10-K

Table of Contents
Index to Financial Statements

m

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

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

For the annual period ended: December 31, 2013

OR

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

For the transition period from             to             

Commission file number: 333-173751

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Texas	20-3565150
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas	77094
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 281-530-0991

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

None

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

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities
Act:    ☐  Yes    ☒  No

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.)    Yes  ☒    No   ☐

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (S229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ☒

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

Large accelerated filer	☐	Accelerated filer	☐
Non-accelerated filer	☒  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company	☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x

Table of Contents
Index to Financial Statements

TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page
	PART I
Item 1.	Business	2
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	20
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	32
Item 2.	Properties	32
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	32
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	33
	PART II
Item 5.	Market For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	33
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	34
Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	35
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	47
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	48
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	48
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	48
Item 9B.	Other Information	48
	PART III
Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	48
Item 11.	Executive Compensation	50
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	57
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	57
Item 14.	Principal Accountant Fees and Services	58
	PART IV
Item 15.	Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules	59

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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The information in this report includes “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”). All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this report, regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used in this report, the words “could”, “should”, “will”, “play”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “expect”, “project” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” included in this report. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current belief, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events.

Forward-looking statements may include statements about our:

· business strategy;

· reserve quantities and the present value of our reserves;

· financial strategy, liquidity and capital required for our development program;

· future oil and natural gas prices;

· timing and amount of future production of oil and natural gas;

· hedging strategy and results;

· future drilling plans;

· marketing of oil and natural gas;

· leasehold or business acquisitions;

· costs of developing our properties; 

· liquidity and access to capital;

· future operating results; and

· plans, objectives, expectations and intentions contained in this report that are not historical.

We caution you that these forward-looking statements are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control, incident to the exploration for and development and production of oil and natural gas. These risks include, but are not limited to, commodity price volatility, low prices for oil and/or natural gas, global economic conditions, inflation, increased operating costs, lack of availability of drilling and production equipment and services, environmental risks, weather risks, drilling and other operating risks, regulatory changes, the uncertainty inherent in estimating oil and natural gas reserves and in projecting future rates of production, reductions in cash flow,access to capital, and the other risks described under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in this report.

Reserve engineering is a process of estimating underground accumulations of oil and natural gas that cannot be measured in an exact way. The accuracy of any reserve estimate depends on the quality of available data, the interpretation of such data and price and cost assumptions made by reservoir engineers. In addition, the results of drilling, testing and production activities may justify revisions of estimates that were made previously. If significant, such revisions would change the schedule of any further production and development drilling. Accordingly, reserve estimates may differ significantly from the quantities of oil and natural gas that are ultimately recovered.

Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this report occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this report are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we may issue.

Except as otherwise required by applicable law, we disclaim any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements in this section, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report.

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PART I

Item 1. Business

Our Company

Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Alta Mesa,” the “Company,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) is a privately held company engaged primarily in onshore oil and natural gas acquisition, exploitation, exploration and production whose focus is to maximize the profitability of our assets in a safe and environmentally sound manner. We seek to maintain a portfolio of lower risk properties in plays with known resources where we identify a large inventory of lower risk drilling, development, and enhanced recovery and exploitation opportunities. Our core properties are located in Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. We believe there are decades of future development potential in our balanced portfolio of assets — principally historically prolific fields in the Sooner Trend in Oklahoma, the Weeks Island field in South Louisiana, and the Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas. We maximize the profitability of our assets by focusing on sound engineering, enhanced geological techniques including 3-D seismic analysis, and proven drilling, stimulation, completion, and production methods.

As of December 31, 2013, our estimated total proved oil and natural gas reserves were approximately 60.3 MMBOE, of which 58% were classified as proved developed. Our proved reserve mix is approximately 54% oil, 37% natural gas, and 9% natural gas liquids.  Excluding our Eagle Ford Shale assets, we maintain operational control of the majority of our properties, either through directly operating them, or through operating arrangements with minority interest holders.

Our areas of focus are typically characterized by multiple hydrocarbon pay zones, and because in many cases we are re-developing fields and areas originally discovered and developed by major oil and natural gas companies and other independent producers, our assets are typically served by existing infrastructure. As a result, we believe that our business model lowers geological, mechanical, and market-related risks. We focus on properties within our core operating areas that we believe have significant development and exploration opportunities and where we can apply our technical experience and economies of scale to increase production and proved reserves while lowering lease operating and capital costs. Additionally, we have consistently created value through workovers and re-completions of existing wells, infill drilling, operations improvements, secondary recovery and 3-D seismic-driven drilling. We expect to continue production growth in our core areas by exploiting known resources with continued well workovers, development drilling, and disciplined exploration.

Throughout this report, year-end financial and operating data include a portion of our Eagle Ford Shale assets which were sold in the first quarter of 2014.  See “Recent Developments” below.

As the price of natural gas has declined in recent years, we have focused our capital expenditures on oil and liquids rich assets.As a result of this shift of reserves and production, we now report equivalent volumes and per-unit metrics on a BOE basis rather than an Mcfe basis.  Prior year comparative data have been conformed to this presentation.

Overview of 2013

During 2013, we concentrated our efforts on developing our three core properties, Weeks Island, Sooner Trend, and Eagleville in the Eagle Ford Shale play in South Texas.  We continue to emphasize oil-rich reserves and production.  Highlights from 2013 include:

· increased estimated proved reserves by 8.6 MMBOE over 2012 year-end, including 1.8 MMBOE in Weeks Island acquired from our former working interest partner,  Stone Energy Offshore, L.L.C.;

· percentage of reserves attributable to oil and natural gas liquids increased from 51% as of year-end 2012 to 63% as of year-end 2013 (converting gas to oil at a ratio of 6:1);

· percentage of total production attributable oil and natural gas liquids increased from 41% in 2012 to 54% in 2013;

· increased oil production 36% from 2.1 MMBbl to 2.9 MMBbl;

· increased total revenues from hydrocarbons 18%;

· increased oil revenues 32%;

· decreased natural gas revenues 11%;

· drilled 107 gross wells (46.6 net wells) of which 80 gross wells (33.4 net wells) were in our three core properties;

· invested approximately $354 million in our oil and natural gas properties, as compared to $279 million for 2012 (both totals include acquisitions);

· sold approximately 11.2 Bcf of dry gas reserves from our Hilltop field in East Texas;

· recognized impairment expense for the year of $143 million primarily in non-core natural gas properties.

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Recent Developments

Subsequent to year-end, in March 2014, we sold a portion of our proved oil reserves, approximately 7.7 MMBOE, in our Eagleville field in South Texas. The transaction provided us $173 million in cash, which was used to reduce the outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility.  The sale is structured to provide us with continuing net revenues from the sold properties through 2016, and we will continue to develop additional Eagleville wells at 70% of our original working interest.  Total reserves we retained are estimated as 7.3 MMBOE, of which 91% is considered proved undeveloped based on classifications from our reserve report as of December 31, 2013.  This partial sale provides us cash for investment in new areas without relinquishing our position in the Eagle Ford Shale, which we continue to view as a high-quality core property with years of development potential.

Outlook

In 2014 we anticipate capital expenditures of $370 million as follows:

· approximately $110 million to be spent in Sooner Trend;

· approximately $90 million to be spent in Weeks Island;

· approximately $60 million to be spent in Eagleville;

· approximately $110 million to be spent on various other properties.

Our Strategy

Our objective is to increase reserves and production by applying sound engineering and geological analyses, combined with safe and cost-effective operations, in areas we have identified as under-developed and over-looked.

· Exploit Known Resources in a Repeatable Manner. The majority of our assets are in mature fields previously developed by major oil and natural gas companies or other independent producers, prior to the advent of newer technology that can be applied today. Our objective is to enhance existing production in these properties by using our engineering and geological expertise to convert undeveloped reserves to active production, and to efficiently reduce operating and capital costs. We leverage previous experience and knowledge to continually improve our operations and guide our future development and expansion.

· Maximize Development Opportunities with Sound Engineering and Technology. We seek to exploit and redevelop mature properties by using state-of-the-art technology including 2-D and 3-D seismic imaging and advanced seismic modeling. We apply sound engineering and geologic science, including modern well log analysis and advanced fracture stimulation design, to define the appropriate application of various recovery techniques, including recompletions, infill/step out drilling, horizontal drilling, and/or secondary recovery methods to enhance oil and natural gas production. Our geologists, geophysicists, engineers, and petrophysicists systematically integrate reservoir performance data with geologic and geophysical data, an approach that reduces drilling risks, lowers finding costs and provides for more efficient production of oil and natural gas from our properties.

· Create High-Potential, High-Impact Opportunities while Mitigating Exploration Risk. We target high impact prospects that offer an opportunity to significantly grow reserves. We minimize exploration risk by obtaining and synthesizing engineering, geologic, and seismic data to create a robust knowledge of producing zones in and around our prospective areas. We seek multiple targets in a given exploratory well to maximize and prolong the impact of our capital spending, and seek exploration opportunities that will, upon success, lead to multiple development wells. We diversify our risk across a number of prospects and further mitigate risk by typically bringing in industry partners to participate in our exploration prospects.

· Optimize Production Mix Based on Market Conditions. Our asset base enables us to efficiently and rapidly adjust our development activity in response to market prices. Currently, we intend to take advantage of the relatively favorable oil price environment by continuing to exploit oil and natural gas liquids opportunities within our portfolio. Oil and natural gas liquids together represented 54% of our 2013 production, measured on the traditional energy content ratio of 6:1 between natural gas and crude oil.  Oil and liquids-rich gas opportunities represented approximately 90% of our 2013 capital budget and represent approximately 94% of our 2014 capital budget. Commodity mix is a key consideration as we continually evaluate future drilling and acquisition opportunities.

· Pursue Value-Based Acquisitions that Leverage Current Internal Knowledge. We pursue acquisition targets where our own field exploitation methods can be profitably employed, and identify properties that other energy companies may consider lower-valued and/or non-strategic. We seek to control operations, and also engage in partnerships with other capable operators and service providers so we can capitalize on their data, knowledge and access to equipment.

· Mitigate Commodity Price Risk. Due to the volatility of oil and natural gas prices, we periodically enter into derivative transactions for a portion of our planned future oil and natural gas production. This allows us to reduce exposure to low 3

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prices and achieve more predictable cash flows. We retain commodity price upside potential through active management of our portfolio of derivative transactions, as well as through future production and reserve growth. As of December 31, 2013, we have hedged approximately 77% of our forecasted production from proved developed properties (“PDP”) through mid-2018 at average annual prices ranging from $4.38 per MMBtu to $5.50 per MMBtu and $80.00 per Bbl to $93.81 per Bbl.

· Maintain Financial Flexibility. In order to maintain our financial flexibility, we plan to fund our 2014 capital budget predominantly with cash flow from operations supplemented by borrowings under our credit facility and divestitures. Our operational control of most properties enables us to manage the timing of a substantial portion of our capital investments. At December 31, 2013, under our senior secured revolving credit facility, we had $319 million in borrowings outstanding and $66 million available for borrowing.

Our Strengths

We believe that the following strengths provide us with significant competitive advantages and position us to continue to achieve our business objective and execute our strategies:

· Proven Track Record of Reserves and Production Growth. We have increased production at a compounded annual rate of approximately 31% since 2008 through a focused program of drilling and field re-development complemented by strategic acquisitions. Based on our long-term historical performance and our business strategy, we believe we have the opportunities, experience and knowledge to continue growing both our reserves and production.

· High Quality Portfolio of Under-Exploited Properties and Multi-Year, Low-Risk Drilling and Wellbore Utilization Inventory. The bulk of our assets are producing properties with significant opportunities for additional exploitation and exploration. We have created and expect to maintain a multi-year drilling inventory and a continuing program of well recompletions, typically to shallower productive zones as deeper formations deplete over time. As of December 31, 2013, our inventory of proved reserve projects consists of 256 PUD locations, including 135 PUD locations in the Eagle Ford Shale, 88 PUD locations in Sooner Trend, and 10 PUD locations in Weeks Island. We believe that we have significant additional development opportunities that are not classified as proved reserves. By targeting productive zones in multiple stacked pays we are able to minimize exploration risk and costs.

· Geographically and Geologically Diverse Asset Base. We have a balanced portfolio of low-risk conventional and high-impact resource assets across various historically productive basins. Our core assets are located in the Sooner Trend in Oklahoma, where our assets are in both shallow-decline, long-lived oil zones and prospectively in the Mississippian Lime, Hunton, and other formations; in South Texas, where our Eagle Ford Shale assets are an oil and liquids-rich gas resource; and in South Louisiana, where our most significant field is Weeks Island, a large oil field with multiple stacked pay sands. Our core properties are located in areas that benefit from an experienced and well-established service sector, efficient state regulation, and available midstream infrastructure and services. In addition, based on our reserve report as of December 31, 2013, approximately 87% of our total future net undiscounted revenues are expected to be generated from the production of proved oil and NGL reserves. We believe our geographic and geologic diversification enables us to allocate our capital more profitably, manage market, weather and regulatory risks, and capitalize on technological improvements.

· Strong Management Team and Seasoned Technical Expertise. We have an experienced and technically-adept management team, averaging more than 25 years of industry experience among our top eight executives. We have built a strong technical staff of geologists and geophysicists, field operations managers, and engineers in all relevant disciplines. Our engineers and operations staff typically began their careers with major oil companies, large independent producers, or leading service companies, and have direct experience in our areas of operation. We believe our engineers are among the best in their respective fields.

Recent Partnership Changes

Our company is structured as a private partnership.  Since our inception, we have funded exploration, development and operating activities primarily through cash from operations, as well as capital raised from equity contributed by our founder, capital contributed by a private equity partner, borrowings under our bank credit facilities, and proceeds from the issuance of $450 million principal amount of senior secured notes.  From September 2006 until March 2014, our private equity partner was Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc. (“AMIH”), an affiliate of Denham Commodity Partners Fund IV LP (“DCPF IV”) and Denham Capital Management LP (collectively with DCPF ICV, “Denham”), a private equity firm focused on energy and commodities.

On March 25, 2014, a syndicate led by Highbridge Principal Strategies LLC (“Highbridge”) invested in AMIH and enabled AMIH to complete a $350 million recapitalization.  Immediately following the recapitalization, AMIH used a portion of the proceeds to redeem all of the shares of AMIH held by Denham.  Highbridge received convertible PIK preferred stock in AMIH and senior PIK notes from AMIH and nominatedone member to our Board of Directors.

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In connection with the recapitalization, Alta Mesa GP, our general partner, AMIH, as holder of 100% of our Class B Units, and all of our Class A Limited Partners entered into a Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement which provided for the contribution of 50% of the interest held by the Class A Limited Partners to AMIH in exchange for common stock in AMIH.  The Class A interests contributed to AMIH were terminated.  The amended partnership agreement provides for certain drag-along rights, including the mandatory contribution to AMIH by the Class A Limited Partners of their remaining Class A Units upon an initial public offering.  Immediately after closing the recapitalization, AMIH also purchased all of the Class A Units held by Macquarie Bank Limited and RBS Equity Corporation.

All distributions under the amended partnership agreement shall first be made to holders of Class B Units, until all principal and interest has been extinguished under the senior PIK notes issued to Highbridge.  After such extinguishment of the senior PIK notes, distributions shall then be made to holders of Class A and Class B Units pursuant to the distribution formulas set forth in the amended partnership agreement.

Reserve and Production Overview

The following table describes our proved reserves and production profile as of December 31, 2013:

	Total		Oil and					Average
	Estimated		NGLs as %					Daily Net
	Proved		of Total		PV-10		Net	Production
	Reserves	% Proved	Proved		($ in millions)	Net	Producing	2013
	(MMBOE)	Developed (1)	Reserves (1)		(2)	Acreage (3)	Wells (4)	(MBOE/d)
Sooner Trend	17.3	46%	64%	$	341.4	40,588	195.3	1.6
Eagle Ford (5)	15.0	36%	91%		449.0	2,829	14.9	3.4
Weeks Island	8.7	67%	91%		428.3	6,026	38.5	3.2
East Texas	10.1	89%	24%		85.1	56,965	74.0	4.7
Other	9.2	72%	35%		102.5	137,738	87.4	3.7
All Properties	60.3	58%	63%	$	1,406.3	244,146	410.1	16.6

(1) Computed as a percentage of total reserves of the property.

(2) PV-10 was calculated using oil and natural gas price parameters established by current SEC guidelines and accounting rules based on the unweighted average oil and natural gas prices as of the first day of each of the 12 months ended December 31, 2013. Because we are a partnership and, as such, are not subject to income taxes, our PV-10 is the same as our standardized measure of future net cash flows, the most comparable measure under generally accepted accounting principles, which is reduced for the discounted value of estimated future income taxes.  Calculation of PV-10 does not give effect to derivatives transactions.   The unweighted average prices as of the first of each month during the 12 months ended December 31, 2013 were $96.78 per Bbl and $3.67 per MMBtu.

(3) Includes developed and undeveloped acreage.

(4) Calculated as gross wells times our working interest percentage.

(5) Eagle Ford values include amounts attributable to properties in our Eagleville Field sold in March 2014. See further detail below, “Our Properties, South Texas Eagle Ford Shale.”  The total reserves sold were approximately 7.7 MMBOE, representing a substantial portion of each net producing well in the field. The value of the sold reserves included in the above table for PV-10 was approximately $231 million, using the SEC-method price of oil at $96.78 per Bbl throughout the life of the properties.  The $173 million sale price was based on current valuations at the time of the sale, using forward prices based on current NYMEX trading, averaging approximately $80 per Bbl over the life of the properties.  Approximately 800 net acres, an undivided 30% of our total net acres in the field at the time of the transfer, were assigned to the buyer.  Reserves retained are approximately 91% proved undeveloped based on the classifications in our reserve report as of December 31, 2013.

Our Properties

Sooner Trend, Oklahoma

Our assets in the Sooner Trend in Oklahoma are located in large mature oil fields with multiple pay zones at depths from less than 2,000 feet to 7,500 feet. These assets have historically been predominantly shallow-decline, long-lived oil fields originally drilled on 80-acre vertical well spacing and waterflooded to varying degrees.

Our activity in these fields includes downspacing to 40 acres or less in the historically principal field pay zones that had been unitized for water flooding, as well as drilling or recompleting wells for other pay zones including the Meramec section of the Mississippian Lime, Woodford Shale, Hunton Lime, and other formations.  In 2013, we added production and reserves in the

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Mississippian Lime formation by drilling new horizontal wells.  We have applied the knowledge obtained by this effort to define our approach for 2014 and beyond to target the Mississippian Lime, the Hunton Lime, and other zones with horizontal drilling and multi-stage hydraulic fracturing.

As of December 31, 2013, we had a 74% average working interest in 263 producing wells, and had identified 88 PUD locations in this area. We produced 573 MBOE net to Alta Mesa from our properties in Oklahoma in 2013.

During 2013 we spent approximately $50 million in Sooner Trend for the drilling and completion of wells, as well as other expenditures for facilities.  As of December 31, 2013 we had three drilling rigs operating in Sooner Trend for horizontal development, which we plan to maintain during 2014 targeting the Mississippian Lime, Hunton Lime, and other zones with horizontal drilling.We will also participate in other horizontal wells as a non-operator, primarily targeting the Oswego Lime, Meramec and Hunton Lime.We have allocated approximately $110 million of our 2014 capital expenditure budget to our Sooner Trend properties.

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South Texas Eagle Ford Shale

Our Eagleville field is located primarily in Karnes County, Texas and produces primarily from the Eagle Ford Shale. The Eagle Ford Shale is typically developed with horizontal wells. Since beginning development of the property in 2010, our assets have grown to 112 producing wells with an average working interest of 13%, five wells in which we have an overriding royalty interest, and 25 wells awaiting completion as of December 31, 2013. The wells are primarily operated by Murphy Oil Corporation (“Murphy”), which has a multi-year development program. Production from the Eagleville field in 2013 was 1,226 MBOE net to Alta Mesa.

Subsequent to year-end 2013, we sold a significant portion of our Eagleville reserves in March 2014, including a portion of our interest in all wells that were producing as of December 31, 2013.  We received $173 million in cash for these interests.  The sale has an effective date of January 1, 2014.  We will retain a declining net profits interest in the producing wells based on 50% of our original working interest in 2014, 30% in 2015, 15% in 2016, and zero in 2017.  Also included in the sale was a  30% undivided interest in all our Eagleville mineral leases and interests, and 30% of our working interest in all our wells in progress on December 31, 2013 or drilled after 2013.  As of year-end 2013, we had 25 wells in progress, which includes two wells with reserves classified as probable rather than proved, and 23 wells classified as PUD.  We also had an estimated 112 proved undeveloped drilling locations, of which 16 are in wells in which we will have an overriding royalty interest rather than a working interest.

We estimate the proved developed and undeveloped reserves sold were approximately 7.7 MMBOE, and we retained proved reserves of approximately 7.3 MMBOE, 91% of which were proved undeveloped as of January 1, 2014.

We have allocated approximately $60 million of our 2014 capital budget to Eagleville.  As of December 31, 2013, Murphy was continuously operating an average of two drilling rigs on our acreage.

Weeks Island Field, South Louisiana

Weeks Island, located in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, contains some of our largest proved developed oil reserves. It is a historically-prolific oil field with 55 potential pay zones that are structurally trapped against a piercement salt dome, which we believe offer significant future opportunities for added production and reserves. The field was discovered in 1945 by Shell and Shell’s interest in the field was purchased in 1998 by The Meridian Resource Corporation, which we acquired in 2010. Since mid-2011 we have continuously employed at least one drilling rig and one completion rig in Weeks Island to exploit its potential for development through new drilling, recompletions, and sidetracking out of existing wells. We expect to continue development activity in this field in 2014.

We increased our ownership in this field in 2013 with an acquisition of approximately 1.8 MMBOEproved reserves from our former working interest partner, Stone Energy Offshore, L.L.C.  for cash consideration of approximately $45 million plus related abandonment costs, which was later modified through settlement adjustments to approximately $42 million cash. Our average working interest in the 40 producing wells in Weeks Island at December 31, 2013 was 96%. We have identified 10 PUD locations and several additional planned locations classified as “probable” or “possible” undeveloped reserves. We produced 1,171 MBOE net to Alta Mesa from the field in 2013.

We have allocated approximately $90 million of our 2014 capital expenditure budget to Weeks Island and plan to utilize at least one drilling rig and one workover rig in the field during 2014.

East Texas

The Urbana, Cold Springs, and Cold Springs West fields are our significant East Texas fields, producing natural gas with a substantial natural gas liquids component.  Our Hilltop field produces dry natural gas.  Each of these fields had impairment losses in 2013, as historical costs exceeded the estimated fair value in the fourth quarter of 2013.  Declining natural gas prices experienced in 2011-2012 were an indirect cause, as we have responded by deemphasizing investment in natural gas development.  Reserves in these East Texas fields are declining overall, as replacement efforts are curtailed in favor of capital expenditures in other oil and liquids rich plays. 

Urbana Field. We are the operator of 22 wells with an average working interest of 97% in the Urbana field, located in San Jacinto County, Texas. Urbana is a known structure with multiple pay zones, and as many as 35 productive reservoirs from 7,200 feet to 11,600 feet deep. We produced 103 MBOE net to Alta Mesa from Urbana field in 2013.  Impairment expense for the field was $37.1 million in 2013.

Cold Springs and Cold Springs West Fields. The Cold Springs and Cold Springs West fields are located west of the Urbana field in San Jacinto County, Texas. These fields are similar to the Urbana field, with multiple zones producing natural gas and natural

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gas liquids. We produced 337 MBOE net to Alta Mesa from Cold Springs and Cold Springs West in 2013.  Impairment expense for these two fields was $14.2 million combined in 2013.

Hilltop Field.  Our Hilltop field is located in Robertson and Leon counties. The field has been significantly developed in the Deep Bossier formation, a prolific producer of primarily dry natural gas. We sold a portion of our wells in this field in October 2013, comprising an estimated 11.2 Bcfe.  We recorded an immaterial gain on the sale.  Total production for 2013 was 994 MBOE (6.0 Bcfe) net to Alta Mesa.   Impairment expense for the field was $12.3 million in 2013.

Other Assets

We conduct operations in other areas, including the Blackjack Creek oil field in Florida, and other fields in South Texas and South Louisiana.  We continually evaluate the operations in these areas to determine future development, expansion, acquisition opportunities, and strategic divestiture plans.  Inventories of prospective and partially developed acreage include holdings in South Texas, South Louisiana, West Virginia, and other areas.  Total impairment expense from these other areas in 2013 was $79.6 million, with the largest single item being $28.0 million for a redevelopment project in South Texas.

Our Oil and Natural Gas Reserves

The table below summarizes our estimated net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013.

	As of December 31, 2013
	Oil
	and
	NGL's	Gas
	(MBbls)	(MMcf)
Proved Reserves (1)
Developed	19,473	92,640
Undeveloped	18,779	39,625
Total Proved	38,252	132,265

(1) Our proved reserves as of December 31, 2013 were calculated using oil and natural gas price parameters established by current SEC guidelines and accounting rules based on average prices as of the first day of each of the twelve months ended on such date. These average prices were $96.78 per Bbl for oil and $3.67 per MMBtu for natural gas. Pricing was adjusted for basis differentials by field based on our historical realized prices. See “Note 19 — Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Disclosures” in the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report for information concerning proved reserves.

The table above represents estimates only. Reserves estimates are based upon various assumptions, including assumptions required by the SEC relating to oil and natural gas prices, drilling and operating expenses, capital expenditures, taxes and availability of funds. The process of estimating reserves is complex. This process requires significant decisions and assumptions in the evaluation of available geological, geophysical, engineering and economic data for each reservoir. Furthermore, different reserve engineers may make different estimates of reserves and cash flow based on the same available data and these differences may be significant. Therefore, these estimates are not precise. Actual future production, oil and natural gas prices, revenues, taxes, development expenditures, operating expenses and quantities of recoverable oil and natural gas reserves will most likely vary from those estimated. In addition, we may adjust estimates of proved reserves to reflect production history, results of exploration and development, prevailing oil and natural gas prices and other factors, many of which are beyond our control.

Internal Control and Qualifications

The reserve estimation process begins with our Corporate Planning and Reserves department, which gathers and analyzes much of the data used in estimating reserves. Working and net revenue interests are cross-checked and verified by our land department.  Lease operating and capital expenses are provided by our accounting department and reviewed by the Corporate Planning and Reserves department.  Our Vice President of Corporate Planning and Reserves is the technical person primarily responsible for overseeing the preparation of our reserve estimates. His qualifications include the following:

· Over 30 years of practical experience in petroleum engineering and in the estimation and evaluation of reserves;

· Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas in 1980, Masters of Business Administration from Oklahoma City University in 1988;

· Registered Professional Engineer in Oklahoma.

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Our methodologies include reviews of production trends, material balance calculations, analogy to comparable properties, and/or volumetric analysis. Performance methods are preferred. Reserve estimates for developed non-producing properties and for undeveloped properties are based primarily on volumetric analysis or analogy to offset production in the same or similar fields.

We maintain internal controls including the following to ensure the reliability of reserves estimations:

· no employee’s compensation is tied to the amount of reserves booked;

· we follow comprehensive SEC-compliant internal policies to determine and report proved reserves;

· reserve estimates are made by experienced reservoir engineers or under their direct supervision;

· each quarter, our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer review all significant reserves changes and all new proved undeveloped reserves additions.

In addition, a third-party engineering firm, Ryder Scott Company, L. P. (“Ryder Scott”), audited 84% of our 2013 proved reserve estimates based on PV-10.

A copy of the audit letter issued by Ryder Scott is filed with this report as Exhibit 99.1. The qualifications of the technical person at Ryder Scott primarily responsible for overseeing the audit of our reserve estimates are set forth below.

Kevin Gangluff earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame and a Masters of Business Administration at the University of Texas at Austin.  Mr. Gangluff is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. Based on his educational background, professional training and more than thirty years of practical experience in the estimation and evaluation of petroleum reserves and resources, Mr. Gangluff has attained the professional qualifications as a Reserves Estimator and Reserves Auditor set forth in Article III of the “Standards Pertaining to the Estimating and Auditing of Oil and Gas Reserves Information” promulgated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers as of February 19, 2007.

The audit by Ryder Scott conformed to the meaning of “reserves audit” as presented in the SEC’s Regulation S-K, Item 1202.

A reserves audit and a financial audit are separate activities with unique and different processes and results. These two activities should not be confused. As currently defined by the SEC within Regulation S-K, Item 1202, a reserves audit is the process of reviewing certain of the pertinent facts interpreted and assumptions underlying a reserves estimate prepared by another party and the rendering of an opinion about the appropriateness of the methodologies employed, the adequacy and quality of the data relied upon, the depth and thoroughness of the reserves estimation process, the classification of reserves appropriate to the relevant definitions used, and the reasonableness of the estimated reserves quantities. A financial audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. A financial audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.

Proved Undeveloped Reserves

At December 31, 2013 we had proved undeveloped reserves (“PUDs”) of 25.4 MMBOE, or approximately 42% of total proved reserves. The PUDs are primarily in our Eagleville field in the Eagle Ford play in South Texas, in South Louisiana, and in Oklahoma.

Total PUDs at December 31, 2012 were 18.5 MMBOE, or 36% of our total reserves.  The following table reflects the changes in PUDs during 2013: 

	MBOE
Proved undeveloped reserves, December 31, 2012	18,520
Converted to proved developed	(3,235)
Proved undeveloped reserve extensions and discoveries	14,228
Proved undeveloped reserves acquired	493
Proved undeveloped reserve revisions	(4,623)
Proved undeveloped reserves, December 31, 2013	25,383

PUDs converted to proved developed reserves were primarily in the Eagleville and Weeks Island fields.  Total expenditures for the PUDs converted were approximately $65 million (in addition, approximately $11 million has been expended through December 31, 2013 for PUD wells in progress). Extensions and discoveries were primarily in our Sooner Trend properties, Eagleville, and Weeks Island.  The PUDs acquired were part of our acquisition in Weeks Island in 2013.  Negative revisions were primarily in estimates of natural gas reserves in several non-core properties, primarily our Blackjack Creek field in Florida.  Estimated future development costs for PUDs remaining are approximately $361 million at December 31, 2013.

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Under current SEC requirements, PUD reserves may only be booked if they relate to wells scheduled to be drilled within five years of the original date of booking unless specific circumstances justify a longer time.  We will be required to remove our PUDs if we do not drill those reserves within the required five year time frame.  All of our PUDs at December 31, 2013 are scheduled to be drilled within five years of the date they were initially recorded except for one sidetrack development in a producing well which will be drilled after the current zones are depleted.

Production, Price and Production Cost History

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the production volumes, average prices received and average production costs associated with our sale of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids for the periods indicated below.  The data below include the effects of the amounts we reclassified from natural gas volumes and revenues to natural gas liquids volumes and revenues for the years 2011, 2012 and 2013.  See Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Results of Operations: Year Ended December 31, 2012 v. Year Ended December 31, 2011, Natural gas liquids revenuesfor more detailed information.

	Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
Net production:
Oil (MBbls)		2,897		2,138		1,580
Natural gas (MMcf)		16,664		21,372		30,307
Natural gas liquids (MBbls)		398		365		307
Total (MBOE)		6,072		6,065		6,938
Total (MMcfe)		36,434		36,392		41,629
Average sales price per unit before hedging effects:
Oil (per Bbl)	$	102.81	$	103.72	$	104.73
Natural gas (per Mcf)		3.68		2.69		3.94
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl)		38.37		42.75		57.48
Combined (per BOE)		61.67		48.63		43.59
Average sales price per unit after hedging effects:
Oil (per Bbl)	$	100.67	$	103.18	$	102.35
Natural gas (per Mcf)		5.14		4.49		4.77
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl)		38.37		42.75		57.48
Combined (per BOE)		64.66		54.76		46.69
Average costs per BOE:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	11.60	$	11.38	$	9.03
Production and ad valorem taxes		4.34		3.87		2.79
Workover expense		2.25		2.10		1.70
Average costs per Mcfe:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	1.93	$	1.90	$	1.50
Production and ad valorem taxes		0.72		0.65		0.46
Workover expense		0.38		0.35		0.28

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The following table provides a summary of our production, average sales prices and average production costs for the Eagleville Field in South Texas, our Eagle Ford Shale development, which was the only oil and gas field contributing 15% or more of our total proved reserves as of December 31, 2013.  Subsequent to year-end 2013 we sold a significant portion of our proved reserves in this field.  See “Recent Developments.”

