Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation and Reporting	Principles of Consolidation and Reporting. Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Evolution Petroleum Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Company”). All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements for the previous year may include certain reclassifications to conform to the current presentation. Any such reclassifications have no impact on previously reported net income or stockholders' equity.
Risk and Uncertainties	Risk and Uncertainties. The Company is continuously monitoring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on its business, including how it has and may continue to impact its financial results, liquidity, employees, and the operations of the Delhi field, Hamilton Dome fields, and its Barnett Shale assets in which it holds non-operated interests. In response to the pandemic, the operator at Hamilton Dome temporarily shut-in some producing wells. In addition to the above, the pandemic slowed the repair schedule of the Delhi CO2 supply pipeline which, together with the foregoing, negatively impacted our production. All of the Company’s property interests are not operated by the Company and involve other third-party working interest owners. As a result, the Company has limited ability to influence or control the operation or future development of such properties. However, the Company has been proactive with its third-party operators to review spend and alter plans as appropriate. The Company is focused on putting long term measures to prevent future disruptions, maintaining its operations and system of controls remotely and has implemented its business continuity plans in order to allow its employees to securely work from home or in the corporate office. The Company was able to transition the operation of its business with minimal disruption and has maintained its system of internal controls and procedures.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant estimates include (a) reserve quantities and estimated future cash flows associated with proved reserves, which may significantly impact depletion expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties, (b) asset retirement obligations, (c) stock-based compensation, (d) fair values of derivative assets and liabilities, (e) income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets, (f) commitments and contingencies and (g) oil, natural gas, and NGL revenues. We analyze our estimates based on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. While we believe that our estimates and assumptions used in preparation of the consolidated financial statements are appropriate, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less when purchased, to be cash and cash equivalents.
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash. Funds legally designated for a specified purpose are classified as restricted cash. Such a balance is classified on the statement of financial position as either current or non-current depending on its expected use.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. Accounts receivable consist of accrued hydrocarbon revenues due under normal trade terms, generally requiring payment within 30 to 60 days of production, and other miscellaneous receivables. No interest is charged on past-due balances. Payments made on accounts receivable are applied to the earliest unpaid items. We establish provisions for losses on accounts receivable if it is determined that collection of all or a part of an outstanding balance is not probable. Collectability is reviewed regularly and an allowance is established or adjusted, as necessary, using the specific identification method. As of June 30, 2021 and 2020, no allowance for doubtful accounts was considered necessary.
Oil and Natural Gas Properties	Oil and Natural Gas Properties. We use the full-cost method of accounting for our investments in oil and natural gas properties. Under this method of accounting, all costs incurred in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties, including unproductive wells, are capitalized. This includes any internal costs that are directly related to property acquisition, exploration, and development activities but does not include any costs related to production, general corporate overhead, or similar activities. Gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of oil and natural gas properties is not recognized, unless the gain or loss would significantly alter the relationship between capitalized costs and proved reserves.Oil and natural gas properties include costs that are excluded from depletion and amortization, which represent investments in unproved and unevaluated properties and include non-producing leasehold, geologic and geophysical costs associated with leasehold or drilling interests, and exploration drilling costs. These costs are excluded until the project is evaluated and proved reserves are established or impairment is determined. As of June 30, 2021 and 2020, we did not have any costs excluded from depletion and amortization.
Limitation on Capitalized Costs	Limitation on Capitalized Costs. Under the full-cost method of accounting, we are required, at the end of each fiscal quarter, to perform a test to determine the limit on the book value of our oil and natural gas properties (the “Ceiling Test”). If the capitalized costs of our oil and natural gas properties, net of accumulated amortization and related deferred income taxes, exceed the “Ceiling”, this excess or impairment is charged to expense and reflected as additional accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization or as a credit to oil and natural gas properties. The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the Ceiling. The Ceiling is defined as the sum of: (a) the present value, discounted at 10 percent and assuming continuation of existing economic conditions, of 1) estimated future gross revenues from proved reserves, which is computed using oil and natural gas prices determined as the unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within the 12-month period prior to the end of the reporting period (with consideration of price changes only to the extent provided by contractual arrangements including hedging arrangements pursuant to SAB 103), less 2) estimated future expenditures (based on current costs) to be incurred in developing and producing the proved reserves; plus (b) the cost of properties not being amortized (pursuant to Reg. S-X Rule 4-10 (c)(3)(ii)); plus (c) the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproven properties included in the costs being amortized; net of (d) the related tax effects related to the difference between the book and tax basis of our oil and natural gas properties.
Other Property and Equipment	Other Property and Equipment. Other property and equipment includes building leasehold improvements, data processing and telecommunications equipment, office furniture, and office equipment. These items are recorded at cost and depreciated over expected lives of the individual assets or group of assets, which range from three to seven years. The assets are depreciated using the straight-line method. Realization of the carrying value of other property and equipment is reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets are determined to be impaired if a forecast of undiscounted estimated future net operating cash flows directly related to the asset, including disposal value, if any, is less than the carrying amount of the asset. If any asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed in the period incurred.
