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EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC. INDEX



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

Form 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended: March 31, 2003.

o

 

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

For the transition period from                               to                              

Commission file number: 001-13171

EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Colorado   84-0834147
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

1401 17th Street Suite 1200
Denver, Colorado

 

80202
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (303) 298-8100

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

        Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Act). ý Yes o No

        As of April 30, 2003, 19,339,170 shares of the Registrant's Common Stock, no par value, were outstanding.





EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

INDEX

 
PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2003 and December 31, 2002
 
Consolidated Statements of Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 and 2002
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 and 2002
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 and 2002
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION

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PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 
  March 31, 2003
  December 31, 2002
 
 
  (unaudited)

   
 
 
  (in thousands)

 
ASSETS              
Current:              
  Cash and cash equivalents   $ 1,310   $ 871  
  Accounts receivable     34,740     17,684  
  Other current assets     1,651     1,384  
   
 
 
    Total current assets     37,701     19,939  
   
 
 
Property and equipment, at cost, based on full-cost accounting for oil and gas properties (Notes 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 11)     686,642     654,847  
  Less accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization     80,754     74,431  
   
 
 
    Net property and equipment     605,888     580,416  
   
 
 
Other assets     6,514     6,406  
   
 
 
    $ 650,103   $ 606,761  
   
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY              
Current liabilities:              
  Accounts payable   $ 6,905   $ 4,109  
  Amounts payable to oil and gas property owners     8,470     5,871  
  Production and property taxes payable     7,106     5,731  
  Derivative instruments (Note 7)     9,274     1,454  
  Accrued expenses and other     8,174     7,912  
   
 
 
    Total current liabilities     39,929     25,077  

Notes payable and senior convertible notes (Note 9)

 

 

239,000

 

 

236,000

 
Deferred income tax liabilities     34,159     27,666  
Production taxes payable and other (Note 7)     6,011     4,328  
Asset retirement obligation (Note 11)     4,978      
   
 
 
    Total liabilities     324,077     293,071  
   
 
 
Minority interest in subsidiary     1,292     1,262  
Stockholders' equity (Notes 3, 4 and 8):              
  Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; shares authorized, 24,900; none outstanding          
  Common stock, $0.01 stated value; shares authorized, 50,000; shares issued and outstanding 19,091 and 19,053     191     190  
  Additional paid-in capital     263,517     262,083  
  Retained earnings     67,410     50,471  
  Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (6,384 )   (316 )
   
 
 
    Total stockholders' equity     324,734     312,428  
   
 
 
    $ 650,103   $ 606,761  
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

3



EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
  2003
  2002
 
  (in thousands, except per share data)

Revenues:            
  Natural gas revenues   $ 48,974   $ 20,192
  Interest and other     147     122
   
 
Total revenues     49,121     20,314
   
 
Expenses:            
  Lease operating expenses     4,717     3,685
  Transportation costs     3,367     2,835
  Production and property taxes     2,980     1,190
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization     5,529     4,792
  General and administrative expenses     2,606     2,189
  Interest expense     2,199     1,920
  Other (income) expense     (76 )   7
   
 
Total expenses     21,322     16,618
   
 
Income before income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle     27,799     3,696
Income tax provision—deferred     10,147     1,312
   
 
Net income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle     17,652     2,384
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax (Note 11)     713    
   
 
Net income   $ 16,939   $ 2,384
   
 
Basic income per common share (Note 6):            
Earnings before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle   $ 0.93   $ 0.13
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax     (0.04 )  
   
 
    $ 0.89   $ 0.13
   
 
Diluted income per common share (Note 6):            
Earnings before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle   $ 0.90   $ 0.12
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax     (0.04 )  
   
 
    $ 0.86   $ 0.12
   
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

4



EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
  2003
  2002
 
 
  (in thousands)

 
Operating activities:              
Net income   $ 16,939   $ 2,384  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:              
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization     5,529     4,792  
  Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax     713      
  Deferred income taxes     10,147     1,312  
  Non-cash compensation and other     161     57  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:              
  Accounts receivable     (17,614 )   (1,030 )
  Other current assets     (204 )   (361 )
  Accounts payable     322     (554 )
  Production and property taxes payable     2,897     874  
  Accrued expenses and other     1,453     3,021  
   
 
 
Net cash provided by operating activities     20,343     10,495  
   
 
 
Investing activities:              
  Investment in property and equipment     (26,681 )   (28,461 )
  Change in other assets and other     (207 )    
   
 
 
Net cash used by investing activities     (26,888 )   (28,461 )
   
 
 

Financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Net proceeds from notes payable     3,000     17,000  
  Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net     803     697  
  Change in cash held from operating oil and gas properties and other     3,168     (429 )
   
 
 
Net cash provided by financing activities     6,971     17,268  
   
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     13     (5 )
   
 
 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     439     (703 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the period     871     3,024  
   
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of the period   $ 1,310   $ 2,321  
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

5



EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Unaudited)

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
  2003
  2002
 
 
  (in thousands)

 
Net income   $ 16,939   $ 2,384  
   
 
 
  Derivative instruments:              
    Change in fair value     (20,002 )   (7,940 )
    Reclassification adjustment for losses included in operations     11,971     111  
   
 
 
    Derivative instruments before taxes     (8,031 )   (7,829 )
    Related income tax effect     2,959     2,780  
   
 
 
  Derivative instruments, net of tax     (5,072 )   (5,049 )
   
 
 
  Available for sale instruments:              
    Unrealized gain         437  
    Related income tax effect         (155 )
   
 
 
  Available for sale instruments, net of tax         282  
   
 
 
  Foreign currency translation adjustments:              
    Unrealized gain         (557 )
    Reclassification adjustment for gains included in operations     (996 )    
   
 
 
      (996 )   (557 )
   
 
 
Comprehensive income (loss)   $ 10,871   $ (2,940 )
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

6



EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As of March 31, 2003

(Unaudited)

1.     Basis of Presentation

        Evergreen Resources, Inc. ("Evergreen" or "the Company") is a Colorado corporation organized on January 14, 1981. Evergreen is an independent energy company engaged in the operation, development, production, exploration and acquisition of unconventional natural gas properties. Evergreen is one of the leading developers of coal bed methane reserves in the United States. Its current operations are principally focused on developing and expanding its coal bed methane project located in the Raton Basin in southern Colorado. The Company has also acquired a significant acreage position in Kansas and has begun a coal bed methane project in southern Alaska.