	Year Ended December 31,
Eagleville Field	2013		2012		2011
Net production:
Oil (MBbls)		1,006		652		253
Natural gas (MMcf)		625		314		200
Natural gas liquids (MBbls)		116		86		2
Total (MBOE)		1,226		790		288
Total (MMcfe)		7,357		4,741		1,729
Average sales price per unit before hedging effects:
Oil (per Bbl)	$	100.69	$	100.48	$	96.62
Natural gas (per Mcf)		4.05		1.70		4.81
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl)		32.29		34.06		40.21
Average production costs per BOE:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	5.41	$	5.04	$	4.68
Production and ad valorem taxes		5.35		5.00		4.20
Workover expense		0.30		0.60		—
Average production costs per Mcfe:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	0.90	$	0.84	$	0.78
Production and ad valorem taxes		0.89		0.83		0.70
Workover expense		0.05		0.10		—

Drilling Activity

The following table sets forth, for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013, the number of net productive and dry exploratory and developmental wells completed, regardless of when drilling was initiated. The information should not be considered indicative of future performance, nor should it be assumed that there is necessarily any correlation between the number of productive wells drilled, quantities of reserves found or economic value.

	Year Ended December 31,
		2013	2012	2011
Development wells (net):
Productive		37.4	29.9	28.3
Dry		3.5	—	0.2
Total development wells		40.9	29.9	28.5
Exploratory wells (net):
Productive		2.7	4.8	3.3
Dry		3.0	2.3	1.9
Total exploratory wells		5.7	7.1	5.2

As of December 31, 2013, we were drilling 44 gross (18.4 net) wells.

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Productive Wells

The following table sets forth information with respect to our ownership interest in productive wells as of December 31, 2013:

	December 31, 2013
	Gross	Net
Oil wells:
Sooner Trend	256	193.0
Eagle Ford	111	14.9
South Louisiana	53	41.8
East Texas	51	13.6
Other	47	40.7
All properties	518	304.0
Natural gas wells
Sooner Trend	7	2.3
Eagle Ford	1	—
South Louisiana	28	15.8
East Texas	121	60.4
Other	51	27.6
All properties	208	106.1

Of the total well count for 2013, 3 gross wells (3 net) are multiple completions.   All wells in our Eagle Ford development were sold subsequent to year-end 2013, subject to retention of a net profits interest.  See “Recent Developments.”

Developed and Undeveloped Acreage Position

The following table sets forth information with respect to our gross and net developed and undeveloped oil and natural gas acreage under lease as of December 31, 2013, all of which is located in the United States:

	Developed Acres			Undeveloped Acres			Total Acres
		Gross	Net		Gross	Net		Gross	Net
Property:
Sooner Trend		57,172	40,588		—	—		57,172	40,588
Eagle Ford		13,011	2,682		702	147		13,713	2,829
South Louisiana		30,946	21,314		1,613	1,485		32,559	22,799
East Texas		46,457	24,668		41,326	32,297		87,783	56,965
Other		54,954	18,447		168,758	102,518		223,712	120,965
All properties		202,540	107,699		212,399	136,447		414,939	244,146

As is customary in the oil and natural gas industry, we can generally retain an interest in undeveloped acreage through drilling activity that establishes commercial production sufficient to maintain the leases or by paying delay rentals during the remaining primary term of leases. The oil and natural gas leases in which we have an interest are for varying primary terms and, if production under a lease continues from developed lease acreage beyond the primary term, we are entitled to hold the lease for as long as oil or natural gas is produced. The oil and natural gas properties consist primarily of oil and natural gas wells and interests in leasehold acreage, both developed and undeveloped.

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Undeveloped Acreage Expirations

The following table sets forth information with respect to our gross and net undeveloped oil and natural gas acreage under lease as of December 31, 2013, all of which is located in the United States, that will expire over the following three years by region unless production is established within the spacing units covering the acreage prior to the expiration dates:

	2014			2015			2016
		Gross	Net		Gross	Net		Gross	Net
Property:
Sooner Trend		—	—		—	—		—	—
Eagle Ford		175	37		132	28		99	21
South Louisiana		943	882		647	592		23	12
East Texas		5,552	3,612		2,930	1,410		6,359	5,132
Other		19,560	11,370		14,088	7,970		43,075	26,777
All properties		26,230	15,901		17,797	10,000		49,556	31,942

Marketing and Customers

The market for our oil and natural gas production depends on factors beyond our control, including the extent of domestic production and imports of oil and natural gas, the proximity and capacity of natural gas pipelines and other transportation facilities, the demand for oil and natural gas, the marketing of competitive fuels and the effect of state and federal regulation. The oil and natural gas industry also competes with other industries in supplying the energy and fuel requirements of industrial, commercial and individual consumers.

We sell the oil and natural gas from several properties we operate primarily under a contract with ARM Energy Management, LLC (“AEM”).  Alta Mesa is a part owner of AEM at less than 10%.  AEM purchases our natural gas and sells it under short-term contracts generally with month-to-month pricing based on published regional indices, with differentials for transportation taken into account.  AEM purchases our oil and sells it under short-term contracts with monthly pricing based on regional prices, adjusted for transportation, location, and quality.   AEM remits monthly proceeds of its sales to us, and receives a 1% marketing fee.   Sales to AEM commenced in June 2013.  The agreement will terminate in 2018, with additional provisions for extensions beyond five years, and for early termination beginning in January 2015.  During the second half of 2013, we sold the majority of our production from operated fields to AEM.  Production from non-operated fields, the most significant of which were our Eagleville oil field in South Texas and our Hilltop natural gas field in East Texas, was marketed on our behalf by the operators of those properties.  Production from Eagleville is sold by the operator, Murphy.  Production from Hilltop is sold primarily by the operator of the majority of our wells in the field, EnCana.

Natural gas liquids are sold under various contracts with processors typically in the vicinity of the production at spot market rates, after processing costs.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, revenues from AEM were $61.3 million, or 16% of total revenue excluding hedging activities.  Based on revenues excluding hedging activities, three other major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $119.3 million (Murphy), $53.9 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), and $42.0 million (Plains Marketing and Transportation, Inc.)

We believe that the loss of any of our significant direct or indirect customers, or of AEM, would not have a material adverse effect on us because alternative purchasers are readily available.  Trade accounts receivable are not collateralized or otherwise secured.

Competition

We encounter intense competition from other oil and natural gas companies in all areas of our operations, including the acquisition of producing properties and undeveloped acreage. Our competitors include major integrated oil and natural gas companies, numerous independent oil and natural gas companies and individuals. Many of our competitors are large, well-established companies with substantially larger operating staffs and greater capital resources and have been engaged in the oil and natural gas business for a much longer time than us. These companies may be able to pay more for productive oil and natural gas properties, exploratory prospects, and mineral leases and to define, evaluate, bid for and purchase a greater number of properties and prospects than our financial or human resources permit. Our ability to acquire additional properties and to discover reserves in the future will be dependent upon our ability to evaluate and select suitable properties and to consummate transactions in this highly competitive environment.

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We are also affected by competition for drilling rigs and the availability of related equipment. In the past, the oil and natural gas industry has experienced shortages of drilling rigs, equipment, pipe and personnel, which have delayed development, exploitation and exploration activities. We are unable to predict when, or if, such shortages may occur or how they would affect our exploitation and development program.

We compete for capital in the domestic financial marketplace to fund our exploration and development activities to the extent our operations cannot support them at any given time. See Item 1A, Risk Factors, “Our exploration, exploitation, development and acquisition operations will require substantial capital expenditures. We may be unable to obtain needed capital or financing on satisfactory terms, which could lead to a decline in our production and reserves.”

Title to Properties

As is customary in our industry, a preliminary review of title records, which may include opinions or reports of appropriate professionals or counsel, is made at the time we acquire properties. We believe that our title to all of the various interests set forth above is satisfactory and consistent with the standards generally accepted in the oil and gas industry, subject only to immaterial exceptions that do not detract substantially from the value of the interests or materially interfere with their use in our operations. The interests owned by us may be subject to one or more royalty, overriding royalty, or other outstanding interests (including disputes related to such interests) customary in the industry. The interests may additionally be subject to obligations or duties under applicable laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, and orders of arbitral or governmental authorities. In addition, the interests may be subject to burdens such as net profits interests, liens incident to operating agreements and current taxes, development obligations under oil and gas leases, and other encumbrances, easements, and restrictions, none of which detract substantially from the value of the interests or materially interfere with their use in our operations.

Employees

As of December 31, 2013, we had 215 full-time employees. We are not a party to any collective bargaining agreements and have not experienced any strikes or work stoppages. We believe our relationships with our employees are good. From time to time, we utilize the services of independent contractors to perform various field and other services. See “Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions, and Director Independence — Shared Services and Expenses Agreement.”

Insurance

In accordance with industry practice, we maintain insurance against some, but not all, of the operating risks to which our business is exposed. We currently have insurance policies that include coverage for general liability (includes sudden and accidental pollution), physical damage to our oil and gas properties, control of well, auto liability, marine liability, worker’s compensation and employer’s liability, among other things.

Currently, we have general liability insurance coverage up to $1 million per occurrence, which includes sudden and accidental environmental liability coverage for the effects of pollution on third parties arising from our operations. Our insurance policies contain maximum policy limits and in most cases, deductibles (generally ranging from $25,000 to $1.8 million) that must be met prior to recovery. These insurance policies are subject to certain customary exclusions and limitations. In addition, we maintain excess liability coverage, which is in addition to and triggered if the general liability per occurrence limit is reached.

Our offshore activities are limited to non-operator positions in five older fields acquired in 2010. Our offshore reserves are not a significant portion of our total reserves; the fields are in declining production with no drilling activity. Our consolidated balance sheets include asset retirement liabilities which we believe are sufficient to cover the eventual costs of dismantlement and abandonment. We believe that due to the nature of the operations in these fields, and the limited activity, the risk of environmental damage is not as high as it would be in an actively drilling offshore field. Our insurance program includes property damage, pollution liability, and control of well. The property damage coverage extends to total loss of the equipment (not the reserves) with replacement cost coverage retained on one of the five fields. The pollution coverage, which is applicable to both offshore and onshore events, is $10 million per incident with a $100,000 deductible.

We require all of our third-party contractors, including those that perform hydraulic fracturing operations, to sign master service agreements in which they agree to indemnify us for injuries and deaths of the service provider’s employees as well as contractors and subcontractors hired by the service provider. Similarly, we generally agree to indemnify each third-party contractor against claims made by our employees and other contractors. Additionally, each party generally is responsible for damage to its own property. We do not currently have any insurance policies in effect that are intended to provide coverage for losses solely related to hydraulic fracturing operations.

We re-evaluate the purchase of insurance, coverage limits and deductibles annually. Future insurance coverage for the oil and gas industry could increase in cost and may include higher deductibles or retentions. In addition, some forms of insurance may

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become unavailable in the future or unavailable on terms that are economically acceptable. No assurance can be given that we will be able to maintain insurance in the future at rates that we consider reasonable and we may elect to self-insure or maintain only catastrophic coverage for certain risks in the future.

Environmental Matters and Regulation

Our operations are subject to stringent and complex federal, state and local laws, rules, and regulations that govern the protection of the environment, as well as the discharge of materials into the environment. These laws, rules, and regulations may, among other things:

· require the acquisition of various permits before drilling commences;

· require the installation of pollution control equipment in connection with operations;

· place restrictions or regulations upon the use of the material based on our operations and upon the disposal of waste from our operations;

· restrict the types, quantities and concentrations of various substances that can be released into the environment or used in connection with drilling, production and transportation activities;

· limit or prohibit drilling activities on lands lying within wilderness, wetlands and other protected areas; and

· require remedial measures to mitigate pollution from former and ongoing operations, such as site restoration, pit closure and plugging of abandoned wells.

These laws, rules, and regulations may also restrict the rate of oil and natural gas production below the rate that would otherwise be possible. The regulatory burden on the oil and natural gas industry increases the cost of doing business in the industry and consequently affects profitability. Additionally, Congress and federal, state and local agencies frequently revise environmental laws and regulations, and such changes could result in increased costs for environmental compliance, such as waste handling, permitting, or cleanup for the oil and natural gas industry and could have a significant impact on our operating costs. In general, the oil and natural gas industry recently has been the subject of increased legislative and regulatory attention with respect to environmental matters.  For example,theEPAhasidentifiedenvironmentalcompliancebytheenergyextractionsectorasoneofitsenforcementinitiativesfor2014-2016.

The following is a summary of some of the existing laws, rules, and regulations to which our business operations are subject.

Solid and Hazardous Waste Handling

The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state statutes regulate the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, disposal and cleanup of hazardous solid waste. Although oil and natural gas waste generally is exempt from regulations as hazardous waste under RCRA, we generate waste as a routine part of our operations that may be subject to RCRA and not all states similarly exempt oil and gas waste from hazardous waste regulation. Although a substantial amount of the waste generated in our operations is regulated as non-hazardous solid waste rather than hazardous waste, there is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of non-hazardous waste or categorize some of our waste as hazardous in the future. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial position.

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act

CERCLA imposes joint and several liability for costs of investigation and remediation and for natural resource damages without regard to fault or legality of the original conduct, on certain classes of persons with respect to the release into the environment of substances designated under CERCLA as hazardous substances (“Hazardous Substances”). These classes of persons, or so-called potentially responsible parties (“PRPs”) include the current and past owners or operators of a site where the release occurred and anyone who disposed or arranged for the disposal of a hazardous substance found at a site where a release has occurred. CERCLA also authorizes the EPA and, in some instances, third parties to take actions in response to threats to public health or the environment and to seek to recover from the PRPs the costs of such action. Many states have adopted comparable or more stringent state statutes.

Although CERCLA generally exempts “petroleum” from the definition of Hazardous Substance, in the course of our operations, we have generated and will generate wastes that may fall within CERCLA’s definition of Hazardous Substances and may have disposed of these wastes at disposal sites owned and operated by others. Comparable state statutes may not provide a comparable exemption for petroleum. We may also be the owner or operator of sites on which Hazardous Substances have been released. To our

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knowledge, neither we nor our predecessors have been designated as a PRP by the EPA under CERCLA; we also do not know of any prior owners or operators of our properties that are named as PRPs related to their ownership or operation of such properties. In the event contamination is discovered at a site on which we are or have been an owner or operator or to which we sent Hazardous Substances, we could be liable for the costs of investigation and remediation and natural resources damages.

We currently own, lease, or operate numerous properties that have been used for oil and natural gas exploration and production for many years. Although we believe we have utilized operating and waste disposal practices that were standard in the industry at the time, Hazardous Substances, wastes or hydrocarbons may have been released on or under the properties owned or leased by us, or on or under other locations, including offsite locations, where such materials have been taken for disposal. In addition, some of these properties have been operated by third parties or by previous owners or operators whose treatment and disposal of Hazardous Substances, wastes, or hydrocarbons were not under our control. These properties and the materials disposed or released on them may be subject to CERCLA or RCRA and analogous state laws. In the future, we could be required to remediate property, including groundwater, containing or impacted by previously disposed materials (including wastes disposed or released by prior owners or operators, or property contamination, including groundwater contamination by prior owners or operators) or to perform remedial plugging operations to prevent future or mitigate existing contamination.

Clean Water Act

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (the “Clean Water Act”) and analogous state laws impose restrictions and strict controls with respect to the discharge of pollutants, including spills and leaks of produced water and other oil and natural gas wastes, into waters of the United States, a term broadly defined. The discharge of pollutants into regulated waters is prohibited, except in accordance with the terms of a permit issued by the EPA or an analogous state agency. The Clean Water Act also prohibits the discharge of dredge and fill material in regulated waters, including wetlands, unless authorized by a permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Federal and state regulatory agencies can impose administrative, civil and criminal penalties, as well as require remedial or mitigation measures, for non-compliance with discharge permits or other requirements of the Clean Water Act and analogous state laws and regulations. In the event of an unauthorized discharge of wastes, we may be liable for penalties and cleanup and response costs.

Oil Pollution Act

The primary federal law related to oil spill liability is the Oil Pollution Act which amends and augments oil spill provisions of the Clean Water Act and imposes certain duties and liabilities on certain “responsible parties” related to the prevention of oil spills and damages resulting from such spills in or threatening United States waters or adjoining shorelines. A liable “responsible party” includes the owner or operator of a facility, vessel or pipeline that is a source of an oil discharge or that poses the substantial threat of discharge, or in the case of offshore facilities, the lessee or permittee of the area in which a discharging facility is located. OPA assigns joint and several liability, without regard to fault, to each liable party for oil removal costs and a variety of public and private damages. Although defenses exist to the liability imposed by OPA, they are limited. In the event of an oil discharge or substantial threat of discharge, we may be liable for costs and damages.

Safe Drinking Water Act

Many of our development projects require hydraulic fracturing procedures to economically develop the formations. Generally, we perform two types of hydraulic fracturing. In our Eagle Ford Shale (Eagleville Field, south Texas), Woodbine (Hilltop Field, East Texas), and Marcellus Shale (West Virginia) plays, we perform hydraulic fracturing in horizontally drilled wells. These procedures are more extensive, time-consuming and expensive than hydraulic fracturing of vertical wells. We perform hydraulic fracturing in vertical wells where the target zones are the Wilcox and Frio formations; this is done in our East Texas and South Texas fields, including primarily Urbana and Cold Springs (both in East Texas). We also have performed hydraulic fracturing in vertical wells completed in the Deep Bossier formation in our Hilltop field.

Currently, most hydraulic fracturing activities are regulated at the state level, as the Safe Drinking Water Act exempts most hydraulic fracturing (except for hydraulic fracturing activities involving the use of diesel) from the definition of underground injection. The EPA had released draft guidance on permitting of hydraulic fracturing activities using diesel. Congress has periodically considered legislation to amend the federal SDWA to remove the exemption from permitting and regulation provided to injection for hydraulic fracturing and to require the disclosure and reporting of the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing. This type of legislation if adopted could lead to additional regulation and permitting requirements that could result in operational delays or increased operating costs, making it more difficult to perform hydraulic fracturing and increasing our costs of compliance and operation.

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The EPA has commenced a wide-ranging study on the effects of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources. A first progress report of the study was issued in December 2012, with a final draft expected in 2014.

As noted above, the EPA has announced that one of its enforcement initiatives for 2014 to 2016 would be to focus on environmental compliance by the energy extraction sector. This study and enforcement initiative could result in additional regulatory scrutiny that could make it difficult to perform hydraulic fracturing and increase our costs of compliance and doing business. Consequently, these studies and initiatives could spur further legislative or regulatory action regarding hydraulic fracturing or similar production operations.

Many states and other regional and local regulatory authorities have enacted or are considering regulations on hydraulic fracturing, including disclosure requirements and regulations that could restrict or prohibit drilling in general or hydraulic fracturing in particular, in certain circumstances. In compliance with the law enacted in Texas, we have disclosed and will continue to disclose hydraulic fracturing data. Further, the Bureau of Land Management has proposed regulations for hydraulic fracturing on lands under its jurisdiction. The EPA has also announced an initiative under the Toxic Substance Control Act to develop regulations governing the disclosure and evaluation of hydraulic fracturing chemicals and has announced that it is working on regulations for wastewater generated by hydraulic fracturing.

We diligently review best practices and industry standards, and comply with all regulatory requirements in the protection of potable water sources. Protective practices include, but are not limited to, setting multiple strings of protection pipe across the potable water sources and cementing these pipes from setting depth to surface, continuously monitoring the hydraulic fracturing process in real time, and disposing of all non-commercially produced fluids in certified disposal wells at depths below the potable water sources. There have not been any incidents, citations or suits related to our hydraulic fracturing activities involving environmental concerns.

If new legislation is enacted or other new requirements or restrictions regarding hydraulic fracturing are adopted, we could incur substantial compliance costs and the requirements could negatively impact our ability to conduct fracturing activities on our assets.

National Environmental Policy Act

Oil and natural gas exploration and production activities on federal lands (including offshore leasing) may be subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (the “NEPA”), which requires federal agencies, including the Department of Interior, to evaluate major agency actions having the potential to significantly impact the environment. In the course of such evaluations, an agency will prepare an Environmental Assessment that assesses the potential direct, indirect and cumulative impacts of a proposed project and, if necessary, will prepare a more detailed Environmental Impact Statement that may be made available for public review and comment. All of our current exploration and production activities, as well as proposed exploration and development plans, on federal lands require governmental permits that are subject to the requirements of NEPA. As a result of the events in the Gulf of Mexico, the NEPA process is being reviewed and may become more stringent. This process has the potential to delay or impose additional conditions and costs upon the development of oil and natural gas projects.

Air Emissions

Our operations are subject to local, state and federal regulations for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. Federal and state laws require new and modified sources of air pollutants to obtain permits prior to commencing construction. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent, federally imposed requirements including additional permits. Federal and state laws designed to control hazardous air pollutants might require installation of additional controls. Administrative enforcement actions for failure to comply strictly with air pollution regulations or permits are generally resolved by payment of monetary fines and correction of any identified deficiencies. Alternatively, regulatory agencies could bring lawsuits for civil penalties or require us to forego construction, modification or operation of certain air emission sources.

On April 17, 2012, the EPA issued final rules that subject oil and natural gas production, processing, transmission, and storage operations to regulation under the NSPS and NESHAP programs. The EPA rules include NSPS standards for completions of hydraulically fractured natural gas wells. Before January 1, 2015, these standards require owners/operators to reduce VOC emissions from natural gas not sent to the gathering line during well completion either by flaring using a completion combustion device or by capturing the natural gas using green completions. Beginning January 1, 2015, operators must capture the natural gas and make it available for use or sale. The standards are applicable to newly fractured wells and also existing wells that are refractured. Further, the finalized regulations also establish specific new requirements for emission from compressors, controllers, dehydrators, storage tanks, natural gas processing plants and other equipment. These rules may require changes to our operations, including the installation of

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new equipment to control emissions. We have evaluated the effect these rules will have on our business and are taking steps to ensure compliance.

Climate Change Regulation and Legislation

More stringent laws and regulations relating to climate change and GHGs may be adopted in the future and could cause us to incur material expenses in complying with them. Both houses of Congress have actively considered legislation to reduce emissions of GHGs, but no legislation has yet passed. In the absence of comprehensive federal legislation on GHG emission control, the EPA adopted the Greenhouse Gas “Tailoring Rule,” which phases in permitting requirements for stationary sources of GHGs, beginning January 2, 2011. This rule “tailors” these permitting programs to apply to certain stationary sources of GHG emissions in a multi-step process, with the largest sources first subject to permitting. We do not believe our operations currently are subject to subject to these permitting requirements, but if our operations become subject to these or other similar requirements, we could incur significant costs to control our emissions and comply with regulatory requirements. In addition, the EPA has adopted a mandatory GHG emissions reporting program that imposes reporting and monitoring requirements on various types of facilities and industries. In November 2010, the EPA expanded its GHG reporting rule to include onshore and offshore oil and natural gas production, processing, transmission, storage, and distribution facilities, requiring reporting of GHG emissions from such facilities on an annual basis, with reporting beginning in 2012 for emissions occurring in 2011. Our operations are subject to GHG reporting requirements, and we have complied with respect to the initial reporting year 2011 and continue to comply.

Because of the lack of any comprehensive legislative program addressing GHGs, there is a great deal of uncertainty as to how and when federal regulation of GHGs might take place. Some members of Congress have expressed the intention to promote legislation to curb the EPA’s authority to regulate GHGs. In addition to possible federal regulation, a number of states, individually and regionally, also are considering or have implemented GHG regulatory programs. These potential regional and state initiatives may result in so-called cap and trade programs, under which overall GHG emissions are limited and GHG emissions are then allocated and sold, and possibly other regulatory requirements, that could result in our incurring material expenses to comply, e.g., by being required to purchase or to surrender allowances for GHGs resulting from our operations. The federal, regional and local regulatory initiatives also could adversely affect the marketability of the oil and natural gas we produce. The impact of such future programs cannot be predicted, but we do not expect our operations to be affected any differently than other similarly situated domestic competitors.

Other Laws and Regulations

Our operations are also subject to regulations governing the handling, transportation, storage and disposal of naturally occurring radioactive materials. Furthermore, owners, lessees and operators of natural gas and oil properties are also subject to increasing civil liability brought by surface owners and adjoining property owners. Such claims are predicated on the damage to or contamination of land resources occasioned by drilling and production operations and the products derived therefrom, and are often based on negligence, trespass, nuisance, strict liability or fraud.

The Endangered Species Act was established to protect endangered and threatened species. Pursuant to that act, if a species is listed as threatened or endangered, restrictions may be imposed on activities that would harm the species or that would adversely affect that species’ habitat. Similar protections are offered to migratory birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designates the species’ protected habitat as part of the effort to protect the species. A protected habitat designation or the mere presence of threatened or endangered species could result in material restrictions to our use of the land and may materially delay or prohibit land access for our development.  We cannot guarantee that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will not list additional species or additional habitat, which could adversely affect our ability to develop in impacted areas.

Our operations are also subject to regulations governing the handling, transportation, storage and disposal of naturally occurring radioactive materials. Furthermore, owners, lessees and operators of natural gas and oil properties are also subject to increasing civil liability brought by surface owners and adjoining property owners. Such claims are predicated on the damage to or contamination of land resources occasioned by drilling and production operations and the products derived therefrom, and are often based on negligence, trespass, nuisance, strict liability or fraud.

OSHA and Other Laws and Regulation

To the extent not preempted by other applicable laws, we are subject to the requirements of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (“OSHA”) and comparable state statutes, where applicable. These laws and the implementing regulations strictly govern the protection of the health and safety of employees. The OSHA hazard communication standard, the EPA community right-to-know

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regulations under Title III of CERCLA and similar state statutes require that we organize and/or disclose information about hazardous materials used or produced in our operations. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with these applicable requirements.

We believe that we are in substantial compliance with all existing environmental laws and regulations applicable to our current operations and that our continued compliance with existing requirements will not have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. We did not incur any material capital expenditures for remediation or pollution control activities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. Additionally, we are not aware of any environmental issues or claims that will require material capital expenditures during 2013 or that will otherwise have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations in the future. However, we cannot provide assurance that the passage of more stringent laws and regulations in the future will not have a negative impact our business activities, financial condition or results of operations.

Other Regulation of the Oil and Natural Gas Industry

The oil and natural gas industry is extensively regulated by numerous federal, state and local authorities. Legislation affecting the oil and natural gas industry is under constant review for amendment or expansion, frequently increasing the regulatory burden. Also, numerous departments and agencies, both federal and state, are authorized by statute to issue rules and regulations binding on the oil and natural gas industry and its individual members, some of which carry substantial penalties for failure to comply. Although the regulatory burden on the oil and natural gas industry increases our cost of doing business and, consequently, affects our profitability, these burdens generally do not affect us any differently or to any greater or lesser extent than they affect other companies in the industry with similar types, quantities and locations of production.

Legislation continues to be introduced in Congress and development of regulations continues in the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies concerning the security of industrial facilities, including oil and natural gas facilities. Our operations may be subject to such laws and regulations. Presently, it is not possible to accurately estimate the costs we could incur to comply with any such facility security laws or regulations, but such expenditures could be substantial.

Drilling and Production

Our operations are subject to various types of regulation at the federal, state and local levels. These types of regulation include requiring permits for the drilling of wells, drilling bonds and reports concerning operations. Most states and some counties and municipalities in which we operate also regulate one or more of the following:

· the location of wells;

· the method of drilling, casing, and completing wells;

· the surface use and restoration of properties upon which wells are drilled; and

· the plugging and abandoning of wells.

State laws regulate the size and shape of drilling and spacing units or proration units and govern the pooling of oil and natural gas properties. Some states allow forced pooling or integration of tracts to facilitate exploitation while other states rely on voluntary pooling of lands and leases. In some instances, forced pooling or unitization may be implemented by third parties and may reduce our interest in the unitized properties. In addition, state conservation laws establish maximum rates of production from oil and natural gas wells, generally limit the venting or flaring of natural gas and impose requirements regarding the ratability of production. These laws and regulations may limit the amount of oil and natural gas we can produce from our wells or limit the number of wells or the locations at which we can drill. Moreover, each state generally imposes a production or severance tax with respect to the production and sale of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids within its jurisdiction and an ad valorem tax with respect to the assessed value of the oil and natural gas mineral property.

In addition, eleven states have enacted surface damage statutes (“SDAs”). These laws are designed to compensate the surface owners/users for damage caused by mineral development. Most SDAs contain entry notification and negotiation requirements to facilitate contact between operators and surface owners/users. Most also contain bonding requirements and specific expenses for exploration and producing activities. Costs and delays associated with SDAs could impair operational effectiveness and increase development costs.

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We do not control the availability of transportation and processing facilities used in the marketing of our production. For example, we may have to shut-in a productive natural gas well because of a lack of available natural gas gathering or transportation facilities.

If we conduct operations on federal, state or Indian oil and natural gas leases, these operations must comply with numerous regulatory restrictions, including various nondiscrimination statutes, royalty and related valuation requirements, and certain of these operations must be conducted pursuant to certain on-site security regulations and other appropriate permits issued by the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management or other appropriate federal or state agencies.

Federal Natural Gas Regulation

The availability, terms and cost of transportation significantly affect our ability to make sales of natural gas. The interstate transportation and sale for resale of natural gas are subject to federal regulation, including regulation of the terms, conditions and rates for interstate transportation and storage services by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”). Federal and state regulation governs the price and terms for access to natural gas pipeline transportation. FERC regulation of interstate natural gas transmission in some circumstances may also affect the rates for intrastate transportation of natural gas and the operations of intrastate pipelines.

Since 1985, FERC has taken numerous actions to increase competition within the natural gas industry by making natural gas transportation more accessible to natural gas buyers and sellers on an open-access, nondiscriminatory basis. FERC has also adopted a light-handed regulatory approach to setting interstate pipeline transportation rates where competition among pipeline transportation alternatives exists, and has established criteria to allow storage providers to charge market-based (i.e. negotiated) rates for storage services utilizing new storage facilities.

Although natural gas prices are currently unregulated, Congress historically has been active in the area of natural gas regulation. We cannot predict whether new legislation to regulate natural gas might be proposed, what proposals, if any, might actually be enacted by Congress or the various state legislatures, and what effect, if any, the proposals might have on the operations of the underlying properties. Sales of oil, condensate, and natural gas liquids are not currently regulated and are made at market prices.

State Natural Gas Regulation

Various states regulate the drilling for, and the production, gathering, intrastate transportation and sale of, natural gas, including imposing severance taxes and requirements for obtaining drilling permits. States also regulate the method of developing new fields, the spacing and operation of wells and the prevention of waste of natural gas resources. States may regulate rates of production and may establish maximum daily production allowables from natural gas wells based on market demand or resource conservation, or both. States do not regulate wellhead prices or engage in other similar direct economic regulation, but there can be no assurance that they will not do so in the future. The effect of these regulations may be to limit the amounts of natural gas that may be produced from our wells and to limit the number of wells or locations we can drill.

Other Regulation

In addition to the regulation of oil and natural gas pipeline transportation rates, the oil and natural gas industry generally is subject to compliance with various other federal, state and local regulations and laws. Some of those laws relate to occupational safety, resource conservation and equal employment opportunity.

General Corporate Information

Alta Mesa Holdings, LP is a Texas limited partnership founded in 1987 with principal offices at 15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77094. We can be reached at (281) 530-0991 and our website address is www.altamesa.net. Information on the website is not part of this report.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Each of the following risk factors could adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition. It is not possible to foresee or identify all such factors. Investors should not consider this list an exhaustive statement of all risks and uncertainties. This report also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of both the risks described below and factors described elsewhere in this

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report. Please read the section above entitled “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” for further discussion of these matters.

Our exploration, exploitation, development and acquisition operations will require substantial capital expenditures. We may be unable to obtain needed capital or financing on satisfactory terms, which could lead to a decline in our production and reserves.

