable in future years as there can be no assurance of any specific level of earnings or that the timing of U.S. earnings will coincide with the payment of Canadian taxes to enable Canadian taxes to be fully deducted (or recoverable) for U.S. tax purposes.

 

At September 30, 2003, net deferred tax assets of $2,865,000 consisted primarily of $1,535,000 of deferred tax assets related to the excess of the cost basis of investment in land for tax purposes over the cost basis of investment in land for book purposes.  This deferred tax asset will be realized through the deduction of the cost basis of investment in land for tax purposes against future proceeds from sales of interests in leasehold land and development rights under option.  The amount of deferred income tax assets considered realizable may be reduced if estimates of future taxable income are reduced.

 

22



 

Pension Plan

 

Barnwell sponsors a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all of its U.S. employees, with benefits based on years of service and the employee’s highest consecutive five-year average earnings.  Barnwell accounts for its defined benefit pension plan in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions,” which requires that amounts recognized in financial statements be determined on an actuarial basis.  Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87 requires that the effects of the performance of the pension plan’s assets and changes in pension liability discount rates on Barnwell’s computation of pension income (expense) be amortized over future periods.  Any variances in the future between the assumed rates utilized for actuarial purposes and the actual rates experienced by the plan may materially affect Barnwell’s results of operations or financial condition.

 

During and as of the end of fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002, Barnwell assumed an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 8%.  The expected rate of future annual compensation increases utilized during and as of the end of fiscal 2003 was 5%.

 

At the end of each year, Barnwell determines the discount rate to be used to calculate the present value of plan liabilities.  The discount rate is an estimate of the current interest rate at which the pension liabilities could be effectively settled at the end of the year.  In estimating this rate, Barnwell looks to rates of return on high-quality, fixed-income investments.  At September 30, 2003, Barnwell determined this rate to be 6%.

 

At September 30, 2003, Barnwell’s accrued benefit cost was $324,000.  For the year ended September 30, 2003, Barnwell recognized a net periodic benefit cost of $172,000.

 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 

The following table lists the scheduled maturities of long-term debt, estimating that Barnwell’s credit facility with the Royal Bank of Canada will be renewed on each annual renewal date, currently April 29, and scheduled minimum rental payments of non-cancelable operating leases for office space and leasehold land:

 

 

 

Payments Due by Fiscal Year

 

Contractual Obligations

 

2004

 

2005-2006

 

2007-2008

 

After 2008

 

Total

 

Long-term debt

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

10,477,000

 

$

10,477,000

 

Operating leases

 

443,000

 

726,000

 

743,000

 

2,678,000

 

4,590,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

443,000

 

$

726,000

 

$

743,000

 

$

13,155,000

 

$

15,067,000

 

 

There is no assurance that the bank will in fact extend the term of the facility on each renewal date or that the facility will be renewed at its current amount.  The following table lists the scheduled maturities of long-term debt assuming that the facility will not be renewed on the next renewal date and that Barnwell then elects to convert the revolving facility to term status, and scheduled minimum rental payments of non-cancelable operating leases for office space and leasehold land:

 

23



 

 

 

Payments Due by Fiscal Year

 

Contractual Obligations

 

2004

 

2005-2006

 

2007-2008

 

After 2008

 

Total

 

Long-term debt

 

$

524,000

 

$

9,953,000

 

$

 

$

 

$

10,477,000

 

Operating leases

 

443,000

 

726,000

 

743,000

 

2,678,000

 

4,590,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

967,000

 

$

10,679,000

 

$

743,000

 

$

2,678,000

 

$

15,067,000

 

 

The lease payments for land are subject to renegotiation after December 31, 2005; the future rental payment disclosures above assume the minimum lease payments for land in effect at December 31, 2005 remain unchanged through 2025, the end of the lease term.  In December 2003, Barnwell purchased the space it was leasing for its corporate office in Honolulu, Hawaii.  The future minimum rental payments reflected above have been adjusted accordingly.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Summary

 

Barnwell had net earnings of $2,320,000 in fiscal 2003, a $2,280,000 increase from net earnings of $40,000 in fiscal 2002.  The increase is largely attributable to significant increases in petroleum prices.  In addition, land segment operating profit increased in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002, as revenues from the sale of development rights in fiscal 2003 (accounted for under the cost recovery method) exceeded associated costs, whereas revenues from the sale of development rights in fiscal 2002 were fully offset by associated costs (after consideration of minority interest in earnings).

 

The fiscal year average exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar increased 8% in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002, and the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar increased 17% at September 30, 2003, as compared to September 30, 2002.  This increase in the value of the Canadian dollar in U.S. dollars increased Barnwell’s reported assets and liabilities and revenues and expenses.

 

Barnwell had net earnings of $40,000 in fiscal 2002, a $3,790,000 (99%) decrease from net earnings of $3,830,000 in fiscal 2001.  The decrease is largely attributable to significant decreases in petroleum prices and lower oil production in fiscal 2002, as compared to fiscal 2001.  Net earnings for fiscal 2002 includes an oil and natural gas operating expense credit recorded in the fourth quarter for the settlement of overcharges of operating expenses for fiscal years 1998 through 2001 from the operator of the Dunvegan property that contributed $250,000, net of income taxes, to operations.  There were no significant operating expense credits recorded in fiscal 2003 or 2001.

 

Oil and Natural Gas Revenues

 

Selected Operating Statistics

 

The following tables set forth Barnwell’s annual net production and annual average price per unit of production for fiscal 2003 as compared to fiscal 2002, and fiscal 2002 as compared to fiscal 2001.  Production amounts reported are net of royalties and the Alberta Royalty Tax Credit.