Deferred Financing Costs	Deferred Financing Costs. The Company capitalizes costs incurred in connection with obtaining financing. These costs are included in other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and are amortized over the term of the related financing using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method.
Asset Retirement Obligations	Asset Retirement Obligations. An asset retirement obligation associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset is recognized as a liability in the period incurred. It is associated with an increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset, our oil and natural gas properties. The cost of the tangible asset, including the asset retirement cost, is depleted over the useful life of the asset. The initial recognition or subsequent revision of asset retirement cost is considered a Level 3 fair value measurement. The asset retirement obligation is recorded at its estimated fair value, measured by reference to the expected future cash outflows required to satisfy the retirement obligation discounted at our credit-adjusted risk-free interest rate. Accretion expense is recognized over time as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value. If the estimated future cost of the asset retirement obligation changes, an adjustment is recorded to both the asset retirement obligation and the long-lived asset. Revisions to estimated asset retirement obligations can result from changes in retirement cost estimates, revisions to estimated inflation rates, and changes in the estimated timing of abandonment.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments. Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, derivative instruments, and debt. Except for derivatives, the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are short-term instruments and approximate fair value due to their highly liquid nature. The carrying amount of debt approximates fair value as the variable rates on the Senior Secured Credit Facility are market interest rates. The fair values of the Company’s derivative assets and liabilities are based on a third-party industry-standard pricing model that uses market data obtained from third-party sources, including quoted forward prices for oil and natural gas, discount rates, and volatility factors.
Stock-based Compensation	Stock-based Compensation. We estimate the fair value of stock-based compensation awards on the grant date to provide the basis for future compensation expense. Service-based and performance-based Restricted Stock and Contingent Restricted Stock awards (as defined in Note 11 - Stock-Based Incentive Plan) are valued using the market price of our common stock on the grant date. Market-based awards are valued using a Monte Carlo simulation and geometric Brownian motion techniques applied to the historical volatility of the Company's total stock return compared to the historical volatilities of other companies or indices to which we compare our performance. This Monte Carlo simulation also provides an expected vesting period. For service-based awards, stock-based compensation is recognized ratably over the service period. For performance-based awards, stock-based compensation is recognized ratably over the expected vesting period when it is deemed probable, for accounting purposes, that the performance goal will be achieved. The expected vesting period may be shorter than the remaining term. For market-based awards, stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the expected vesting period, so long as the award holder remains an employee of the Company. Total compensation expense is independent of vesting or expiration of the awards, except for termination of service.
Revenue Recognition - Oil and Natural Gas	Revenue Recognition - Oil and Natural Gas. Our revenues are comprised solely of revenues from customers from the sale of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The Company believes that the disaggregation of revenue on its consolidated statements of operations into these three major product types appropriately depicts how the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors based on our geographic locations. Oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids revenues are recognized at a point in time when production is sold to a purchaser at an index-based, determinable price, delivery has occurred, control has transferred and collectability of the revenue is probable. The transaction price used to recognize revenue is a function of the contract billing terms which reference index price sources used by the industry. Revenue is invoiced by calendar month based on volumes at contractually based rates with payment typically required within 30 days for oil and 60 days for natural gas and natural gas liquids after the end of the production month. At the end of each month when the performance obligations have been satisfied, the consideration can be reasonably estimated and amounts due from customers (remitted to us by field operators) are accrued in “Receivables from oil and gas sales” in our consolidated balance sheets.
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments. The Company follows ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”). From time to time, in accordance with the Company’s policy, it may hedge a portion of its forecasted oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids production. All derivative instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at fair value. The Company nets its derivative instrument fair value amounts executed with the same counterparty pursuant to an International Swap Dealers Association Master Agreement (“ISDA”) master agreement; the agreement provides for net settlement over the term of the contract and in the event of default or termination of the contract. Although the derivative instruments provide an economic hedge of the Company’s exposure to commodity price volatility, the Company elected not to meet the criteria to qualify its derivative instruments for hedge accounting treatment. Accordingly, the Company records the net change in the mark-to-market valuation of these positions, as well as payments and receipts on settled contracts, in “Net (gain) loss on derivative instruments” on the consolidated statements of operations.