The oil and natural gas industry is capital intensive. We have made and expect to continue to make substantial capital expenditures in our business for the exploration, exploitation, development and acquisition of oil and natural gas reserves. Our capital expenditures for 2013 totaled $354 million including $51 million for acquisitions. Our budgeted capital expenditures for 2014 are currently expected to be approximately $370 million. We have funded development and operating activities primarily through equity capital raised from a private equity partner, through borrowings under our bank credit facilities, through the issuance of our senior notes, and through internal operating cash flows. We intend to finance our future capital expenditures predominantly with cash flows from operations. If necessary, we may also access capital through proceeds from potential asset dispositions, borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility and the future issuance of debt and/or equity securities. Our cash flow from operations and access to capital are subject to a number of variables, including:

· the estimated quantities of our proved oil and natural gas reserves;

· the amount of oil and natural gas we produce from existing wells;

· the prices at which we sell our production;

· take-away capacity; and

· our ability to acquire, locate and produce new reserves.

If our revenues or the borrowing base under our senior secured revolving credit facility decrease as a result of lower commodity prices, operating difficulties, declines in reserves or for any other reason, we may have limited ability to obtain the capital necessary to conduct our operations at expected levels. Our senior secured revolving credit facility may restrict our ability to obtain new debt financing. If additional capital is required, we may not be able to obtain debt and/or equity financing on terms favorable to us, or at all. If cash generated by operations or available under our senior secured revolving credit facility is not sufficient to meet our capital requirements, the failure to obtain additional financing could result in a curtailment of our operations relating to development of our prospects, which in turn could lead to a decline in our reserves and production, and could adversely affect our business, results of operation, financial conditions and ability to make payments on our outstanding indebtedness.

External financing may be required in the future to fund our growth. We may not be able to obtain additional financing, and financing under our senior secured revolving credit facility may not be available in the future. Without additional capital resources, we may be unable to pursue and consummate acquisition opportunities as they become available, and we may be forced to limit or defer our planned oil and natural gas development program, which will adversely affect the recoverability and ultimate value of our oil and natural gas properties, in turn negatively affecting our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Oil and natural gas prices are volatile and a decline in prices can significantly affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Our revenue, profitability and cash flow depend upon the prices for oil and natural gas. The prices we receive for oil and natural gas production are volatile and a decrease in prices can significantly affect our financial results and impede our growth, including our ability to maintain or increase our borrowing capacity, to repay current or future indebtedness and to obtain additional capital on attractive terms. Changes in oil and natural gas prices have a significant impact on the value of our reserves and on our cash flows. Prices for oil and natural gas may fluctuate widely in response to relatively minor changes in supply and demand, market uncertainty and a variety of additional factors that are beyond our control, such as:

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

· the price and quantity of foreign imports of oil and natural gas;

· the level of consumer product demand;

· weather conditions;

· domestic and foreign governmental regulations and taxation;

· overall domestic and global economic conditions;

· the value of the dollar relative to the currencies of other countries;

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· political and economic conditions and events in foreign oil and natural gas producing countries, including embargoes, continued hostilities in the Middle East and other sustained military campaigns, conditions in South America, Central America, China and Russia, and acts of terrorism or sabotage;

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

· the proximity and capacity of natural gas pipelines and other transportation facilities to our production;

· technological advances affecting energy consumption;

· the price and availability of alternative fuels; and

· the impact of energy conservation efforts.

Substantially all of our production is sold to purchasers under contracts with market-based prices. Lower oil and natural gas prices will reduce our cash flows and the present value of our reserves. If oil and natural gas prices deteriorate, we anticipate that the borrowing base under our senior secured revolving credit facility, which is revised periodically, may be reduced, which would negatively impact our borrowing ability. Additionally, prices could reduce our cash flows to a level that would require us to borrow to fund our 2014 capital budget. Lower oil and natural gas prices may also reduce the amount of oil and natural gas that we can produce economically. Substantial decreases in oil and natural gas prices could render uneconomic a significant portion of our identified drilling locations. This may result in significant downward adjustments to our estimated proved reserves. As a result, a substantial or extended decline in oil and natural gas prices may materially and adversely affect our future business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity or ability to finance planned capital expenditures.

Lower oil and natural gas prices may cause us to record non-cash write-downs, which could negatively impact our results of operations.

Accounting rules require that we periodically review the carrying value of our properties for possible impairment. Based on prevailing commodity prices and specific market factors and circumstances at the time of prospective impairment reviews, and the continuing evaluation of development plans, production data, economics, and other factors, we may be required to write down the carrying value of our properties. A write-down constitutes a non-cash charge to earnings. We may incur impairment charges in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations for the periods in which such charges are taken.

We will depend on successful exploration, exploitation, development and acquisitions to maintain reserves and revenue in the future.

In general, the volume of production from oil and natural gas properties declines as reserves are depleted, with the rate of decline depending on each reservoir’s characteristics. Except to the extent that we conduct successful exploration and development activities or acquire properties containing proved reserves, or both, our proved reserves will decline as reserves are produced. Our future oil and natural gas production is, therefore, highly dependent on our level of success in finding or acquiring additional reserves. Additionally, the business of exploring for, developing, or acquiring reserves is capital intensive. Recovery of our reserves, particularly undeveloped reserves, will require significant additional capital expenditures and successful drilling operations. To the extent cash flow from operations is reduced and external sources of capital become limited or unavailable, our ability to make the necessary capital investment to maintain or expand our asset base of oil and natural gas reserves would be impaired. In addition, we are dependent on finding partners for our exploratory activity. To the extent that others in the industry do not have the financial resources or choose not to participate in our exploration activities, we may be adversely affected.

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

Numerous uncertainties are inherent in estimating quantities of oil and natural gas reserves. Our estimates of our proved reserve quantities are based upon our estimated net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013. The process of estimating oil and natural gas reserves is complex, requiring significant decisions and assumptions in the evaluation of available geological, engineering and economic data for each reservoir, and these reports rely upon various assumptions, including assumptions regarding future oil and natural gas prices, production levels, and operating and development costs. As a result, estimated quantities of proved reserves and projections of future production rates and the timing of development expenditures may prove to be inaccurate. Over time, we may make material changes to reserve estimates taking into account the results of actual drilling and production. Any significant variance in our assumptions and actual results could greatly affect our estimates of reserves, the economically recoverable quantities of oil and natural gas attributable to any particular group of properties, the classifications of reserves based on risk of recovery, and estimates of

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the future net cash flows. In addition, changes in future production costs assumptions could have a significant effect on our proved reserve quantities.

The Standardized Measure of discounted future net cash flows from our proved reserves or “PV-10” will not necessarily be the same as the current market value of our estimated proved oil and natural gas reserves.

It should not be assumed that the Standardized Measure of future net cash flows from our proved reserves is the current market value of our estimated oil and natural gas reserves. In accordance with SEC requirements, we based the estimated discounted future net cash flows from our proved reserves on the twelve-month unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for the preceding twelve months without giving effect to derivative transactions.  Actual future net cash flows from our oil and natural gas properties will be affected by factors such as:

· actual prices we receive for crude oil and natural gas;

· actual cost of development and production expenditures;

· the amount and timing of actual production;

· transportation and processing; and

· changes in governmental regulations or taxation.

The timing of both our production and our incurrence of expenses in connection with the development and production of our oil and natural gas properties will affect the timing and amount of actual future net revenues from proved reserves, and thus their actual present value. In addition, the 10% discount factor we use when calculating the Standardized Measure may not be the most appropriate discount factor based on interest rates in effect from time to time and risks associated with us or the oil and natural gas industry in general. Actual future prices and costs may differ materially from those used in the present value estimate. If oil and natural gas prices decline by 10%, then the Standardized Measure as of December 31, 2013 would decrease approximately $215 million.

Approximately 42% of our total estimated proved reserves at December 31, 2013 were proved undeveloped reserves requiring substantial capital expenditures and may ultimately prove to be less than estimated.

Recovery of proved undeveloped reserves requires significant capital expenditures and successful drilling operations. At December 31, 2013, approximately 25.4 MMBOE of our total estimated proved reserves were undeveloped. The reserve data included in our reserve reports assumes that substantial capital expenditures will be made to develop non-producing reserves. The calculation of our estimated net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013 assumes that we will spend $361 million to develop our estimated proved undeveloped reserves, including an estimated $177 million in 2014. Although cost and reserve estimates attributable to our natural gas and oil reserves have been prepared in accordance with industry standards, we cannot be sure that the estimated costs are accurate. We may need to raise additional capital in order to develop our estimated proved undeveloped reserves over the next five years and we cannot be certain that additional financing will be available to us on acceptable terms, if at all. Further, our drilling efforts may be delayed or unsuccessful, and actual reserves may prove to be less than current reserve estimates, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, future cash flows and results of operations.

As part of our exploration and development operations, we have expanded, and expect to further expand, the application of horizontal drilling and multi-stage hydraulic fracture stimulation techniques. The utilization of these techniques requires substantially greater capital expenditures as compared to the completion cost of a vertical well. The incremental capital expenditures are the result of greater measured depths and additional hydraulic fracture stages in horizontal wellbores.

We may experience difficulty in achieving and managing future growth.

Future growth may place strains on our resources and cause us to rely more on project partners and independent contractors, possibly negatively affecting our financial condition and results of operations. Our ability to grow will depend on a number of factors, including:

· the results of our drilling program;

· hydrocarbon prices;

· our ability to develop existing prospects;

· our ability to obtain leases or options on properties for which we have 3-D seismic data;

· our ability to acquire additional 3-D seismic data;

· our ability to identify and acquire new exploratory prospects;

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· our ability to continue to retain and attract skilled personnel;

· our ability to maintain or enter into new relationships with project partners and independent contractors; and

· our access to capital.

Our use of 2-D and 3-D seismic data is subject to interpretation and may not accurately identify the presence of hydrocarbons, which could adversely affect the results of our drilling operations.

Even when properly used and interpreted, 2-D and 3-D seismic data and visualization techniques are only tools used to assist geoscientists in identifying subsurface structures and hydrocarbon indicators and do not enable geoscientists to know whether hydrocarbons are, in fact, present in those structures and the amount of hydrocarbons. We are employing 3-D seismic technology with respect to certain of our projects. The use of 2-D and 3-D seismic and other advanced technologies requires greater pre-drilling expenditures than traditional drilling strategies, and we could incur greater drilling and testing expenses as a result of such expenditures, which may result in a reduction in our returns or losses. As a result, our drilling activities may not be successful or economical, and our overall drilling success rate or our drilling success rate for activities in a particular area could decline.

We often gather 2-D and 3-D seismic data over large areas. Our interpretation of seismic data delineates those portions of an area that we believe are desirable for drilling. Therefore, we may choose not to acquire option or lease rights prior to acquiring seismic data, and, in many cases, we may identify hydrocarbon indicators before seeking option or lease rights in the location. If we are not able to lease those locations on acceptable terms, we will have made substantial expenditures to acquire and analyze 2-D and 3-D seismic data without having an opportunity to attempt to benefit from those expenditures.

We will rely on drilling to increase our levels of production. If our drilling is unsuccessful, our financial condition will be adversely affected.

The primary focus of our business strategy is to increase production levels by drilling wells. Although we were successful in drilling in the past, we cannot provide assurance that we will continue to maintain production levels through drilling. Our drilling involves numerous risks, including the risk that we will not encounter commercially productive oil or natural gas reservoirs. We must incur significant expenditures to drill and complete wells. The costs of drilling and completing wells are often uncertain, and it is possible that we will make substantial expenditures on drilling and not discover reserves in commercially viable quantities.

We may be unable to make attractive acquisitions or successfully integrate acquired businesses, and any inability to do so may disrupt our business and hinder our ability to grow.

In the future we may make acquisitions of businesses that complement or expand our current business. We may not be able to identify attractive acquisition opportunities. Even if we do identify attractive acquisition opportunities, we may not be able to complete the acquisition or do so on commercially acceptable terms. No assurance can be given that we will be able to identify additional suitable acquisition opportunities, negotiate acceptable terms, obtain financing for acquisitions on acceptable terms or successfully acquire identified targets.

The success of any completed acquisition will depend on our ability to integrate effectively the acquired business into our existing operations. The process of integrating acquired businesses may involve unforeseen difficulties and may require a disproportionate amount of our managerial and financial resources. Our failure to achieve consolidation savings, to incorporate the acquired businesses and assets into our existing operations successfully or to minimize any unforeseen operational difficulties could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, our partnership agreement, our senior secured revolving credit facility and the indenture governing our senior notes impose certain limitations on our ability to enter into mergers or combination transactions. Our partnership agreement, our senior secured revolving credit facility and the indenture governing our senior notes also limit our ability to incur certain indebtedness, which could indirectly limit our ability to engage in acquisitions of businesses.

Our business is subject to operational risks that will not be fully insured, which, if they were to occur, could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.

Our business activities are subject to operational risks, including:

· damages to equipment caused by adverse weather conditions, including tornadoes, hurricanes and flooding;

· facility or equipment malfunctions;

· pipeline ruptures or spills;

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· surface fluid spills, salt water contamination, and surface or groundwater contamination form petroleum constituents or hydraulic fracturing chemical additions;

· fires, blowouts, craterings and explosions; and

· uncontrollable flows of oil or natural gas or well fluids.

In addition, a portion of our natural gas production is processed to extract natural gas liquids at processing plants that are owned by others. If these plants were to cease operations for any reason, we would need to arrange for alternative transportation and processing facilities. These alternative facilities may not be available, which could cause us to shut in our natural gas production. Further, such alternative facilities could be more expensive than the facilities we currently use.

Any of these events could adversely affect our ability to conduct operations or cause substantial losses, including personal injury or loss of life, damage to or destruction of property, natural resources and equipment, pollution or other environmental contamination, loss of wells, regulatory penalties, suspension of operations, and attorney’s fees and other expenses incurred in the prosecution or defense of litigation.

As is customary in the industry, we maintain insurance against some but not all of these risks. Additionally, we may elect not to obtain insurance if we believe that the cost of available insurance is excessive relative to the perceived risks presented. Losses could therefore occur for uninsurable or uninsured risks or in amounts in excess of existing insurance coverage. The occurrence of an event that is not fully covered by insurance could have a material adverse impact on our business activities, financial condition and results of operations.

Our hedging activities could result in financial losses or could reduce our net income.

To achieve more predictable cash flows and to reduce our exposure to fluctuations in the prices of oil and natural gas, we have and may continue to enter into hedging arrangements for a significant portion of our production. As of December 31, 2013, we have hedged approximately 77% of our total forecasted PDP production through mid-2018 at average annual prices ranging from $4.38 per MMBtu to $5.50 per MMBtu and $80.00 per Bbl to $93.81 per Bbl, with the majority of the hedged volumes in 2014-2016. If we experience a sustained material interruption in our production, we might be forced to satisfy all or a portion of our hedging obligations without the benefit of the cash flows from our sale of the underlying physical commodity, resulting in a substantial diminution of our liquidity. Lastly, an attendant risk exists in hedging activities that the counterparty in any derivative transaction cannot or will not perform under the instrument and that we will not realize the benefit of the hedge.

Our ability to use hedging transactions to protect us from future price declines will be dependent upon prices at the time we enter into future hedging transactions and our future levels of hedging, and as a result our future net cash flows may be more sensitive to commodity price changes.

Our policy has been to hedge a significant portion of our near-term estimated production. However, our price hedging strategy and future hedging transactions will be determined at our discretion. We are not under an obligation to hedge a specific portion of our production. The prices at which we hedge our production in the future will be dependent upon commodities prices at the time we enter into these transactions, which may be substantially higher or lower than current prices. Accordingly, our price hedging strategy may not protect us from significant declines in prices received for our future production. Conversely, our hedging strategy may limit our ability to realize cash flows from commodity price increases. It is also possible that a substantially larger percentage of our future production will not be hedged as compared with the next few years, which would result in our oil and natural gas revenues becoming more sensitive to commodity price changes.

Our hedging transactions expose us to counterparty credit risk.

Our hedging transactions expose us to risk of financial loss if a counterparty fails to perform under a derivative contract. Disruptions in the financial markets could lead to sudden changes in a counterparty’s liquidity, which could impair their ability to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. We are unable to predict sudden changes in a counterparty’s creditworthiness or ability to perform. Even if we do accurately predict sudden changes, our ability to negate the risk may be limited depending upon market conditions.

During periods of falling commodity prices our hedge receivable positions increase, which increases our exposure. If the creditworthiness of our counterparties deteriorates and results in their nonperformance, we could incur a significant loss.

The adoption of derivatives legislation and regulations related to derivative contracts could have an adverse impact on our ability to hedge risks associated with our business.

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Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Act”) establishes federal oversight and regulation of over-the-counter derivatives and requires the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”) and the SEC to enact further regulations affecting derivative contracts, including the derivative contracts we use to hedge our exposure to price volatility through the over-the-counter market.

In its rulemaking under the legislation, the CFTC has issued a final rule on position limits for certain futures and option contracts in the major energy markets and for swaps that are their economic equivalents (with exemptions for certain bona fide hedging transactions); the CFTC’s final rule was set aside by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on September 28, 2012 and remanded to the CFTC to resolve ambiguity as to whether statutory requirements for such limits to be determined necessary and appropriate were satisfied.  The CFTC appealed this ruling but subsequently withdrew its appeal.  On November 5, 2013, the CFTC approved a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking designed to implement new positions limits regulation.  The impact of such regulations upon our business is not yet clear. Certain of our hedging and trading activities and those of our counterparties may be subject to the position limits, which may reduce our ability to enter into hedging transactions.

The Act provides a limited exception to end users (such as us) from the requirement to use cleared exchanges, rather than hedging over-the-counter, and authorizes the CTFC to set the requirements to post margin in connection with hedging activities. While it is not possible at this time to predict when the CFTC will finalize certain other related rules and regulations, the Act and related regulations may require us to comply with margin requirements and with certain clearing and trade-execution requirements in connection with our derivative activities, although whether these requirements will apply to our business is uncertain at this time. If the regulations ultimately adopted require that we post margin for our hedging activities or require our counterparties to hold margin or maintain capital levels, the cost of which could be passed through to us, or impose other requirements that are more burdensome than current regulations, hedging transactions in the future would become more expensive than we experienced in the past.

We may be unable to compete effectively with larger companies, which may adversely affect our ability to generate sufficient revenues.

The oil and natural gas industry is intensely competitive, and we compete with other companies that have greater resources than us. Our ability to acquire additional properties and to discover reserves in the future will be dependent upon our ability to evaluate and select suitable properties to consummate transactions in a highly competitive market. Many of our larger competitors not only drill for and produce oil and natural gas, but also engage in refining operations and market petroleum and other products on a regional, national or worldwide basis. These companies may be able to pay more for oil and natural gas properties, and evaluate, bid for and purchase a greater number of properties than our financial or human resources permit. In addition, these companies may have a greater ability to continue drilling activities during periods of low commodity prices, to contract for drilling equipment, to secure trained personnel, and to absorb the burden of present and future federal, state, local and other laws and regulations. The oil and natural gas industry has periodically experienced shortages of drilling rigs, equipment, pipe and personnel, which has delayed development drilling and other exploitation activities and has caused significant price increases. Competition has been strong in hiring experienced personnel, particularly in the engineering and technical, accounting and financial reporting, tax and land departments. In addition, competition is strong for attractive oil and natural gas producing properties, oil and natural gas companies, and undeveloped leases and drilling rights. Our inability to compete effectively with larger companies could have a material adverse impact on our business activities, financial condition and results of operations.

The oil and natural gas industry is characterized by rapid and significant technological advancements and introductions of new products and services using new technologies. As others use or develop new technologies, we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage or competitive pressures may force us to implement those new technologies at substantial costs. In addition, other oil and natural gas companies may have greater financial, technical, and personnel resources that allow them to enjoy technological advantages and may in the future allow them to implement new technologies before we can. We may not be able to respond to these competitive pressures and implement new technologies on a timely basis or at an acceptable cost. If one or more of the technologies we use now or in the future were to become obsolete or if we are unable to use the most advanced commercially available technology, our business, financial condition, and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Deficiencies of title to our leased interests could significantly affect our financial condition.

If an examination of the title history of a property reveals that an oil or natural gas lease or other developed rights has been purchased in error from a person who is not the owner of the mineral interest desired, our interest would substantially decline in value. In such cases, the amount paid for such oil or natural gas lease or leases or other developed rights would be lost. It is management’s practice, in acquiring oil and natural gas leases or undivided interests in oil and natural gas leases or other developed rights, not to incur the expense of retaining lawyers to examine the title to the mineral interest to be acquired. Rather, we will rely upon the judgment of oil and natural gas lease brokers or landmen who perform the fieldwork in examining records in the appropriate governmental or county clerk’s office before attempting to acquire a lease or other developed rights in a specific mineral interest.

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Prior to drilling an oil or natural gas well, however, it is the normal practice in the oil and natural gas industry for the person or company acting as the operator of the well to obtain a preliminary title review of the spacing unit within which the proposed oil or natural gas well is to be drilled to ensure there are no obvious deficiencies in title to the well. Frequently, as a result of such examinations, certain curative work must be done to correct deficiencies in the marketability of the title, such as obtaining affidavits of heirship or causing an estate to be administered. Such curative work entails expense, and it may happen, from time to time, that the operator may elect to proceed with a well despite defects to the title identified in the preliminary title opinion. Our failure to obtain perfect title to our leaseholds may adversely impact our ability in the future to increase production and reserves.

We are vulnerable to risks associated with operating in the inland waters region of South Louisiana.

Our operations and financial results could be significantly impacted by unique conditions in the inland waters region of South Louisiana because we explore and produce in that area. As a result of this activity, we are vulnerable to the risks associated with operating in the inland waters region of South Louisiana, including those relating to:

· adverse weather conditions and natural disasters;

· availability of required performance bonds and insurance;

· oil field service costs and availability;

· compliance with environmental and other laws and regulations;

· matters arising from the 2010 BP Macondo well oil spill including but not limited to new safety requirements, new regulations, increased costs of services and rig mobilizations, slowed issuance of permits for new wells and additional insurance costs and requirements;

· remediation and other costs resulting from oil spills or releases of hazardous materials; and

· failure of equipment or facilities.

Our ability to pursue our business strategies may be adversely affected if we incur costs and liabilities due to a failure to comply with environmental regulations or a release of hazardous substances into the environment.

We may incur significant costs and liabilities as a result of environmental requirements applicable to the operation of our wells, gathering systems and other facilities. These costs and liabilities could arise under a wide range of federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including, for example:

· the Clean Air Act (“CAA”) and comparable state laws and regulations that impose obligations related to air emissions;

· the Clean Water Act and Oil Pollution Act (“OPA”) and comparable state laws and regulations that impose obligations related to discharges of pollutants into regulated bodies of water;

· the Safe Drinking Water Act (“SDWA”) and comparable state laws and regulations that impose obligations on, among other things, the subsurface injection of materials;

· the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”), and comparable state laws that impose requirements for the handling and disposal of waste from our facilities;

· the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) and comparable state laws that regulate the cleanup of hazardous substances that may have been released at properties currently or previously owned or operated by us or at locations to which we have sent waste for disposal; and

· the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know regulations under Title III of CERCLA and similar state statutes requiring that we organize and/or disclose information about hazardous materials used or produced in our operations.

Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may trigger a variety of administrative, civil and criminal enforcement measures, including the assessment of monetary penalties, the imposition of remedial requirements, and the issuance of orders enjoining future operations. Certain environmental statutes, including RCRA, CERCLA, OPA and analogous state laws and regulations, impose strict joint and several liability for costs required to clean up and restore sites where hazardous substances or other waste products have been disposed of or otherwise released. More stringent laws and regulations, including any related to climate change, greenhouse gases, and hydraulic fracturing, may be adopted in the future. Moreover, it is not uncommon for neighboring landowners and other third parties to file claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the release of hazardous substances or other materials into the environment.

Our operations are substantially dependent on the availability of water.  Restrictions on our ability to obtain water may have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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Water is an essential component of both the drilling and hydraulic fracturing processes.  Historically, we have been able to purchase water from local land owners and other sources for use in our operations. Some areas in which we have operations have experienced drought conditions, which could result in restrictions on water use.  If we are unable to obtain water to use in our operations from local sources, we may be unable to economically produce oil and natural gas, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Climate change legislation or regulations restricting emissions of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) could result in increased operating costs and reduced demand for the oil and natural gas we produce.

The EPA has adopted rules to permit GHG emissions from stationary sources under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V permitting programs. The EPA has adopted the “Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule,” (the “Tailoring Rule”) requiring that the largest sources first obtain permits for GHG emissions. In addition, on October 30, 2009, the EPA published a final rule requiring the reporting of GHG emissions from specified large GHG emission sources in the United States beginning in 2011 for emissions occurring in 2010. In November 2010, the EPA expanded its GHG reporting rule to include onshore and offshore oil and natural gas production, processing, transmission, storage and distribution facilities. Reporting of GHG emissions from such facilities is required on an annual basis, with reporting beginning in 2012 for emissions occurring in 2011. Although both houses of Congress, in past sessions, have considered legislation to reduce emissions of GHGs, no comprehensive program has been enacted by Congress.  In the absence of a comprehensive federal program, many states, either individually or through multistate regional initiatives, are considering or have begun implementing legal measures to reduce emissions of GHGs. The adoption and implementation of any statutes, regulations imposing reporting obligations on, or limiting emissions of GHGs from, our equipment and operations could require us to incur costs to reduce emissions of GHGs associated with our operations or could adversely affect demand for the oil and natural gas that we produce.

Significant physical effects of climatic change have the potential to damage our facilities, disrupt our production activities and cause us to incur significant costs in preparing for or responding to those effects.

Climate change could have an effect on the severity of weather (including hurricanes and floods), sea levels, the arability of farmland, and water availability and quality. If such effects were to occur, our development and production operations have the potential to be adversely affected. Potential adverse effects could include damages to our facilities from powerful winds or rising waters in low lying areas, disruption of our production activities either because of climate related damages to our facilities or our costs of operation potentially arising from such climatic effects, less efficient or non-routine operating practices necessitated by climate effects, or increased costs for insurance coverage in the aftermath of such effects. Significant physical effects of climate change could also have an indirect effect on our financing and operations by disrupting the transportation or process-related services provided by midstream companies, service companies or suppliers with whom we have a business relationship. We may not be able to recover through insurance some or any of the damages, losses or costs that may result from potential physical effects of climate change.

Federal legislation and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing could result in increased costs and additional operating restrictions or delays.

Hydraulic fracturing is used in many of our operations to stimulate production of hydrocarbons, particularly natural gas. Congress has considered legislation to amend the SDWA to remove the exemption currently available to hydraulic fracturing, which would place additional regulatory burdens upon hydraulic fracturing operations including requirements to obtain a permit prior to commencing operations adhering to certain construction requirements, to establish financial assurance, and to require reporting and disclosure of the chemicals used in those operations. This legislation has not passed. The SDWA does not exempt hydraulic fracturing activities using diesel. The EPA has developed guidance for permitting of hydraulic fracturing activities using diesel.

The EPA has commenced a study of the potential environmental impacts of hydraulic fracturing activities, issued a progress report in December 2012, and expects to deliver the final results of the study in 2014.  The BLM has announced draft rules regulating hydraulic fracturing activities on federal lands.  Additionally the EPA has announced an initiative under the Toxic Substances Control Act to develop regulations governing the disclosure and evaluation of hydraulic fracturing chemicals and is working on regulations for wastewater generated by hydraulic fracturing.

In addition, some states have adopted, and other states are considering adopting, regulations that could restrict hydraulic fracturing in certain circumstances and that require the disclosure of the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing operations. Any other new laws or regulations that impose new obligations on, or significantly restrict hydraulic fracturing, could make it more difficult or costly for us to perform hydraulic fracturing activities and thereby affect our determination of whether a well is commercially viable and increase our cost of doing business.

Further, in April 2012, the EPA issued final rules that subject oil and natural gas production, processing, transmission, and storage operations to regulation under the NSPS and NESHAP programs. The EPA rules include NSPS standards for completions of

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hydraulically fractured natural gas wells. Before January 1, 2015, these standards require owners/operators to reduce VOC emissions from natural gas not sent to the gathering line during well completion either by flaring using a completion combustion device or by capturing the natural gas using green completions. Beginning January 1, 2015, operators must capture the natural gas and make it available for use or sale. The standards are applicable to newly fractured wells and also existing wells that are refractured. Further, the finalized regulations also establish specific new requirements for emissions from compressors, controllers, dehydrators, storage tanks, natural gas processing plants and other equipment. Compliance with such regulations could require modifications to the operations of our natural gas exploration and production operations including the installation of new equipment, which could result in significant costs.

The unavailability or high cost of drilling rigs, equipment, supplies, personnel and oil field services could adversely affect our ability to execute development and exploitation plans on a timely basis and within budget, and consequently could adversely affect our anticipated cash flow.

We utilize third-party services to maximize the efficiency of our operation. The cost of oil field services typically fluctuates based on demand for those services. While we currently have excellent relationships with oil field service companies, there is no assurance that we will be able to contract for such services on a timely basis or that the cost of such services will remain at a satisfactory or affordable level. Shortages or the high cost of drilling rigs, equipment, supplies or personnel could delay or adversely affect our development and exploitation operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

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

Our exploration and production operations are subject to complex and stringent laws and regulations. In order to conduct our operations in compliance with these laws and regulations, we must obtain and maintain numerous permits, approvals and certificates from various federal, state and local governmental authorities. Failure or delay in obtaining regulatory approvals or drilling permits could have a material adverse effect on our ability to develop our properties, and receipt of drilling permits with onerous conditions could increase our compliance costs. In addition, regulations regarding conservation practices and the protection of correlative rights affect our operations by limiting the quantity of oil and natural gas we may produce and sell.

We are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations as interpreted and enforced by governmental authorities possessing jurisdiction over various aspects of the exploration, production and transportation of oil and natural gas. The possibility exists that new laws, regulations or enforcement policies could be more stringent and significantly increase our compliance costs. If we are not able to recover the resulting costs through insurance or increased revenues, our financial position could be adversely affected.

We have limited control over activities on properties we do not operate, which could reduce our production and revenues.

We have limited control over properties, especially those in our Hilltop and Eagleville fields, which we do not operate or do not otherwise control operations. If we do not operate or otherwise control the properties in which we own an interest, we do not have control over normal operating procedures, expenditures or future development of the underlying properties. The failure of an operator of our wells to adequately perform operations or an operator’s breach of the applicable agreements could reduce our production and revenues. The success and timing of our drilling and development activities on properties operated by others, therefore, depends upon a number of factors outside of our control, including the operator’s timing and amount of capital expenditures, expertise and financial resources, inclusion of other participants in drilling wells and use of technology.

AMIH, as our Class B limited partner, has the ability to take actions that conflict with the interests of other investors.

AMIH, an affiliate of a private equity fund focused on energy and commodities, is the holder of our Class B limited partner interest. Under our partnership agreement, the Class B limited partner has certain significant rights, including, without limitation:

· approval of material sales and acquisitions of properties and assets, the incurrence of debt, the appointment of any successor to our Chief Executive Officer and any other senior officers; the entering into of partnerships and joint ventures; our merger or consolidation with any entity; and the issuance of interests, ownership interests, debentures, bonds and other securities of the company;

· approval of our annual development plan and budget;

· approval of modifications to our policies or procedures to mitigate our commodity price risks;

· the right to part of the proceeds of any future debt or equity offering; and

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· the right, in certain circumstances, to cause our partners to sell their units or to cause us to sell our assets in a liquidity event.

The interests of the Class B limited partner could conflict with the interests of our other investors, such as the holders of our senior notes. For example, if we encounter financial difficulties or are unable to pay our debts as they mature, the interests of the Class B limited partner may conflict with the interests of the holders of our senior notes. The Class B limited partner also may have an interest in pursuing acquisitions, divestitures, financings or other transactions that, in its judgment, could enhance its investment, even though such transactions might involve risks to our other investors, including the holders of our senior notes.

We may not be able to repurchase our outstanding senior notes upon a change of control.