 

24



 

Fiscal 2003 - Fiscal 2002

 

 

 

Annual Net Production

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

Units

 

%

 

Liquids (Bbl)*

 

85,000

 

94,000

 

(9,000

)

(10

)%

Oil (Bbl)*

 

142,000

 

148,000

 

(6,000

)

(4

)%

Natural gas (MCF)**

 

3,175,000

 

3,277,000

 

(102,000

)

(3

)%

 

 

 

Annual Average Price Per Unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

$

 

%

 

Liquids (Bbl)*

 

$

21.50

 

$

12.46

 

$

9.04

 

73

%

Oil (Bbl)*

 

$

27.69

 

$

21.28

 

$

6.41

 

30

%

Natural gas (MCF)**

 

$

4.27

 

$

2.12

 

$

2.15

 

101

%

 

Fiscal 2002 - Fiscal 2001

 

 

 

Annual Net Production

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase
(Decrease)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

Units

 

%

 

Liquids (Bbl)*

 

94,000

 

98,000

 

(4,000

)

(4

)%

Oil (Bbl)*

 

148,000

 

174,000

 

(26,000

)

(15

)%

Natural gas (MCF)**

 

3,277,000

 

3,269,000

 

8,000

 

 

 

 

 

Annual Average Price Per Unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

$

 

%

 

Liquids (Bbl)*

 

$

12.46

 

$

22.60

 

$

(10.14

)

(45

)%

Oil (Bbl)*

 

$

21.28

 

$

25.44

 

$

(4.16

)

(16

)%

Natural gas (MCF)**

 

$

2.12

 

$

4.02

 

$

(1.90

)

(47

)%

 


  *Bbl = stock tank barrel equivalent to 42 U.S. gallons

**MCF = 1,000 cubic feet

 

Oil and natural gas revenues increased $8,030,000 (71%) from $11,320,000 in fiscal 2002 to $19,350,000 in fiscal 2003, due to 101%, 30%, and 73% increases in natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids prices, respectively.  The increase was partially offset by 3%, 4%, and 10% declines in net natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids production, respectively, due to natural declines in production from some of Barnwell’s more mature properties, which were partially offset by an increase in production from new wells.  In addition, natural gas liquids production decreased due to a fire in early October 2002 at a Dunvegan gas plant that prevented stripping of natural gas liquids from the natural gas, resulting in an approximately 6,000 barrel decline in liquids net production in fiscal 2003.  Barnwell did, however, receive a higher price for its natural gas than it would have if the liquids had been

 

25



 

removed, thereby mitigating some of the impact of the liquids production decline.  The damage to the gas plant was repaired and the plant resumed operations in late December 2002.

 

Oil and natural gas revenues decreased $8,550,000 (43%) from $19,870,000 in fiscal 2001 to $11,320,000 in fiscal 2002, due primarily to 47%, 45%, and 16% decreases in natural gas, natural gas liquids, and oil prices, respectively.  Net natural gas production increased less than one percent, however gross natural gas production declined 6% as gas production declines at Barnwell’s more mature properties were only partially offset by production from recent development.  However, a decrease in royalty rates, due to decreased natural gas prices, mitigated this decline and left natural gas production relatively unchanged on a net basis.  Net oil production decreased 15% due to declines in production from some of Barnwell’s more mature oil properties.

 

Oil and Natural Gas Operating Expenses

 

Operating expenses increased $1,084,000 (35%) to $4,192,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $3,108,000 in fiscal 2002.  The increase is partly attributable to an oil and natural gas operating expense credit recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002 for the settlement of overcharges of operating expenses for fiscal years 1998 through 2001 from the operator of the Dunvegan property that reduced fiscal 2002 operating expenses by approximately $470,000.  Also contributing to the increase were increases in well repair and maintenance, electricity, fuel, insurance, and general maintenance costs.  Operating expenses in fiscal 2003 also include $85,000 of accretion of the asset retirement obligation due to implementation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” on October 1, 2002 (see Note 6 “Property and Equipment and Asset Retirement Obligation” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).

 

Operating expenses decreased to $3,108,000 in fiscal 2002, a $401,000 (11%) decrease from $3,509,000 in fiscal 2001, due to an oil and natural gas operating expense credit recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002 for the settlement of overcharges of operating expenses for fiscal years 1998 through 2001 from the operator of the Dunvegan property totaling $470,000.  Partially offsetting this credit were higher gathering and processing fees in fiscal 2002.

 

Sale of Development Rights and Minority Interest in Earnings

 

The development rights held by Kaupulehu Developments are for residentially zoned leasehold land within and adjacent to the Hualalai Golf Club and are under option to Kaupulehu Makai Venture, an unrelated entity that is an affiliate of Kajima Corporation of Japan.  On December 31, 2002, Kaupulehu Makai Venture exercised the portion of its development rights option due on that date and paid Kaupulehu Developments $2,125,000, reducing the amount of acreage originally under option to approximately 110 acres.  Barnwell accounts for sales of development rights under option by use of the cost recovery method.  Under the cost recovery method, no operating profit is recognized until cash received exceeds the cost and the estimated future costs related to development rights sold.  Accordingly, in consolidation, $1,277,000 of the proceeds from the sales of development rights were applied to reduce the carrying value of the underlying development rights recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption “Investment in land” to zero.  Additionally, sales of development rights were further reduced by $128,000 of fees related to the sale.  The remaining $720,000 of sales proceeds is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for fiscal 2003 as “Sale of development rights, net.”  The total amount of the remaining option proceeds, if fully exercised, was $21,250,000 at September 30, 2003, comprised of eight payments of $2,656,250 due on each December

 

26



 

31 of years 2003 to 2010.  If any annual option payment is not made, the then remaining development right options will expire.  There is no assurance that any portion of the remaining options will be exercised.