        The financial statements include the accounts of Evergreen and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Evergreen Operating Corporation, Evergreen Resources (UK) Ltd. ("ERUK"), Powerbridge, Inc., Evergreen Well Service Company, Primero Gas Marketing Company, Primero Gas Company, LLC, XYZ Minerals, Inc. (see Note 5), Evergreen Resources (Alaska) Corporation, Long Canyon Gas Company, LLC (see Note 5), and Evergreen Supply and Distribution Company. Evergreen also has an 85% ownership interest in Lorencito Gas Gathering, LLC. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

        ERUK also has a 40% ownership in Argos Evergreen Limited, a Falkland Islands company, which owns offshore drilling rights in the North Falklands Basin. This investment is accounted for by the equity method of accounting. The Company has no interests in any other unconsolidated entities, nor does it have any off-balance sheet financing arrangements (other than operating leases) or any unconsolidated special purpose entities.

        The accompanying financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2002. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring items, necessary to present fairly the Company's financial position as of March 31, 2003 and 2002 and the results of its operations, cash flows and statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the three months then ended. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods to conform to the classifications used in the current period. These reclassifications did not have an impact on previously reported results of operations. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for a full year.

2.     Oil and Gas Properties

        The Company follows the full-cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties. Under this method, all productive and nonproductive costs incurred in connection with the exploration for and development of oil and gas reserves are capitalized. Such capitalized costs include lease acquisition, geological and geophysical work, delay rentals, drilling, completing and equipping oil and gas wells, and include salaries, benefits and other internal costs directly attributable to these activities. For the quarters ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, Evergreen capitalized $2.1 million and $1.3 million of internal costs. Of these amounts, approximately $1.3 million and $0.8 million were salary-related costs directly related to services provided by the Company's wholly-owned well service company and gas gathering construction activities. The majority of the remaining capitalized costs were primarily attributable to engineering and land employee salaries. Costs associated with production and general

7



corporate activities are expensed in the period incurred. Interest costs related to unproved properties and properties under development are also capitalized to oil and gas properties. If the net investment in oil and gas properties exceeds an amount equal to the sum of (1) the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows from proved reserves and (2) the lower of cost or fair market value of properties in process of development and unexplored acreage, the excess is charged to expense as additional depletion. Normal dispositions of oil and gas properties are accounted for as adjustments of capitalized costs, with no gain or loss recognized.

        Depreciation and depletion of proved oil and gas properties is computed on the units-of-production method based upon estimates of proved reserves with oil and gas being converted to a common unit of measure based on the relative energy content. Unproved oil and gas properties, including any related capitalized interest expense, are not amortized, but are assessed for impairment either individually or on an aggregated basis.

3.     Kansas Property Acquisition

        Evergreen recently concluded a series of property acquisitions in and around the Forest City Basin in Kansas. In the fourth quarter of 2002 and through April 2003, the Company spent approximately $22 million (including 248,538 shares of Evergreen common stock valued at $11.3 million issued in April 2003) for over 450,000 gross acres. The Company plans to drill and complete an estimated 25 coal bed methane wells in the fourth quarter of 2003 and anticipates production from these wells by the end of the year. Evergreen will hold a 100% working interest in these prospective coal bed methane properties. The acreage generally lies in the Forest City Basin and Cherokee Platform and also contains shallow gas potential in fractured shales and sands.

4.     Carbon Energy Corporation Merger

        Evergreen announced on March 31, 2003 that it intends to acquire 100% of the outstanding common stock of Carbon Energy Corporation ("Carbon"). Carbon is an independent oil and gas company engaged in the exploration, development and production of natural gas and crude oil in the United States and Canada. Carbon's properties in the United States are located in the Piceance Basin in Colorado and in the Uintah Basin in Utah. Carbon's properties in Canada are located in central Alberta and southeast Saskatchewan. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Carbon's shareholders will receive 0.275 shares of Evergreen common stock for each common share of Carbon. The exchange ratio was based upon the relative values of the two securities at the time of the merger agreement. This will require Evergreen to issue approximately 1.69 million new shares of Evergreen common stock to Carbon's shareholders. Based upon the average closing price of Evergreen's common stock for a period two days before and after announcement of the merger, the average value per share is $45.43 per share, and the total value of the stock to be issued is approximately $76.8 million. The aggregate value of the transaction, including transaction costs of approximately $7 million and the fair value of Carbon employee stock options to be assumed by Evergreen of approximately $5.4 million, is approximately $89.2 million. The actual amount of the common stock and options will not be known until the closing of the transaction. The transaction is expected to be non-taxable to the stockholders of both companies.

        The transaction is subject to the approval of Carbon's shareholders. The boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved the merger. Completion of the transaction is expected in the third quarter of 2003. The acquired Carbon properties are estimated to contain at least 88 billion cubic feet equivalent of proved reserves, substantially all of which are natural gas. Carbon operates substantially all of its properties in the United States and Canada. Net gas reserves in the United States and Canada are approximately 57 billion cubic feet ("Bcf") and 31 Bcf, respectively, of which 39% and 66% are classified as proved developed and the remaining amounts are classified as proved undeveloped. Independent petroleum engineering consultants Netherland Sewell & Associates, Inc. prepared the reserve estimates of Carbon. Daily net gas production as of May 2003 is approximately

8



14.4 million cubic feet. The gross acreage position is approximately 150,000 acres in the United States and 77,000 acres in Canada.