Under the terms of the indenture for the senior notes, if we experience certain specific change of control events, we will be required to offer to repurchase all of our outstanding notes at 101% of the principal amount of such senior notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase. We may not have available funds sufficient to pay the change of control purchase price for any or all of the senior notes that might be tendered in the change of control offer.

The definition of change of control in the indenture governing the senior notes includes a phrase relating to the direct or indirect sale, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of “all or substantially all” of our and our restricted subsidiaries’ assets, taken as a whole. Although there is a limited body of case law interpreting the phrase “substantially all”, there is no precise established definition of the phrase under applicable law. Accordingly, the ability of a holder of senior notes to require us to repurchase such senior notes as a result of a sale, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of “less than all of our and our restricted subsidiaries” assets taken as a whole to another person or group may be uncertain. Our limited partnership agreement permits AMIH to cause our general partner to initiate a sale of our company to a third-party, which sale may be deemed to be a change of control. AMIH may exercise this right at a time that we do not have sufficient capital or are otherwise prohibited from repurchasing the senior notes. In addition, our senior secured revolving credit facility contains, and any future credit agreement likely will contain, restrictions or prohibitions on our ability to repurchase the senior notes under certain circumstances. If these change of control events occur at a time when we are prohibited from repurchasing the senior notes, we may seek the consent of our lenders to purchase the senior notes or could attempt to refinance the borrowings that contain these prohibitions or restrictions. If we do not obtain our lenders’ consent or refinance these borrowings, we will not be able to repurchase the senior notes. Accordingly, the holders of the senior notes may not receive the change of control purchase price for their notes in the event of a sale or other change of control, which will give the trustee and the holders of the senior notes the right to declare an event of default and accelerate the repayment of the senior notes.

Our private equity partner and its affiliates are not limited in their ability to compete with us for acquisition or drilling opportunities. This could cause conflicts of interest and limit our ability to acquire additional assets or businesses.

Our partnership agreement with our private equity partner does not prohibit it or its affiliates from owning assets or engaging in businesses that compete directly or indirectly with us. For instance, our private equity partner and its affiliates may acquire, develop or dispose of additional oil or natural gas properties or other assets in the future, without any obligation to offer us the opportunity to purchase or develop any of those assets. Highbridge is part of a larger family of funds, which has significantly greater resources than we have, which may make it more difficult for us to compete for acquisition candidates if our private equity partner or its affiliates were to compete against us.

We depend on key personnel, the loss of any of whom could materially adversely affect future operations.

Our success will depend to a large extent upon the efforts and abilities of our executive officers and key operations personnel. The loss of the services of one or more of these key employees could have a material adverse effect on us. We do not maintain key-man life insurance with respect to any of our employees. Our business will also be dependent upon our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. Acquiring and keeping these personnel could prove more difficult or cost substantially more than estimated. This could cause us to incur greater costs, or prevent us from pursuing our development and exploitation strategy as quickly as we would otherwise wish to do.

We may encounter obstacles to marketing our oil and natural gas, which could adversely impact our revenues.

The marketability of our production will depend in part upon the availability and capacity of natural gas gathering systems, pipelines and other transportation facilities owned by third parties. Transportation space on the gathering systems and pipelines we utilize is occasionally limited or unavailable due to repairs or improvements to facilities or due to space being utilized by other companies that have priority transportation agreements. Our access to transportation options can also be affected by U.S. federal and state regulation of oil and natural gas production and transportation, general economic conditions and changes in supply and demand. The availability of markets is beyond our control. If market factors dramatically change, the impact on our revenues could be substantial and could adversely affect our ability to produce and market oil and natural gas.

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We may experience a temporary decline in revenues and production if we lose one of our significant customers.

Historically, we have been dependent upon a few customers for a significant portion of our revenue. To the extent any significant customer reduces the volume of its oil or natural gas purchases from us, we could experience a temporary interruption in sales of, or a lower price for, our oil and natural gas production and our revenues could decline.

Our debt agreements contain restrictive covenants that may limit our ability to respond to changes in market conditions or pursue business opportunities.

Our senior secured revolving credit facility and the indenture for the senior notes contain restrictive covenants that limit our ability to, among other things:

· incur or guarantee additional debt;

· make distributions;

· repay subordinated debt prior to its maturity;

· grant additional liens on our assets;

· enter into transactions with our affiliates;

· enter into hedging transactions with non-lender hedge counterparties;

· repurchase equity securities;

· make certain investments or acquisitions of substantially all or a portion of another entity’s business assets; and

· merge with another entity or dispose of any material assets.

In addition, our senior secured revolving credit facility requires us to maintain certain financial ratios and tests, such as leverage ratios. The requirement that we comply with these provisions may materially adversely affect our ability to react to changes in market conditions, take advantage of business opportunities we believe to be desirable, obtain future financing, fund needed capital expenditures or withstand a continuing or future downturn in our business.

If we are unable to comply with the restrictions and covenants in our debt agreements, there could be a default under the terms of such agreements, which could result in an acceleration of repayment.

If we are unable to comply with the restrictions and covenants in our debt agreements, there could be a default under the terms of these agreements. Our ability to comply with these restrictions and covenants, including meeting financial ratios and tests, may be affected by events beyond our control. As a result, we cannot assure that we will be able to comply with these restrictions and covenants or meet such financial ratios and tests. Any default under these agreements governing our indebtedness that is not waived by the required lenders or holders, as the case may be, could prevent us from paying principal, premium, if any, and interest on the notes and substantially decrease the market value of the notes. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow and are otherwise unable to obtain funds necessary to meet required payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, or if we otherwise fail to comply with the various covenants, including financial and operating covenants in the instruments governing our indebtedness (including covenants in our senior secured revolving credit facility and the indenture governing the senior notes), we could be in default under the terms of the agreements governing such indebtedness. In the event of such a default, the holders of such indebtedness could elect to declare all the funds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, the lenders under our credit facility could terminate their commitments to lend, cease making further loans and institute foreclosure proceedings against our assets, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. Borrowings under other debt instruments that contain cross-acceleration or cross-default provisions may also be accelerated and become due and payable. If any of these events occur, our assets might not be sufficient to repay in full all of our outstanding indebtedness and we may be unable to find alternative financing. Even if we could obtain alternative financing, it might not be on terms that are favorable or acceptable to us. Additionally, we may not be able to amend our debt agreements or obtain needed waivers on satisfactory terms.

Our borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility expose us to interest rate risk.

Our earnings are exposed to interest rate risk associated with borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility. Our senior secured revolving credit facility carries a floating interest rate based upon short-term interest rate indices. If interest rates increase, so will our interest costs, which may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. We may use interest rate hedges in an effort to mitigate this risk, but those efforts may not prove successful.

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To service our indebtedness, we require a significant amount of cash, and our ability to generate cash will depend on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, and to fund planned capital expenditures depends in part on our ability to generate cash in the future. This ability is, to a certain extent, subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. We cannot provide assurance that we will generate sufficient cash flow from operations, that we will realize operating improvements on schedule, or that future borrowings will be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to service and repay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we are unable to satisfy our debt obligations, we may have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as:

· refinancing or restructuring our debt;

· selling assets;

· reducing or delaying capital investments; or

· seeking to raise additional capital.

However, any alternative financing plans that we undertake, if necessary, may not allow us to meet our debt obligations.

We cannot provide assurance that any refinancing or debt restructuring would be possible, that any assets could be sold or that, if sold, the timing of the sales and the amount of proceeds realized from those sales would be favorable to us or that additional financing could be obtained on acceptable terms. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flows to satisfy our debt obligations, including our obligations under the senior notes, or to obtain alternative financing, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Future disruptions in the global credit markets may make equity and debt markets less accessible, create a shortage in the availability of credit, and lead to credit market volatility that could limit our ability to grow.

The recovery from the global economic crisis of 2008 and resulting recession has been slow and uneven. Continuing concerns regarding the worldwide economic outlook and sovereign debt crisis in Europe have contributed to increased economic uncertainty and diminished expectations for the global economy. A slowdown in the current economic recovery or a return to a recession would negatively impact demand for petroleum products and prices for natural gas and oil. Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, as was experienced during 2008 and 2009, could adversely affect our ability to meet our liquidity needs or to refinance our indebtedness, including our ability to draw on our existing credit facility or enter into new credit facilities.

Cyber-attacks targeting systems and infrastructure used by the oil and gas industry may adversely impact our operations.

Our business has become increasingly dependent on digital technologies to conduct certain exploration, development, production and financial activities. We depend on digital technology to estimate quantities of oil and gas reserves, process and record financial and operating data, analyze seismic and drilling information, and communicate with our employees and third party partners. Unauthorized access to our seismic data, reserves information or other proprietary information could lead to data corruption, communication interruption, or other operational disruptions in our exploration or production operations. Also, computers control nearly all of the oil and gas distribution systems in the United States and abroad, which are necessary to transport our production to market. A cyber-attack directed at oil and gas distribution systems could damage critical distribution and storage assets or the environment, delay or prevent delivery of production to markets and make it difficult or impossible to accurately account for production and settle transactions. While we have not experienced cyber-attacks, there is no assurance that we will not suffer such attacks and resulting losses in the future. Further, as cyber-attacks continue to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any vulnerability to cyber-attacks.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

None.

Item 2. Properties

Information regarding our properties is contained in “Item 1. Business” contained herein.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are party to various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe the outcome of such disputes or legal actions will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements. Accruals for losses associated with litigation are made when losses are deemed probable and can be reasonably estimated.

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Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East:On July 24, 2013, the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East sued us and approximately 100 other energy companies for long-term damage to the wetlands in southeast Louisiana.  Case No. 2013-6911 was filed in state court and subsequently remanded to federal court.  The plaintiff seeks damages and injunctive relief in the form of abatement and restoration of wetlands, alleging that the activities of the oil and gas industry over the past century have contributed significantly to the degradation of the wetlands that protect the populated areas in and around New Orleans from storm surge and other extreme weather effects.  The plaintiff alleges damages from increased costs of providing man-made storm protection structures, and emphasizes the destructive effect of canals built by the oil and gas industry.  Legal arguments include breach of the restoration and maintenance clauses of contracts with the State of Louisiana for drilling, dredging, and right-of-way agreements for pipelines.  Other legal arguments include negligence, strict liability, natural servitude of drain, public nuisance and private nuisance.   Our wholly-owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Company, LLC is named as a defendant with 32 wells, two dredging permits and four right of way agreements in the relevant area.  Almost all of these wells are inactive.

The overall exposure related to this lawsuit is not currently determinable.  While an adverse judgment against us might be possible, we intend to vigorously defend the case.  We have not provided any amount for this matter in our financial statements at December 31, 2013.

Environmental claims:  Various landowners have sued our wholly owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Meridian”), which we acquired in 2010, in lawsuits concerning several fields in which Meridian has had operations. The lawsuits seek injunctive relief and other relief, including unspecified amounts in both actual and punitive damages for alleged breaches of mineral leases and alleged failure to restore the plaintiffs’ lands from alleged contamination and otherwise from Meridian’s oil and natural gas operations. We are unable to express an opinion with respect to the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome of the various environmental claims or to estimate the amount or range of potential loss should the outcome be unfavorable. Therefore, we have not provided any amount for these claims in our financial statements at December 31, 2013.

Due to the nature of our business, some contamination of the real estate property owned or leased by us is possible. Environmental site assessments of the property would be necessary to adequately determine remediation costs, if any. Management has established a liability for soil contamination in Florida of $1.1 million at December 31, 2013 and $1.0 million at December 31, 2012, based on our undiscounted engineering estimates.  The obligations are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  No accrual for environmental claims has been made other than the balance noted above.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

PART II

Item 5. Market For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

No class of our limited partnership interests has been registered under the Exchange Act, and there is no established public trading market for our equity.

As of March 27, 2014,  four holders of our limited partnership interests held 100% of such interests.

Distributions to our partners are determined by the terms of our partnership agreement.  See also, “Risk Factors — AMIH, as our Class B limited partner, has the ability to take actions that conflict with the interests of other investors.” We are also currently restricted in our ability to pay dividends under our senior secured revolving credit facility. Historically, limited distributions have been made with the approval of our Board of Directors.

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Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following table presents our summary historical financial data for the periods indicated. The data as of and for the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements. For further information that will help you better understand the summary data, you should read this financial data in conjunction with “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes and other financial information included elsewhere in this report.

	December 31,
	2013		2012		2011		2010		2009
	(dollars in thousands)
Statement of Operations Data:
Revenues:
Oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids	$	392,627	$	332,166	$	323,911	$	208,537	$	102,263
Other revenue		1,207		4,567		2,127		1,475		1,558
		393,834		336,733		326,038		210,012		103,821
Unrealized gain (loss) - oil and natural gas derivative contracts		(35,327)		(17,434)		28,169		10,088		(26,258)
Total revenues		358,507		319,299		354,207		220,100		77,563
Expenses:
Lease and plant operating expense		70,450		69,047		62,637		41,905		23,871
Production and ad valorem taxes		26,369		23,485		19,357		11,141		4,755
Workover expense		13,679		12,740		11,777		7,409		8,988
Exploration expense		33,065		21,912		15,785		31,037		12,839
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization		118,558		109,252		94,251		59,090		48,659
Impairment expense		143,166		96,227		18,735		8,399		6,165
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812		1,370		492
(Gain) loss on sale of assets		2,715		—		—		(1,766)		(738)
General and administrative expense		47,023		40,222		33,087		20,135		8,738
Total operating expenses		457,158		374,698		257,441		178,720		113,769
Income (loss) from operations		(98,651)		(55,399)		96,766		41,380		(36,206)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense, net		(55,064)		(41,833)		(32,644)		(27,149)		(13,831)
Litigation settlement		—		1,250		—		—		—
Gain on contract settlement		—		—		1,285		—		—
Total other income (expense)		(55,064)		(40,583)		(31,359)		(27,149)		(13,831)
(Provision) benefit for state income taxes		—		107		(228)		(2)		750
Net income (loss)	$	(153,715)	$	(95,875)	$	65,179	$	14,229	$	(49,287)
Statement of Cash Flow Data:
Capital expenditures	$	311,438	$	224,719	$	193,770	$	110,083	$	100,261
Net cash flow provided by operating activities		172,519		147,193		150,655		61,185		34,343
Net cash used in investing activities		(336,147)		(255,065)		(266,133)		(208,412)		(86,573)
Net cash provided by financing activities		164,379		111,028		113,272		147,789		51,823
Balance Sheet Data (at period end):
Cash and cash equivalents	$	6,537	$	5,786	$	2,630	$	4,836	$	4,274
Property and equipment, net		700,870		655,497		589,167		456,264		236,196
Total assets		793,491		782,432		720,083		558,239		290,606
Total debt, including Founder Notes		790,199		623,981		507,947		390,985		219,830
Total partners' capital (deficit)		(160,107)		(6,368)		89,672		24,658		10,664

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

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the “Selected Financial Data” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that reflect our future plans, estimates, beliefs and expected performance. The forward-looking statements are dependent upon events, risks and uncertainties that may be outside our control. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, the volatility of oil and natural gas prices, production timing and volumes, estimates of proved reserves, operating costs and capital expenditures, economic and competitive conditions, regulatory changes and other uncertainties, as well as those factors discussed below and elsewhere in this report, particularly in “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements,” all of which are difficult to predict. As a result of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed may not occur.

Overview

We have been engaged in the onshore oil and natural gas acquisition, exploitation, exploration and production since 1987. We operate in one industry segment, oil and natural gas exploration and development, within one geographical segment, the United States. Currently, we are focusing our drilling efforts in the Sooner Trend area of the Anadarko Basin in Oklahoma, in our Eagleville field in the Eagle Ford Shale play in Karnes County, Texas, and in our Weeks Island field in South Louisiana.  Our operations also include other oil and natural gas interests in Texas and Louisiana.

The amount of cash we generate from our operations will fluctuate based on, among other things:

· the prices at which we will sell our production;

· the amount of oil and natural gas we produce; and

· the level of our operating and administrative costs.

In order to mitigate the impact of changes in oil and natural gas prices on our cash flows, we are a party to hedging and other price protection contracts, and we intend to enter into such transactions in the future to reduce the effect of price volatility on our cash flows.

Substantially all of our oil and natural gas activities are conducted jointly with others and, accordingly, amounts presented reflect our proportionate interest in such activities. Inflation has not had a material impact on our results of operations and is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations in the future.

Outlook

Natural gas prices declined significantly during 2011 and 2012, slightly rebounding in the second half of 2013, closing at $4.41 per MMBtu for the January 2014 NYMEX Henry Hub Futures contract settled December 31, 2013. A low point was reached with the May 2012 NYMEX closing at $2.04 per MMBtu. The reduction in prices has been caused by many factors, including increases in natural gas production from non-conventional (shale) reserves, warmer than normal winter weather and high levels of natural gas in storage. The more recent partial recovery is primarily due to colder than normal winter weather in late 2013, which continued into early 2014.

The decrease in natural gas prices resulted in a significant non-cash write-down of a number of our oil and gas properties in both 2012 and 2013. Total impairment expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 was $96.2 million. Approximately half the amount was for our Hilltop field in East Texas, which produces dry gas, and is vulnerable to extremely low prices for natural gas. Other properties written down were also primarily in East Texas, where our natural gas production is most concentrated.  In 2013, write-downs totaling $143.2 million were primarily due to performance-based downward revisions in proved reserves in some fields,  decreased prices for natural gas liquids, discontinuation of drilling efforts in some projects, and in some cases, development drilling that produced fewer reserves than expected.  Fields which were impaired include, among others, Urbana, Cold Springs, and Hilltop in East Texas, South Hayes in South Louisiana, and Mestena in South Texas. For further information, see “Results of Operations: Year Ended December 31, 2013 v. Year Ended December 31, 2012:  Impairment Expense.”

Our derivative contracts are reported at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets and are highly sensitive to changes in the price of oil and natural gas. Changes in these derivative assets and liabilities are reported in our consolidated statement of operations as unrealized hedging gain or loss, which is a non-cash item. In 2013, we recognized an unrealized loss on our derivative contracts of $35.3 million. Realized cash-based gains from our hedging program were $18.2 million during the year, partially offsetting the unrealized losses. The objective of our hedging program is that, over time, the combination of realized hedging gains and losses with ordinary oil and natural gas revenues will produce relative price stability. However, in the short term, both realized and unrealized

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hedging gains and losses can be significant to our results of operations, and we expect these gains and losses to continue to reflect the unpredictability and volatility of oil and natural gas prices.

We have hedged approximately 77% of our total forecasted PDP production of oil and natural gas through mid-2018 at average prices generally in line with prices prevailing at year-end 2013. If low natural gas prices continue for an extended period of time, we may be unable to replace expiring hedge contracts or enter new contracts for additional natural gas production at favorable prices.

Continued low prices may require us to write down the value of our properties and/or revise our development plans, which may cause certain of our undeveloped well locations to no longer be deemed proved. This could cause a reduction in the borrowing base under our credit facility. Low prices may also reduce our cash available for distribution and for servicing our indebtedness.

Market prices for oil increased slightly in 2013, with a NYMEX West Texas Intermediate crude oil monthly average of $97.89 on December 31, 2013. We expect oil prices to remain volatile in the future. Factors affecting the price of oil include worldwide economic conditions, including the European credit crisis, geopolitical activities, including developments in the Middle East,  Ukraine, and South America, worldwide supply disruptions, weather conditions, actions taken by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and the value of the U.S. dollar in international currency markets. Prices for natural gas liquids havedeclined during 2012 and 2013 due to increased liquids-targeted drilling and volumes in storage. Our average realized price declined from $57.48 in 2011, to $42.75 in 2012, to $38.37 in 2013.

The primary factors affecting our production levels are capital availability, the effectiveness and efficiency of our production operations, the success of our drilling program and our inventory of drilling prospects. We inherently face the challenge of natural production declines since as reservoirs are depleted, pressures decline, and the rate of production from a given well decreases. We attempt to overcome the cumulative effects of these natural declines primarily through developing our existing undeveloped reserves through drilling, enhanced completions and well recompletions, and other enhanced recovery methods. Our future growth will depend on our ability to continue to add reserves in excess of production. Our ability to add reserves is dependent on our capital resources and can be limited by many factors, including our ability to timely obtain drilling permits and regulatory approvals. Any delays in drilling, completing or connecting our new wells to gathering lines will negatively affect our production, which will have an adverse effect on our revenues and, as a result, cash flow from operations.

Recent Developments

Subsequent to year-end, in March 2014, we sold a portion of our proved oil reserves, approximately 7.7 MMBOE, in our Eagleville field in South Texas. The transaction provided us $173 million in cash, which was used to reduce the outstanding borrowings under our revolving credit facility.  The sale is structured to provide us with continuing net revenues from the sold properties through 2016, and we will continue to develop additional Eagleville wells at 70% of our original working interest.  Total reserves we retained are estimated as 7.3 MMBOE, of which 91% is considered proved undeveloped based on classifications from our reserve report as of December 31, 2013.  This partial sale provides us cash for investment in new areas without relinquishing our position in the Eagle Ford Shale, which we continue to view as a high-quality core property with years of development potential.

Throughout this report, financial and operating data include the portion of our Eagleville assets which were sold in the first quarter of 2014.  The Eagleville field contributed approximately $107.6 million in revenues (94% of which was from oil), $13.6 million in total operating expenses and production taxes, and $26.8million in depreciation, depletion, and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2013.  The net book value of the Eagleville field was $115.8 million as of December 31, 2013, or approximately 18% of the proved portion of our total net oil and gas property plant and equipment. Production from Eagleville for 2013 was 1,226 MBOE (82% of which was from oil).

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Results of Operations: Year Ended December 31, 2013 v. Year Ended December 31, 2012

	Year Ended December 31,				Increase
	2013		2012		(Decrease)		% Change
	(dollars in thousands, except average sales prices and
	unit costs)
Summary Operating Information:
Net Production:
Oil (MBbls)		2,897		2,138		759	36%
Natural gas (MMcf)		16,664		21,372		(4,708)	(22)%
Natural gas liquids (MBbls)		398		365		33	9%
Total oil equivalent (MBOE)		6,072		6,065		7	0%
Average daily oil production (MBOE per day)		16.6		16.6		—	0%
Average Sales Price:
Oil (per Bbl) realized	$	100.67	$	103.18	$	(2.51)	(2)%
Oil (per Bbl) unhedged		102.81		103.72		(0.91)	(1)%
Natural gas (per Mcf) realized		5.14		4.49		0.65	14%
Natural gas (per Mcf) unhedged		3.68		2.69		0.99	37%
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl) realized (1)		38.37		42.75		(4.38)	(10)%
Combined (per BOE) realized		64.66		54.76		9.90	18%
Hedging Activities:
Realized oil revenue (loss)	$	(6,193)	$	(1,162)	$	(5,031)	(433)%
Realized natural gas revenue gain		24,370		38,347		(13,977)	(36)%
Summary Financial Information
Revenues
Oil	$	291,643	$	220,638	$	71,005	32%
Natural gas		85,720		95,922		(10,202)	(11)%
Natural gas liquids		15,264		15,606		(342)	(2)%
Other revenues		1,207		4,567		(3,360)	(74)%
Unrealized loss — oil and natural gas derivative contracts		(35,327)		(17,434)		(17,893)	(103)%
		358,507		319,299		39,208	12%
Expenses
Lease and plant operating expense		70,450		69,047		1,403	2%
Production and ad valorem taxes		26,369		23,485		2,884	12%
Workover expense		13,679		12,740		939	7%
Exploration expense		33,065		21,912		11,153	51%
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense		118,558		109,252		9,306	9%
Impairment expense		143,166		96,227		46,939	49%
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		320	18%
Loss on sale of assets		2,715		—		2,715	NA
General and administrative expense		47,023		40,222		6,801	17%
Interest expense, net		55,064		41,833		13,231	32%
Litigation settlement		—		(1,250)		1,250	NA
Provision (benefit) for state income taxes		—		(107)		107	NA
Net loss	$	(153,715)	$	(95,875)	$	(57,840)	(60)%
Average Unit Costs per BOE:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	11.60	$	11.38	$	0.22	2%
Production and ad valorem tax expense		4.34		3.87		0.47	12%
Workover expense		2.25		2.10		0.15	7%
Exploration expense		5.45		3.61		1.84	51%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense		19.53		18.01		1.52	8%
General and administrative expense		7.74		6.63		1.11	17%

(1) We do not utilize hedging for natural gas liquids.

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Revenues

Oil revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $71.0 million, or 32%, to $291.6 million from $220.6 million for 2012. The increase in revenue was attributable to increased production volumes partially offset by a slightly lower average realized price. Approximately $78.3million of the increase was due to an increase in production of 759 MBbls, or 36%. This increase is primarily due to production from our Eagleville field, which increased 354 MBbls, from 652 MBbls in 2012 to1,006 MBbls in 2013, and to our Weeks Island field, which increased production by 312 MBbls, from 741 MBbls in 2012 to 1,053 MBbls in 2013. Our Sooner Trend fields in Oklahoma also increased production by 120 MBbls, from 186 MBbls in 2012 to 306 MBbls in 2013. The average price of oil exclusive of hedging decreased1% in 2013; the overall realized price (including hedging gains and losses) decreased 2% from $103.18 per Bbl in 2012 to $100.67 per Bbl in 2013 resulting in a decrease in oil revenues of approximately $7.3million.

Natural gas revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased $10.2 million, or 11%, to $85.7 million from $95.9 million for 2012. The decrease in natural gas revenue was attributable to decreased production volumes partially offset by higher average prices realized during 2013. Approximately $21.1 million of the decrease was due to a decrease in production of 4.7 Bcf, or 22%. This decline is primarily due to an emphasis on liquids-rich assets in our capital spending. Hilltop field, our largest natural gas field, produced 5.8 Bcf in 2013, compared to 10.0 Bcf in 2012.   We curtailed capital expenditures in the field in both 2012 and 2013, leading to production declines unmitigated by new production. In addition, we sold a substantial portion of our working interest in the field, comprising approximately 11.2 Bcfe, in October 2013.  

The average price of natural gas exclusive of hedging increased 37% in 2013; the overall realized price (including hedging gains and losses), increased 14% from $4.49 per Mcf in 2012 to $5.14 per Mcf in 2013, resulting in an increase in natural gas revenues of approximately $10.9 million.

Natural gas liquids revenues decreased during 2013 to $15.3 million from $15.6 million for 2012. A 9% increase in volumes from 365 MBbls in 2012 to 398 MBbls in 2013 was offset by a decrease in our average price of 10%, from $42.75per Bbl in 2012 to $38.37 per Bbl in 2013. The increase in volume is due primarily to an increase in production in the Eagleville field during 2013 of 30 MBbls.   The decline in prices is due to increased supply of natural gas liquids as a result of increased liquids-targeted drilling.

In 2013, we revised our reporting for natural gas liquids produced in our Oklahoma properties.  Whereas we had previously reported all volumes and revenues for 2012 as attributable to a single stream of rich natural gas, we began recording revenues for natural gas liquids from Oklahoma separately in 2013.  For comparability, we reclassified approximately $3.3 million in revenues from natural gas to natural gas liquids for the year 2012.  The related volumetric reclassification included a reduction of 397 MMcf of natural gas produced, and an addition of 92 MBbls of natural gas liquids produced for the year 2012.  These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported total revenues, net income, cash flows, or partners’ capital (deficit).The analysis of the increase in revenues from 2012 to 2013 included herein is based on the figures for each year after reclassifications.

Other revenues were $1.2 million during 2013 as compared to $4.6 million during 2012.  The decrease is partially the result of a decrease in rental income from our drilling rig, which we sold during the third quarter of 2013. In addition, other revenues in 2012 reflect $2.0 million in sales of prospects, which did not recur in 2013.

Unrealized gain ( loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts was a loss of $35.3 million for 2013 as compared to a loss of $17.4 million for 2012. The significant fluctuation from period to period is due to the volatility of oil and natural gas prices and changes in our outstanding hedging contracts during these periods. In general, unrealized derivative assets were negatively impacted by increases in natural gas prices and by volatility in crude oil prices.

Expenses

Lease and plant operating expense increased $1.4 million to $70.4 million in 2013 as compared to $69.0 million in 2012. On a unit basis, lease and plant operating expense increased 2% from $11.38 per BOE to $11.60 per BOE for 2012 and 2013, respectively.  In general, lease operating expenses are higher for liquids-rich properties. Oil as a percentage of production on an equivalent basis increased from 35% in 2012 to 48% in 2013. Natural gas as a percentage of equivalent production during the same periods decreased from 59% to 46%.Components of the expense that reflected increases included chemical and fuel usage and field services, totaling $4.4 million.  The increase was partially offset by a decrease in marketing and gathering fees of $3.3 million. The marketing and gathering decrease is primarily due to lower production of natural gas in our Hilltop field.

Production and ad valorem taxes increased $2.9 million to $26.4 million, or 12%, for 2013, as compared to $23.5 million for 2012.Production taxes increased $5.3 million, primarily due to the shift in product mix to a higher percentage of oil.  Oil revenues for 2013 reflect an increase of $71.0 million over oil revenues for 2012.  Ad valorem taxes decreased $2.4 million primarily due to

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adjustments based on final property tax assessments for 2012. On a per unit basis, the total expense increased to $4.34 per BOE for 2013 from $3.87 per BOE for 2012.

Workover expense increased $0.9 million to $13.6 million from $12.7 million for 2013 and 2012, respectively. This expense varies depending on activities in the field and is attributable to many different properties.  

Exploration expense includes the costs of our geology department, costs of geological and geophysical data, delay rentals, expired leases, and dry holes. Exploration expense increased $11.2 million to $33.1 million for 2013 from $21.9 million for 2012.The majority of the increase was due to an increase of $6.8 million in dry hole costs, primarily related to a South Louisiana dry hole in the third quarter of 2013, and to an increase in delay rentals and expired lease expense of $4.5 million. As of December 31, 2013, our property, plant, and equipment balance includes $18.4 million in exploratory well costs which are deferred, pending determination of proved reserves.  Such costs will be charged to exploration expense if the wells are ultimately classified as dry holes.  Alternatively, some costs may be charged to impairment expense if the fair value of proved reserves discovered is less than the capitalized cost.

Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased $9.3 million to $118.6 million for 2013 as compared to an expense of $109.3 million for 2012. On a per unit basis, this expense increased to $19.53 per BOE from $18.01 per BOE for 2013 and 2012, respectively. The rate is a function of capitalized costs of proved properties, proved reserves and production by field.

Impairment expense increased $47.0 million to $143.2 million in 2013 from $96.2 million in 2012. This expense varies with the results of exploratory and development drilling, as well as with well performance and price declines which may render some projects uneconomic, resulting in impairment. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — Impairment” below for more details related to impairment. The decreasing trend in natural gas prices resulted in a significant impairment in 2012, primarily due to extremely low prices for natural gas.   The impairments in 2013 were primarily due to write-downs of both prospect costs and developed fields.  Prospects impaired included three projects in Texas, West Virginia, and South Louisiana, for which impairment totaled approximately $46 million. Several developed fields were impaired due to downward revisions in reserves based on both performance and on development drilling results that were below expectations.  The most significant of these were our Urbana field in East Texas, written down approximately $37 million, the Hayes and South Hayes field in South Louisiana, written down approximately $18 million, our Cold Springs field in East Texas, written down approximately $14 million, and our Hilltop field in East Texas, written down approximately $12 million.  Urbana and Cold Springs fields  were also impacted by decreases in prices for natural gas liquids, ethane in particular.

Accretion expense is related to our obligation for retirement of oil and natural gas wells and facilities. We record these liabilities when we place the assets in service, using discounted present values of the estimated future obligation. We then record accretion of the liabilities as they approach maturity. Accretion expense was $2.1 million and $1.8 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Loss on sale of assets of $2.7 million in 2013 was primarily related to the sale of a well in South Texas and to the sale of our drilling rig. The sale of a portion of our Hilltop field did not result in a material gain or loss.

General and administrative expense increased $6.8 million to  $47.0 million in 2013 from $40.2 million in 2012.  The increase is primarily due to increases in salary and benefits totaling $7.1 million that were due to increased headcount and bonuses, and to bad debt expense of $1.1 million.  These increases were partially offset by a decrease in consulting expenses of $1.0 million. On a per unit basis, general and administrative expenses increased from $6.63 per BOE in 2012 to $7.74 per BOE in 2013.