 

The aforementioned $128,000 in fees ($89,000, net of minority interest) on the $2,125,000 development rights proceeds were paid in January 2003 to Nearco, Inc., a company controlled by Mr. Terry Johnston, a director of Barnwell and an indirect 21.8% owner of Kaupulehu Developments.  Under an agreement entered into in 1987, prior to Mr. Johnston’s election to Barnwell’s Board of Directors, Barnwell is obligated to pay Nearco, Inc. 2% of Kaupulehu Developments’ gross receipts from the sale of real estate interests.  In addition, Cambridge Hawaii Limited Partnership, a 49.9% owner of Kaupulehu Developments, in which Barnwell purchased a 55.2% interest in April 2001, is obligated under an agreement entered into in 1987 to pay Nearco, Inc. 4% of Kaupulehu Developments’ gross receipts from the sale of real estate interests.  The fees represent compensation for promotion and marketing of Kaupulehu Developments’ property and were determined based on the estimated fair value of such services.  Barnwell believes the fees are fair and reasonable compensation for such services.

 

Fees were also paid to Nearco, Inc. for consulting services related to Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land.  For fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002, such fees totaled $218,000 and $95,000, respectively, and were included in general and administrative expenses.  Barnwell believes the fees are fair and reasonable compensation for such services.

 

On December 31, 2001 Kaupulehu Makai Venture exercised the portion of its development rights option due on that date and paid Kaupulehu Developments $2,125,000.  Under the cost recovery method, $1,877,000 of investment in land was expensed as a result of this option exercise in fiscal 2002, reducing operating profit, after minority interest, to zero.

 

Kaupulehu Developments is negotiating with an independent party interested in developing the approximately 870 acres of resort/residential leasehold acreage (of which approximately 186 acres were designated by the State Land Use Commission as preservation areas with no residential or golf course development).  The independent third party and Kaupulehu Developments have made significant progress in negotiation of a revised development agreement and residential fee simple purchase prices with the lessor.  Management cannot predict the outcome of these negotiations.

 

Contract Drilling

 

Contract drilling revenues and costs are associated with water well, geothermal well and exploratory well drilling, and water pump installation, replacement and repair in Hawaii.

 

Contract drilling revenues decreased $1,430,000 (41%) to $2,050,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $3,480,000 in fiscal 2002, and contract drilling operating expenses decreased $893,000 (32%) to $1,928,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $2,821,000 in fiscal 2002.  Operating profit before depreciation decreased $537,000 (81%) from $659,000 in fiscal 2002 to $122,000 in fiscal 2003.  The decreases were due to a decreased number of available water well drilling and pump installation contracts and lower contract margins resulting from higher competition for those contracts.

 

At September 30, 2003, Water Resources International, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barnwell, had a backlog of two well drilling contracts and three pump installation and repair contracts,

 

27



 

one of which was in progress as of September 30, 2003.  The backlog of contract drilling revenues as of November 30, 2003 was approximately $2,350,000.

 

Contract drilling revenues and operating expenses remained relatively constant in fiscal 2002, as compared to fiscal 2001.  Contract drilling revenues increased $190,000 (6%) to $3,480,000 in fiscal 2002, as compared to $3,290,000 in fiscal 2001, and contract drilling operating expenses decreased $85,000 (3%) to $2,821,000 in fiscal 2002, as compared to $2,906,000 in fiscal 2001.  Operating profit before depreciation increased $275,000 (72%) from $384,000 in fiscal 2001 to $659,000 in fiscal 2002 due to an increase in well drilling activity, partially offset by a decrease in pump installation activity; well drilling contracts generally have higher margins than pump installation contracts.

 

Gas Processing and Other Income

 

Gas processing and other income increased $600,000 (63%) to $1,560,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $960,000 in fiscal 2002, due principally to the receipt by Kaupulehu Developments of $500,000 in income related to negotiations on the development of Kaupulehu Developments’ resort/residential acreage during fiscal 2003, as compared to $100,000 in fiscal 2002.  Interest income in fiscal 2003 also increased due to $102,000 of interest on an income tax refund from the Canadian government relating to Barnwell’s fiscal 1994 tax return and a $61,000 increase in interest income on a note receivable (interest on the note began in February 2002, therefore there were only eight months of interest earned in fiscal 2002, as compared to a full twelve months of interest earned in fiscal 2003).

 

Gas processing and other income was relatively unchanged in fiscal 2002 (increased $30,000 or 3%), as compared to fiscal 2001.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses increased $1,627,000 (37%) to $5,971,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $4,344,000 in fiscal 2002, due primarily to costs incurred related to sales negotiations with interested parties and other costs related to maintaining Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land.  Such costs, totaling approximately $887,000, consisted of legal, consulting, travel and other costs; in fiscal 2002 these costs totaled $1,066,000, of which $324,000 was expensed and $742,000 of which was capitalized.  Attainment of zoning and development entitlements for Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land interests in approximately 870 acres of land zoned for resort/residential development was determined to be substantially complete in December 2002.  Accordingly, effective January 1, 2003, Barnwell no longer capitalizes expenditures related to the 870 acres.  The increase was also attributable to increases in personnel and pension plan costs of $495,000, increased oil and natural gas segment incentive plan costs for the Vice President of Canadian Operations of $214,000, increased stock appreciation rights expense of $177,000, and increases in professional services of approximately $121,000 (primarily related to compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and restatement of the Barnwell Industries, Inc. Employees’ Pension Plan to comply with Internal Revenue Service rulings), as compared to fiscal 2002.  Additionally, other general and administrative costs increased by a net of $57,000.