5.     Subsequent Event

        On March 26, 2003, Evergreen entered into a settlement agreement with certain working interest owners, under which Evergreen agreed to sell certain mineral interests in XYZ Minerals, Inc. and a 25% membership interest in Long Canyon Gas Company, LLC for $3.75 million. On April 16, 2003, the transaction closed with an effective date of January 1, 2003. Net revenues from the effective date through the closing date will be recorded as a sales price adjustment in April 2003.

6.     Earnings per Share

        The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002:

 
  Three Months Ended
March 31,

 
  2003
  2002
 
  (in thousands)

Weighted average common shares outstanding:        
  Basic   19,059   18,863
  Dilutive common stock options   661   649
   
 
Diluted   19,720   19,512
   
 

        As discussed in Note 9, the Company issued $100 million in senior convertible notes in December 2001 that are convertible into shares of common stock under certain circumstances. At March 31, 2003 and 2002, no potential common shares were included in the computation of diluted earnings per share related to these senior convertible notes as no circumstances occurred that would allow them to be convertible.

7.     Derivatives and Hedging Activities

        The Company may use derivative instruments to manage exposures to commodity prices, foreign currency and interest rate risks. The Company's objectives for holding derivatives are to minimize the risks using the most effective methods to eliminate or reduce the impacts of these exposures.

        The Company sometimes enters into fixed-price physical delivery contracts and commodity derivative contracts to manage price risk with regard to a portion of its natural gas production. The Company's commodity derivative contracts are designated as cash flow hedges. To qualify as a cash flow hedge, these derivative contracts must be designated as cash flow hedges and changes in their fair value must correlate with changes in the price of anticipated future production such that the Company's exposure to the effects of commodity price changes is reduced.

        At March 31, 2003, the Company had entered into the following natural gas swap contracts and costless collar contracts by contract period. ("MMBtu" means million British thermal units and convert

9



on an approximate one-for-one basis into Mcf.) The contracts are based on the regional price indexes where the Company physically delivers its natural gas.

Contract Period

  Type of Instrument(s)
  Volume in MMBtu/day
  Weighted Average
$/MMBtu

  Unrealized Loss at March 31, 2003
 
   
   
   
  (in thousands)

Apr 03 - Dec 03   Swaps   70,000   $ 4.37   $ 5,481
Apr 03 - Dec 03   Costless Collar   20,000   $ 3.26/5.02     1,623
Jan 04 - Dec 04   Swap   10,000   $ 3.75     1,960
Jan 04 - Dec 04   Costless Collar   20,000   $ 3.21/4.91     1,700
                 
                  $ 10,764
                 

        As of March 31, 2003, the Company had recorded net unrealized losses of $10.8 million, which represented the estimated aggregate fair values of the Company's open derivative contracts as of that date. These unrealized losses are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as a current liability of $9.3 million and a non-current liability of $1.5 million. The fair values of the costless collar contracts were calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model which factors in such variables as the term of the derivative contracts, the volatility of the gas market and the current risk-free rates of return on similar-termed investments. The values of the natural gas swaps were determined using expected discounted future cash flows. Based on the calculated fair values at March 31, 2003, the Company expects to reclassify net losses of $9.3 million into earnings related to the derivative contracts during the next 12 months. Actual gains or losses recognized may be materially different than what was estimated at March 31, 2003 and will depend solely on the regional price indexes of the commodities on the specified settlement dates provided by the derivative contracts.

        During the quarters ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company recognized approximately $12.0 million in losses and $0.1 million in gains, respectively, related to natural gas derivative contracts. The gains and losses are included in natural gas revenues in the Consolidated Statements of Income for each period presented. The Company also had an interest rate swap in place from April 2001 through April 2002 for a notional amount of $25 million at a LIBO rate of 4.4%. The Company recognized a $0.2 million loss on this contract during the quarter ended March 31, 2002, which is included in interest expense in the Consolidated Statement of Income for the respective period.

        The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties in the derivative contracts discussed above; however, the Company does not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties.

8.     Equity Compensation

        Under the Company's 2000 Stock Incentive Plan, shares of common stock may be granted to key employees under terms and conditions determined by management. These stock grants generally vest over a period of four to six years and are distributed to the employees as the shares vest. The Company determines employee compensation based on the market price of its common stock on the date of grant. Unearned compensation arising from the stock grants is shown as a reduction in stockholders' equity on the consolidated balance sheets and is amortized using the straight-line method as additional compensation over the vesting period.

        The Company applies APB Opinion 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations in accounting for all stock option plans. No stock-based compensation cost has been

10


recognized in operations for stock options granted because the option exercise price was equal to or more than the market price of the underlying common stock on the date of grant.

        SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," as amended by SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure—an amendment to SFAS No. 123" requires the Company to provide pro forma information regarding net income as if the compensation cost for the Company's stock option plans had been determined in accordance with the fair value based method prescribed in SFAS No. 123. To provide the required pro forma information, the Company estimates the fair value of each stock option at the grant date by using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following table represents the pro forma effect on net income and earnings per share as if the Company had applied the fair value based method and recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 to stock-based employee compensation:

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
  2003
  2002
 
 
  (in thousands, except per share data)

 
Net income, as reported   $ 16,939   $ 2,384  
  Add: Stock-based employee compensation included in reported net income, net of tax     90     13  
  Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of tax     (496 )   (378 )
   
 
 
  Pro forma net income   $ 16,533   $ 2,019  
   
 
 
Earnings per share:              

Basic earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  As reported   $ 0.89   $ 0.13  
   
 
 
  Pro forma   $ 0.87   $ 0.11  
   
 
 
Diluted earnings per common share:              
  As reported   $ 0.86   $ 0.12  
   
 
 
  Pro forma   $ 0.84   $ 0.10  
   
 
 

9.     Notes Payable and Senior Convertible Notes

        The Company currently has a $200 million revolving credit facility with a bank group (the "Banks"). The credit facility is available through July 1, 2005. Advances pursuant to this credit facility are limited to a borrowing base, which is presently $200 million. The Company may elect to use either the LIBO rate plus a margin of 1.125% to 1.50% or the prime rate plus a margin of 0% to 0.25%, with margins on both rates determined on the average outstanding borrowings under the credit facility. The borrowing base is redetermined semi-annually by the Banks based upon reserve evaluations of Evergreen's oil and gas properties. An average annual commitment fee of 0.375% is charged quarterly for any unused portion of the credit line. The agreement is collateralized by substantially all domestic oil and gas properties and guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's subsidiaries. The credit agreement also contains certain net worth, leverage and ratio requirements. At March 31, 2003, Evergreen had $139 million of outstanding borrowings under this credit facility, with a current average interest rate of approximately 2.9%. The Company was in compliance with all loan covenants at March 31, 2003.

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        The Company also has $100 million in senior unsecured convertible notes which are due in 2021 and bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 4.75%, which is to be paid in cash on June 15 and December 15 of each year. In addition to the fixed interest, the Company will pay contingent interest to the holders of the notes if the average trading price of the notes for an established number of days exceeds 120% or more of the principal amount of the notes. The rate of contingent interest payable in respect to any six-month period will equal the greater of (1) a per annum rate equal to 5% of the Company's estimated per annum borrowing rate for senior non-convertible fixed-rate debt with a maturity date comparable to the notes or (2) 0.30% per annum. In no event may the contingent interest rate exceed 0.40% per annum.

        The notes are general unsecured obligations, ranking on a parity in right of payment with all of Evergreen's existing and future senior indebtedness, and senior in right of payment with all of Evergreen's future subordinated indebtedness. The notes are due on December 15, 2021 but are redeemable at either the Company's option or the holder's option on other specified dates. The Company may redeem the notes at its option in whole or in part beginning on December 20, 2006, at 100% of their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest (including contingent interest). Holders of the notes may require the Company to repurchase the notes if a change in control of the Company occurs. Holders may also require the Company to repurchase all or part of the notes on December 20, 2006, December 15, 2011 and December 15, 2016 at a repurchase price of 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest (including contingent interest). On December 20, 2006, the Company may pay the repurchase price in cash, in shares of common stock, or in any combination of cash and common stock. On December 15, 2011 and December 15, 2016, the Company must pay the repurchase price in cash.

        The notes are convertible into shares of common stock of Evergreen under certain circumstances as discussed below at a conversion price of $50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. The notes can be converted at the option of the holder if for a specified period of time, the closing price of the Company's common stock exceeds 110% of the $50 conversion price or if the average trading value of the notes for a specified period of time is less than 105% of an average conversion value as defined by the indenture governing the notes. The notes may also be converted into shares of common stock of the Company at the election of the holder upon notice of redemption, or at any time the notes are rated by either Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or Standard & Poor's Rating Group and the credit rating initially assigned to the notes by either such rating agency is reduced by two or more ratings levels, or upon the occurrence of certain corporate transactions including a change in control or the distribution to current holders of the Company's common stock certain purchase rights or any other asset that has a value exceeding 10% of the sale price of the common stock on the day preceding the declaration date of the distribution of such assets.

10.   Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information

        Cash paid during the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002 for interest was approximately $1.2 million and $1.0 million. During the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, approximately $0.2 million and $0.4 million of interest was capitalized.

11.   Asset Retirement Obligations

        Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations." SFAS No. 143 requires the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation to 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 capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset.

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        The adoption of this Statement required the Company to record a non-cash expense, net of tax, of approximately $0.7 million as a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in the first quarter of 2003. In addition, the Company recorded a non-current liability of approximately $4.6 million and an addition to oil and gas properties and the gas collection system of approximately $3.9 million in connection with the adoption of this Statement effective January 1, 2003.

        The schedule below is a reconciliation of the Company's liability for the three months ended March 31, 2003:

 
  Asset Retirement
Obligation

 
  (in thousands)

Upon adoption at January 1, 2003   $ 4,631
Liabilities incurred     267
Liabilities settled    
Accretion     80
Revisions to estimate    
   
    $ 4,978
   

        The schedule below reflects for all periods presented, on a pro forma basis, the net income (loss), net income (loss) per share amounts and the liability for asset retirement obligations as if SFAS No. 143 had been applied during all the periods presented in the following table.

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
  Years Ended December 31,
 
 
  2002
  2002
  2001
  2000
 
 
  (in thousands, except per share data)

 
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders, as reported   $ 2,384   $ (8,324 ) $ 38,527   $ 14,063  
Pro forma adjustments     (97 )   (389 )   (298 )   (170 )
   
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders, pro forma   $ 2,287   $ (8,713 ) $ 38,229   $ 13,893  
   
 
 
 
 
Basic net income (loss) per common share, as reported   $ 0.13   $ (0.44 ) $ 2.08   $ 0.91  
   
 
 
 
 
Basic net income (loss) per common share, pro forma   $ 0.12   $ (0.46 ) $ 2.06   $ 0.90  
   
 
 
 
 
Diluted net income (loss) per common share, as reported   $ 0.12   $ (0.44 ) $ 1.98   $ 0.87  
   
 
 
 
 
Diluted net income (loss) per common share, pro forma   $ 0.12   $ (0.46 ) $ 1.97   $ 0.86  
   