Estimates of Proved Reserves	Estimates of Proved Reserves. The estimated quantities of proved oil and natural gas reserves have a significant impact on the underlying financial statements. The estimated quantities of proved reserves are used to calculate depletion expense and the estimated future net cash flows associated with those proved reserves is the basis for determining impairment under the quarterly ceiling test calculation. The process of estimating oil and natural gas reserves is very complex and requires significant decisions in the evaluation of all available geologic, geophysical, engineering, and economic data. Estimated reserves are often subject to future revisions, which could be substantial, based on the availability of additional information; this includes reservoir performance, additional development activity, new geologic and geophysical data, additional drilling, technological advancements, price changes, and other economic factors. As a result, material revisions to existing reserve estimates may occur from time to time. Although every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the reported reserve estimates prepared by our third-party independent engineers represent the most accurate assessments possible, the subjective decisions and variances in available data for the properties make these estimates generally less precise than other estimates included in our financial statements. Material revisions to reserve estimates and/or significant changes in commodity prices could substantially affect our estimated future net cash flows of our proved reserves. These changes could affect our quarterly ceiling test calculation and could significantly affect our depletion rate.
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization (“DD&A”)	Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization (“DD&A”). The depreciable base for oil and natural gas properties includes the sum of all capitalized costs net of DD&A, estimated future development costs, and asset retirement costs (net of salvage values) not included in oil and natural gas properties, less costs excluded from amortization. The depreciable base of oil and natural gas properties is amortized using the unit-of-production method over total proved reserves. Other property, consisting of leasehold building improvements and office and computer equipment, is depreciated as described above in Other Property and Equipment.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that may result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. The measurement of deferred tax assets may be reduced by a valuation allowance based upon management's assessment of available evidence if it is deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realizable. We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination which is based on the technical merits of the position. We record the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority. The Company classifies any interest and penalties associated with income taxes as income tax expense.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share	Earnings (Loss) Per Share. Basic earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing earnings or loss available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted EPS is similar to the computation of basic EPS, except that the denominator is increased to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if potentially dilutive common shares had been issued. Potentially dilutive common shares are our contingent restricted common stock. We use the treasury stock method to determine the effect of potentially dilutive common shares on diluted EPS, unless the effect would be anti-dilutive. Under this method, exercise of contingent restricted common stock, under certain condition, is assumed to have occurred at the beginning of the period (or at time of issuance, if later); common shares are assumed to have been issued. The unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted common stock are assumed to be used to repurchase common stock at the average market price during the period. The incremental shares (the difference between the number of shares assumed issued and the number of shares assumed repurchased) are included in the denominator of the diluted EPS computation. Contingent restricted stock is included in the computation of diluted shares, if dilutive, when the underlying performance conditions either (i) were satisfied as of the end of the reporting period or (ii) would be considered satisfied if the end of the reporting period were the end of the related contingency period.
Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements Leases. Effective July 1, 2019, the Company adopted the new standard using a modified retrospective approach and elected to use the optional transition methodology whereby reporting periods prior to adoption continue to be presented in accordance with legacy accounting guidance, Accounting Standard Codification 840 - Leases. Upon transition, we recognized a right of use (“ROU”) asset (or operating lease right-of-use asset) and an operating lease liability with no retained earnings impact. We applied the following practical expedients as provided in the standards update which provide elections to not reassess: •Not to apply the recognition requirements in the lease standard to short-term leases (a lease that at commencement date has a lease term of 12 months or less and does not contain a purchase option that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise). •Whether an expired or existing pre-adoption date contracts contained leases. •Lease classification of any expired or existing leases. •Initial direct costs for any expired or existing leases. •Not to separate lease components from non-lease components in a contract and accounting for the combination as a lease (reflected by asset class). Adoption of the new standard did not impact our consolidated statements of operations, cash flows or stockholders’ equity. Income Taxes. In December 2019, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (ASU 2019-12) as part of its initiative to reduce complexity in the accounting standards. The amendments in ASU 2019-12 remove certain exceptions related to the incremental approach for intraperiod tax allocation and the general methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period and reducing diversity in practice for the recognition of enacted changes in tax law. ASU 2019-12 also clarifies and simplifies other aspects of accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2020; however, early adoption is permissible for periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued. Effective October 1, 2020, the Company prospectively adopted this new standard. Adoption of this standard had no impact on our consolidated financial statements nor would it have had if we had adopted the standard on July 1, 2020. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (“ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2016-13 changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments, including trade and other receivables, and requires the use of a new forward-looking expected loss model that will result in the earlier recognition of allowances for losses. Early adoption is permitted and entities must adopt the amendment using a modified retrospective approach to the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. For smaller reporting companies, as provided by Accounting Standards Update 2019-10, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic 842), ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2022. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 is currently not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. Other accounting pronouncements that have recently been issued by the FASB or other standards-setting bodies are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2021