 

General and administrative expenses include fees paid to Nearco, Inc., an entity controlled by Mr. Terry Johnston, a director of Barnwell and an indirect 21.8% owner of Kaupulehu Developments, for consulting services related to Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land.  In fiscal 2003 and 2002,

 

28



 

fees paid to Nearco, Inc. totaled $218,000 and $95,000, respectively.  Barnwell believes the fees are fair and reasonable compensation for such services.

 

General and administrative expenses increased $223,000 (5%) to $4,344,000 in fiscal 2002, as compared to $4,121,000 in fiscal 2001, due to legal and consulting costs related to land segment sales negotiations in fiscal 2002; there were no such costs in fiscal 2001.

 

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization

 

Depletion, depreciation and amortization increased $685,000 (19%) to $4,333,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $3,648,000 in fiscal 2002, due to an 18% increase in the depletion rate and an 8% increase in the fiscal year average exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar, partially offset by a 4% decrease in production (in MCF equivalents where one barrel of oil and natural gas liquids are converted to 5.8 MCF equivalents).  The higher depletion rate is the result of increased costs of finding and developing proven reserves in fiscal 2003, as compared fiscal 2002.

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense decreased $106,000 (3%) to $3,648,000 in fiscal 2002, as compared to $3,754,000 in fiscal 2001, due to decreased production, partially offset by a slightly higher depletion rate per MCF equivalent in fiscal 2002, as compared to fiscal 2001.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense increased $146,000 (49%) to $442,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to interest expense of $296,000 in fiscal 2002.  The increase was due primarily to decreased capitalized interest.  Attainment of zoning and development entitlements for Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land interests in approximately 870 acres of land zoned for resort/residential development was substantially complete as of the end of December 2002.  Accordingly, effective January 1, 2003, Barnwell no longer capitalizes interest on the accumulated development costs of the property.

 

Interest costs for the years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Interest costs incurred

 

$

487,000

 

$

498,000

 

$

665,000

 

Less interest costs capitalized on investment in land

 

45,000

 

202,000

 

278,000

 

Interest expense

 

$

442,000

 

$

296,000

 

$

387,000

 

 

The average interest rate incurred during fiscal 2003 on Barnwell’s borrowings from the Royal Bank of Canada decreased to 3.84%, as compared to 4.24% in fiscal 2002, and the weighted average balance of outstanding borrowings from the Royal Bank of Canada decreased from approximately $10,300,000 in fiscal 2002 to approximately $10,100,000 in fiscal 2003.  The convertible debentures, which bore interest at 10% per annum in fiscal 2002 and the nine months ended June 30, 2003, were fully repaid in June 2003.

 

Interest expense decreased $91,000 (24%) to $296,000 in fiscal 2002, as compared to interest expense of $387,000 in fiscal 2001.  The decrease was due to lower average interest rates, partially offset by higher average outstanding borrowings and a decrease in capitalized interest.  The average interest rate incurred during fiscal 2002 on Barnwell’s borrowings from the Royal Bank of Canada decreased to

 

29



 

4.24%, as compared to 6.62% in fiscal 2001, whereas the weighted average balance of outstanding borrowings from the Royal Bank of Canada increased from approximately $8,300,000 in fiscal 2001 to approximately $10,300,000 in fiscal 2002.  The average outstanding debentures balance decreased from $950,000 in fiscal 2001 to $507,000 in fiscal 2002 while the average interest rate on the debentures remained essentially unchanged.  Capitalized interest decreased $76,000 from $278,000 in fiscal 2001 to $202,000 in fiscal 2002 primarily due to lower interest rates, partially offset by an increase in the capitalization base as Barnwell carried a 77.6% interest in Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold interest in land under development for a full year in fiscal 2002, as compared to approximately one-half year in fiscal 2001 (the additional 27.5% interest in Kaupulehu Developments was purchased in April 2001).

 

Foreign Currency Fluctuations

 

In addition to U.S. operations, Barnwell conducts foreign operations in Canada.  Consequently, Barnwell is subject to foreign currency translation and transaction gains and losses due to fluctuations of the exchange rates between the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar.

 

The fiscal year average exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar increased 8% in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002, and the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar increased 17% at September 30, 2003, as compared to September 30, 2002.  Accordingly, the assets, liabilities, stockholders’ equity and revenues and expenses of Barnwell’s subsidiaries operating in Canada have increased.  Barnwell’s Canadian dollar assets are greater than its Canadian dollar liabilities; therefore, increases in value of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar generate other comprehensive income.  Other comprehensive income due to foreign currency translation adjustments for fiscal 2003 was $2,392,000, a $2,478,000 increase from an other comprehensive loss of $86,000, due to foreign currency translation adjustments, in fiscal 2002.

 

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses were not material in fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001 and are reflected in general and administrative expenses.

 

The impact of fluctuations of the exchange rates between the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar may be material from period to period.  Barnwell cannot accurately predict future fluctuations between the Canadian and U.S. dollars.

 

Income Taxes

 

Included in the provision for deferred income taxes for the years ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 is a U.S. deferred tax benefit of $320,000 and $376,000, respectively, related to the sale of land development rights in December 2002 and 2001, respectively.  The sales of land development rights created temporary differences due to the excess of expenses recognized under the cost recovery method for books over expenses deductible for tax purposes.  There was no deferred income tax benefit related to land sales in the year ended September 30, 2001.

 

In October 2003, the Parliament of Canada held first and second readings on a bill to reduce Canada’s corporate tax rate on “resource” income (income derived from oil and natural gas operations) over a four-year period beginning January 1, 2003 from 29% to 21% beginning January 1, 2007.  Additionally, the bill phases in over the same four-year period tax deductions for royalties, which previously were not tax deductible, and phases out the Resource Allowance deduction along with other changes.  In November 2003, the bill passed on third reading, received Royal Assent and was enacted

 

30



 

into law.  The reduction in the tax will reduce Barnwell’s deferred income tax liabilities by approximately $1,500,000 in the quarter ending December 31, 2003, Barnwell’s fiscal 2004 first quarter.