 
 
 
 
 
  March 31,
    
December 31,

 
 
  2002
  2002
  2001
  2000
 
Asset retirement obligation   $ 3,872   $ 4,631   $ 3,618   $ 2,583  
   
 
 
 
 

12.   Recent Accounting Pronouncements

        In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of FASB No. 4, 44 and 64, Amendment of FASB No. 13, and Technical Corrections." SFAS No. 145 rescinds FASB No. 4 "Reporting Gains and Losses from Extinguishments of Debt Made to Satisfy Sinking-Fund Requirements." This statement also rescinds SFAS No. 44 "Accounting for Intangible Assets of Motor Carriers" and amends SFAS No. 13, "Accounting for Leases." This statement also amends other existing authoritative pronouncements to make various technical corrections, clarify meanings, or describe their applicability under changed conditions. The Company adopted this statement on January 1, 2003. The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.

13


        In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities." SFAS No. 146 addresses accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (Including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)." SFAS No. 146 requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized and measured initially at fair value when the liability is incurred. SFAS No. 146 was effective for exit or disposal activities that were initiated after December 31, 2002. The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.

        In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 149 amends and clarifies financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities under FASB Statement No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 149 is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. The Company does not expect the adoption of this statement to have a material effect on its financial statements.


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

        This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), including statements regarding, among other items, (i) the Company's growth strategies, (ii) anticipated trends in the Company's business and its future results of operations, (iii) market conditions in the oil and gas industry, (iv) the ability of the Company to make and integrate acquisitions, (v) the impact of government regulation, (vi) financial market conditions, (vii) wars and acts of terrorism or sabotage and (viii) the risk associated with integration of acquired companies. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the Company's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Actual results could differ materially from those implied by these forward-looking statements as a result of, among other things, a decline in natural gas production, a decline in natural gas prices, incorrect estimations of required capital expenditures, increases in the cost of drilling and completion and gas collection, an increase in the cost of production and operations, an inability to meet growth projections, or changes in general economic conditions. These and other risks and uncertainties are described in more detail in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In light of these and other risks and uncertainties of which the Company may be unaware or which the Company currently deems immaterial, there can be no assurance that actual results will be as projected in the forward-looking statements.

General

        Evergreen Resources, Inc. ("Evergreen" or "the Company") is a Colorado corporation organized on January 14, 1981. Evergreen is an independent energy company engaged in the operation, development, production, exploration and acquisition of unconventional natural gas properties. Evergreen is one of the leading developers of coal bed methane reserves in the United States. Its current operations are principally focused on developing and expanding its coal bed methane project located in the Raton Basin in southern Colorado. The Company has also acquired a significant acreage position in Kansas and has begun a coal bed methane project in southern Alaska.

14



Recent Developments

Carbon Energy Corporation Merger

        Evergreen announced on March 31, 2003 that it intends to acquire 100% of the outstanding common stock of Carbon Energy Corporation ("Carbon"). Carbon is an independent oil and gas company engaged in the exploration, development and production of natural gas and crude oil in the United States and Canada. Carbon's properties in the United States are located in the Piceance Basin in Colorado and in the Uintah Basin in Utah. Carbon's properties in Canada are located in central Alberta and southeast Saskatchewan. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Carbon's shareholders will receive 0.275 shares of Evergreen common stock for each common share of Carbon. The exchange ratio was based upon the relative values of the two securities at the time of the merger agreement. This will require Evergreen to issue approximately 1.69 million new shares of Evergreen common stock to Carbon's shareholders. Based upon the average closing price of Evergreen's common stock for a period two days before and after announcement of the merger, the average value per share is $45.43 per share, and the total value of the stock to be issued is approximately $76.8 million. The aggregate value of the transaction, including transaction costs of approximately $7 million and the fair value of Carbon employee stock options to be assumed by Evergreen of approximately $5.4 million, is approximately $89.2 million. The actual amount of the common stock and options will not be known until the closing of the transaction. The transaction is expected to be non-taxable to the stockholders of both companies.

        The transaction is subject to the approval of Carbon's shareholders. The boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved the merger. Completion of the transaction is expected in the third quarter of 2003. The acquired Carbon properties are estimated to contain at least 88 billion cubic feet equivalent of proved reserves, substantially all of which are natural gas. Carbon operates substantially all of its properties in the United States and Canada. Net gas reserves in the United States and Canada are approximately 57 billion cubic feet ("Bcf") and 31 Bcf, respectively, of which 39% and 66% are classified as proved developed and the remaining amounts are classified as proved undeveloped. Independent petroleum engineering consultants Netherland Sewell & Associates, Inc. prepared the reserve estimates of Carbon. Daily net gas production at May 2003 is approximately 14.4 million cubic feet (MMcf). The gross acreage position is approximately 150,000 acres in the United States and 77,000 acres in Canada.

        The Company expects to start drilling aggressively in these areas in 2003. The properties in Colorado and Utah provide Evergreen with access to another large acreage position in close proximity to the Company's Denver headquarters. Utilizing the Company's combined technical expertise in unconventional gas plays, Evergreen believes large exploratory and development reserve potential exists in multiple formations that have not been completely evaluated. The Company plans to expand Carbon's reserve base aggressively since Carbon's Canadian acreage position contains substantial unexploited potential in a number of formations, including unconventional and conventional gas.

Kansas Property Acquisition

        Evergreen recently concluded a series of property acquisitions in and around the Forest City Basin in Kansas. In the fourth quarter of 2002 and through April 2003, the Company spent approximately $22 million (including 248,538 shares of Evergreen common stock valued at $11.3 million issued in April 2003) for over 450,000 gross acres. The Company plans to drill and complete an estimated 25 coal bed methane wells in the fourth quarter of 2003 and anticipates production from these wells by the end of the year. Evergreen will hold a 100% working interest in these prospective coal bed methane properties. The acreage generally lies in the Forest City Basin and Cherokee Platform and also contains shallow gas potential in fractured shales and sands.