Interest expense, net increased $13.3 million to $55.1 million in 2013 from $41.8 million in 2012. This increase is primarily due to higher interest of $11.6 million on our senior notes. In October 2012, we issued an additional $150 million of the senior notes. Interest on our credit facility increased $1.6 million during 2013 as compared to 2012 due to higher outstanding balances.

Litigation settlement is related to the settlement of our litigation with Gastar, under which Gastar paid us $1.3 million in damages in 2012.

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Results of Operations: Year Ended December 31, 2012 v. Year Ended December 31, 2011

	Year Ended December 31,				Increase
	2012			2011	(Decrease)		% Change
	(dollars in thousands, except average sales prices and
	unit costs)
Summary Operating Information:
Net Production:
Oil (MBbls)		2,138		1,580		558	35%
Natural gas (MMcf)		21,372		30,307		(8,935)	(29)%
Natural gas liquids (MBbls)		365		307		58	19%
Total oil equivalent (MBOE)		6,065		6,938		(873)	(13)%
Average daily oil production (MBOE per day)		16.6		19.0		(2.4)	(13)%
Average Sales Price:
Oil (per Bbl) realized	$	103.18	$	102.35	$	0.83	1%
Oil (per Bbl) unhedged		103.72		104.73		(1.01)	(1)%
Natural gas (per Mcf) realized		4.49		4.77		(0.28)	(6)%
Natural gas (per Mcf) unhedged		2.69		3.94		(1.25)	(32)%
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl) realized (1)		42.75		57.48		(14.73)	(26)%
Combined (per BOE) realized		54.76		46.69		8.07	17%
Hedging Activities:
Realized oil revenue (loss)	$	(1,162)	$	(3,756)	$	2,594	69%
Realized natural gas revenue gain		38,347		25,208		13,139	52%
Summary Financial Information
Revenues
Oil	$	220,638	$	161,726	$	58,912	36%
Natural gas		95,922		144,548		(48,626)	(34)%
Natural gas liquids		15,606		17,637		(2,031)	(12)%
Other revenues		4,567		2,127		2,440	115%
Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts		(17,434)		28,169		(45,603)	(162)%
		319,299		354,207		(34,908)	(10)%
Expenses
Lease and plant operating expense		69,047		62,637		6,410	10%
Production and ad valorem taxes		23,485		19,357		4,128	21%
Workover expense		12,740		11,777		963	8%
Exploration expense		21,912		15,785		6,127	39%
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense		109,252		94,251		15,001	16%
Impairment expense		96,227		18,735		77,492	414%
Accretion expense		1,813		1,812		1	0%
General and administrative expense		40,222		33,087		7,135	22%
Interest expense, net		41,833		32,644		9,189	28%
Litigation settlement		(1,250)		—		(1,250)	NA
(Gain) on contract settlement		—		(1,285)		1,285	NA
Provision (benefit) for state income taxes		(107)		228		(335)	(147)%
Net income (loss)	$	(95,875)	$	65,179	$	(161,054)	(247)%
Average Unit Costs per BOE:
Lease and plant operating expense	$	11.38	$	9.03	$	2.35	26%
Production and ad valorem tax expense		3.87		2.79		1.08	39%
Workover expense		2.10		1.70		0.40	24%
Exploration expense		3.61		2.28		1.33	58%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization expense		18.01		13.58		4.43	33%
General and administrative expense		6.63		4.77		1.86	39%

(1) We do not utilize hedging for natural gas liquids.

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Revenues

Oil revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $58.9 million, or 36%, to $220.6 million from $161.7 million in 2011. The increase in revenue was attributable to increased production volumes coupled with a slightly higher average realized price. Approximately $57.1 million of the increase was due to an increase in production of 558 MBbls, or 35%. This increase is primarily due to production from our Eagleville field, which increased 399 MBbls in 2012 as compared to 2011, from 253 MBbls to 652 MBbls. The price of oil exclusive of hedging decreased 1% in 2012; the overall realized price (including hedging gains and losses) increased 1% from $102.35 per Bbl in 2011 to $103.18 per Bbl in 2012, resulting in an increase in oil revenues of approximately $1.8 million.

Natural gas revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 decreased $48.6 million, or 34%, to $95.9 million from $144.5 million in 2011. The decrease in natural gas revenue was attributable to decreased production volumes and lower average realized prices during 2012. Approximately $42.6 million of the decrease was due to a decrease in production of 8.9 Bcf, or 29%. This decrease is primarily due to our Hilltop field, which produced 10.0 Bcf in 2012, compared to 18.1 Bcf in 2011. The price of natural gas exclusive of hedging decreased 32% in 2012; the overall realized price (including hedging gains and losses), decreased 6% from $4.77 per Mcf in 2011 to $4.49 per Mcf in 2012, resulting in a decrease in natural gas revenues of approximately $6.0 million.

Natural gas liquids revenues decreased during 2012 to $15.6 million from $17.6million for 2011. A 19% increase in volumes from 307 MBbls to 365 MBbls was offset by a decrease in our average price of 26%, from $57.48 per Bbl to $42.75 per Bbl. The increase in volume is due primarily to new production in the Eagleville field of 86 MBbls.

In 2013 we revised our reporting for natural gas liquids produced in our Oklahoma properties.  Whereas we had previously reported all volumes and revenues for 2012 and 2011 as attributable to a single stream of rich natural gas, we began recording revenues for natural gas liquids from Oklahoma separately in 2013.  For comparability, we reclassified approximately $3.3 million in revenues from natural gas to natural gas liquids for the year 2012.  The related volumetric reclassification included a reduction of 397 MMcf of natural gas produced, and an addition of 92 MBbls of natural gas liquids produced for the year 2012.  For 2011, we reclassified $5.0 million in natural gas revenues to revenues from natural gas liquids.  The related volumetric reclassification included a reduction of 443 MMcf of natural gas produced, and an addition of 92 MBbls of natural gas liquids produced for the year 2011.These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported total revenues, net income, cash flows, or partners’ capital (deficit).The analysis of the increase in revenues from 2011 to 2012 included herein is based on the figures for each year after reclassifications.

Other revenues were $4.6 million during 2012 as compared to $2.1 million during 2011. The increase is primarily the result of increased income from our drilling rig and from sale of prospects.

Unrealized (gain) loss — oil and natural gas derivative contracts was a loss of $17.4 million for 2012 as compared to a gain of $28.2 million for 2011. The significant fluctuation from period to period is due to the volatility of oil and natural gas prices and changes in our outstanding hedging contracts during these periods.

Expenses

Lease and plant operating expense increased $6.4 million to $69.0 million in 2012 as compared to $62.6 million in 2011. On a unit basis, lease and plant operating expense increased 26% from $9.03 per BOE to $11.38 per BOE for 2011 and 2012, respectively, which reflects the decrease in volume while costs increased. In general, lease operating expenses are higher for oil producing properties. Oil as a percentage of production on an equivalent basis increased from 23% in 2011 to 35% in 2012. Natural gas as a percentage of equivalent production during the same periods decreased from 73% to 59%. Production costs for field services increased $4.3 million, overhead increased $2.8 million, and salt water disposal costs increased $0.5 million, due to an increase in the number of wells and to the shift to more oil production. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in repairs and maintenance of $1.6 million.

Production and ad valorem taxes increased $4.1 million to $23.5 million, or 21%, for 2012, as compared to $19.4 million for 2011. Ad valorem taxes increased $3.8 million due to higher valuations and additions to properties. Production taxes as a percentage of unhedged revenue were approximately 6% in 2012 and 2011. On a per unit basis, the total expense increased to $3.87 per BOE for 2012 from $2.79 per BOE for 2011.

Workover expense increased $0.9 million to $12.7 million from $11.8 million for 2012 and 2011, respectively. This expense varies depending on activities in the field.

Exploration expense includes the costs of our geology department, costs of geological and geophysical data, delay rentals, expired leases, and dry holes. Exploration expense increased $6.1 million to $21.9 million for 2012 from $15.8 million for 2011. Dry hole expense increased $2.4 million; the balance of the increase was primarily due to increased expenditures for seismic data and processing.

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Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased $15.0 million to $109.3 million for 2012 as compared to an expense of $94.3 million for 2011. On a per unit basis, this expense increased to $18.01per BOE from $13.58 per BOE for 2012 and 2011, respectively. The rate is a function of capitalized costs of proved properties, reserves and production by field.

Impairment expense increased $77.5 million to $96.2 million in 2012 from $18.7 million in 2011. This expense varies with the results of exploratory and development drilling, as well as with well performance and price declines which may render some projects uneconomic, resulting in impairment. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates — Impairment” below for more details related to impairment. The decreasing trend in natural gas prices resulted in a significant impairment in 2012. Of the $96.2 million total expense, $44.6 million was for our Hilltop field in East Texas, which produces dry gas, and is vulnerable to extremely low prices for natural gas. Other properties written down were also primarily in East Texas, where our natural gas production is most concentrated.

Accretion expense is related to our obligation for retirement of oil and natural gas wells and facilities. We record these liabilities when we place the assets in service, using discounted present values of the estimated future obligation. We then record accretion of the liabilities as they approach maturity. Accretion expense was $1.8 million for each of 2012 and 2011, respectively.

General and administrative expense increased $7.1 million to $40.2 million in 2012 from $33.1 million in 2011. The increase is principally due to increased salary and benefits expenses of $5.2 million, primarily due to increased headcount and bonus accruals. Other employee expenses, primarily related to travel, increased $0.3 million. Engineering and information technology consulting services increased $0.9 million; information system licensing fees increased $0.5 million. A royalty ownership settlement of $0.7 million recorded in 2012 increased total general and administrative expenses. On a per unit basis, general and administrative expenses increased from $4.77 to $6.63 per BOE, which reflects the decrease in volume produced on a BOE basis, while costs increased.

Interest expense, net increased $9.2 million to $41.8 million in 2012 from $32.6 million in 2011. This increase is primarily due to a $3.0 million increase in interest on our senior notes, due to the increase in the balance after our tack-on offering of an additional $150 million in October 2012. Additionally, interest on our credit facility increased $1.1 million in 2012, due primarily to higher average outstanding balances during that period, and interest rate hedge gains of $5.4 million recorded in 2011 were not repeated in 2012. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in amortization of loan costs of $0.4 million due to the extension of the maturity date of our credit facility in May 2011.

Litigation settlement is related to the settlement of our litigation with Gastar, under which Gastar paid us $1.3 million in damages in 2012.

Gain on contract settlementis related to the settlement of an obligation we assumed with our acquisition of Meridian. The obligation related to underutilization of two contracted drilling rigs. We recorded an estimated liability of $9.8 million for the obligation upon purchase of Meridian in 2010. The obligation was subsequently settled in the second quarter of 2011 for $8.5 million, resulting in a gain of $1.3 million.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal requirements for capital are to fund our day-to-day operations, our exploration and development activities, and to satisfy our contractual obligations, primarily for the payment of debt interest and any amounts owed during the period related to our hedging positions.

Our 2013 capital budget was primarily focused on the development of existing core areas through exploitation and development. Currently, we anticipate a capital budget of approximately $370 million for 2014. Approximately 70% of our 2014 capital budget is allocated to our properties in Sooner Trend,  Eagle Ford, and South Louisiana. The remaining 30% will be allocated partially to several prospective areas and to other work in developed fields.  Our future drilling plans, plans of our drilling operators and capital budgets are subject to change based upon various factors, some of which are beyond our control, including drilling results, oil and natural gas prices, the availability and cost of capital, drilling and production costs, availability of drilling services and equipment, actions of our operators, gathering system and pipeline transportation constraints and regulatory approvals. Because a large percentage of our acreage is held by production, we have the ability to materially decrease our drilling and recompletion budget in response to market conditions with minimal risk of losing significant acreage.

We expect to fund our 2014 capital budget predominantly with cash flows from operations, supplemented by borrowings under our credit facility.  If necessary, we may also access capital through proceeds from potential asset dispositions and the future issuances of debt and/or equity securities, subject to the distribution of proceeds therefrom as set forth in our partnership agreement. We strive to maintain financial flexibility and may access capital markets as necessary to maintain substantial borrowing capacity under our senior secured revolving credit facility, facilitate drilling on our large undeveloped acreage position and permit us to selectively expand our acreage position. In the event our cash flows are materially less than anticipated and other sources of capital we historically have utilized are not available on acceptable terms, we may curtail our capital spending.

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Senior Notes

We have $450 million in outstanding registered senior notes due October 15, 2018 that carry a stated interest rate of 9.625% and an effective interest rate of 9.783%.  Interest is payable semi-annually each April 15th and October 15th.  The senior notes are unsecured and are general obligations of the Company, and effectively rank junior to any of our existing or future secured indebtedness, which includes the credit facility. The senior notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of our material subsidiaries.

The senior notes contain an optional redemption provision available beginning October 15, 2014 allowing us to retire the principal outstanding, in whole or in part, at 104.813%.  Additional optional redemption provisions allow for retirement at 102.406% and 100.0% beginning on each of October 15, 2015 and 2016, respectively.  Prior to October 15, 2014, we may redeem the senior notes in whole or in part at a price equal to 100 percent of the principal amount plus a specified make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date.

Credit Facility

We have a senior secured revolving credit facility (“credit facility”) with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. as the administrative agent, which matures May 23, 2016. As of December 31, 2013, the credit facility was subject to a $385.0 million borrowing base limit, and we had $319.3 million outstanding under the credit facility. Our restricted subsidiaries are guarantors of the credit facility.

The borrowing base is redetermined each May 1 and November 1. The next redetermination will be in May 2014. On March 25, 2014, our borrowing base was reduced to $285 million due to the sale of a portion of our Eagle Ford Shale properties, as described above in “Recent Developments.” As of March 27, 2014, outstanding borrowing under the credit facility was $173 million, and the available unused portion of the borrowing base was $112 million.

Our credit facility provides for two alternative interest rate bases and margins. Eurodollar loans accrue interest generally at the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate plus a margin ranging from 2.00% to 2.75%, depending on the utilization of our borrowing base. “Reference rate” loans accrue interest at the prime rate of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., plus a margin ranging from 1.00% to 1.75%, depending on the utilization of our borrowing base. The average rate on all loans outstanding as of December 31, 2013 under the credit facility was 2.75%, which was based on the Eurodollar option.

The credit facility and the indenture governing the senior notes and additional senior notes include covenants requiring us to maintain certain financial covenants including a current ratio, leverage ratio, and interest coverage ratio. At December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with the covenants. The terms of the credit facility also restrict our ability to make distributions and investments.

Cash Flow Provided by Operating Activities

Operating activities provided cash of $172.5 million in 2013, as compared to $147.2 million for 2012. The $25.3 million increase in operating cash flows was attributable to various factors. Cash-based items of net income, including revenues (exclusive of unrealized commodity gains or losses), operating expenses and taxes, general and administrative expenses, and the cash portion of our interest expense, resulted in a net increase of approximately $31.3 million in earnings and a positive impact on cash flow. This was partially offset by changes in our working capital accounts, which provided $1.2 million of cash flows as compared to having provided $7.2 million in cash in 2012. This reduction resulted in a total decrease of $6.0 million in cash flow from changes in working capital, which as noted above, partially offset the positive effects of increased cash items in our earnings.

Operating activities provided cash of $147.2 million in 2012, as compared to $150.7 million for 2011. The $3.5 million decrease in operating cash flows was attributable to various factors. Cash-based items of net income, including revenues (exclusive of unrealized commodity gains or losses), operating expenses and taxes, general and administrative expenses, and the cash portion of our interest expense, resulted in a net decrease of approximately $17.1 million in earnings and a negative impact on cash flow. This was offset by changes in our working capital accounts, which provided $7.2 million of cash flows as compared to having used $6.4 million in cash in 2011. This reversal resulted in a total increase of $13.6 million in cash flow from changes in working capital, which as noted above, partially offset the negative effects of decreased earnings.

Cash Flow Used in Investing Activities

Investing activities used cash of $336.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to cash used in investing of $255.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in cash used in investing activities was primarily related to increased expenditures for drilling and development.Significant acquisitions expenditures in 2013 included primarily $42.2 million for additional interest in our Weeks Island field from our former working interest partner,  Stone Energy Offshore, L.L.C.,with additional expenditures for several smaller properties for a total of $51.4 million.  Acquisitions in 2012 totaling $30.3 million were for various smaller packages of producing properties.

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Investing activities used cash of $255.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to cash used in investing of $266.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in cash used in investing activities was primarily related to a decrease in acquisition expenditures of $42.1 million. Acquisitions in 2011 totaled $72.4 million, including $50 million for acquisitions of additional interests in various fields from two of our working interest owners, as compared to a total of $30.3 million in 2012, for various smaller acquisitions. The decrease in acquisition expenditures was partially offset by an increase in expenditures for drilling and development of $30.9 million.

Cash Flow Provided by Financing Activities

Financing activities provided cash of $164.4 million during 2013 as compared to cash provided by financing of $111.0 million during 2012, an increase of $53.4 million. Both periods reflected the effect of drawdowns from our credit facility.

Financing activities provided cash of $111.0 million during 2012 as compared to cash provided by financing of $113.3 million during 2011, a decrease of $2.3 million. Both periods reflected the effect of drawdowns from our credit facility. In 2012, we replaced $150 million of outstanding borrowings under the credit facility with the proceeds of our tack-on offering of senior notes. However, this did not reduce overall debt or the net cash inflow from additional borrowings.

Risk Management Activities — Commodity Derivative Instruments

Due to the risk of low oil and natural gas prices, we periodically enter into price-risk management transactions (e.g., swaps, collars, puts, calls, and financial basis swap contracts) for a portion of our oil and natural gas production. In certain cases, this allows us to achieve a more predictable cash flow, as well as to reduce exposure from price fluctuations. The commodity derivative instruments apply to only a portion of our production, and provide only partial price protection against declines in oil and natural gas prices, and may partially limit our potential gains from future increases in prices. At December 31, 2013, commodity derivative instruments were in place covering approximately 80% of our projected oil production and approximately 100% of our natural gas production from proved developed properties for 2014. See Note 6 to our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2013, “Derivative Financial Instruments”, for further information.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013:  

	Year Ended December 31,
	Total		2014		2015-2016		2017-2018		Thereafter
	(Dollars in thousands)
Debt	$	792,621	$	—	$	319,290	$	473,331	$	—
Interest (1)		243,621		52,093		98,860		92,668		—
Operating Leases		15,390		2,941		3,409		3,040		6,000
Settlement obligations		1,000		1,000		—		—		—
Derivative contract premiums (2)		5,657		375		5,282		—		—
Abandonment liabilities		56,023		3,844		4,477		1,015		46,687
Total	$	1,114,312	$	60,253	$	431,318	$	570,054	$	52,687

(1) Interest includes interest on the outstanding balance under our revolving credit agreement maturing in 2016, payable quarterly; on our senior notes due 2018, payable semiannually; and on the debt to our founder, which is payable with principal, at maturity in 2018. Subsequent to year-end, the debt to our founder was restated to extend the maturity to December 31, 2021. Projected obligation amounts are based on the payment schedules for interest, and are not presented on an accrual basis.

(2) Derivative contract premiums relate to open derivative contracts in place at December 31, 2013 and are due over time as the contracts mature and settle. They are included on our consolidated balance sheet with the related derivative contracts. Amounts presented above are net of $4.1 million for premiums due to us under derivative contracts from the same counterparties.

In addition to the items above, we have a contingent commitment to pay an amount up to a maximum of approximately $2.4 million for properties acquired in 2008 and prior years. The additional purchase consideration will be paid if certain product price conditions are met. We have a commitment in which we must make a contingent payment of up to $4million if we decide to forego certain drilling activities.

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of December 31, 2013 we had no guarantees of third party obligations. Our off-balances sheet obligations include the obligations under operating leases, the $2.4 million contingent properties payment, and the $4 million drilling commitment noted in “Contractual Obligations” above.  We also have bonds posted in the aggregate amount of $13.2 million, primarily to cover future abandonment costs, and less than $100,000 in letters of credit provided under our credit facility. We typically enter into short-term drilling contracts which are customary in the oil and gas industry.  We have no other off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to materially affect our liquidity and capital resources.

We have no plans to enter into any additional off-balance sheet arrangements in the foreseeable future.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). As used herein, the following acronyms have the following meanings: “FASB” means the Financial Accounting Standards Board; the “Codification” refers to the Accounting Standards Codification, the collected accounting and reporting guidance maintained by the FASB; “ASC” means Accounting Standards Codification and is generally followed by a number indicating a particular section of the Codification; and “ASU” means Accounting Standards Update, followed by an identification number, which are the periodic updates made to the Codification by the FASB.

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported results of operations and the amount of reported assets, liabilities and proved oil and natural gas reserves. Some accounting policies involve judgments and uncertainties to such an extent that there is reasonable likelihood that materially different amounts could have been reported under different conditions, or if different assumptions had been used. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. Described below are the most significant policies we apply in preparing our consolidated financial statements, some of which are subject to alternative treatments under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. We also describe the most significant estimates and assumptions we make in applying these policies.

Use of Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

Reserve estimates significantly impact depreciation and depletion expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties and are subject to change based on changes in oil and natural gas prices and trends and changes in estimated reserve quantities. We analyze estimates, including those related to oil and natural gas reserves, the value of oil and natural gas properties, oil and natural gas revenues, bad debts, asset retirement obligations, derivative contracts, income taxes and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Property and Equipment. Oil and natural gas producing activities are accounted for using the successful efforts method of accounting. Under the successful efforts method, lease acquisition costs and all development costs, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Unproved Properties — Acquisition costs associated with the acquisition of leases are recorded as unproved properties and capitalized as incurred. These consist of costs incurred in obtaining a mineral interest or right in a property, such as a lease in addition to options to lease, broker fees, recording fees and other similar costs related to activities in acquiring properties. Unproved properties are classified as unproved until proved reserves are discovered, at which time related costs are transferred to proved oil and natural gas properties.

Exploration Expense — Exploration expenses, other than exploration drilling costs, are charged to expense as incurred. These expenses include seismic expenditures and other geological and geophysical costs, expired leases, and lease rentals. The costs of drilling exploratory wells and exploratory-type stratigraphic wells are initially capitalized pending determination of whether the well has discovered proved commercial reserves. If the exploratory well is determined to be unsuccessful, the cost of the well is transferred to expense. Exploratory well drilling costs may continue to be capitalized if the reserve quantity is sufficient to justify completion as a producing well and sufficient progress in assessing the reserves and the economic and operating viability of the project is being made.

Proved Oil and Natural Gas Properties — Costs incurred to obtain access to proved reserves and to provide facilities for extracting, treating, gathering, and storing oil and natural gas are capitalized. All costs incurred to drill and equip successful

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exploratory wells, development wells, development-type stratigraphic test wells, and service wells, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Impairment — The capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed at least quarterly for impairment following the guidance provided in ASC 360-10-35, Property, Plant and Equipment, Subsequent Measurement, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair market value and is not recoverable. The determination of recoverability is based on comparing the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows at a producing field level to the carrying value of the assets. If the future undiscounted cash flows, based on estimates of anticipated production from proved reserves and future crude oil and natural gas prices and operating costs, are lower than the carrying cost, the carrying cost of the asset or group of assets is reduced to fair value. For our proved oil and natural gas properties, we estimate fair value by discounting the projected future cash flows at an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate.

Unproved properties are assessed at least annually to determine whether they have been impaired. Individually significant properties are assessed for impairment on a property-by-property basis, while individually insignificant unproved leasehold costs may be assessed in the aggregate. If unproved leasehold costs are found to be impaired, an impairment allowance is provided and a loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization — Depreciation, depletion and amortization (“DD&A”) of capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties is computed using the unit-of-production method based upon estimated proved reserves. Assets are grouped for DD&A on the basis of reasonable aggregation of properties with a common geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition, such as a reservoir or field. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties is the sum of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for lease and well equipment costs, which include development costs and successful exploration drilling costs, includes only proved developed reserves.

Revenue Recognition. We recognize oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids revenues when products are delivered at a fixed or determinable price, title has transferred and collectability is reasonably assured. We use the sales method of accounting for recognition of natural gas imbalances. Revenue from drilling rigs has been recorded when services were performed.

Derivative Financial Instruments. We use derivative contracts to hedge the effects of fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and interest rates. We account for such derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and requires them to be measured at fair value and recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet (see Note 5 of the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on fair value).

Under ASC 815, hedge accounting is used to defer recognition of unrealized changes in the fair value of such financial instruments, for those contracts which qualify as fair value or cash flow hedges, as defined in the guidance. Historically, we have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges. Accordingly, the unrealized changes in fair value of the contracts are included in net income in the period of the change as “Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts” for oil and natural gas contracts, and in interest expense for interest derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses are recorded in income in the period of settlement, and included in the related revenue account or in interest expense. Cash flows from settlements of derivative contracts are classified with the income or expense item to which such settlements directly relate.

Income Taxes. We have elected under the Internal Revenue Code provisions to be treated as individual partnerships for tax purposes. Accordingly, items of income, expense, gains and losses flow through to the partners and are taxed at the partner level. Accordingly, no tax provision for federal operations taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements.

We are subject to the Texas margin tax, which is considered a state income tax, and is included in “Benefit from (provision for) state income tax” on the consolidated statement of operations. We record state income tax (current and deferred) based on taxable income as defined under the rules for the margin tax.

Acquisitions. Acquisitions are accounted for as purchases using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the results of operations are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the closing date of the acquisitions. Purchase prices are allocated to acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the time of the acquisition.

Asset Retirement Obligations. We estimate the present value of future costs of dismantlement and abandonment of our wells, facilities, and other tangible, long-lived assets, recording them as liabilities in the period incurred. We follow ASC 410, Asset Retirement and Environmental Obligations. ASC 410 requires that an asset retirement obligation (“ARO”) associated with the retirement of a tangible long-lived asset be recognized as a liability in the period in which it is incurred or becomes determinable (as defined by the standard), with an associated increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The cost of the tangible asset, including the initially recognized asset retirement cost, is depreciated over the useful life of the asset and accretion expense is

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recognized over time as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value. The fair value of the ARO is measured using expected future cash outflows for abandonment discounted generally at our cost of capital at the time of recognition.

Investment . Our investment consists of a 10% ownership interest in a drilling company, Orion Drilling Company, LP (“Orion”). The investment is accounted for under the cost method. Under this method, our share of earnings or losses of the investment are not included in the consolidated statements of operations. Distributions from Orion are recognized in current period earnings as declared.

Deferred Financing Costs. Deferred financing costs are amortized using the straight-line method over the term of the related debt, so long as this approximates the interest rate method.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2013 we adopted ASU No. 2011-11, which increases disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. New disclosures are required to enable users of financial statements to understand significant quantitative differences in balance sheets prepared under GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) related to the offsetting of financial instruments. The additional disclosures are included in Note 6.  

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04. The guidance requires an entity that is joint and severally liable to measure the obligation as the sum of the amount the entity has agreed with co-obligors to pay and any additional amount it expects to pay on behalf of one or more co-obligors. Required disclosures include a description of the nature of the arrangement, how the liability arose, the relationship with co-obligors and the terms and conditions of the arrangement. ASU No. 2013-04 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect the adoption of this pronouncement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We are exposed to certain market risks that are inherent in our consolidated financial statements that arise in the normal course of business. We may enter into derivative instruments to manage or reduce market risk, but we do not enter into derivative agreements for speculative purposes.

We do not designate these derivative instruments as hedges for accounting purposes. Accordingly, the changes in the fair value of these instruments are recognized currently in earnings.

Commodity Price Risk and Hedges

Our major market risk exposure is to prices for oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. These prices have historically been volatile. As such, future earnings are subject to change due to changes in these prices. Realized prices are primarily driven by the prevailing worldwide price for oil and regional prices for natural gas. We have used, and expect to continue to use, oil and natural gas derivative contracts to reduce our exposure to the risks of changes in the prices of oil and natural gas. Pursuant to our risk management policy, we engage in these activities as a hedging mechanism against low pricesand price volatility associated with pre-existing or anticipated sales of oil and natural gas.

As of December 31, 2013, we have hedged approximately 77% of our forecasted production from proved developed reserves through mid-2018 at average annual prices ranging from $4.38 per MMBtu to $5.50 per MMBtu and $80.00 per Bbl to $93.81 per Bbl. Forecasted production from proved reserves is estimated in our December 2013 reserve report using prices, costs and other assumptions required by SEC rules. Our actual production will vary from the amounts estimated in the report, perhaps materially. Please read the disclosures under “Our estimated oil and natural gas reserve quantities and future production rates are based on many assumptions that may prove to be inaccurate. Any material inaccuracies in these reserve estimates or the underlying assumptions will materially affect the quantities and present value of our reserves” in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” above.

The fair value of our oil and natural gas derivative contracts and basis swaps at December 31, 2013 was a net asset of less than ten thousand dollars. A 10% increase or decrease in oil and natural gas prices with all other factors held constant would result in an unrealized loss or gain, respectively, in the fair value (generally correlated to our estimated future net cash flows from such instruments) of our oil and natural gas commodity contracts of approximately $55.0 million (unrealized loss) or $52.8 million (unrealized gain), respectively, as of December 31, 2013.  

Interest Rates

We are subject to interest rate risk on our long-term fixed interest rate debt and variable interest rate borrowings. Although in the past we have used interest rate swaps to mitigate the effect of fluctuating interest rates on interest expense, we currently have no

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open interest rate derivative contracts. A 1% increase in interest rates (100 LIBOR basis points) would increase interest expense on our variable rate debt by approximately $3.2 million, based on the balance outstanding at December31, 2013.  

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The consolidated financial statements and supplementary financial information required to be filed under this item are presented beginning on page F-1 in Part IV, Item 15 of this annual report and are incorporated herein by reference.

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

In accordance with Exchange Act Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2013 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Our disclosure controls and procedures include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. We have performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.

Our management used the criteria set forth in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992 framework) to perform its assessment. Based on this assessment, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, concluded, that as of December 31, 2013, our internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the year ended December 31, 2013 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B. Other Information

None.

PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance

As is the case with many partnerships, we do not directly employ officers, directors or employees. Our operations and activities are managed by the Board of Directors of our general partner, Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC (“Alta Mesa GP”), and the officers and directors of Alta Mesa Services, LP (“Alta Mesa Services”), an entity wholly owned by us. Prior to the offering of the senior notes in October 2010, Alta Mesa Services was owned by Michael E. and Mickey Ellis. References to our directors are references to the directors of Alta Mesa GP. References to our officers and employees are references to the officers and employees of Alta Mesa Services.

All of our executive management personnel are employees of Alta Mesa Services and devote all of their time to our business and affairs. We also utilize a significant number of employees of Alta Mesa Services to operate our properties and provide us with

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certain general and administrative services. Under the shared services and expenses agreement, we reimburse Alta Mesa Services for its operational personnel who perform services for our benefit. See “Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions, and Director Independence — Shared Services and Expenses Agreement.”

Board Leadership Structure

Our Chairman is Michael E. Ellis, our Chief Operating Officer and founder of the Company. Our Board of Directors has no policy regarding the separation of the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. We also do not have a lead independent director.

Board Oversight of Risk

Like all businesses, we face risks in our business activities. Many of these risks are discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” elsewhere in this report. The Board of Directors has delegated to management the primary responsibility of risk management, while it has retained oversight of management in that regard.

In addition, our Board of Directors considers our practices regarding risk assessment and risk management, reviews our contingent liabilities, reviews our oil and natural gas reserve estimation practices, as well as major legislative and regulatory developments that could affect us. Our Board reviews and attempts to mitigate risks which may result from our compensation policies.

Executive Officers and Directors

The following table sets forth the names, ages and offices of our present directors and executive officers as of December 31, 2013. Members of our Board of Directors are elected for one-year terms.

7
Name	Age	Director Since	Position
Harlan H. Chappelle	57	2005	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Michael E. Ellis	57	1987	Founder, Chairman, Vice President of Engineering and Chief Operating Officer
Mickey Ellis	55	1987	Director
Michael A. McCabe	58	—	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (1)
David Murrell	52	—	Vice President, Land and Business Development

(1) Mr. McCabe joined the Board in March 2014.