 

In May 2003, the legislative assembly of the Province of Alberta held a first reading on a bill to reduce the province’s corporate tax rate from 13.0% to 12.5%, effective April 1, 2003.  On November 20, 2003, the bill passed on third reading and will become law upon Royal Assent.  If enacted into law the reduction in the tax rate would reduce Barnwell’s current income tax liabilities by approximately $20,000 and Barnwell’s deferred income taxes liabilities by approximately $100,000.

 

In April 2002, the legislative assembly of the Province of Alberta passed a bill to reduce the province’s corporate tax rate from 13.5% to 13.0%, effective April 1, 2002.  The bill was enacted into law in December 2002.  The reduction in the tax rate reduced Canadian deferred income tax liabilities by approximately $75,000 in the year ended September 30, 2003.  There was no such reduction recorded in the year ended September 30, 2002.  During fiscal 2001, the Province of Alberta reduced the province’s corporate tax rate from 15.5% to 13.5% effective April 1, 2001.  As a result of this reduction, Barnwell recorded an approximately $300,000 deferred income tax benefit in fiscal 2001.

 

In fiscal 2003, 2002 and 2001, the provision for income taxes did not bear a normal relationship to earnings because Canadian taxes were payable on Canadian operations and losses from U.S. operations provide no foreign tax benefits.

 

Environmental Matters

 

Federal, state, and Canadian governmental agencies issue rules and regulations and enforce laws to protect the environment which are often difficult and costly to comply with and which carry substantial penalties for failure to comply, particularly in regard to the discharge of materials into the environment.  The regulatory burden on the oil and gas industry increases its cost of doing business.  These laws, rules and regulations affect the operations of Barnwell and could have a material adverse effect upon the earnings or competitive position of Barnwell.  Although Barnwell’s experience has been to the contrary, there is no assurance that this will continue to be the case.

 

Inflation

 

The effect of inflation on Barnwell has generally been to increase its cost of operations, interest cost (as a substantial portion of Barnwell’s debt is at variable short-term rates of interest which tend to increase as inflation increases), general and administrative costs and direct costs associated with oil and natural gas production and contract drilling operations.  In the case of contract drilling, Barnwell has not been able to increase its contract revenues to fully compensate for increased costs.  In the case of oil and natural gas, prices realized by Barnwell are essentially determined by world prices for oil and western Canadian/Midwestern U.S. prices for natural gas.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which requires that the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation be recognized in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made.  The associated asset retirement costs are to be capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset and depreciated over the

 

31



 

life of the asset.  The liability is accreted at the end of each period through charges to operating expense.  If the obligation is settled for other than the carrying amount of the liability, Barnwell will recognize a gain or loss on settlement.  The provisions of SFAS No. 143 are effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002.  Barnwell adopted SFAS No. 143 on October 1, 2002.  Adoption of SFAS No. 143 increased gross oil and natural gas properties by $564,000, decreased accumulated depletion by $546,000, and increased the asset retirement obligation by $1,110,000 on October 1, 2002.  Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 143, obligations for asset retirements were charged to earnings at the rate of depletion and were included in accumulated depletion.  The impact of applying SFAS No. 143 on fiscal 2002 and 2001 net earnings would not have resulted in a material difference, and the asset retirement obligation would not have been materially different from the amount reported at September 30, 2003.

 

In November 2002, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others.”  FIN No. 45 elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under certain guarantees that it has issued.  It also clarifies that a guarantor is required to recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.  The initial recognition and initial measurement provisions of FIN No. 45 are applicable on a prospective basis to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002, irrespective of the guarantor’s fiscal year-end.  The disclosure requirements are effective for financial statements of interim or annual periods ending after December 15, 2002.  The adoption of FIN No. 45 did not have a material effect on Barnwell’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In January 2003, the FASB issued FIN No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” which addresses the consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIE”) as defined.  FIN No. 46 applies immediately to variable interests in VIEs created after January 31, 2003, and to variable interests in VIEs obtained after January 31, 2003.  For a variable interest in a VIE acquired before February 1, 2003, FIN No. 46 can be applied no later than the beginning of the first interim or annual reporting period beginning after June 15, 2003.  The application of FIN No. 46 did not have a material effect on Barnwell’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure.”  SFAS No. 148 amends SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation.  In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results.  The amendments to SFAS No. 123 are effective for financial statements for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002.  The required disclosures for interim financial statements are effective for financial reports containing condensed financial statements for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2002.  The adoption of SFAS No. 148 did not have a material effect on Barnwell’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.”  SFAS No. 149 amends and clarifies accounting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities under SFAS No. 133.  In particular, SFAS No. 149 clarifies under what circumstances a contract with an initial net investment meets the characteristics of a derivative and when a derivative

 

32



 

contains a financing component that warrants special reporting in the statement of cash flows.  SFAS No. 149 is effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003.  The adoption of SFAS No. 149 did not have a material impact on Barnwell’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity.”  SFAS No. 150 clarifies the accounting for certain financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity and requires that those instruments be classified as liabilities in statements of financial position.  Previously, many of those financial instruments were classified as equity.  SFAS No. 150 is generally effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and otherwise is effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003.  The adoption of SFAS No. 150 did not have a material impact on Barnwell’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Cash Flows, Debt and Available Credit

 

Cash flows from operations were $8,515,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $1,448,000 in fiscal 2002, an increase of $7,067,000.  This increase was primarily due to $6,235,000 of higher operating profit generated by Barnwell’s oil and natural gas segment as a result of higher petroleum prices, and a decrease in income taxes paid in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002.  Income taxes of $3,812,000 were paid in fiscal 2002 (primarily related to Canadian income taxes for the year ended September 30, 2001, which were paid, when due, in the first quarter of fiscal 2002), as compared to $2,961,000 in fiscal 2003.