15



Other

        On March 26, 2003, Evergreen entered into a settlement agreement with certain working interest owners, under which Evergreen agreed to sell certain mineral interests in XYZ Minerals, Inc. and a 25% membership interest in Long Canyon Gas Company, LLC for $3.75 million. On April 16, 2003, the transaction closed with an effective date of January 1, 2003. Net revenues from the effective date will be recorded as a sales price adjustment in April 2003.

Operations

        The Company has drilled 75 coal bed methane wells in the Raton Basin from the beginning of the year through April 30, 2003. The Company plans to drill a total of 160 wells in the Raton Basin in 2003. Average net daily sales from the Raton Basin for the month of April 2003 were approximately 121 million cubic feet per day.

Results of Operations—Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2002

        The following table sets forth certain unaudited operating data of the Company for the periods presented ("Mcf" means thousand cubic feet, and "MMcf" means million cubic feet):

 
  Three Months Ended March 31,
 
  2003
  2002
Natural gas production (MMcf)   10,515     8,828

Average realized sales price per Mcf*

 

$4.66

 

$

2.29

Cost per Mcf:

 

 

 

 

 
  Lease operating expense   $0.45   $ 0.42
  Transportation costs   $0.32   $ 0.32
  Production and property taxes   $0.28   $ 0.13
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization   $0.53   $ 0.54
  General and administrative   $0.25   $ 0.25
  Interest expense   $0.21   $ 0.22

*
Includes effects of hedging

        The Company reported net income of $16.9 million or $0.86 per diluted share for the three months ended March 31, 2003, compared to net income of $2.4 million or $0.12 per diluted share for the same period in 2002.

        Natural gas revenues were $49.0 million during the three months ended March 31, 2003 as compared to $20.2 million for the same period in the prior year. The increase in natural gas revenues for the three-month period was primarily due to a 103% increase in average sales price per Mcf from $2.29 in 2002 to $4.66 in 2003 and a 19% increase in net gas sales. Approximately 72% of Evergreen's net production during the first quarter of 2003 was sold under fixed-price contractual arrangements or hedged using derivative instruments, resulting in an average hedged price of $4.26 per Mcf. During the three months ended March 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company realized $12.0 million in hedging losses and $0.1 million in hedging gains, respectively.

        Net gas sales in the first quarter of 2003 increased to 10,515 MMcf or an average of 116.8 MMcf per day, from 8,828 MMcf or an average of 98.1 MMcf per day in the first quarter of 2002. Evergreen had 876 net producing gas wells at March 31, 2003 compared to 713 as of March 31, 2002. Evergreen

16



drilled 63 coal bed methane wells in the Raton Basin during this year's first quarter compared to 49 coal bed methane wells in the first quarter of 2002.

        Lease operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2003 were $4.7 million or $0.45 per Mcf compared to $3.7 million or $0.42 per Mcf for the same period in 2002. The increase of $0.03 per Mcf was primarily due a $0.06 per Mcf increase in weather-related workover costs for well repairs which was offset by a $0.04 per Mcf decrease in periodic compressor maintenance and compressor overhauls.

        Transportation costs for the three months ended March 31, 2003 were $3.4 million compared to $2.8 million for the same period in 2002. On a per Mcf basis, transportation costs remained consistent at $0.32 per Mcf for each period.

        For the quarter ended March 31, 2003, production and property taxes were $3.0 million as compared to $1.2 million for the same period in 2002. The Company pays production taxes on the value of its natural gas physically sold. Accordingly, any financial hedging gains and losses realized by the Company, which are recorded as a component of natural gas revenues, are not subject to production taxes. Excluding hedging losses of $12.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 and hedging gains of $0.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2002, production and property taxes as a percentage of natural gas sales were approximately 4.9% and 5.9%, respectively. The decrease in production and property taxes as a percentage of sales is primarily related a larger than expected decrease in property tax mill levies from 2002 to 2003.

        Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2003 was $5.5 million compared to $4.8 million for the same period in 2002. On an equivalent Mcf basis, depreciation, depletion and amortization expense decreased to $0.53 per Mcf in the three months ended March 31, 2003, as compared to $0.54 per Mcf in the prior year.

        Total general and administrative expenses in the first quarter of 2003 increased to $2.6 million from $2.2 million in last year's first quarter. However, on a per-unit of production basis, general and administrative expenses remained consistent at $0.25 per Mcf. The increase in general and administrative expense was primarily due to a $0.2 million increase in general and administrative salaries and related benefits associated with an increase in the number of administrative personnel.

        Interest expense in the first quarter of 2003 totaled $2.2 million or $0.21 per Mcf compared to $1.9 million or $0.22 per Mcf in the first quarter of 2002. Total long-term debt as of March 31, 2003 was $239 million versus $198 million as of March 31, 2002. The decline in interest expense from the first quarter of 2002 despite the increase in the average debt balance was attributable to a significant reduction in average interest rates from approximately 4.8% in the first quarter of 2002 to approximately 4.1% in the first quarter of 2003.

        Other income of $0.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2002 includes a $1.0 million foreign currency exchange gain related the to Company's planned exit of its United Kingdom operations as well as a $0.8 million charge for plugging and abandonment operations in the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. As discussed in Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company sold an approximate 25% interest in one of its gas gathering subsidiaries effective April 1, 2003. As a result of this sale, the Company will recognize minority interest expense beginning April 1, 2003.

        Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations." SFAS No. 143 requires the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation to 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 capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. The adoption of this Statement required the Company to record a non-cash expense, net of tax, of

17



approximately $0.7 million as a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in the first quarter of 2003. In addition, the Company recorded a non-current liability of approximately $4.6 million and an addition to oil and gas properties and the gas collection system of approximately $3.9 million. See Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

        The Company provided for deferred taxes for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 at a rate of 36.5% versus a 35.5% rate in the first quarter of 2002. The one percent increase in the effective tax rate was primarily due to an anticipated increase in the Company's federal tax rate.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

        The Company's primary sources of liquidity are cash provided by operations and debt financing. Capital markets have also been utilized in order to maintain the Company's indebtedness at moderate levels in order to provide sufficient financial flexibility to react to future opportunities. The Company's primary needs for cash are for exploration, development and acquisitions of oil and gas properties and working capital obligations.

        The Company currently has a $200 million revolving credit facility with a bank group (the "Banks"). The credit facility is available through July 1, 2005. Advances pursuant to this credit facility are limited to a borrowing base, which is presently $200 million. The Company may elect to use either the LIBO rate plus a margin of 1.125% to 1.50% or the prime rate plus a margin of 0% to 0.25%, with margins on both rates determined on the average outstanding borrowings under the credit facility. The borrowing base is redetermined semi-annually by the Banks based upon reserve evaluations of Evergreen's oil and gas properties. An average annual commitment fee of 0.375% is charged quarterly for any unused portion of the credit line. The agreement is collateralized by substantially all domestic oil and gas properties and guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's subsidiaries. The credit agreement also contains certain net worth, leverage and ratio requirements. At March 31, 2003, Evergreen had $139 million of outstanding borrowings under this credit facility, with a current average interest rate of approximately 2.9%. The Company was in compliance with all loan covenants for all periods presented.

        In March 2003, Evergreen's Board of Directors authorized a significant increase in the Company's capital expenditure budget for 2003 from $110 million to $275 million as a result of the recent and anticipated asset acquisitions of unconventional natural gas properties in North America. The increase in capital spending is due to the Carbon Energy Corporation merger of approximately $112 million, which includes development expenditures of $23 million, Kansas property acquisitions of approximately $22 million, equipment purchases related to the development of the Kansas property acquisitions of $12 million and other costs of $19 million. Of the $275 million capital budget, $94 million will be paid in the form of Evergreen common stock. Currently, the Company has sufficient capacity under its $200 million line of credit to fund these expenditures. Management believes that the Company has the capacity to increase its line of credit and borrowing base to $300 million if required. As of April 30, 2003, the Company had $76 million available under its line of credit.

        The $275 million capital expenditure budget is allocated as follows: $98.4 million for the development of the Raton Basin, primarily for the drilling of 160 wells and related infrastructure costs; $49.6 million for explorations projects in Alaska and Kansas; $15.2 million for other property acquisitions and equipment; $111.8 million for the Carbon acquisition and development.

        Cash flows provided by operating activities were $20.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2003, as compared to $10.5 million for the same period in 2002. The increase of $9.8 million was primarily due to a $24.1 million increase in net income before taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in the first quarter of 2003 as compared to the first quarter of 2002, offset by a $17.6 million increase in accounts receivable from December 31, 2002 to March 31, 2003.

18



The increase in accounts receivable was a result of higher natural gas prices in March 2003 as compared to December 2002.

        Cash flows used in investing activities were $26.9 million during the three months ended March 31, 2003, versus $28.5 million in the first quarter of 2002. The decrease in 2003 was primarily due to the Company spending less on international projects.

        Capital additions in the first quarter of 2003 totaled $28.7 million. These additions included $16.1 million on drilling, completion and capitalized workover activities in the Raton Basin, $5.4 million for the Raton Basin gas collection system, and $6.6 million for exploration and other projects, including $3.3 million for the acquisition of leases in Kansas and approximately $1.5 for the Company's exploration activities in Alaska. The balance of first quarter expenditures of $0.6 million was primarily related to leasehold improvements and equipment purchases.

        Cash flows provided by financing activities during the first quarter of 2003 were $7.0 million compared to cash provided by financing activities of $17.3 million during the three months ended March 31, 2002. The change of $10.3 million was primarily associated with the increase in cash flows provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 2003 as compared to the first quarter of 2002, which enabled the Company to fund the majority of its capital projects with cash flows from operations.

Hedging Transactions

        The Company may use derivative instruments to manage exposures to commodity prices, foreign currency and interest rate risks. The Company's objectives for holding derivatives are to achieve a consistent level of cash flow to support its capital budgeting and expenditure plans and to maximize internal rates of return for capital projects, including property acquisition investments. These transactions limit Evergreen's exposure to declines in prices, but also limit the benefits Evergreen would realize if prices increase. The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for trading purposes.

        At March 31, 2003, the Company had the following open derivative contracts in place (the instruments are denoted in MMBtu, which convert on an approximate one-for-one basis into Mcf). The contracts are based on the regional price indexes where the Company physically delivers its natural gas.

Contract Period

  Type of
Instrument(s)

  Volume in
MMBtu/day

  Weighted
Average
$/MMBtu

  Unrealized Loss at March 31, 2003
 
   
   
   
  (in thousands)

Apr 03 - Dec 03   Swaps   70,000   $ 4.37   $ 5,481
Apr 03 - Dec 03   Costless Collar   20,000   $ 3.26/5.02     1,623
Jan 04 - Dec 04   Swap   10,000   $ 3.75     1,960
Jan 04 - Dec 04   Costless Collar   20,000   $ 3.21/4.91     1,700
                 
                  $ 10,764
                 

        Based on the calculated fair values at March 31, 2003, the Company expects to reclassify net losses of approximately $9.3 million into earnings related to the above derivative contracts during the next 12 months.