The following is a biographical summary of the business experience of these directors and executive officers:

Harlan H. Chappelle joined Alta Mesa as President,  CEO and director in November 2004, and has led us in a period of significant growth, building a strong management and technical team, focusing us on our greatest opportunities, making strategic acquisitions, and restructuring our financing. Mr. Chappelle has over 30 years in field operations, engineering, management, marketing and trading, acquisitions and divestitures, and field re-development. He has worked for Louisiana Land & Exploration Company, Burlington Resources, Southern Company, and Mirant. Mr. Chappelle retired as a Commander from the U.S. Navy Reserve. He has a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from Auburn University and a Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin.

Michael E. Ellis founded Alta Mesa in 1987 after beginning his career with Amoco, and is our Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, as well as Vice President of Engineering. Mr. Ellis manages all day-to-day engineering and field operations of Alta Mesa. He built our asset base by starting with small earn-in exploitation projects, then progressively growing the company with successive acquisitions of fields from major oil companies, and consistent success in exploration and development drilling. He has over 30 years’ experience in management, engineering, exploration, and acquisitions and divestitures. Mr. Ellis holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from West Virginia University.

Mickey Ellis has served as a director since our inception in 1987. Ms. Ellis is actively involved in the leadership of charitable organizations, as a Board Member of Houston Area Respite Care and The Confessing Movement of the United Methodist Church, Treasurer of the National Charity League Star Chapter, Committee Member on several committees within Mission Bend United Methodist Church, and Building Relocation Coordinator for Mission Bend Christian Academy. She is a major fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and an active volunteer for CanCare. Ms. Ellis is the spouse of Michael E. Ellis.

Michael A. McCabe, our CFO as well as a Vice President, joined Alta Mesa in September 2006. Also on March 25, 2014, Michael A. McCabe, our CFO, was appointed to the Board of Directors.  Mr. McCabe has over 25 years of corporate finance experience, with a focus on the energy industry. From 2004 until 2006, Mr. McCabe served as President and sole owner of Bridge Management Group, Inc., a private consulting firm primarily providing advisory services to us and to MultiFuels, Inc., a Houston based developer of natural gas storage facilities. He has served in senior positions with Bank of Tokyo, Bank of New England, and Key Bank. Mr. McCabe holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics from Bridgewater State University, a Masters of

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Science in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University and a Masters of Business Administration in Financial Management from Pace University.

David Murrell has served as our Vice President, Land and Business Development since 2007. Mr. Murrell has over 25 years of experience in Gulf Coast leasing, exploration and development programs, contract management and acquisitions and divestitures. He created a structured land management system for Alta Mesa, and built a team of lease analysts, landmen, and field representatives that has facilitated our company’s growth. Mr. Murrell earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Petroleum Land Management from the University of Oklahoma.

On March 25, 2014, Don Dimitrievich was appointed to the Board of Directors as Highbridge’s director nominee. 

Mr. Dimitrievich is a Managing Director at Highbridge Principal Strategies, an alternative investment management organization that together with its affiliates manages approximately  $29 billion in capital for institutional investors, pension funds, endowments and foundations. At Highbridge, Mr. Dimitrievich oversees Highbridge Principal Strategies’ direct credit investment strategy for the energy and power sectors. Highbridge has invested over $1.5 billion in direct energy-related investments. Prior to joining Highbridge in 2012, Mr. Dimitrievich was a Managing Director of Citi Credit Opportunities, a credit-focused principal investment group. At Citi Credit Opportunities, Mr. Dimitrievich oversaw the energy and power portfolio and invested over $800 million in mezzanine, special situation and equity co-investments, and secondary market opportunities. Mr. Dimitrievich began his career as a corporate attorney in the New York office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP from 1998 to 2004 focusing on energy mergers and acquisitions and capital markets transactions.  Mr. Dimitrievich also serves on the board of Energy & Exploration Partners, Inc. Mr. Dimitrievich has a Law degree with Great Distinction from McGill University in Montreal, Canada and earned a Chemical Engineering degree with Great Distinction from Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada.

Qualifications of Directors

Mr. Chappelle’s experience as our Chief Executive Officer since 2004, combined with his significant equity ownership of us, uniquely qualify him to serve as a director of our general partner.

Mr. Ellis is our founder; his experience in that capacity and as one of our executive officers since 1987 provide him intimate knowledge of our operations, finances and strategy and uniquely qualify him to serve as the Chairman of our general partner.

Ms. Ellis’ role in working with us since our inception in 1987 provides her with valuable knowledge of our business and operations.

Mr. Dimitrievich provides the Board with significant financial and energy expertise.

Mr. McCabe’s experience as our Chief Financial Officer since 2006 uniquely qualifies him to serve on our Board.

Audit and Compensation Committee

We do not have a formal compensation committee and our full Board serves as our audit committee. Because we do not have and are not seeking to list any securities on a national securities exchange or on an inter-dealer quotation system, we are not subject to a number of the corporate governance requirements of the SEC or of any national securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system. For example, we are not required to have a board of directors comprised of a majority of independent directors or to have an audit committee comprised of independent directors. Accordingly, our Board of Directors has not made any determination as to whether any of the members of our Board of Directors or committees thereof would qualify as independent under the listing standards of any national securities exchange or any inter-dealer quotation system or under any other independence definition. Additionally, for the same reason, we have not yet determined whether any of our directors is an audit committee financial expert.

Code of Ethics

The Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers. The Code of Ethics is posted on the investor relations section of our website at www.altamesa.net and is available free of charge upon written request to 15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77094.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Because we are a partnership, we do not directly employ any of the persons responsible for managing our business. Our operations and activities are managed by the Board of Directors of our general partner, Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC (“Alta Mesa GP”) and the officers of Alta Mesa Services, LP (“Alta Mesa Services”), our wholly owned subsidiary. References to our officers and employees are references to the officers and employees of Alta Mesa Services. We refer to the Board of Directors of Alta Mesa GP as “our Board” or “our Board of Directors.”

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Our Board of Directors has responsibility for overseeing our executive remuneration programs and the fair and competitive compensation of our executive officers and meets each year to review our compensation program and to determine compensation levels for the ensuing fiscal year.

In this Compensation Discussion and Analysis, we discuss our compensation objectives, our decisions and the rationale behind those decisions relating to 2013 compensation for our named executive officers.

Objectives of Our Compensation Program

Our executive compensation program is intended to motivate our executive officers to achieve strong financial and operating results for us. In addition, our program is designed to achieve the following objectives:

•attract and retain talented executive officers by providing reasonable total compensation levels competitive with that of executives holding comparable positions in similarly situated organizations;

•provide total compensation that is justified by individual performance; and

•provide performance–based compensation that is tied to both individual and our performance.

What Our Compensation Program is Designed to Reward

Our strategy is to increase reserves and production by applying advanced engineering analytics and enhanced geological techniques in areas we have identified as underdeveloped and overlooked. Our compensation program is designed to reward performance that contributes to the achievement of our business strategy. In addition, we reward qualities that we believe help achieve our strategy, such as teamwork; individual performance in light of general economic and industry specific conditions; performance that supports our core values; resourcefulness; the ability to manage our existing corporate assets; the ability to explore new avenues to increase oil and natural gas production and reserves; level of job responsibility; and tenure with us.

Elements of Our Compensation Program and Why We Pay Each Element

To accomplish our objectives, our compensation program is comprised of three elements: base salary, cash bonus and benefits. We currently do not offer equity-based compensation. In 2013, we introduced a deferred compensation and supplemental executive retirement plan.

We pay base salary in order to recognize each executive officer’s unique value and historical contributions to our success in light of salary norms in the industry and the general marketplace; to match competitors for executive talent; to provide executives with sufficient, regularly-paid income; and to reflect an executive’s position and level of responsibility.

We include an annual cash bonus as part of our compensation program because we believe this element of compensation helps to motivate executives to achieve key corporate objectives by providing annual recognition of achievement. The annual cash bonus also allows us to be competitive from a total remuneration standpoint.

We provide a deferred compensation and supplemental retirement plan to certain key employees, including all our executive officers, to provide additional flexibility and tax planning advantages to them.  In addition, the retirement benefitsenhance employee compensation on a discretionary basis and encourage their continued service to us.

We offer benefits such as a 401(k) plan and payment of insurance premiums in order to provide a competitive remuneration package as well as a measure of financial security to our employees.  In 2013 we introduced a deferred compensation plan offered to all employees, to provide flexibility and tax planning advantages to them.

How We Determine Each Element of Compensation

In determining the elements of compensation, we consider our ability to attract and retain executives as well as various measures of company and industrial performance including debt levels, revenues, cash flow, capital expenditures, reserves of oil and natural gas and costs. We did not retain a consultant with respect to determining 2013 compensation.

Messrs. Ellis, Chappelle, McCabe, and Murrell are parties to employment agreements with Alta Mesa Services. The employment agreements automatically renew annually, subject to prior notice of cancellation by either Alta Mesa Services or the executive. These employment agreements establish set minimum base salaries for each officer.  On March 25, 2014, these employment agreements were amended and restated and the salaries for each officer were set at $485,000, $485,000, $435,000, and $360,000 per annum, to Messrs. Ellis, Chappelle, McCabe and Murrell, respectively, which we believe are competitive with other independent oil and natural gas companies with whom we compete for managerial talent. In addition, the employment agreements provide that the executives are each entitled to an annual bonus equal to a percentage of his respective annual base salary if

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performance criteria set by the Board for the applicable period are met. The agreements also provide for benefits such as reimbursement of business expenses and participation in employee benefit plans.

Base salary. In reviewing base salaries, the Board takes into account a combination of subjective factors, primarily relying on their own personal judgment and experience. Subjective factors the Board considers include individual achievements, our performance, level of responsibility, experience, leadership abilities, increases or changes in duties and responsibilities and contributions to our performance. Mr. Ellis and Mr. Chappelle participate in and are present during the Board’s review and determination of their respective base salaries. For 2013, the Board set the base salaries for Messrs. Ellis, Chappelle and McCabe at $468,000, $468,000 and $420,000, respectively. In addition, the Board determined Mr. Murrell’s salary of $345,000 for 2013 was appropriate.

Bonus.  A portion of each executive’s total compensation may be paid as bonus compensation. The Board takes into consideration our achievements during the year and each executive’s contribution toward such achievements. While performance criteria may be set, the Board takes into account subjective factors in determining if these criteria were met. Bonuses for any one year are usually determined and paid in the second or third quarter of the following year. Accordingly, bonus compensation for our executive officers for 2013 has not yet been determined. However, bonuses paid in 2013 for 2012 performance ranged from approximately 75% to 200% of base salary.

Benefits.  We provide company benefits or perquisites that we believe are standard in the industry to all of our employees. These benefits consist of a group medical and dental insurance program for employees and their qualified dependents and a 401(k) employee savings and protection plan. The costs of these benefits are paid for entirely by us. We do not provide employee life insurance amounts surpassing the Internal Revenue Service maximum. We make matching contributions to the 401(k) contribution of each qualified participant. We pay all administrative costs to maintain the plan. In addition, we provide Messrs. Ellis, Chappelle, McCabe, and Murrell with company automobiles. Beginning annually in 2014, we will also reimburse each officer up to $5,000 annually for tax preparation and planning.

Other Compensation. As part of his employment agreement, we provide Mr. McCabe an apartment near our headquarters and pay his commuting expenses to and from his permanent home to Houston. In 2013, these housing and commuting expenses totaled approximately $134,000. We agreed to provide these benefits to Mr. McCabe because our Board believed it was necessary to retain Mr. McCabe’s services despite the fact that his permanent residence is outside of the Houston area. The Board considered the value of this additional compensation in evaluating Mr. McCabe’s total compensation package.

How Elements of Our Compensation Program are Related to Each Other

We view the various components of compensation as related but distinct and emphasize “pay for performance” with a portion of total compensation reflecting a risk aspect tied to our financial and strategic goals. We determine the appropriate level for each compensation component based in part, but not exclusively, on our view of internal equity and consistency, and other considerations we deem relevant, such as rewarding extraordinary performance.

Assessment of Risk

Our Board takes risk into account when making compensation decisions and has concluded that the executive compensation program as it is currently structured does not encourage excessive risk or unnecessary risk-taking.

Accounting and Tax Considerations

We have structured our compensation program to comply with Internal Revenue Code Section 409A. If an executive is entitled to nonqualified deferred compensation benefits that are subject to Section 409A, and such compensation does not comply with Section 409A, then the benefits are taxable in the first year they are not subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture. In such case, the service provider is subject to regular federal income tax, interest and an additional federal income tax of 20% of the benefit includible in income.

Compensation Committee Report

As we do not have a formal compensation committee, our entire Board of Directors serves as our compensation committee. Our Board of Directors has reviewed and discussed the above Compensation Discussion and Analysis with management and, based on such review and discussions, the Board of Directors recommended that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Harlan H. Chappelle

Michael E. Ellis (Chairman)

Mickey Ellis

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Summary Compensation

The following table summarizes, with respect to our named executive officers, information relating to the compensation earned for services rendered in all capacities during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013. There was no compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to any of the named executive officers related to option awards or non–equity incentive compensation plans. In addition, none of the named executive officers participate in a defined benefit pension plan.

							All Other
Name and Principal Position:	Year		Salary		Bonus (1)		Compensation			Total
Harlan H. Chappelle	2013	$	468,000	$	—	$	24,051	(2)	$	492,051
President, Chief Executive Officer	2012	$	450,000	$	900,000	$	31,281	(2)	$	1,381,281
	2011	$	450,000	$	900,000	$	29,586	(2)	$	1,379,586
Michael E. Ellis	2013	$	468,000	$	—	$	12,955	(3)	$	480,955
Chief Operating Officer, Vice President of	2012	$	450,000	$	500,000	$	19,463	(3)	$	969,463
Engineering and Chairman of the Board	2011	$	450,000	$	500,000	$	27,989	(3)	$	977,989
Michael A McCabe	2013	$	420,000	$	—	$	144,454	(4)	$	564,454
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer	2012	$	400,000	$	500,000	$	116,845	(4)	$	1,016,845
	2011	$	350,000	$	500,000	$	76,401	(4)	$	926,401
David Murrell	2013	$	345,000	$	—	$	353,937	(5)	$	698,937
Vice President of Land and Business Development	2012	$	325,000	$	250,000	$	28,438	(5)	$	603,438
	2011	$	300,000	$	225,000	$	24,027	(5)	$	549,027

(1) Bonuses for 2013 have not yet been determined. We expect these bonuses will be determined before the end of August 2014.

(2) Mr. Chappelle’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2013 consists of $10,200 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $13,851 in auto expenses.  Mr. Chappelle’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2012 consists of $10,000 in matching funds to his 401(k) account, $16,631 in auto expenses, and approximately $4,650 for club membership. Mr. Chappelle’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2011 consists of $9,800 in matching funds to his 401(k) account, $17,802 in auto expenses and approximately $1,984 for club membership.  

(3) Mr. Ellis’ other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2013 consists of $8,700 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $4,255 in auto expenses. Mr. Ellis’ other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2012 consists of$10,000 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $9,463 in auto expenses. Mr. Ellis’ other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2011 consists of $9,800 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $18,189 in auto expenses.

(4) For the year ended December 31, 2013, Mr. McCabe’s other compensation consisted of $10,200 in matching funds to his 401(k) account, and $134,254 in travel and living expenses, which includes $31,865 for an apartment in Houston and $102,389 for travel, which consists primarily of airfare and the cost of a leased car and parking.  For the year ended December 31, 2012, Mr. McCabe’s other compensation consisted of $10,000 in matching funds to his 401(k) account, and $106,845 in travel and living expenses, which includes $24,255 for an apartment in Houston and $82,590 for travel, which consists primarily of airfare and the cost of a leased car and parking. For the year ended December 31, 2011, Mr. McCabe’s other compensation consisted of $9,800 in matching funds to his 401(k) account, and $66,601 in travel and living expenses, which includes $18,764 for an apartment in Houston and $47,837 for travel, which consists primarily of airfare and the cost of rental cars and parking.

(5) Mr. Murrell’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2013 consists of $325,000 in an elective contribution made by the Company to his nonqualified deferred compensation account, $10,200 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $18,737 in auto expenses. Mr. Murrell’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2012 consists of $10,000 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $18,438 in auto expenses. Mr. Murrell’s other compensation for the year ended December 31, 2011 consists of $9,800 in matching funds to his 401(k) account and $14,227 in auto expense.

Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table

Employment agreements

Mr. Chappelle

Mr. Chappelle entered into an amended and restated employment agreement on March 25, 2014 that provides that he will act as President and Chief Executive Officer until March 25, 2018, subject to automatic one year renewals of the term if neither party submits a notice of termination at least 60 days prior to the end of the then-current term. This agreement may be terminated by either party, at any time, subject to severance obligations in the event Mr. Chappelle is terminated by us without cause or he dies or is disabled.

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Mr. Chappelle’s employment agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $485,000 and an annual bonus equal to a percentage of his base salary paid during each such annual period, such percentage to be established by our Board of Directors in the Board’s sole discretion.

Mr. Ellis

Mr. Ellis entered into an amended and restated employment agreement on March 25, 2014 that provides that he will act as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer until March 25, 2018, subject to automatic one year renewals of the term if neither party submits a notice of termination at least 60 days prior to the end of the then-current term. This agreement may be terminated by either party, at any time, subject to severance obligations in the event Mr. Ellis is terminated by us without cause or he dies or is disabled.

Mr. Ellis’ employment agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $485,000 and an annual bonus equal to a percentage of his base salary paid during each such annual period, such percentage to be established by our Board of Directors in the Board’s sole discretion.

Mr. McCabe

Mr. McCabe entered into an amended and restated employment agreement on March 25, 2014 that provides that he will act as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer until March 25, 2018, subject to automatic one year renewals of the term if neither party submits a notice of termination at least 60 days prior to the end of the then-current term. This agreement may be terminated by either party, at any time, subject to severance obligations in the event Mr. McCabe is terminated by us without cause or he dies or is disabled.

Mr. McCabe’s employment agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $435,000 and an annual bonus equal to a percentage of his base salary paid during each such annual period, such percentage to be established by our Board of Directors in the Board’s sole discretion.

Mr. McCabe’s employment agreement also provides that he is allowed to work from his residence in Massachusetts as well as in our Houston office so long as he is capable of performing his duties assigned to him. In his employment agreement, we also agree to provide Mr. McCabe with suitable housing (or a housing allowance) and an automobile or reimbursement for the lease of an automobile while he is in Houston.

Mr. Murrell

Mr. Murrell entered into an amended and restated employment agreement on March 25, 2014 that provides that he will act as Vice President of Land and Business Development until March 25, 2015, subject to automatic one year renewals of the term if neither party submits a notice of termination at least 60 days prior to the end of the then-current term. This agreement may be terminated by either party, at any time, subject to severance obligations in the event Mr. Murrell is terminated by us without cause or he dies or is disabled.

Mr. Murrell’s employment agreement provides for a minimum base salary of $360,000 and an annual bonus equal to a percentage of his base salary paid during each such annual period, such percentage to be established by our Board of Directors in the Board’s sole discretion, subject to a minimum of $50,000.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards for Fiscal Year 2013

There were no grants of plan-based awards to our named executive officers during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.

Outstanding Equity Awards Value at 2013 Fiscal Year-End

There were no outstanding equity awards for our named executive officers as of December 31, 2013.

Option Exercises and Equity Awards Vested in Fiscal Year 2013

There were no exercises of equity awards and no vesting of equity awards for our named executive officers during fiscal 2013.

Pension Benefits

We do not provide pension benefits for our named executive officers.

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Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

We established a nonqualified deferred compensation plan in 2013, theAlta Mesa Holdings, L.P. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the “Plan”), to provide additional flexibility and tax planning advantages to our executives and other key highly compensated employees.  The Board of Directors administers the Plan, and at its sole discretion, designates employees eligible to participate.  Participants may defer up to 90% of their salary and up to 100% of their cash bonus under the program.   The Board of Directors may also, at its sole discretion, make elective employer contributions on behalf of selected participants.  The terms of such contributions may include a specified vesting schedule, intended to encourage continuous service to the Company.  If no schedule is specified with the award, the Plan provides for vesting based on years of service, with full vesting at three years.  Participants may withdraw vested funds from the Plan in accordance with the distribution schedule established when the contributions are elected or awarded, with the option of deferring a very short time or as long as until retirement from the Company.  The Plan is an unsecured and unfunded promise to pay the participants, who are general creditors of the Company. 

In 2013, no amounts of salary or bonus were elected to be deferred under the plan by any named executive.  One elective employer contribution was made for the account of David Murrell.  The Board of Directors elected to make this distribution subject to a four-year vesting schedule, with 20% vested immediately and 20% to vest each subsequent year.

NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION
									Aggregate
		Executive		Company			Aggregate		Withdrawals /		Aggregate
		Contributions		Contributions			Earnings		Distributions		Balance at
Name		in 2013 ($)		in 2013 ($)			in 2013 ($)		during 2013 ($)		December 31, 2013 ($)
David Murrell	$	—	$	325,000	(1)	$	—	$	—	$	325,000
(1)  Included in "All Other Compensation" on the Summary Compensation Table.

Termination of Employment and Change–in–Control Provisions

Messrs. Chappelle, Ellis, McCabe and Murrell are parties to employment agreements which provide them with post–termination benefits in a variety of circumstances. The amount of compensation payable in some cases may vary depending on the nature of the termination, whether as a result of retirement/voluntary termination, involuntary not–for–cause termination, termination following a change of control and in the event of disability or death of the executive. The discussion below describes the varying amounts payable in each of these situations. It assumes, in each case, that the officer’s termination was effective as of December 31, 2013. In presenting this disclosure, we describe amounts earned through December 31, 2013 and, in those cases where the actual amounts to be paid out can only be determined at the time of such executive’s separation from us, our estimates of the amounts which would be paid out to the executives upon their termination.

Provisions Under the Employment Agreements

Under the employment agreements, if the executive’s employment with us terminates, the executive is entitled to unpaid salary for the full month in which the termination date occurred. However, if the executive is terminated for cause, the executive is only entitled to receive accrued but unpaid salary through the termination date. In addition, if the executive’s employment terminates, the executive is entitled to unpaid vacation days for that year which have accrued through the termination date, reimbursement of reasonable business expenses that were incurred but unpaid as of the termination date, a pro rata portion of the annual bonus for that year and COBRA coverage as required by law. Salary and accrued vacation days are payable in cash lump sum less applicable withholdings. Business expenses are reimbursable in accordance with normal procedures.

If the executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by us (except for cause or due to the death of the executive) or if the executive’s employment is terminated due to disability or retirement or by the executive for good reason, we are obligated to pay as additional compensation an amount in cash equal to two years, except in the case of Mr. Murrell, in which case it was six months, as of December 31, 2013, of the executive’s base salary in effect as of the termination date. Under the terms of Mr. Murrell’s employment agreement, as of December 31, 2013, upon such involuntary termination, he would also be paid 50% of the annual bonus then in effect.  Mr. Murrell’s amended and restated employment agreement now provides for 18 months’ base salary and two times the annual bonus then in effect.  Assuming termination as of December 31, 2013, for both Messrs. Chappelle and Ellis, the termination benefit would have been $936,000; for Mr. McCabe, $840,000; and for Mr. Murrell, $297,500. In addition, all vested amounts in the executive’s deferred supplemental retirement account would be distributed.  Assuming termination as of December 31, 2013, Mr. Murrell, who is the only executive as of that date with a balance in that plan, would have received a distribution of $65,000.  Our executives are each entitled under their employment agreements to continued group health plan coverage following the termination date for the executive and the executive’s eligible spouse and dependents for the maximum period for which such qualified

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beneficiaries are eligible to receive COBRA coverage, which is 18 months. The executive shall not be required to pay more for COBRA coverage than officers who are then in active service for us and receiving coverage under the plan. Assuming termination as of December 31, 2013, for each of Messrs. Chappelle, Ellis, McCabe, and Murrell, this amount would have been $18.00 to each. Our total cost of providing this benefit would have been $29,582 for Mr. Chappelle, $42,330 for Mr. Ellis, $29,582 for Mr. McCabe, and $29,582 for Mr. Murrell.

“Cause” means:

· the executive’s conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony, or entering the plea of nolo contendere to such crime by the executive;

· the commission by the executive of a demonstrable act of fraud, or a misappropriation of funds or property, of or upon us or any affiliate;

· the engagement by the executive without approval of us and the Board of Directors in any material activity which directly competes with the business of us or any affiliate or which would directly result in a material injury to the business or reputation of us or any affiliate (including the partners of Alta Mesa); or

· the breach by the executive of any material provision of the employment agreement, and the executive’s continued failure to cure such breach within a reasonable time period set by us but in no event less than twenty calendar days after the executive’s receipt of such notice.

“Good reason” means the occurrence of any of the following, if not cured and correct by us or our successor, within 60 days after written notice thereof is provided by the executive to us or our successor:

· the demotion or reduction in title or rank of the executive, or the assignment to the executive of duties that are materially inconsistent with the executive’s current positions, duties, responsibilities and status with us, or any removal of the executive from, or any failure to re-elect the executive to, any of such positions (other than a change due to the executive’s disability or as an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act), except for any such demotion, reduction, assignment, removal or failure that occurs in connection with (i) the executive’s termination of employment for cause, disability or death, or (ii) the executive’s prior written consent;

· the reduction of the executive’s annual base salary or bonus opportunity as effective immediately prior to such reduction without the prior written consent of the executive; or

· a relocation of the executive’s principal work location to a location in excess of 50 miles from its then current location.

“Retirement” means the termination of the executive’s employment for normal retirement at or after attaining age 70, provided that the executive has been with us for at least five years.

The employment agreements do not separately provide for benefits upon a change of control.

Termination benefits under our supplemental executive retirement plan define “cause” as above for the employment agreements.  Under the terms of the Plan, termination for any reason other than cause would result in a distribution of the participant’s vested balance in the account.  The terms of the Plan also include a change of control provision, under which all balances in the Plan become immediately vested if the participant is terminated during the first year after the change in control for any reason other than cause.  Normal retirement age is defined under the Plan as 65 years of age.

Compensation of Directors

The employee and non-employee members of the Board of Directors do not receive compensation for their services as directors. However, our directors may be reimbursed for their expenses in attending Board meetings.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

We do not currently have a compensation committee. None of our executive officers has served as a director or member of the compensation committee of any other entity whose executive officers served as a director or member of our compensation committee.

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Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The following table sets forth as of March 27, 2014 the limited partnership interests in Alta Mesa beneficially owned by:

· all persons who, to the knowledge of our management team, beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding limited partnership interests;

· each current director of Alta Mesa GP, our general partner;

· each principal officer of Alta Mesa GP; and

· all current directors and principal officers of Alta Mesa GP as a group.

	Number	Percentage	Number	Percentage
	of Class A	of Class A	of Class B	of Class B
	Units	Units	Units	Units
	Beneficially	Beneficially	Beneficially	Beneficially
Name of Beneficial Owner (1)	Owned	Owned	Owned	Owned
Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc. (2)	10,000	10.00%	100,000	100.0%
Michael E. Ellis (3)	85,050	85.05%	—	—
Mickey Ellis (4)	—	—	—	—
Harlan H. Chappelle	4,500	4.50%	—	—
Don Dimitrievich	—	—	—	—
Michael A. McCabe	—	—	—	—
David Murrell	—	—	—	—
Directors and principal officers as a group (6 persons)	99,550	99.55%	—	—

(1) Unless otherwise indicated, the address for all beneficial owners in this table is at 15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77094.

(2) Our Class A Limited Partners collectively own all of the common stock of Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc. in the same proportions as their interest in us.

(3) Mr. Ellis does not own directly any partnership interests. Includes limited partner interests held by Alta Mesa Resources, LP, Galveston Bay Resources Holdings, LP, Petro Acquisition Holdings, LP and Petro Operating Company Holdings, Inc., all entities owned and controlled by Mr. Ellis.

(4) Mickey Ellis is the spouse of Michael E. Ellis. Ms. Ellis may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the partnership interests owned by Mr. Ellis.

Additionally, our general partner, Alta Mesa GP, is owned by Mr. and Ms. Ellis and Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc.  

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

We do not have any equity compensation plans.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

We do not have any formal policy with respect to the review and approval of related party transactions.

Ownership in Us and Our General Partner 

Michael E. Ellis, our Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, and his spouse Mickey Ellis, one of our directors, own 85.05% of our Class A interests. Our general partner, Alta Mesa GP, is owned by Alta Mesa Resources, LP, an entity owned by Michael E. Ellis and Mickey Ellis, and Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc. Our general partner has a 0.1% interest in us.

Founder Notes

We were founded in 1987 by Michael E. Ellis and we or our subsidiaries have over time entered into promissory notes to repay Mr. Ellis for contributions of working capital and other amounts. On March 25, 2014, these notes were amended and restated.  The maturity date of the notes was extended to December 31, 2021.  The interest rate and interest payment terms were not changed.

Land Consulting Services

David Murrell, our Vice President, Land and Business Development, is the principal of David Murrell & Associates, which provides land consulting services to us. The primary employee of David Murrell & Associates is his spouse, Brigid Murrell. Services

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are provided at a pre-negotiated hourly rate based on actual time employed by us. Total expenditures under this arrangement for the year ended December 31, 2013 were approximately $175,000. The contract may be terminated by either party without penalty upon 30 days’ notice.

Employee and Distribution

David McClure, one of our senior engineers and the son-in-law of our CEO, Harlan H. Chappelle, received total compensation of $390,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013. Additionally, his position provides him with the use of a company vehicle, similar to our other engineers whose duties include field oversight.

Director Independence

Our Board of Directors consists of five members, two of whom are non-employee directors. Because we only have debt securities registered with the SEC under the Exchange Act and because we do not have a class of securities listed on any national securities exchange, national securities association or inter-dealer quotation system, we are not required to have a board of directors comprised of a majority of independent directors under SEC rules or any listing standards. Accordingly, our Board of Directors has not made any determination as to whether the non-employee directors satisfy any independence requirements applicable to board members under the rules of the SEC or any national securities exchange, inter-dealer quotation system or any other independence definition.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Our Board of Directors selected UHY LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, to audit our consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013. Aggregate fees for professional services rendered to us by UHY LLP for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

Audit Fees

	2013		2012
Audit fees	$	460,116	$	546,750
Audit-related fees		40,000		39,650
Tax fees		23,515		—
All other fees		19,375		—
Total	$	543,006	$	586,400

The audit fees for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were for professional services rendered for the audits of our consolidated financial statements and review of our quarterly financial statements. 

Audit-related fees

Audit-related fees for the years 2013 and 2012 include fees for the audit of our 401(k) employee savings plan.

Tax fees

The tax fees for the year ended December 31, 2013 were for professional services rendered for tax planning.

All other fees

All other fees represent consulting related to various transactions contemplated or executed during the year.

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

We currently have no Board committees. Our Board of Directors has adopted policies regarding the pre-approval of auditor services. Specifically, the Board of Directors approves all services provided by the independent public accountants at its March meeting. All additional services must be pre-approved on a case-by-case basis. Our Board of Directors reviews the actual and budgeted fees for the independent public accountants periodically at regularly scheduled board meetings. All of the services provided by UHY LLP during fiscal 2013 and 2012 were approved by the Board of Directors.

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PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a)Documents filed as part of this report:

1.Financial Statements:

(i)Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’s Report

(ii)Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013

(iii)Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012

(iv)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013

(v)Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partners’ Capital (Deficit) for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013

(vi)Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(vii)Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Information (Unaudited)

2.Financial Statement Schedules:

(i)All schedules are omitted as they are not applicable, not required or the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

3.Exhibits:

EXHIBIT NUMBER	Description Of Exhibit
3.1	Articles of Organization of Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC dated as of September 26, 2005 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
3.2*	Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC, dated as of March 25, 2014.
3.3	Certificate of Limited Partnership of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, dated as of September 26, 2005 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.3 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
3.4	Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, dated as of March 25, 2014 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
3.7	Certificate of Incorporation of Alta Mesa Finance Services Corp., dated September 27, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.7 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
3.8	Bylaws of Alta Mesa Finance Services Corp., dated as of September 27, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.8 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
4.1	Indenture by and among the Issuers, the Subsidiary Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee, dated as of October 13, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
10.1	Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders parties thereto from time to time, dated as of May 13, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
10.2	Amendment No. 1 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, the guarantors parties thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders parties thereto from time to time, dated as of September 2, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).