 

Cash flows used in investing activities totaled $7,749,000 in fiscal 2003, a $4,202,000 increase from $3,547,000 of cash flows used in investing activities in fiscal 2002.  The increase is due primarily to higher oil and natural gas capital expenditures in fiscal 2003, as compared to fiscal 2002.  Payments for such capital expenditures increased $4,960,000 (108%) to $9,541,000 in fiscal 2003, as compared to $4,581,000 in fiscal 2002.  The increase was partially offset by an $899,000 decrease in capital expenditures for investment in land project planning and development.  In fiscal 2002, $944,000 of costs were capitalized for land planning and development, as compared to $45,000 in fiscal 2003.  Attainment of zoning and development entitlements for Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land interests in approximately 870 acres of land zoned for resort/residential development was substantially complete as of the end of December 2002.  Accordingly, Barnwell capitalized $45,000 of interest during the quarter ended December 31, 2002 and, effective January 1, 2003, Barnwell no longer capitalizes Kaupulehu Developments’ expenditures.

 

Cash flows used in financing activities amounted to $635,000 in fiscal 2003, a $905,000 decrease from $1,540,000 of cash flows used in fiscal 2002.  In fiscal 2002, Barnwell paid the $2,209,000 of notes payable due on the acquisition of an additional 27.5% interest in Kaupulehu Developments, borrowed $1,711,000 under the Royal Bank of Canada facility, paid $394,000 in dividends, paid $370,000 on its convertible debentures, and distributed $278,000 to Kaupulehu Developments’ minority interest partners.  In fiscal 2003, Barnwell repaid in full the remaining $360,000 of its convertible debentures and distributed $275,000 to Kaupulehu Developments’ minority interest partners; there were

 

33



 

no note payments related to the acquisition of an additional 27.5% interest in Kaupulehu Developments, long-term debt borrowings or dividend payments in fiscal 2003.

 

While Barnwell had no long-term debt borrowings in fiscal 2003, a 17% increase in the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the U.S. dollar increased the amount of Canadian dollar denominated debt by U.S. $516,000 at September 30, 2003, as compared to September 30, 2002.

 

At September 30, 2003, Barnwell had consolidated cash and cash equivalents of $1,648,000, a working capital deficit of $3,637,000, and available credit under the Royal Bank of Canada’s revolving credit facility of approximately $3,500,000.

 

The Royal Bank of Canada renewed Barnwell’s credit facility unchanged at $19,000,000 Canadian dollars, or approximately $14,000,000 U.S. dollars at September 30, 2003, and extended the revolving period one year to April 29, 2004.  If the loan is converted to a term loan, the term period payments are as follows: first year of the term period – 20% (5% per quarter), and in the second year of the term period – 80% (5% per quarter for the first three quarters and 65% in the final quarter). Outstanding borrowings under this facility were $10,477,000 and $9,961,000 at September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and are included in long-term debt.

 

The bank represented that it will not require any repayments under the facility before October 1, 2004.  Accordingly, Barnwell has classified outstanding borrowings under the facility as long-term debt.

 

Barnwell believes its current cash balances, future cash flows from operations, land segment sales, collection of receivables, and available credit will be sufficient to fund its estimated capital expenditures and meet the repayment schedule on its long-term debt.  However, if oil and natural gas production remains at or declines from current levels or oil and natural gas prices decline from current levels, current working capital balances and cash flows generated by operations may not be sufficient to fund Barnwell’s current projected level of oil and natural gas capital expenditures, in which case Barnwell may fund capital expenditures with funds generated by land segment sales, long-term debt borrowings, or it may reduce future oil and natural gas capital expenditures.  Additionally, if Barnwell’s credit facility with a Canadian bank is reduced below the current level of borrowings under the facility after the April 2004 review, Barnwell may be required to reduce expenditures or seek alternative sources of financing to make any required payments under the facility.

 

Partial Exercise of Development Rights Option

 

On December 31, 2002 and 2001, Kaupulehu Makai Venture exercised the portion of its development rights option due on those dates and paid Kaupulehu Developments $2,125,000 on each date.  Barnwell accounts for sales of development rights under option under the cost recovery method where no operating profit is recognized until cash received exceeds costs and estimated future costs associated with the development rights.  In fiscal 2003, the remaining $1,277,000 balance of investment in land associated with development rights was reduced to zero and net revenues from the sale of development rights exceeded the amount of investment in land expensed and resulted in $280,000 of operating profit, after minority interest, as a result of the option exercise.  In fiscal 2002, $1,877,000 of investment in land was expensed as a result of this option exercise, reducing operating profit, after minority interest, to zero.

 

34



 

The total amount of the remaining option proceeds, if fully exercised, was $21,250,000 at September 30, 2003, comprised of eight payments of $2,656,250 due on each December 31 of years 2003 to 2010.  If any annual option payment is not made, the then remaining development right options will expire.  There is no assurance that any portion of the remaining options will be exercised.

 

Leasehold Land Interests

 

Kaupulehu Developments is negotiating with an independent party interested in developing the approximately 870 acres of resort/residential leasehold acreage (of which approximately 186 acres were designated by the State Land Use Commission as preservation areas with no residential or golf course development).  The independent third party and Kaupulehu Developments have made significant progress in negotiation of a revised development agreement and residential fee simple purchase prices with the lessor.  Management cannot predict the outcome of these negotiations.