Principles of Consolidation and Reporting

Principles of Consolidation and Reporting. Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Evolution Petroleum Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Company”). All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements for the previous year may include certain reclassifications to conform to the current presentation. Any such reclassifications have no impact on previously reported net income or stockholders' equity.

Risk and Uncertainties

Risk and Uncertainties. The Company is continuously monitoring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on its business, including how it has and may continue to impact its financial results, liquidity, employees, and the operations of the Delhi field, Hamilton Dome fields, and its Barnett Shale assets in which it holds non-operated interests.

In response to the pandemic, the operator at Hamilton Dome temporarily shut-in some producing wells. In addition to the above, the pandemic slowed the repair schedule of the Delhi CO2 supply pipeline which, together with the foregoing, negatively impacted our production. All of the Company’s property interests are not operated by the Company and involve other third-party working interest owners. As a result, the Company has limited ability to influence or control the operation or future development of such properties. However, the Company has been proactive with its third-party operators to review spend and alter plans as appropriate.

The Company is focused on putting long term measures to prevent future disruptions, maintaining its operations and system of controls remotely and has implemented its business continuity plans in order to allow its employees to securely work from home or in the corporate office. The Company was able to transition the operation of its business with minimal disruption and has maintained its system of internal controls and procedures.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant estimates include (a) reserve quantities and estimated future cash flows associated with proved reserves, which may significantly impact depletion expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties, (b) asset retirement obligations, (c) stock-based compensation, (d) fair values of derivative assets and liabilities, (e) income taxes and the valuation of deferred tax assets, (f) commitments and contingencies and (g) oil, natural gas, and NGL revenues. We analyze our estimates based on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable. While we believe that our estimates and assumptions used in preparation of the consolidated financial statements are appropriate, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments, with original maturities of 90 days or less when purchased, to be cash and cash equivalents.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash. Funds legally designated for a specified purpose are classified as restricted cash. Such a balance is classified on the statement of financial position as either current or non-current depending on its expected use.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. Accounts receivable consist of accrued hydrocarbon revenues due under normal trade terms, generally requiring payment within 30 to 60 days of production, and other miscellaneous receivables. No interest is charged on past-due balances. Payments made on accounts receivable are applied to the earliest unpaid items. We establish provisions for losses on accounts receivable if it is determined that collection of all or a part of an outstanding balance is not probable. Collectability is reviewed regularly and an allowance is established or adjusted, as necessary, using the specific identification method. As of June 30, 2021 and 2020, no allowance for doubtful accounts was considered necessary.