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10.3	Amendment No. 2 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, the guarantors parties thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders parties thereto from time to time, dated as of December 6, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC on April 27, 2011).
10.4 *	Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 25, 2014, between Alta Mesa Services, LP and Harlan H. Chappelle
10.5 *	Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 25, 2014, between Alta Mesa Services, LP and Michael E. Ellis
10.6 *	Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 25, 2014, between Alta Mesa Services, LP and Michael A. McCabe
10.7 *	Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 25, 2014, between Alta Mesa Services, LP and F. David Murrell
10.8	Second Amended and Restated Promissory Note, dated March 25, 2014 executed by Galveston Bay Resources, LP in favor of Michael E. Ellis (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
10.9	Second Amended and Restated Promissory Note, dated March 25, 2014 executed by Alta Mesa Holdings, LP in favor of Michael E. Ellis (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
10.10	Second Amended and Restated Promissory Note, dated March 25, 2014, executed by Petro Acquisitions, LP in favor of Michael E. Ellis (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.5 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
10.11	Amendment No. 3 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto from time to time, dated as of May 23, 2011 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.20 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s registration statement on Form S-4/A filed with the SEC on July 11, 2011).
10.12	Amendment No. 5 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto from time to time, dated as of May 15, 2012 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on May 15, 2012).
10.13	Amendment No. 4 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto from time to time, dated as of November 7, 2011 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on November 14, 2011).
10.14	Alta Mesa Holdings, L. P. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, dated August 8, 2013 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s current report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 20, 2013).
10.15	Purchase and Sale Agreement dated March 25, 2014 among AM Eagle LLC and Memorial Production Partners LP (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
10.16	Amendment No. 7 to Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and among Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders party thereto from time to time, dated as of March 25, 2014 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 26, 2014).
21.1*	Subsidiaries of the Company.
23.1*	Consent of UHY LLP.
23.2*	Consent of Ryder Scott Company, L. P.

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31.1*	Certification of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 7241).
31.2*	Certification of the Company’s Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 7241).
32.1*	Certification of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 1350).
32.2*	Certification of the Company’s Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. Section 1350).
99.1*	Audit Letter by Ryder Scott Company, L. P., dated as of March 17, 2014.
101*	Interactive Data Files.

*Filed herewith.

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SIGNATURES

In accordance with Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, L.P.

(Registrant)

By	/S/ MICHAEL A. MCCABE
	Michael A. McCabe Chief Financial Officer

Dated March 27, 2014

In accordance with the Exchange Act, this report has been signed below on the 27th day of March, 2014, by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

	Signature	Title
By:	/s/ HARLAN H. CHAPPELLE Harlan H. Chappelle	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
By:	/s/ MICHAEL E. ELLIS Michael E. Ellis	Founder, Chairman, Vice President of Engineering and Chief Operating Officer, Director
By:	/s/ MICKEY ELLIS Mickey Ellis	Director
By:	/s/ MICHAEL A. MCCABE Michael A. McCabe	Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial Officer)
By:	/s/ DON DIMITRIEVICH Don Dimitrievich	Director
By:	/s/ RONALD J. SMITH Ronald J. Smith	Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)

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GLOSSARY OF CERTAIN OIL AND NATURAL GAS TERMS

The definitions set forth below apply to the indicated terms as used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. All volumes of natural gas referred to are stated at the legal pressure base of the state or area where the reserves exist and at 60 degrees Fahrenheit and in most instances are rounded to the nearest major multiple.

“3-D seismic”. (Three-Dimensional Seismic Data) Geophysical data that depicts the subsurface strata in three dimensions. 3-D seismic data typically provides a more detailed and accurate interpretation of the subsurface strata than two-dimensional seismic data.

“Bbl”. One stock tank barrel, of 42 U.S. gallons liquid volume, used herein in reference to crude oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

“Bcf”. One billion cubic feet of natural gas.

“Bcfe”. One billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent with one barrel of oil converted to six thousand cubic feet of natural gas. The ratio of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is commonly used in the oil and natural gas business and represents the approximate energy equivalency of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids, and does not represent the sales price equivalency of natural gas to oil or natural gas liquids. Currently, the sales price of one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is significantly higher than the sales price of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas.

“Basin”. A large natural depression on the earth’s surface in which sediments generally brought by water accumulate.

“BOE”.  One barrel of oil equivalent determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one barrel of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids. The ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is commonly used in the oil and natural gas business and represents the approximate energy equivalency of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids, and does not represent the sales price equivalency of natural gas to oil or natural gas liquids. Currently, the sales price of one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is significantly higher than the sales price of six Mcf of natural gas.

“Btu or British Thermal Unit”. The quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

“Completion”. The process of treating a drilled well followed by the installation of permanent equipment for the production of natural gas or oil, or in the case of a dry hole, the reporting of abandonment to the appropriate agency.

“DD&A”. Depreciation, depletion and amortization.

“De-bottlenecking”. The process of increasing production capacity of existing facilities through the modification of existing equipment to remove throughput restrictions.

“Delineation”. The process of placing a number of wells in various parts of a reservoir to determine its boundaries and production characteristics.

“Developed acreage”. The number of acres that are allocated or assignable to productive wells or wells capable of production.

“Developed oil and natural gas reserves”. Developed oil and natural gas reserves are reserves of any category that can be expected to be recovered: (i) through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods or in which the cost of the related equipment is relatively minor compared to the cost of a new well; and (ii) through installed extraction equipment and infrastructure operational at the time of the reserves estimate if the extraction is by means not involving a well.

“Development well”. A well drilled within the proved area of an oil or natural gas reservoir to the depth of a stratigraphic horizon known to be productive.

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

“Dry hole costs”. Costs incurred in drilling a well, assuming a well is not successful, including plugging and abandonment costs.

“Enhanced recovery”. The recovery of oil and natural gas through the injection of liquids or gases into the reservoir, supplementing its natural energy. Enhanced recovery methods are often applied when production slows due to depletion of the natural pressure.

“Exploratory well”. A well drilled to find and produce natural gas or oil reserves not classified as proved, to find a new reservoir in a field previously found to be productive of natural gas or oil in another reservoir or to extend a known reservoir.

“Farm-in or farm-out”. An agreement under which the owner of a working interest in an oil and natural gas lease assigns the working interest or a portion of the working interest to another party who desires to drill on the leased acreage. Generally, the assignee is required to drill one or more wells in order to earn its interest in the acreage. The assignor usually retains a royalty or

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reversionary interest in the lease. The interest received by an assignee is a “farm-in” while the interest transferred by the assignor is a “farm-out”.

“Fault”. A break or planar surface in brittle rock across which there is observable displacement.

“Field”. An area consisting of a single reservoir or multiple reservoirs all grouped on, or related to, the same individual geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition. The field name refers to the surface area, although it may refer to both the surface and the underground productive formations.

“Formation”. A layer of rock which has distinct characteristics that differs from nearby rock.

“Fracing, fracture stimulation technology, hydraulic fracturing”. The technique of improving a well’s production or injection rates by pumping a mixture of fluids into the formation and rupturing the rock, creating an artificial channel. As part of this technique, sand or other material may also be injected into the formation to keep the channel open, so that fluids or natural gases may more easily flow through the formation.

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

“Horizontal drilling”. A drilling technique used in certain formations where a well is drilled vertically to a certain depth and then drilled at a right angle within a specified interval.

“Infill wells”. Wells drilled into the same pool as known producing wells so that oil or natural gas does not have to travel as far through the formation.

“Lease operating expenses”. The expenses of lifting oil or natural gas from a producing formation to the surface, constituting part of the current operating expenses of a working interest, and also including labor, superintendence, supplies, repairs, short-lived assets, maintenance, allocated overhead costs, workover, ad valorem taxes, insurance and other expenses incidental to production, but excluding lease acquisition or drilling or completion expenses.

“MBbl”. One thousand barrels of crude oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

“Mcf”. One thousand cubic feet of natural gas.

“Mcfe”. One thousand cubic feet equivalent determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one barrel of oil, condensate or natural gas liquids. The ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is commonly used in the oil and natural gas business and represents the approximate energy equivalency of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids, and does not represent the sales price equivalency of natural gas to oil or natural gas liquids. Currently, the sales price of one Bbl of oil or natural gas liquids is significantly higher than the sales price of six Mcf of natural gas.

“Mcfe/d”. Mcfe per day.

“MMBtu”. One million British thermal units.

“MMcf”. One million cubic feet of natural gas.

“MMcfe”. Million cubic feet equivalent, determined using the ratio of six Mcf of natural gas to one Bbl of crude oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

“MMcfe/d”. MMcfe per day.

“MMBbl”. One million barrels of crude oil, condensate or natural gas liquids.

“NGLs” or “natural gas liquids.” Hydrocarbons found in natural gas which may be extracted as liquefied petroleum gas and natural gasoline.

“NYMEX”. The New York Mercantile Exchange.

“Net Acres”. The percentage of total acres an owner has out of a particular number of acres, or a specified tract. An owner who has 50% interest in 100 acres owns 50 net acres.

“Non-operated working interests”. The working interest or fraction thereof in a lease or unit, the owner of which is without operating rights by reason of an operating agreement.

“Pay”. A reservoir or portion of a reservoir that contains economically producible hydrocarbons. The overall interval in which pay sections occur is the gross pay; the smaller portions of the gross pay that meet local criteria for pay (such as a minimum porosity, permeability and hydrocarbon saturation) are net pay.

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

“Prospect”. A specific geographic area which, based on supporting geological, geophysical or other data and also preliminary economic analysis using reasonably anticipated prices and costs, is deemed to have potential for the discovery of commercial hydrocarbons.

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“PDNP”. Proved developed non-producing reserves.

“PDP”. Proved developed producing reserves.

“Proved reserves”. Proved oil and natural gas reserves are those quantities of oil and natural gas, which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible — from a given date forward from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods and government regulations — prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that renewal is reasonably certain, regardless of whether deterministic or probabilistic methods are used for the estimation. The project to extract the hydrocarbons must have commenced or the operator must be reasonably certain that it will commence the project within a reasonable time.

“Proved undeveloped reserves (“PUD”)”. Proved undeveloped oil and natural gas reserves are reserves that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion. Reserves on undrilled acreage are limited to those drilling units offsetting productive units that are reasonably certain of production when drilled. Proved reserves for other undrilled units are claimed only where it can be demonstrated with reasonable certainty that there is continuity of production from the existing productive formation. Estimates for proved undeveloped reserves will not be attributable to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is contemplated, unless such techniques have been proved effective by actual tests in the area and in the same reservoir.

“PV-10”. When used with respect to oil and natural gas reserves, PV-10 means the estimated future gross revenue to be generated from the production of proved reserves, net of estimated production and future development and abandonment costs, using prices and costs in effect at the determination date, before income taxes, and without giving effect to non-property related expenses, discounted to a present value using an annual discount rate of 10% in accordance with the guidelines of the SEC. PV-10 is not a financial measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and generally differs from Standardized Measure, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, because it does not include the effects of income taxes on future net revenues. Neither PV-10 nor Standardized Measure represents an estimate of the fair market value of our oil and natural gas properties. We and others in the industry use PV-10 as a measure to compare the relative size and value of proved reserves held by companies without regard to the specific tax characteristics of such entities. Our PV-10 is the same as our standardized measure for the periods presented in this report.

“Recompletion”. The process of re-entering an existing wellbore that is either producing or not producing and completing new reservoirs in an attempt to establish or increase existing production.

“Reserve life index”. A measure of the productive life of an oil and natural gas property or a group of properties, expressed in years.

“Reservoir”. A porous and permeable underground formation containing a natural accumulation of producible oil and/or natural gas that is confined by impermeable rock or water barriers and is separate from other reservoirs.

“Spacing”. The distance between wells producing from the same reservoir. Spacing is often expressed in terms of acres, e.g., 40-acre spacing, and is often established by regulatory agencies.

“Standardized measure”. Standardized measure is the present value of estimated future net revenues to be generated from the production of proved reserves, determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, without giving effect to non — property related expenses such as certain general and administrative expenses, debt service and future federal income tax expenses or to depreciation, depletion and amortization and discounted using an annual discount rate of 10%. Our standardized measure includes future obligations under the Texas gross margin tax, but it does not include future federal income tax expenses because we are a partnership and are not subject to federal income taxes. Our standardized measure is the same as our PV-10 for the periods presented in this report.

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

“Unit”. The joining of all or substantially all interests in a reservoir or field, rather than a single tract, to provide for development and operation without regard to separate property interests. Also, the area covered by a unitization agreement.

“Waterflood”. The injection of water into an oil reservoir to “push” additional oil out of the reservoir rock and into the wellbores of producing wells. Typically an enhanced recovery process.

“Wellbore”. The hole drilled by the bit that is equipped for natural gas production on a completed well. Also called well or borehole.

“Working interest”. The right granted to the lessee of a property to explore for and to produce and own natural gas or other minerals. The working interest owners bear the exploration, development, and operating costs on either a cash, penalty, or carried basis.

65

Table of Contents
Index to Financial Statements

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Below is an index to the financial statements and notes contained in Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

	Page
Audited Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	F-1
Consolidated Balance Sheets	F-2
Consolidated Statements of Operations	F-3
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partners’ Capital (Deficit)	F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	F-5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	F-6

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Partners of

Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and Subsidiaries

Houston, Texas

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in partners’ capital (deficit) and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013. The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/S/ UHY LLP

Houston, Texas

March 27, 2014

F-1

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	6,537	$	5,786
Restricted cash		—		2,305
Accounts receivable, net		43,486		40,715
Other receivables		2,552		4,415
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		3,077		4,501
Derivative financial instruments		5,572		21,360
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS		61,224		79,082
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Oil and natural gas properties, successful efforts method, net		691,770		639,466
Other property and equipment, net		9,100		16,031
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET		700,870		655,497
OTHER ASSETS
Investment in Partnership — cost		9,000		9,000
Deferred financing costs, net		10,943		13,685
Derivative financial instruments		3,405		14,066
Advances to operators		6,863		9,416
Deposits and other assets		1,186		1,686
TOTAL OTHER ASSETS		31,397		47,853
TOTAL ASSETS	$	793,491	$	782,432
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT)
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	96,095	$	112,684
Current portion, asset retirement obligations		3,844		64
Derivative financial instruments		4,483		91
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES		104,422		112,839
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Asset retirement obligations, net of current portion		52,179		48,529
Long-term debt		766,868		601,858
Notes payable to founder		23,331		22,123
Derivative financial instruments		4,486		—
Other long-term liabilities		2,312		3,451
TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES		849,176		675,961
TOTAL LIABILITIES		953,598		788,800
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 11)
PARTNERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT)		(160,107)		(6,368)
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT)	$	793,491	$	782,432

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-2

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

	Year Ended
	December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
REVENUES
Oil	$	291,643	$	220,638	$	161,726
Natural gas		85,720		95,922		144,548
Natural gas liquids		15,264		15,606		17,637
Other revenues		1,207		4,567		2,127
		393,834		336,733		326,038
Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts		(35,327)		(17,434)		28,169
TOTAL REVENUES		358,507		319,299		354,207
EXPENSES
Lease and plant operating expense		70,450		69,047		62,637
Production and ad valorem taxes		26,369		23,485		19,357
Workover expense		13,679		12,740		11,777
Exploration expense		33,065		21,912		15,785
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense		118,558		109,252		94,251
Impairment expense		143,166		96,227		18,735
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812
Loss on sale of assets		2,715		—		—
General and administrative expense		47,023		40,222		33,087
TOTAL EXPENSES		457,158		374,698		257,441
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS		(98,651)		(55,399)		96,766
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest expense		(55,188)		(41,932)		(32,722)
Interest income		124		99		78
Litigation settlement		—		1,250		—
Gain on contract settlement		—		—		1,285
TOTAL OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)		(55,064)		(40,583)		(31,359)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE STATE INCOME TAXES		(153,715)		(95,982)		65,407
BENEFIT FROM (PROVISION FOR) STATE INCOME TAXES		—		107		(228)
NET INCOME (LOSS)	$	(153,715)	$	(95,875)	$	65,179

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-3

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARTNERS’ CAPITAL (DEFICIT)

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013, 2012, AND 2011

(dollars in thousands)

BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2010	$	24,658
DISTRIBUTIONS		(165)
NET INCOME		65,179
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2011		89,672
DISTRIBUTIONS		(165)
NET LOSS		(95,875)
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2012		(6,368)
DISTRIBUTIONS		(24)
NET LOSS		(153,715)
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2013	$	(160,107)

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$	(153,715)	$	(95,875)	$	65,179
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense		118,558		109,252		94,251
Impairment expense		143,166		96,227		18,735
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812
Amortization of loan costs		2,839		2,424		2,813
Amortization of debt discount		510		322		260
Dry hole expense		15,295		8,454		6,064
Expired leases		3,289		—		96
Unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives		35,327		16,134		(32,256)
(Gain) on contract settlement		—		—		(1,285)
Interest converted into debt		1,208		1,212		1,202
Loss on sale of assets		2,715		—		—
Deferred state tax provision		—		—		228
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash		2,305		(2,305)		—
Accounts receivable		(2,771)		92		(2,726)
Other receivables		1,863		(1,609)		3,532
Prepaid expenses and other non-current assets		4,477		(5,558)		(4,478)
Settlement of asset retirement obligation		(1,548)		(3,562)		(1,665)
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other long-term liabilities		(3,132)		20,172		(1,107)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES		172,519		147,193		150,655
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures for property and equipment		(311,438)		(224,719)		(193,770)
Acquisitions		(51,377)		(30,346)		(72,363)
Proceeds from sale of property		26,668		—		—
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES		(336,147)		(255,065)		(266,133)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from long-term debt		214,500		270,000		130,500
Repayments of long-term debt		(50,000)		(155,500)		(15,000)
Additions to deferred financing costs		(97)		(3,307)		(2,063)
Capital distributions		(24)		(165)		(165)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES		164,379		111,028		113,272
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS		751		3,156		(2,206)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period		5,786		2,630		4,836
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period	$	6,537	$	5,786	$	2,630
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for interest	$	50,731	$	36,853	$	32,069
Cash paid during the period for state taxes	$	18	$	124	$	—
Change in asset retirement obligations	$	854	$	1,661	$	587
Asset retirement obligations assumed, purchased properties	$	5,480	$	1,476	$	2,807
Change in accruals or liabilities for capital expenditures	$	(14,085)	$	22,061	$	(17,478)

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2013, 2012 AND 2011

NOTE 1 — NATURE OF OPERATIONS

Nature of Operations. Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Alta Mesa,” the “Company,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) is engaged primarily in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas properties. Our core properties are located in Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. 

NOTE 2 — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

We use accounting policies which reflect industry practices and conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”). As used herein, the following acronyms have the following meanings: “FASB” means the Financial Accounting Standards Board; the “Codification” refers to the Accounting Standards Codification, the collected accounting and reporting guidance maintained by the FASB; “ASC” means Accounting Standards Codification and is generally followed by a number indicating a particular section of the Codification; and “ASU” means Accounting Standards Update, followed by an identification number, which are the periodic updates made to the Codification by the FASB. “SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, after eliminating all significant intercompany transactions. The Company’s interest in oil and natural gas exploration and production ventures and partnerships are proportionately consolidated.

Use of Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

Reserve estimates significantly impact depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties and are subject to change based on changes in oil and natural gas prices and trends and changes in estimated reserve quantities.  Other significant estimates include those related to oil and natural gas reserves, the value of oil and natural gas properties (including acquisition properties), oil and natural gas revenues, bad debts, asset retirement obligations, derivative contracts, state taxes and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. We review estimates and underlying assumptions on a regular basis.  Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Reclassifications.Certain amounts in the 2012 and 2011 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation. The reclassifications had no impact on net income (loss) or partners’ capital (deficit).

In 2013 we revised our reporting for natural gas liquids produced in our Oklahoma properties.  Whereas we had previously reported all revenues from Oklahoma for 2012 and 2011 as attributable to a single stream of rich natural gas, we began recording revenues for natural gas liquids from Oklahoma separately in 2013.  For comparability, we have reclassified approximately $3.3 million in revenues from natural gas to natural gas liquids for the year 2012.  For 2011, we have reclassified $5.0 million in natural gas revenues to revenues from natural gas liquids.  These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported total revenues, net income, cash flows, or partners’ capital (deficit).

Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash balances at financial institutions in the United States of America, which at times exceed federally insured amounts. The Federal Deposit Insurance provides insurance up to $250,000 per depositor. We monitor the financial condition of the financial institutions and have experienced no losses associated with these accounts. Restricted cash in 2012 included a balance on deposit related to deferred payment of certain royalties.

Accounts Receivable. Our receivables arise from the sale of oil and natural gas and joint interest owner receivables for properties in which we serve as the operator. This concentration of customers may impact our overall credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that these entities may be similarly affected by changes in economic or other conditions affecting the oil and natural gas industry. Accounts receivable are generally not collateralized.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We routinely assess the recoverability of all material trade and other receivables to determine their collectability. We accrue a reserve when, based on the judgment of management, it is probable that a receivable will not be collected

F-6

and the amount of the reserve can be reasonably estimated. Accounts receivable are shown net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1.4 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Deferred Financing Costs.Deferred financing costs and the amount of discount at which notes payable have been issued (debt discount) are amortized using the straight-line method, which approximates the interest method, over the term of the related debt. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, amortization of deferred financing costs included in interest expense amounted to $2.8 million, $2.4 million, and $2.8 million, respectively. Deferred financing costs are listed among our long-term assets, net of accumulated amortization of $12.8 million and $9.9 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Property and Equipment. Oil and natural gas producing activities are accounted for using the successful efforts method of accounting. Under the successful efforts method, lease acquisition costs and all development costs, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Unproved Properties — Acquisition costs associated with the acquisition of leases are recorded as unproved properties and capitalized as incurred. These consist of costs incurred in obtaining a mineral interest or right in a property, such as a lease, in addition to options to lease, broker fees, recording fees and other similar costs related to activities in acquiring properties. Unproved properties are classified as unproved until proved reserves are discovered, at which time related costs are transferred to proved oil and natural gas properties.

Exploration Expense — Exploration expenses, other than exploration drilling costs, are charged to expense as incurred. These expenses include seismic expenditures and other geological and geophysical costs, expired leases, gain or loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations and lease rentals. The costs of drilling exploratory wells and exploratory-type stratigraphic wells are initially capitalized pending determination of whether the well has discovered proved commercial reserves. If the exploratory well is determined to be unsuccessful, the cost of the well is transferred to expense. Exploratory well drilling costs may continue to be capitalized if the reserve quantity is sufficient to justify completion as a producing well and sufficient progress in assessing the reserves and the economic and operating viability of the project is being made. Assessments of such capitalized costs are made quarterly.

Proved Oil and Natural Gas Properties — Costs incurred to obtain access to proved reserves and to provide facilities for extracting, treating, gathering, and storing oil and natural gas are capitalized. All costs incurred to drill and equip successful exploratory wells, development wells, development-type stratigraphic test wells, and service wells, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Impairment — The capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed quarterly for impairment following the guidance provided in ASC 360-10-35, “Property, Plant and Equipment, Subsequent Measurement,” or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair market value and is not recoverable. The determination of recoverability is based on comparing the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows at a producing field level to the carrying value of the assets. If the future undiscounted cash flows, based on estimates of anticipated production from proved reserves and future crude oil and natural gas prices and operating costs, are lower than the carrying cost, the carrying cost of the asset or group of assets is reduced to fair value. For our proved oil and natural gas properties, we estimate fair value by discounting the projected future cash flows at an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate.

Our evaluation of the Company’s proved properties resulted in impairment expense of $135.2 million, $90.3 million, and $16.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

In addition, the Company recorded other write-downs and impairment expense of casing and tubing to lower of cost or market, of zero,  zero and $162,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Unproved properties are assessed at least annually to determine whether they have been impaired. Individually significant properties are assessed for impairment on a property-by-property basis, while individually insignificant unproved properties may be assessed in the aggregate. If unproved properties are found to be impaired, an impairment allowance is provided and a loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, impairment expense of unproved properties was $8.0 million, $5.9 million, and $1.8 million, respectively.

Management evaluates whether the carrying value of all other long-lived assets has been impaired when circumstances indicate the carrying value of those assets may not be recoverable. This evaluation is based on undiscounted cash flow projections. The carrying amount is not recoverable if it exceeds the undiscounted sum of cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets. Management considers various factors when determining if these assets should be evaluated for impairment.

If the carrying value is not recoverable on an undiscounted basis, the impairment loss is measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Management assesses the fair value of long-lived assets using commonly accepted techniques, and may use more than one method, including, but not limited to, recent third party comparable sales, internally developed discounted cash flow

F-7

analysis and analysis from outside advisors. Significant changes in market conditions resulting from events such as the condition of an asset or a change in management’s intent to utilize the asset would generally require management to reassess the cash flows related to the long-lived assets. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively, the Company did not record any impairment expense related to other long-lived assets.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization — Depreciation, depletion, and amortization (“DD&A”) of capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties is computed using the unit-of-production method based upon estimated proved reserves. Assets are grouped for DD&A on the basis of reasonable aggregation of properties with a common geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition, such as a reservoir or field. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties is the sum of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for lease and well equipment costs, which include development costs and successful exploration drilling costs, includes only proved developed reserves.

DD&A expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 related to oil and natural gas properties was $115.5 million, $106.6 million, and $92.3 million, respectively.

Leasehold improvements to offices are depreciated using the straight-line method over the life of the lease. The Company’s drilling rig, which was sold during 2013, was depreciated using the straight-line method of depreciation over a period of approximately fifteen years.  Other property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to seven years. Depreciation expense for non-oil and gas property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $3.1 million, $2.7 million, and $1.9 respectively.

Investment. The Company’s investment consists of a 10% ownership interest in a drilling company, Orion Drilling Company, LP (“Orion”). The investment is accounted for under the cost method. Under this method, the Company’s share of earnings or losses of the investment are not included in the statements of operations.

Asset Retirement Obligations. We recognize liabilities for the future costs of dismantlement and abandonment of our wells, facilities, and other tangible long-lived assets along with an associated increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset.  The fair value of new asset retirement obligations are estimated using expected future costs discounted to present value.  The cost of the tangible asset, including the asset retirement cost, is depleted over the useful life of the asset.  Accretion expense is recognized as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value.   Asset retirement obligations are subject to revision primarily for changes to the estimated timing and cost of abandonment.

Derivative Financial Instruments. We use derivative contracts to hedge the effects of fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and interest rates. We account for such derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and requires them to be measured at fair value and recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 5 for information on fair value).

Under ASC 815, hedge accounting is used to defer recognition of unrealized changes in the fair value of such financial instruments, for those contracts which qualify as fair value or cash flow hedges, as defined in the guidance. Historically, we have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges. Accordingly, the unrealized changes in fair value of the contracts are included in earnings in the period of the change as “Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts” for oil and natural gas contracts, and in interest expense for interest derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses are recorded in income in the period of settlement, and included in the related revenue account or in interest expense. Cash flows from settlements of derivative contracts are classified with the income or expense item to which such settlements directly relate.

Income Taxes. The Company has elected under the Internal Revenue Code provisions to be treated as individual partnerships for tax purposes. Accordingly, items of income, expense, gains and losses flow through to the partners and are taxed at the partner level. Accordingly, no tax provision for federal income taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company is subject to the Texas margin tax, which is considered a state income tax, and is included in “Benefit from (provision for) state income tax” on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company records state income tax (current and deferred) based on taxable income, as defined under the rules for the margin tax.

We follow guidance issued by the FASB in accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. This guidance clarifies the accounting for income taxes by prescribing the minimum recognition threshold an income tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the consolidated financial statements and applies to all income tax positions. Each income tax position is assessed using a two step process. A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the income tax position will be sustained, based upon technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities. If the income tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded in the consolidated financial statements equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon its ultimate settlement.

F-8

We have considered our exposure under the standard at both the federal and state tax levels.  We have not recorded any liabilities for uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. We record income tax, related interest, and penalties, if any, as a component of income tax expense. We did not incur any interest or penalties on income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, or 2011.  

The Company’s tax returns for the years ended December 31, 2009 forward remain open for examination. None of the Company’s federal or state tax returns are currently under examination by the relevant authorities.

Revenue Recognition. We recognize oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids revenues when products are delivered at a fixed or determinable price, title has transferred and collectability is reasonably assured. We use the sales method of accounting for recognition of natural gas imbalances. Revenue from drilling rigs has been recorded when services were performed.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The fair value of cash, accounts receivable and current liabilities approximate book value due to their short-term nature. The estimate of fair value of long-term debt under our credit facility is not considered to be materially different from carrying value due to market rates of interest. The fair value of the debt to our founder is not practicable to determine. We have estimated the fair value of our $450 million senior notes payable at $482.6 million on December 31, 2013. Derivative financial instruments are carried at fair value. See Note 5 for further information on fair values of financial instruments. See Note 9 for information on long-term debt.

Acquisitions. Acquisitions are accounted for as purchases using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the results of operations are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the closing date of the acquisitions. Purchase prices are allocated to acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the time of the acquisition.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2013 we adopted ASU No. 2011-11, which increases disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. New disclosures are required to enable users of financial statements to understand significant quantitative differences in balance sheets prepared under GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) related to the offsetting of financial instruments. The additional disclosures are included in Note 6.  

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04. The guidance requires an entity that is joint and severally liable to measure the obligation as the sum of the amount the entity has agreed with co-obligors to pay and any additional amount it expects to pay on behalf of one or more co-obligors. Required disclosures include a description of the nature of the arrangement, how the liability arose, the relationship with co-obligors and the terms and conditions of the arrangement. ASU No. 2013-04 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect the adoption of this pronouncement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 3 — SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES

Stone Acquisition

On October 1, 2013 we closed a transaction to purchase certain producing properties in South Louisiana from Stone Energy Offshore, L.L.C. (“Stone”) for cash consideration of approximately $45 million plus related abandonment costs, which was later modified through settlement adjustments to approximately $42 million cash. The purchase price was funded with borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility. This purchase increases our working interest in numerous wells in our Weeks Island field and adds several properties in which we previously had no working interest. Total estimated net proved reserves associated with the acquisition were 1.8 million BOE as of the effective date of July 1, 2013.  

A summary of the consideration paid and the preliminary allocation of the purchase prices are as follows (dollars in thousands):

F-9

	October 1,
	2013
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Summary of Consideration
Cash	$	42,163
Fair value of asset retirement obligations assumed		5,311
Total	$	47,474
Summary of Purchase Price Allocation
Proved oil and natural gas properties	$	30,601
Unproved oil and natural gas properties		16,873
Total	$	47,474

The revenue and earnings related to the Stone acquisition are included in our consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 from date of acquisition. The revenue and earnings of the combined entity, had the acquisitions occurred at January 1, 2012, are provided below. This unaudited pro forma information has been derived from historical information and is for illustrative purposes only. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not attempt to predict or suggest future results. It also does not necessarily reflect what the historical results of the combined company would have been had the companies been combined during these periods. 

	Total			Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Actual results of Stone included in our statement of operations for the period October 1, 2013
through December 31, 2013	$	10,509	$	8,575
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	340,103	$	(85,985)
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	376,063	$	(146,866)

Sydson and TODD Acquisitions

In 2011, we purchased certain oil and natural gas assets from Sydson Energy and certain of its related parties (“Sydson”) for a total of $28.4 million. We also purchased certain properties from Texas Oil Distribution & Development, Inc. and Matrix Petroleum LLC and certain other parties (“TODD”) for a total of $23.4 million. Funding for both acquisitions was provided through our credit facility. Results of the acquisitions are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the respective acquisition dates for Sydson and TODD of April 21, 2011 and June 17, 2011.   Unaudited pro forma revenues and net income for 2011 would have been $357.4 million and $67.1 million, respectively, had the Sydson and TODD acquisitions occurred as of the beginning of that year.