 

Acquisition of Additional Interest In Kaupulehu Developments

 

On January 31, 2002, Barnwell paid the remaining $2,209,000 due on the April 2001 purchase of the additional 27.5% interest in Kaupulehu Developments.  Also, on January 31, 2002, Nearco, Inc. repaid $100,000 of its notes payable to Barnwell and Barnwell extended the due date of the $1,381,000 balance of its original $1,481,000 receivable to December 31, 2002.  Nearco, Inc. paid all interest due and payable at December 31, 2002 of $58,000 and repaid approximately $70,000 of principal on its note payable to Barnwell in January 2003 leaving an unpaid principal balance of approximately $1,311,000, which is outstanding as of the date of this filing.  Under the terms of the note, the note is in default and the rate of interest increased from 10% to 12% on January 1, 2003.  Nearco, Inc. has paid interest on the note through September 30, 2003.  Management believes that Nearco, Inc. will repay its note and any interest due in full.  The note is secured by Nearco, Inc.’s entire interest in Cambridge Hawaii Limited Partnership, with its principal asset being a 49.9% interest in Kaupulehu Developments.  Management estimates that the current value of Nearco, Inc.’s pledged interest in Kaupulehu Developments is significantly in excess of the combined value of its note to Barnwell and Nearco, Inc.’s $450,000 note to a third party to which Barnwell’s note is subordinated.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

The following table sets forth Barnwell’s capital expenditures, including accrued capital expenditure commitments, for each of the last three fiscal years:

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Oil and natural gas

 

$

11,059,000

 

$

4,581,000

 

$

4,240,000

 

Land investment

 

45,000

 

944,000

 

5,954,000

 

Contract drilling

 

72,000

 

77,000

 

84,000

 

Other

 

158,000

 

42,000

 

180,000

 

Total capital expenditures

 

$

11,334,000

 

$

5,644,000

 

$

10,458,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in oil
and natural gas capital
expenditures from prior year

 

$

6,478,000

 

$

341,000

 

$

(763,000

)

 

 

35



 

Oil and natural gas properties also increased $648,000 in fiscal 2003 due to the adoption of SFAS No. 143 effective October 1, 2002.  The effect of adoption of SFAS No. 143 is not included in the $11,059,000 of fiscal 2003 oil and natural gas capital expenditures shown above.

 

Land investment capital expenditures in 2001 include $5,000,000 for the purchase of the additional 27.5% interest in Kaupulehu Developments.  Barnwell paid $2,791,000 in cash and issued $2,209,000 in non-interest bearing promissory notes.

 

In fiscal 2003, Barnwell’s oil and natural gas capital expenditures increased $6,478,000 (141%) from $4,581,000 in fiscal 2002 to $11,059,000 in fiscal 2003.  Barnwell participated in drilling 65 (14.7 net) wells, 53 (11.1 net) of which were successful, and the recompletion of 10 wells (1.8 net wells), and replaced 44% of oil production (including natural gas liquids) and 115% of natural gas production. The major areas of investments and commitments in fiscal 2003 were in the Leduc, Bonanza, Dunvegan, Progress, Pouce Coupe South, and Bashaw areas of Alberta.  In these areas, Barnwell drilled successful wells that have been tied in and commenced production during the year ended September 30, 2003.  In the Dunvegan area, Barnwell participated in the drilling of 12 gross development wells (one net development well) as part of the operator’s objective of increasing production from the area.  Barnwell operated and supervised the drilling of six wells in 2003 and six wells in 2002.  Of the $11,059,000 total oil and natural gas properties investments and commitments for fiscal 2003, $1,390,000 was for acquisition of leases and lease rentals, $917,000 was for geological and geophysical costs, $5,857,000 was for intangible drilling costs, and $2,895,000 was for well equipment.

 

The following table sets forth the gross and net numbers of oil and natural gas wells Barnwell participated in drilling and purchased for each of the last three fiscal years:

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Net

 

Exploratory oil and natural
gas wells drilled

 

13

 

3.60

 

5

 

0.94

 

4

 

1.40

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Development oil and natural
gas wells drilled

 

52

 

11.10

 

11

 

4.52

 

26

 

4.40

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Successful oil and natural
gas wells drilled

 

53

 

11.10

 

12

 

4.19

 

23

 

3.20

 

 

Barnwell estimates that oil and natural gas capital expenditures for fiscal 2004 will range from $9,500,000 to $12,500,000.  This estimated amount may increase or decrease as dictated by management’s assessment of the oil and gas environment and prospects.

 

In fiscal 2003, $45,000 of Barnwell’s capital expenditures were applicable to capitalized interest on development of Kaupulehu Developments’ leasehold land interests in approximately 870 acres of land zoned for resort/residential development.  Attainment of zoning and development entitlements for the approximately 870 acres was substantially complete as of the end of December 2002, therefore, effective January 1, 2003, Barnwell no longer capitalizes Kaupulehu Developments’ expenditures and no longer capitalizes interest on the accumulated development costs of the property.  In fiscal 2002, $944,000 of Barnwell’s capital expenditures were applicable to investment in land project planning and development.  These expenditures were primarily comprised of legal, consulting, and planning fees and capitalized interest.

 

36



 

Item 7.            FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Independent Auditors’ Report

 

The Board of Directors
Barnwell Industries, Inc.:

 

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Barnwell Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2003. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Barnwell Industries, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2003 and 2002, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

As discussed in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, effective October 1, 2002, the Company changed its method of accounting for asset retirement obligations.