Oil and Natural Gas Properties

Oil and Natural Gas Properties. We use the full-cost method of accounting for our investments in oil and natural gas properties. Under this method of accounting, all costs incurred in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and natural gas properties, including unproductive wells, are capitalized. This includes any internal costs that are directly related to property acquisition, exploration, and development activities but does not include any costs related to production, general corporate overhead, or similar activities. Gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of oil and natural gas properties is not recognized, unless the gain or loss would significantly alter the relationship between capitalized costs and proved reserves.Oil and natural gas properties include costs that are excluded from depletion and amortization, which represent investments in unproved and unevaluated properties and include non-producing leasehold, geologic and geophysical costs associated with leasehold or drilling interests, and exploration drilling costs. These costs are excluded until the project is evaluated and proved reserves are established or impairment is determined. As of June 30, 2021 and 2020, we did not have any costs excluded from depletion and amortization.

Limitation on Capitalized Costs

Limitation on Capitalized Costs. Under the full-cost method of accounting, we are required, at the end of each fiscal quarter, to perform a test to determine the limit on the book value of our oil and natural gas properties (the “Ceiling Test”). If the capitalized costs of our oil and natural gas properties, net of accumulated amortization and related deferred income taxes, exceed the “Ceiling”, this excess or impairment is charged to expense and reflected as additional accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization or as a credit to oil and natural gas properties. The expense may not be reversed in future periods, even though higher oil and natural gas prices may subsequently increase the Ceiling. The Ceiling is defined as the sum of: (a) the present value, discounted at 10 percent and assuming continuation of existing economic conditions, of 1) estimated future gross revenues from proved reserves, which is computed using oil and natural gas prices determined as the unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within the 12-month period prior to the end of the reporting period (with consideration of price changes only to the extent provided by contractual arrangements including hedging arrangements pursuant to SAB 103), less 2) estimated future expenditures (based on current costs) to be incurred in developing and producing the proved reserves; plus (b) the cost of properties not being amortized (pursuant to Reg. S-X Rule 4-10 (c)(3)(ii)); plus (c) the lower of cost or estimated fair value of unproven properties included in the costs being amortized; net of (d) the related tax effects related to the difference between the book and tax basis of our oil and natural gas properties.

Other Property and Equipment

Other Property and Equipment. Other property and equipment includes building leasehold improvements, data processing and telecommunications equipment, office furniture, and office equipment. These items are recorded at cost and depreciated over expected lives of the individual assets or group of assets, which range from three to seven years. The assets are depreciated using the straight-line method. Realization of the carrying value of other property and equipment is reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets are determined to be impaired if a forecast of undiscounted estimated future net operating cash flows directly related to the asset, including disposal value, if any, is less than the carrying amount of the asset. If any asset is determined to be impaired, the loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed in the period incurred.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred Financing Costs. The Company capitalizes costs incurred in connection with obtaining financing. These costs are included in other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and are amortized over the term of the related financing using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Asset Retirement Obligations. An asset retirement obligation associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset is recognized as a liability in the period incurred. It is associated with an increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset, our oil and natural gas properties. The cost of the tangible asset, including the asset retirement cost, is depleted over the useful life of the asset. The initial recognition or subsequent revision of asset retirement cost is considered a Level 3 fair value measurement. The asset retirement obligation is recorded at its estimated fair value, measured by reference to the expected future cash outflows required to satisfy the retirement obligation discounted at our credit-adjusted risk-free interest rate. Accretion expense is recognized over time as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value. If the estimated future cost of the asset retirement obligation changes, an adjustment is recorded to both the asset retirement obligation and the long-lived asset. Revisions to estimated asset retirement obligations can result from changes in retirement cost estimates, revisions to estimated inflation rates, and changes in the estimated timing of abandonment.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, derivative instruments, and debt. Except for derivatives, the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are short-term instruments and approximate fair value due to their highly liquid nature. The carrying amount of debt approximates fair value as the variable rates on the Senior Secured Credit Facility are market interest rates. The fair values of the Company’s derivative assets and liabilities are based on a third-party industry-standard pricing model that uses market data obtained from third-party sources, including quoted forward prices for oil and natural gas, discount rates, and volatility factors.