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." SFAS No. 143 requires the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation to be recognized in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The associated asset

19



retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. SFAS No. 143 was effective for the Company on January 1, 2003. The adoption of this statement required the Company to record a non-cash expense, net of tax, of approximately $0.7 million as a cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in the first quarter of 2003. In addition, the Company recorded a non-current liability of approximately $4.6 million and an addition to oil and gas properties and the gas collection system of approximately $3.9 million in connection with the adoption of this statement effective January 1, 2003.

        In April 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of FASB No. 4, 44 and 64, Amendment of FASB No. 13, and Technical Corrections." SFAS No. 145 rescinds FASB No. 4 "Reporting Gains and Losses from Extinguishments of Debt Made to Satisfy Sinking-Fund Requirements." This statement also rescinds SFAS No. 44 "Accounting for Intangible Assets of Motor Carriers" and amends SFAS No. 13, "Accounting for Leases." This statement also amends other existing authoritative pronouncements to make various technical corrections, clarify meanings, or describe their applicability under changed conditions. The Company adopted this statement on January 1, 2003. The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.

        In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities." SFAS No. 146 addresses accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (Including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)." SFAS No. 146 requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized and measured initially at fair value when the liability is incurred. SFAS No. 146 was effective for exit or disposal activities that are initiated after December 31, 2002. The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements.

        In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 149 amends and clarifies financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities under FASB Statement No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS No. 149 is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. The Company does not expect the adoption of this statement to have a material effect on its financial statements.


ITEM 3.    QUANTATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

        The Company measures its exposure to market risk at any point in time by comparing its open positions to a market risk of fair value. The market prices the Company uses to determine fair value are based on management's best estimates, which consider various factors including closing exchange prices, volatility factors and the time value of money. At March 31, 2003, the Company was exposed to some market risk with respect to long-term debt, foreign currency and natural gas prices; however, management did not believe such risk to be material.

        Commodity Risk.    The Company's major market risk exposure is in the pricing applicable to its natural gas production. Realized pricing is primarily driven by the prevailing price for crude oil and spot prices applicable to Evergreen's United States natural gas production. Historically, prices received for gas production have been volatile and unpredictable. Pricing volatility is expected to continue.

        The Company periodically enters into agreements to hedge its natural gas production when market conditions are deemed favorable in order to manage price fluctuations and achieve a more predictable cash flow. The Company may use fixed-price physical delivery contracts and derivative instruments to manage exposures to commodity prices. The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for trading purposes.

20



        Assuming production, the percent of gas hedged and the average realized market price of the unhedged gas sold remained unchanged from the quarter ended March 31, 2003, a hypothetical 10% decline in the average market price the Company realized on unhedged production would reduce the Company's natural gas revenues by approximately $5.9 million on an annual basis.

        Interest Rate Risk.    At March 31, 2003, Evergreen had long-term debt outstanding of $239 million. The interest rates on the Company's revolving credit facility, under which $139 million in indebtedness was outstanding at March 31, 2003, range from LIBO rate plus 1.50% to prime plus 0.25% and are variable; however, they may be fixed at Evergreen's option for periods of time between 30 to 90 days. A 10% increase in short-term interest rates on the floating-rate debt outstanding at March 31, 2003 would equal approximately 29 basis points. Such an increase in interest rates would impact Evergreen's annual interest expense by approximately $0.4 million, assuming borrowed amounts under the credit facility remained at $139 million.

        The $100 million convertible notes have a fixed interest rate of 4.75%; however, up to an additional 0.40% may be paid as contingent interest if certain conditions are met. Accordingly, the Company's annual interest payment on the $100 million convertible notes will be a minimum of $4.75 million and a maximum of $5.15 million.

        Foreign Currency Risk.    Evergreen's net assets, revenue and expense accounts from its foreign operations are based on the U.S. dollar equivalent of such amounts measured in the British pound sterling or euro. Assets and liabilities of the foreign operations are translated to U.S. dollars using the applicable exchange rate as of the end of a reporting period. Revenues, expenses and cash flow are translated using the average exchange rates during the reporting period. The Company expects to spend only nominal amounts during 2003 for exiting its operations in the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. As such, any significant change in the exchange rate for the British pound sterling or euro would not have a material impact on the cost of such operations.


PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION


ITEM 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

        On December 26, 2002, Evergreen was named as a defendant in a class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado. The plaintiffs, Mountain West Exploration, Inc., Joel Nelson and Synergy Operations Company, LLC, are royalty owners and overriding royalty owners who are alleging that they were underpaid royalties and seek to recover damages and declaratory and injunctive relief. Evergreen intends to vigorously defend this action and has asserted numerous affirmative defenses. It is too early to provide an evaluation of the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or an estimate of the amount or range of potential loss.


ITEM 2.    CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

        Not applicable.


ITEM 3.    DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

        Not applicable.


ITEM 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

        Not applicable.

21




ITEM 5.    OTHER INFORMATION

        Not applicable.


ITEM 6.    EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a)
Exhibits.

99.1   Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

99.2

 

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

99.3

 

Agreement and Plan of Reorganization among Carbon Energy Corporation, Evergreen Resources, Inc. and Evergreen Merger Corporation
(b)
Reports on Form 8-K.

        None

22




SIGNATURES

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

    EVERGREEN RESOURCES, INC.
    (Registrant)

Date: May 14, 2003

 

By:

/s/
KEVIN R. COLLINS
Kevin R. Collins
EVP—Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

23



CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

        I, Mark S. Sexton, certify that:



/s/
MARK S. SEXTON
Mark S. Sexton
President and CEO

 

 

Date May 14, 2003

24



CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

        I, Kevin R. Collins, certify that:


/s/ KEVIN R. COLLINS
Kevin R. Collins
   
Executive Vice President—Finance, CFO and Treasurer

Date May 14, 2003

25