 

 /s/KPMG LLP

 

 

 

 

Honolulu, Hawaii

 

December 2, 2003, except as to notes 11 and 16

 

which are as of December 23, 2003

 

 

 

37



 

BARNWELL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

1,648,000

 

$

1,489,000

 

Accounts receivable, net (Notes 3 and 14)

 

2,866,000

 

3,031,000

 

Note receivable (Note 4)

 

1,311,000

 

1,381,000

 

Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts (Note 3)

 

166,000

 

174,000

 

Deferred income taxes (Note 8)

 

215,000

 

210,000

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

675,000

 

821,000

 

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

 

6,881,000

 

7,106,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INVESTMENT IN LAND (Notes 5 and 7)

 

6,508,000

 

7,740,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Notes 6, 7 and 16)

 

38,948,000

 

25,828,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

52,337,000

 

$

40,674,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

3,357,000

 

$

2,995,000

 

Accrued liabilities

 

6,082,000

 

3,367,000

 

Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts (Note 3)

 

29,000

 

114,000

 

Payable to joint interest owners

 

608,000

 

727,000

 

Income taxes payable (Note 8)

 

442,000

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt (Note 7)

 

 

360,000

 

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

10,518,000

 

7,563,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LONG-TERM DEBT (Notes 7 and 16)

 

10,477,000

 

9,961,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION

 

1,432,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEFERRED INCOME TAXES (Notes 8 and 16)

 

9,443,000

 

7,429,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINORITY INTEREST (Note 5)

 

834,000

 

800,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

 

 

 

 

(Notes 5, 9, 10, 11 and 16)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Notes 7, 10 and 16):

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, par value $0.50 per share:

 

 

 

 

 

Authorized, 4,000,000 shares; issued, 1,642,797 shares; outstanding, 1,314,510 shares

 

821,000

 

821,000

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

3,139,000

 

3,139,000

 

Retained earnings

 

22,018,000

 

19,698,000

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss - foreign currency translation adjustments

 

(1,491,000

)

(3,883,000

)

Treasury stock, at cost, 328,287 shares

 

(4,854,000

)

(4,854,000

)

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

19,633,000

 

14,921,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

$

52,337,000

 

$

40,674,000

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

38



 

BARNWELL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 

 

 

Year ended September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and natural gas

 

$

19,350,000

 

$

11,320,000

 

$

19,870,000

 

Contract drilling

 

2,050,000

 

3,480,000

 

3,290,000

 

Gas processing and other

 

1,560,000

 

960,000

 

930,000

 

Sale of development rights, net (Note 5)

 

720,000

 

120,000

 

 

 

 

23,680,000

 

15,880,000

 

24,090,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oil and natural gas operating

 

4,192,000

 

3,108,000

 

3,509,000

 

Contract drilling operating

 

1,928,000

 

2,821,000

 

2,906,000

 

General and administrative

 

5,971,000

 

4,344,000

 

4,121,000

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

4,333,000

 

3,648,000

 

3,754,000

 

Interest expense, net (Note 7)

 

442,000

 

296,000

 

387,000

 

Minority interest in earnings (Note 5)

 

309,000

 

62,000

 

8,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17,175,000

 

14,279,000

 

14,685,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings before income taxes

 

6,505,000

 

1,601,000

 

9,405,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes (Note 8)

 

4,185,000

 

1,561,000

 

5,575,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET EARNINGS

 

$

2,320,000

 

$

40,000

 

$

3,830,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

 

$

1.76

 

$

0.03

 

$

2.92

 

DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

 

$

1.69

 

$

0.03

 

$

2.82

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC

 

1,314,510

 

1,313,915

 

1,310,952

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DILUTED

 

1,369,595

 

1,357,181

 

1,390,798

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

39



 

BARNWELL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

 

 

Year ended September 30,

 

 

 

2003

 

2002

 

2001

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings

 

$

2,320,000

 

$

40,000

 

$

3,830,000

 

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

4,333,000

 

3,648,000

 

3,754,000

 

Deferred income taxes

 

709,000

 

405,000

 

154,000

 

Minority interest in earnings

 

309,000

 

62,000

 

8,000

 

Accretion of asset retirement obligation

 

85,000

 

 

 

Sale of development rights, net

 

(720,000

)

(120,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,036,000

 

4,035,000

 

7,746,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) from changes in current assets and liabilities (Note 15)

 

1,479,000

 

(2,587,000

)

2,412,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

8,515,000

 

1,448,000

 

10,158,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of development rights, net

 

1,997,000

 

1,997,000

 

 

Proceeds from collection of notes receivable

 

70,000

 

100,000

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(9,816,000

)

(5,644,000

)

(5,458,000

)

Investment in Cambridge Hawaii Limited Partnership

 

 

 

(2,791,000

)

Cash advanced in exchange for notes receivable

 

 

 

(1,481,000

)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

 

 

 

8,000

 

Decrease in other assets

 

 

 

57,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(7,749,000

)

(3,547,000

)

(9,665,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Repayments of long-term debt

 

(360,000

)

(370,000

)

(400,000

)

Distribution to minority interest partners

 

(275,000

)

(278,000

)

 

Payment of dividends

 

 

(394,000

)

(459,000

)

Repayments of notes payable

 

 

(2,209,000

)

 

Long-term debt borrowings

 

 

1,711,000

 

 

Purchases of common stock for treasury

 

 

 

(20,000

)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 

 

 

13,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

 

(635,000

)

(1,540,000

)

(866,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

28,000

 

(26,000

)

(174,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

159,000

 

(3,665,000

)

(547,000

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 

1,489,000

 

5,154,000

 

5,701,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

 

$

1,648,000

 

$

1,489,000

 

$

5,154,000

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

40



 

BARNWELL INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Years ended September 30, 2003, 2002 and 2001

 

 

 

Common
Stock

 

Additional
Paid-In
Capital

 

Comprehensive
Income

 

Retained
Earnings

 

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss

 

Treasury
Stock

 

Total
Stockholders’
Equity

 

Balance at September 30, 2000

 

$