Stock-based Compensation

Stock-based Compensation. We estimate the fair value of stock-based compensation awards on the grant date to provide the basis for future compensation expense. Service-based and performance-based Restricted Stock and Contingent Restricted Stock awards (as defined in Note 11 - Stock-Based Incentive Plan) are valued using the market price of our common stock on the grant date. Market-based awards are valued using a Monte Carlo simulation and geometric Brownian motion techniques applied to the historical volatility of the Company's total stock return compared to the historical volatilities of other companies or indices to which we compare our performance. This Monte Carlo simulation also provides an expected vesting period. For service-based awards, stock-based compensation is recognized ratably over the service period. For performance-based awards, stock-based compensation is recognized ratably over the expected vesting period when it is deemed probable, for accounting purposes, that the performance goal will be achieved. The expected vesting period may be shorter than the remaining term. For market-based awards, stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the expected vesting period, so long as the award holder remains an employee of the Company. Total compensation expense is independent of vesting or expiration of the awards, except for termination of service.

Revenue Recognition - Oil and Natural Gas

Revenue Recognition - Oil and Natural Gas. Our revenues are comprised solely of revenues from customers from the sale of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The Company believes that the disaggregation of revenue on its consolidated statements of operations into these three major product types appropriately depicts how the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors based on our geographic locations. Oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids revenues are recognized at a point in time when production is sold to a purchaser at an index-based, determinable price, delivery has occurred, control has transferred and collectability of the revenue is probable. The transaction price used to recognize revenue is a function of the contract billing terms which reference index price sources used by the industry. Revenue is invoiced by calendar month based on volumes at contractually based rates with payment typically required within 30 days for oil and 60 days for natural gas and natural gas liquids after the end of the production month. At the end of each month when the performance obligations have been satisfied, the consideration can be reasonably estimated and amounts due from customers (remitted to us by field operators) are accrued in “Receivables from oil and gas sales” in our consolidated balance sheets.

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments. The Company follows ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”). From time to time, in accordance with the Company’s policy, it may hedge a portion of its forecasted oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids production. All derivative instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at fair value. The Company nets its derivative instrument fair value amounts executed with the same counterparty pursuant to an International Swap Dealers Association Master Agreement (“ISDA”) master agreement; the agreement provides for net settlement over the term of the contract and in the event of default or termination of the contract. Although the derivative instruments provide an economic hedge of the Company’s exposure to commodity price volatility, the Company elected not to meet the criteria to qualify its derivative instruments for hedge accounting treatment. Accordingly, the Company records the net change in the mark-to-market valuation of these positions, as well as payments and receipts on settled contracts, in “Net (gain) loss on derivative instruments” on the consolidated statements of operations.

Estimates of Proved Reserves

Estimates of Proved Reserves. The estimated quantities of proved oil and natural gas reserves have a significant impact on

the underlying financial statements. The estimated quantities of proved reserves are used to calculate depletion expense and the

estimated future net cash flows associated with those proved reserves is the basis for determining impairment under the

quarterly ceiling test calculation. The process of estimating oil and natural gas reserves is very complex and requires significant

decisions in the evaluation of all available geologic, geophysical, engineering, and economic data. Estimated reserves are often

subject to future revisions, which could be substantial, based on the availability of additional information; this includes

reservoir performance, additional development activity, new geologic and geophysical data, additional drilling, technological

advancements, price changes, and other economic factors. As a result, material revisions to existing reserve estimates may

occur from time to time. Although every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the reported reserve estimates prepared by our

third-party independent engineers represent the most accurate assessments possible, the subjective decisions and variances in

available data for the properties make these estimates generally less precise than other estimates included in our financial

statements. Material revisions to reserve estimates and/or significant changes in commodity prices could substantially affect our

estimated future net cash flows of our proved reserves. These changes could affect our quarterly ceiling test calculation and

could significantly affect our depletion rate.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization (“DD&A”)

Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization (“DD&A”). The depreciable base for oil and natural gas properties includes the sum of all capitalized costs net of DD&A, estimated future development costs, and asset retirement costs (net of salvage values) not included in oil and natural gas properties, less costs excluded from amortization. The depreciable base of oil and natural gas properties is amortized using the unit-of-production method over total proved reserves. Other property, consisting of leasehold building improvements and office and computer equipment, is depreciated as described above in Other Property and Equipment.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that may result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. The measurement of deferred tax assets may be reduced by a valuation allowance based upon management's assessment of available evidence if it is deemed more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realizable. We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination which is based on the technical merits of the position. We record the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority. The Company classifies any interest and penalties associated with income taxes as income tax expense.

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share. Basic earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing earnings or loss available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted EPS is similar to the computation of basic EPS, except that the denominator is increased to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if potentially dilutive common shares had been issued. Potentially dilutive common shares are our contingent restricted common stock. We use the treasury stock method to determine the effect of potentially dilutive common shares on diluted EPS, unless the effect would be anti-dilutive. Under this method, exercise of contingent restricted common stock, under certain condition, is assumed to have occurred at the beginning of the period (or at time of issuance, if later); common shares are assumed to have been issued. The unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted common stock are assumed to be used to repurchase common stock at the average market price during the period. The incremental shares (the difference between the number of shares assumed issued and the number of shares assumed repurchased) are included in the denominator of the diluted EPS computation. Contingent restricted stock is included in the computation of diluted shares, if dilutive, when the underlying performance conditions either (i) were satisfied as of the end of the reporting period or (ii) would be considered satisfied if the end of the reporting period were the end of the related contingency period.

Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Leases. Effective July 1, 2019, the Company adopted the new standard using a modified retrospective approach and elected to use the optional transition methodology whereby reporting periods prior to adoption continue to be presented in accordance with legacy accounting guidance, Accounting Standard Codification 840 - Leases. Upon transition, we recognized a right of use (“ROU”) asset (or operating lease right-of-use asset) and an operating lease liability with no retained earnings impact. We applied the following practical expedients as provided in the standards update which provide elections to not reassess:

•Not to apply the recognition requirements in the lease standard to short-term leases (a lease that at commencement date has a lease term of 12 months or less and does not contain a purchase option that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise).

•Whether an expired or existing pre-adoption date contracts contained leases.

•Lease classification of any expired or existing leases.

•Initial direct costs for any expired or existing leases.

•Not to separate lease components from non-lease components in a contract and accounting for the combination as a lease (reflected by asset class).

Adoption of the new standard did not impact our consolidated statements of operations, cash flows or stockholders’ equity.

Income Taxes. In December 2019, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (ASU 2019-12) as part of its initiative to reduce complexity in the accounting standards. The amendments in ASU 2019-12 remove certain exceptions related to the incremental approach for intraperiod tax allocation and the general methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period and reducing diversity in practice for the recognition of enacted changes in tax law. ASU 2019-12 also clarifies and simplifies other aspects of accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2020; however, early adoption is permissible for periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued. Effective October 1, 2020, the Company prospectively adopted this new standard. Adoption of this standard had no impact on our consolidated financial statements nor would it have had if we had adopted the standard on July 1, 2020.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (“ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2016-13 changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments, including trade and other receivables, and requires the use of a new forward-looking expected loss model that will result in the earlier recognition of allowances for losses. Early adoption is permitted and entities must adopt the amendment using a modified retrospective approach to the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. For smaller reporting companies, as provided by Accounting Standards Update 2019-10, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic 842), ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2022. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 is currently not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Other accounting pronouncements that have recently been issued by the FASB or other standards-setting bodies are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.