Hilltop Divestiture

On October 2, 2013 we closed the sale of certain of our properties in East Texas to Cubic Oil, Inc., comprising a portion of our Hilltop field (“Hilltop divestiture”). The properties sold were primarily producers of dry natural gas located in Leon County, Texas. As of July 1, 2013, estimated net proved reserves associated with these properties were 11.2 Bcfe. The cash purchase price was approximately $19 million (net of costs of the sale).   There was no material gain on the sale.

Other

During 2013, we sold our drilling rig for a cash purchase price of approximately $7 million and recorded a loss on sale of approximately $1.2 million.

F-10

NOTE 4 — PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consists of the following:

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES
Unproved properties	$	86,721	$	56,364
Accumulated impairment		(7,356)		(6,040)
Unproved properties, net		79,365		50,324
Proved oil and natural gas properties		1,405,658		1,167,935
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(793,253)		(578,793)
Proved oil and natural gas properties, net		612,405		589,142
TOTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES, net		691,770		639,466
LAND		1,418		1,185
DRILLING RIG		—		10,500
Accumulated depreciation		—		(1,837)
TOTAL DRILLING RIG, net		—		8,663
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Office furniture and equipment, vehicles		13,802		9,657
Accumulated depreciation		(6,120)		(3,474)
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net		7,682		6,183
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	$	700,870	$	655,497

Suspended Well Costs

The following table reflects the net changes in deferred capitalized exploratory well costs during2013,2012, and2011. The table does not include amounts that were capitalized and either subsequently expensed or reclassified to producing well costs in the same year.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	4,627	$	—	$	—
Additions to capitalized well costs pending determination of proved reserves		21,693		4,627		—
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense		(7,956)		—		—
Balance, end of year	$	18,364	$	4,627	$	—

The ending balance in deferred capitalized exploratory well costs includes the costs of four wells in three different prospects.  The largest of these is for an exploratory well in New Mexico, $13.0 million.  We have not capitalized exploratory well costs for periods greater than one year at December 31, 2013 and 2012.

F-11

NOTE 5 — FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES

The Company follows ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure.” ASC 820 provides a hierarchy of fair value measurements, based on the inputs to the fair value estimation process. It requires disclosure of fair values classified according to defined “levels,” which are based on the reliability of the evidence used to determine fair value, with Level 1 being the most reliable and Level 3 the least. Level 1 evidence consists of observable inputs, such as quoted prices in an active market. Level 2 inputs typically correlate the fair value of the asset or liability to a similar, but not identical item which is actively traded. Level 3 inputs include at least some unobservable inputs, such as valuation models developed using the best information available in the circumstances.

We utilize the modified Black-Scholes and the Turnbull Wakeman option pricing models to estimate the fair value of oil and natural gas derivative contracts. Inputs to these models include observable inputs from the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and other exchanges for futures contracts, and inputs derived from NYMEX observable inputs, such as implied volatility of oil and natural gas prices. We have classified the fair values of all our oil and natural gas derivative contracts as Level 2.

The fair value of our interest rate derivative contracts, which expired in 2012, was calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and is also considered a Level 2 fair value.

Our senior notes are carried at historical cost, net of amortized discount; we estimate the fair value of the senior notes for disclosure purposes (see Note 2). This estimation is based on the most recent trading values of the notes at or near the reporting date, a Level 1 classification.

Oil and natural gas properties are subject to impairment testing and potential impairment write down as described in Note 2. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $237.2 million were written down to their fair value of $94.0 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $143.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $363.7 million were written down to their fair value of $267.5 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $96.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $35.2 million were written down to their fair value of $16.5 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $18.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The impairment analysis is based on the estimated discounted future cash flows for those properties. Significant Level 3 assumptions used in the calculation of estimated discounted cash flows included our estimate of future oil and natural gas prices, production costs, development expenditures, estimated quantities and timing of production of proved reserves, appropriate risk-adjusted discount rates, and other relevant data.

In addition, other equipment, included in oil and gas properties, was impaired zero,  zero, and $162,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, based on market information for similar products, which is a Level 3 value.

In connection with the Stone acquisition in 2013 we recorded oil and natural gas properties with a fair value of $47.5 million.In connection with the Sydson and TODD acquisitions in 2011, we recorded oil and natural gas properties with a fair value of $28 million and $23 million, respectively. Significant Level 3 inputs used were the same as those used in determining impairments based on estimated discounted cash flows for the acquired properties.

New additions to asset retirement obligations result from estimations for new properties, and fair values for them are categorized as Level 3. Such estimations are based on present value techniques which utilize company-specific information for such inputs as cost and timing of plug and abandonment of wells and facilities. We recorded a total of $6.5 million in additions to asset retirement obligations measured at fair value for the year ended December 31, 2013.  We recorded a total of $2.3 million in additions to asset retirement obligations measured at fair value for the year ended December 31, 2012.

The following table presents information about our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques we utilized to determine such fair value:

F-12

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(dollars in thousands)
At December 31, 2013:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,850		—	$	27,850
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,842		—	$	27,842
At December 31, 2012:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	65,489		—	$	65,489
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	30,154		—	$	30,154

The amounts above are presented on a gross basis; presentation on our consolidated balance sheets utilizes netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty where master netting agreements are in place.

For additional information on derivative contracts, see Note 6.

NOTE 6 — DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

We account for our derivative contracts under the provisions of ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” We have entered into forward-swap contracts and collar contracts to reduce our exposure to price risk in the spot market for oil and natural gas. We also utilize financial basis swap contracts, which address the price differential between market-wide benchmark prices and other benchmark pricing referenced in certain of our crude oil and natural gas sales contracts. Substantially all of our hedging agreements are executed by affiliates of the lenders under our credit facility described in Note 9 below, and are collateralized by the security interests of the respective affiliated lenders in certain of our assets under the credit facility. The contracts settle monthly and are scheduled to coincide with either oil production equivalent to barrels (Bbl) per month or gas production equivalent to volumes in millions of British thermal units (MMBtu) per month. The contracts represent agreements between us and the counter-parties to exchange cash based on a designated price, or in the case of financial basis hedging contracts, based on a designated price differential between various benchmark prices. Cash settlement occurs monthly based on the specified price benchmark. We have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges; accordingly we use mark-to-market accounting, recognizing unrealized gains and losses in the consolidated statement of operations at each reporting date. Realized gains and losses on commodities hedging contracts are included in oil and natural gas revenues.

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swap agreements with financial institutions to mitigate the risk of loss due to changes in interest rates. The interest rate swaps are not designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815. Both realized gains and losses from settlement and unrealized gains and losses from changes in the fair market value of the interest rate swaps are included in interest expense.

No derivative contracts have been entered into for trading purposes, and we typically hold each instrument to maturity.

The second table below provides information on the location and amounts of realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivatives included in the consolidated statement of operations for each of the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Derivative contracts are subject to master netting arrangements and are presented on a net basis in the consolidated balance sheets. This netting can cause derivative assets to be ultimately presented in a (liability) account on the consolidated balance sheets.  Likewise, derivative (liabilities) could be presented in an asset account.

The following table summarizes the fair value (see Note 5 for further discussion of fair value) and classification of our derivative instruments, none of which have been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

F-13

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	13,218	$	(7,646)	$	5,572
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		14,632		(11,227)		3,405
Total	$	27,850	$	(18,873)	$	8,977

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	12,129	$	(7,646)	$	4,483
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		15,713		(11,227)		4,486
Total	$	27,842	$	(18,873)	$	8,969

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	40,116	$	(18,756)	$	21,360
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		25,373		(11,307)		14,066
Total	$	65,489	$	(30,063)	$	35,426

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	18,847	$	(18,756)	$	91
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		11,307		(11,307)		—
Total	$	30,154	$	(30,063)	$	91

The following table summarizes the effect of our derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations (dollars in thousands):  

F-14

Derivatives not
designated as hedging	Location of	Classification of	Year Ended December 31,
instruments under ASC 815	Gain (Loss)	Gain (Loss)	2013		2012		2011
Natural gas commodity contracts	Natural gas revenues	Realized	$	24,370	$	38,347	$	25,208
Oil commodity contracts	Oil revenues	Realized		(6,193)		(1,162)		(3,756)
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Realized		—		(1,337)		1,363
Total realized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	18,177	$	35,848	$	22,815
Natural gas commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized	$	(23,805)	$	(22,316)	$	21,937
Oil commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized		(11,522)		4,882		6,232
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and
natural gas commodity contracts				(35,327)		(17,434)		28,169
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Unrealized		—		1,300		4,087
Total unrealized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	(35,327)	$	(16,134)	$	32,256

Although our counterparties provide no collateral, the master derivative agreements with each counterparty effectively allow the Company, so long as it is not a defaulting party, after a default or the occurrence of a termination event, to set-off an unpaid hedging agreement receivable against the interest of the counterparty in any outstanding balance under the credit facility. If a counterparty were to default in payment of an obligation under the master derivative agreements, we could be exposed to commodity price fluctuations, and the protection intended by the hedge could be lost. The value of our derivative financial instruments would be impacted.

F-15

We had the following open derivative contracts for natural gas at December 31, 2013:

NATURAL GAS DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS

	Volume in	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	MMBtu	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	10,582,500	$	4.76	$	7.50	$	4.01
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,870,000		5.80		9.00		4.75
Long Put Options	2,570,000		5.14		6.00		4.25
Long Call Options	3,552,500		6.99		9.00		4.20
Short Put Options	4,541,000		3.35		4.00		3.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	1,825,000		5.91		5.91		5.91
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,300,000		4.52		4.52		4.51
Long Put Options	7,300,000		4.00		4.00		4.00
Short Put Options	7,300,000		3.25		3.25		3.25
2016
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	455,000		7.50		7.50		7.50
Long Put Options	455,000		5.50		5.50		5.50
Short Put Options	455,000		4.00		4.00		4.00

F-16

We had the following open derivative contracts for crude oil at December 31, 2013:

OIL DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS

	Volume	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	in Bbls	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	1,759,875	$	95.16	$	105.48	$	81.00
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	547,500		111.10		114.00		107.50
Long Put Options	816,950		90.89		95.00		70.00
Short Put Options	1,106,030		74.51		80.00		65.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	766,500		97.60		99.30		95.73
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	428,850		120.81		135.98		115.00
Long Put Options	1,231,850		87.15		95.00		85.00
Short Put Options	1,414,350		68.00		75.00		60.00
2016
Price Swap Contracts	292,800		94.91		94.92		94.90
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	859,700		108.02		130.00		103.87
Long Put Options	859,700		85.98		95.00		80.00
Short Put Options	859,700		65.98		75.00		60.00
2017
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	744,950		108.04		114.00		104.15
Long Put Options	744,950		83.26		90.00		80.00
Short Put Options	744,950		63.26		70.00		60.00
2018
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	307,400		104.39		104.65		104.15
Long Put Options	307,400		80.00		80.00		80.00
Short Put Options	307,400		60.00		60.00		60.00

In those instances where contracts are identical as to time period, volume, strike price, and counterparty, but opposite as to direction (long and short), the volumes and average prices have been netted in the two tables above. Prices stated in the table above for oil may settle against either NYMEX or Brent ICE indices or may reflect a mix of positions settling on these two indices.

We had the following open financial basis swap contracts for crude oil at December 31, 2013:

						Weighted
						Average Spread
Volume in Bbl	Reference Price 1  (1)	Reference Price 2  (1)	Period			($ per Bbl)
181,000	Brent IPE	Argus Louisiana Light Sweet	Jan ’14	—	Jun  ’14	$	(0.20)

(1)    The spread in these trades limits the differential of the settlement quotation prices for Argus Louisiana Light Sweet crude over Brent IPE.

F-17

NOTE 7 — ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

A summary of the changes in our asset retirement obligations is included in the table below:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	48,593	$	46,096	$	42,713
Liabilities incurred		1,052		787		608
Liabilities assumed with acquired producing properties		5,480		1,476		2,807
Liabilities settled		(1,548)		(3,562)		(1,665)
Liabilities transferred in sales of properties		(606)		—		—
Revisions to estimates		919		1,983		(179)
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812
Balance, end of year		56,023		48,593		46,096
Less: Current portion		3,844		64		3,030
Long term portion	$	52,179	$	48,529	$	43,066

The total revisions included $408,000,  $874,000, and ($21,000) related to additions to property, plant and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

NOTE 8 — RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

We have notes payable to our founder which bear interest at 10% with a balance of $23.3 million and $22.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. See further information at Note 9.

Alta Mesa Services, LP (“Alta Mesa Services”), one of our wholly owned subsidiaries, conducts our business and operations and, in addition to the board of directors of our general partner, makes decisions on our behalf. The consolidated statements of operations include the financial activity of Alta Mesa Services for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

During 2013, 2012, and 2011 Michael E. Ellis, our founder, Chief Operating Officer, and Chairman of the Board, received capital distributions from us of $17,500,  $165,000 and $165,000, respectively.

NOTE 9 — LONG TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consists of the following:

	December 31, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Credit Facility	$	319,290	$	154,790
Senior Notes		447,578		447,068
Total long-term debt	$	766,868	$	601,858
Notes payable to founder	$	23,331	$	22,123

Credit Facility. On May 13, 2010, we entered into a Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the “credit facility”). The credit facility matures on May 23, 2016 and is secured by substantially all of our oil and gas properties. The credit facility borrowing base is redetermined periodically and, as of December 31, 2013, the borrowing base under the facility was $385.0 million. The credit facility bears interest at LIBOR plus applicable margins between 2.00% and 2.75% or a “Reference Rate,” which is based on the prime rate of Wells Fargo Bank, N. A., plus a margin ranging from 1.00% to 1.75%, depending on the utilization of our borrowing base. The rate was 2.75% as of December 31, 2013 and 2.33% as of December 31, 2012.

Senior Notes. We have $450 million in outstanding registered senior notes due October 15, 2018 that carry a stated interest rate of 9.625% and an effective interest rate of 9.783%.  Interest is payable semi-annually each April 15th and October 15th.The senior notes are unsecured and are general obligations of the Company, and effectively rank junior to any of our existing or future secured indebtedness, which includes the credit facility. The senior notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of our material subsidiaries. The balance is presented net of unamortized discount of $2.4 million and $2.9 million at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

F-18

The senior notes contain an optional redemption provision available beginning October 15, 2014 allowing us to retire the principal outstanding, in whole or in part, at 104.813%.  Additional optional redemption provisions allow for retirement at 102.406% and 100.0% beginning on each of October 15, 2015 and 2016, respectively.  Prior to October 15, 2014, we may redeem the senior notes in whole or in part at a price equal to 100 percent of the principal amount plus a specified make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date.

Notes Payable to Founder. We have notes payable to our founder which bear simple interest at 10% with a balance of $23.3 million and $22.1 million at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, the notes had a maturity date of December 31, 2018. Interest and principal are payable at maturity. These founder notes are unsecured and are subordinate to all debt. Interest on the notes payable to our founder amounted to $1.2 million during each of 2013, 2012, and 2011. Such amounts have been added to the balance of the founder notes.

Future maturities of long-term debt, including the notes payable to our founder, at December 31, 2013 are as follows (dollars in thousands):

Year ending December 31,
2014	$	—
2015		—
2016		319,290
2017		—
2018		473,331
	$	792,621

The credit facility and senior notes include covenants requiring that we maintain certain financial covenants including a current ratio, leverage ratio, and interest coverage ratio. At December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with the covenants. The terms of the credit facility also restrict our ability to make distributions and investments.

NOTE 10 — ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES

The following provides the detail of accounts payable and accrued liabilities:

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013			2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capital expenditures	$	18,629	$	37,738
Revenues and royalties payable		9,699		10,788
Operating expenses/taxes		17,071		14,842
Interest		9,146		9,045
Compensation		8,862		5,978
Other		2,711		6,223
Total accrued liabilities		66,118		84,614
Accounts payable		29,977		28,070
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	96,095	$	112,684

NOTE 11 — COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Contingencies

Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East:On July 24, 2013, the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East sued us and approximately 100 other energy companies for long-term damage to the wetlands in southeast Louisiana.  Case No. 2013-6911 was filed in state court and subsequently remanded to federal court.  The plaintiff seeks damages and injunctive relief in the form of abatement and restoration of wetlands, alleging that the activities of the oil and gas industry over the past century have contributed significantly to the degradation of the wetlands that protect the populated areas in and around New Orleans from storm surge and other extreme weather effects.  The plaintiff alleges damages from increased costs of providing man-made storm protection structures, and emphasizes the destructive effect of canals built by the oil and gas industry.  Legal arguments include breach of the restoration and maintenance clauses of contracts with the State of

F-19

Louisiana for drilling, dredging, and right-of-way agreements for pipelines.  Other legal arguments include negligence, strict liability, natural servitude of drain, public nuisance and private nuisance.   Our wholly-owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Company, LLC is named as a defendant with 32 wells, two dredging permits and four right of way agreements in the relevant area.  Almost all of these wells are inactive.

The overall exposure related to this lawsuit is not currently determinable.  While an adverse judgment against us might be possible, we intend to vigorously defend the case.    We have not provided any amount for this matter in our financial statements at December 31, 2013.

Environmental claims:Various landowners have sued our wholly owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Meridian”), which we acquired in 2010, in lawsuits concerning several fields in which Meridian has had operations. The lawsuits seek injunctive relief and other relief, including unspecified amounts in both actual and punitive damages for alleged breaches of mineral leases and alleged failure to restore the plaintiffs’ lands from alleged contamination and otherwise from Meridian’s oil and natural gas operations. We are unable to express an opinion with respect to the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome of the various environmental claims or to estimate the amount or range of potential loss should the outcome be unfavorable. Therefore, we have not provided any amount for these claims in our consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2013.  

Due to the nature of our business, some contamination of the real estate property owned or leased by us is possible. Environmental site assessments of the property would be necessary to adequately determine remediation costs, if any.  Management has established a liability for soil contamination in Florida of $1.1 million at December 31, 2013 and $1.0 million at December 31, 2012, based on our undiscounted engineering estimates. The obligations are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. No accrual for environmental claims has been made other than the balance noted above.

Title/lease disputes: Title and lease disputes may arise in the normal course of our operations. These disputes are usually small but could result in an increase or decrease in reserves once a final resolution to the title dispute is made.

Other contingencies: We are subject to legal proceedings, claims and liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business. The outcome cannot be reasonably estimated; however, in the opinion of management, such litigation and claims will be resolved without material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Accruals for losses associated with litigation are made when losses are deemed probable and can be reasonably estimated.

We have a contingent commitment to pay an amount up to a maximum of approximately $2.4 million for properties acquired in 2008. The additional purchase consideration will be paid if certain product price conditions are met.

Commitments

Office and Equipment Leases: We lease office space, as well as certain field equipment such as compressors, under long-term operating lease agreements. The lease for our main office will expire in 2022. Any initial rent-free months are amortized over the life of the lease.Equipment leases are generally for four years or less. Rent expense, including office space and compressors, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 amounted to approximately $5.3million, $4.5 million, and $4.3 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2013, future base rentals for non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (dollars in thousands):

Year Ending December 31,
2014	$	2,941
2015		1,895
2016		1,514
2017		1,511
2018		1,529
Thereafter		6,000
	$	15,390

Additionally, at December 31, 2013, the Company had posted bonds in the aggregate amount of $13.2 million, primarily to cover future abandonment costs.

NOTE 12 — MAJOR CUSTOMERS

We sell our oil and natural gas  primarily under a contract with ARM Energy Management, LLC (“AEM”). Alta Mesa is a part owner of AEM at less than 10%. AEM purchases our natural gas and sells it under short-term contracts generally with month-to-month

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pricing based on published regional indices, with differentials for transportation taken into account. AEM purchases our oil and sells it under short-term contracts with monthly pricing based on regional prices, adjusted for transportation, location, and quality. AEM remits monthly proceeds of its sales to us, and receives a 1% marketing fee. Sales to AEM commenced in June 2013. The agreement will terminate in 2018, with additional provisions for extensions beyond five years, and for early termination beginning in January 2015. During the second half of 2013, we sold the majority of our production from operated fields to AEM. Production from non-operated fields, the most significant of which were our Eagleville oil field in South Texas and our Hilltop natural gas field in East Texas, was marketed on our behalf by the operators of those properties.Production from Eagleville is sold by Murphy Oil Corporation (“Murphy”), the operator of that property. Production from Hilltop is sold primarily by EnCana Oil & Gas (USA), Inc. (“EnCana”), the operator of a substantial portion of the wells in that field.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, revenues from AEM were $61.3 million, or 16% of total revenue excluding hedging activities. Based on revenues excluding hedging activities, three other major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $119.3 million (Murphy),$53.9 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), and $42.0 million (Plains Marketing and Transportation, Inc.)On the same basis, for the year ended December 31, 2012, three major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $63.3 million (Shell Trading (US) Company),  $50.1 million (Murphy), and $44.8 million (EnCana). On the same basis, for the year ended December 31, 2011, two major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $67.7 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), and

$40.8 million (EnCana).We believe that the loss of any of our significant direct or  indirect customers, or of AEM, would not have a material adverse effect on us because alternative purchasers are readily available. 

NOTE 13 — 401(k) SAVINGS PLAN

Employees of Alta Mesa Services and Petro Operating Company, LP (“POC”) may participate in a 401(k) savings plan, whereby the employees may elect to make contributions pursuant to a salary reduction agreement. Alta Mesa Services and POC make a matching contribution equal to 50% of an employee’s salary deferral contribution up to a maximum of8% of an employee’s salary. Matching contributions to the plan were approximately $585,000,  $422,000, and $404,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

NOTE 14 — SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

Our business makes us vulnerable to changes in wellhead prices of crude oil and natural gas. Such prices have been volatile in the past and can be expected to be volatile in the future. By definition, the value of proved reserves is based on recent oil and natural gas prices. Price declines reduce the estimated value of proved reserves and increase annual amortization expense (which is based on proved reserves). We mitigate some of this vulnerability by entering into oil and natural gas price derivative contracts. See Note 6.

NOTE 15 — PARTNERS’ CAPITAL(DEFICIT)

Under the terms of the Alta Mesa Holdings, LP Partnership Agreement (“Partnership Agreement”) the affiliates of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and certain other parties are Class A limited partners (“Class A Partners”) and our capital partner, Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc. (“AMIH”), was the sole Class B limited partner (“Class B Partner”). AMIH has been an affiliate of Denham Commodity Partners Fund IV LP (“DCPF IV”). DCPF IV is advised by Denham Capital Management LP, a private equity firm focused on energy and commodities.

Management and Control: Our business and affairs are managed by Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC, our general partner (“General Partner”). With certain exceptions, the General Partner may not be removed except for the reasons of “cause,” which are defined in the Partnership Agreement. The Class B limited partner has certain approval rights, generally over capital plans and significant transactions in the areas of finance, acquisition, and divestiture.

Distribution and Income Allocation: Net cash flow from operations may be distributed to the Class A and Class B Partners based on a variable formula as defined in the Partnership Agreement.

The Class B Partner may require the General Partner to make distributions; however, any distribution must be permitted under the terms of our credit facility and our senior notes.

Distribution of net cash flow from a Liquidity Event (as defined below) is distributed to the Class A and Class B Partners according to a variable formula as defined in the Partnership Agreement. A “Liquidity Event” is any event in which we receive cash proceeds outside the ordinary course of our business. The Class B Partner can, without consent of any other partners, request that the General Partner take action to cause us, or our assets, to be sold to one or more third parties.

NOTE 16 — SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Disposition of Asset

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On March 25, 2014 we closed the sale of certain of our properties located primarily in Karnes County, Texas to Memorial Production Partners LP, comprising a portion of our Eagleville field (“Eagleville divestiture”).  The properties sold included a working interest in all of our 112 producing wells and five wells in which we own an overriding royalty interest as of the effective date of January 1, 2014.  We retained a net profits interest in these wells based on 50% of our original working interest in 2014, declining to 30% in 2015, 15% in 2016, and zero in 2017.   Also included in the sale was a 30% undivided interest in all our Eagleville mineral leases and interests, and 30% of our working interest in all our wells in progress on December 31, 2013 or drilled after January 1, 2014.  The cash purchase price was$173 million.  The purchase and sale agreement provides for customary adjustments to the purchase price for revenues and expenses incurred after the effective date.  Cash received was utilized to pay down borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility.

As of January 1, 2014, estimated net proved reserves associated with the sold portion of these properties were approximately 7.7 MMBOE.

Unaudited pro forma revenues and net income are presented below as if the sale occurred on January 1, 2012.  This data is presented for informational purposes only, and is based on certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable, and do not purport to represent our financial condition or our results of operations had the Eagleville divestiture actually occurred on January 1, 2013, or to project the results for any future date or period.

				Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	280,618	$	(117,332)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	279,133	$	(197,106)

The gain on sale of the assets is not included as a pro forma adjustment in the presentation above.  We estimate that the gain on this partial sale of Eagleville field, had it occurred on December 31, 2013, would have been approximately $76.1 million.

Borrowing Base

In connection with the partial sale of the Eagleville field, our borrowing base under our credit facility was reduced to $285 million on March 25, 2014.

Partnership Changes

On March 25, 2014, Highbridge Principal Strategies LLC (“Highbridge”) invested in AMIH and enabled AMIH to complete a $350 million recapitalization.  Highbridge received convertible PIK preferred stock in AMIH and senior PIK notes from AMIH.  We expanded our Board of Directors to include one member nominated by Highbridge and one new employee member, our Chief Financial Officer, Michael A. McCabe. AMIH remains our sole Class B partner.

Our partnership agreement was revised to provide, among other things, that all distributions under the amended partnership agreement shall first be made to holders of Class B Units, until all principal and interest has been extinguished under the senior PIK notes issued to Highbridge.  After such extinguishment of the senior PIK notes, distributions shall then be made to holders of Class A and Class B Units pursuant to the distribution formulas set forth in the amended partnership agreement. 

Founder Notes

On March 25, 2014, our notes payable to our founder were amended and restated.  The maturity date of the notes was extended to December 31, 2021.  The interest rate and interest payment terms were not changed.

NOTE 17 — SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS

All of our material wholly-owned subsidiaries are guarantors under the terms of both our senior notes and our credit facility.

Our consolidated financial statements reflect the combined financial position of these subsidiary guarantors. Our parent company, Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, has no independent operations, assets, or liabilities. The guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several. Those subsidiaries which are not wholly owned and are not guarantors are minor. There are no restrictions on dividends, distributions, loans, or other transfers of funds from the subsidiary guarantors to our parent company.

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NOTE 18 — SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY INFORMATION (Unaudited)

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2013 were:

	Quarter Ended
2013	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	69,648	$	123,651	$	78,836	$	86,372
Income (loss) from operations		(1,066)		29,799		(11,915)		(115,469)
Net income (loss)	$	(14,286)	$	16,168	$	(25,737)	$	(129,860)

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2012 were:

	Quarter Ended
2012	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	72,639	$	108,857	$	51,633	$	86,170
Income (loss) from operations		13,155		40,405		(71,005)		(37,954)
Net income (loss)	$	3,401	$	31,861	$	(80,897)	$	(50,240)

NOTE 19 — SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DISCLOSURES (Unaudited)

The unaudited reserve and other information presented below is provided as supplemental information in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 932-235. 

Oil and natural gas producing activities are conducted onshore within the continental United States and all of our proved reserves are located within the United States.

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Estimated Quantities of Proved Reserves

The following table sets forth our net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, and the changes therein during the years then ended. Proved oil and natural gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions, i.e., prices and costs as of the date the estimate is made.

	Oil	Gas	NGL's	BOE
	(MBbls)	(MMcf)	(MBbls)	(MBbls)
Total Proved Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2010	12,187	241,453	1,735	54,164
Production	(1,580)	(30,307)	(307)	(6,938)
Purchases in place	674	10,385	100	2,505
Discoveries and extensions	4,436	24,142	544	9,004
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	1,216	(28,407)	2,773	(746)
Balance at December 31, 2011	16,933	217,266	4,845	57,989
Production	(2,138)	(21,372)	(365)	(6,065)
Purchases in place	335	6,619	8	1,446
Discoveries and extensions	10,173	18,870	1,187	14,505
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(4,683)	(68,894)	20	(16,144)
Balance at December 31, 2012	20,620	152,489	5,695	51,731
Production	(2,897)	(16,664)	(398)	(6,072)
Purchases in place	1,462	1,265	—	1,673
Discoveries and extensions	14,541	29,012	1,969	21,345
Sales of reserves in place	(13)	(10,912)	—	(1,832)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(1,196)	(22,925)	(1,531)	(6,549)
Balance at December 31, 2013	32,517	132,265	5,735	60,296
Proved Developed Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	11,484	161,395	3,616	41,999
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,467	111,206	4,209	33,211
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,335	92,640	3,138	34,913
Proved Undeveloped Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	5,449	55,871	1,229	15,990
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,153	41,283	1,486	18,520
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,182	39,625	2,597	25,383

Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Natural Gas Producing Activities

	December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capitalized costs:
Proved properties	$	1,405,658	$	1,167,935
Unproved properties		86,721		56,364
Total		1,492,379		1,224,299
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(800,609)		(584,833)
Net capitalized costs	$	691,770	$	639,466

Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities

Acquisition costs in the table below include costs incurred to purchase, lease, or otherwise acquire property. Exploration expenses include additions to exploratory wells, including those in progress, and other exploration expenses, such as geological and geophysical costs. Development costs include additions to production facilities and equipment and additions to development wells, including those in progress.

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	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Costs incurred during the year:
Property acquisition costs
Unproved	$	34,884	$	31,695	$	37,152
Proved (1)		35,954		12,192		53,601
Exploration		55,300		46,559		24,079
Development (2)		242,912		200,974		142,212
	$	369,050	$	291,420	$	257,044

(1) Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2013 include primarily the proved portion of the Stone acquisition ($30.6 million).  Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2011 include primarily the purchase of Sydson ($28.4 million) and TODD ($23.4 million).

(2)   Includes asset retirement costs of $1.4 million, $1.7 million, and $587,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

The information that follows has been developed pursuant to ASC 932-235 and utilizes reserve and production data prepared by us. Reserve estimates are inherently imprecise and estimates of new discoveries are less precise than those of producing oil and natural gas properties. Accordingly, these estimates are expected to change as future information becomes available.

Future cash inflows as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 were calculated using an un-weighted arithmetic average of oil and natural gas prices in effect on the first day of each month in the respective year, except where prices are defined by contractual arrangements. Operating costs, production and ad valorem taxes and future development costs are based on current costs with no escalation.

Actual future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower. Actual future net revenues also will be affected by factors such as actual production, supply and demand for oil and natural gas, curtailments or increases in consumption by natural gas purchasers, changes in governmental regulations or taxation and the impact of inflation on costs.

The following table sets forth the components of the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Future cash flows	$	3,959,938	$	2,742,588	$	2,850,381
Future production costs		(1,146,123)		(928,398)		(803,290)
Future development costs		(474,191)		(348,042)		(297,375)
Future taxes on income		—		—		—
Future net cash flows		2,339,624		1,466,148		1,749,716
Discount to present value at 10 percent per annum		(933,350)		(551,727)		(679,520)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196
Base price for crude oil, per Bbl, in the above computation was:	$	96.78	$	94.71	$	96.19
Base price for natural gas, per Mcf, in the above computation was:	$	3.67	$	2.76	$	4.12

No consideration was given to the Company’s hedged transactions.

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Changes in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

The following table sets forth the changes in standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year	$	914,421	$	1,070,196	$	705,182
Sales of oil and natural gas, net of production costs		(282,129)		(226,896)		(230,140)
Changes in sales and transfer prices, net of production costs		69,609		(291,285)		219,797
Revisions of previous quantity estimates		(150,634)		(250,424)		(15,217)
Purchases of reserves-in-place		93,877		10,283		47,680
Sales of reserves-in-place		(11,193)		—		—
Current year discoveries and extensions		621,832		420,496		228,041
Changes in estimated future development costs		11,623		54,493		(5,987)
Development costs incurred during the year		75,973		49,834		47,402
Accretion of discount		91,442		107,020		70,518
Net change in income taxes		—		—		—
Change in production rate (timing) and other		(28,547)		(29,296)		2,920
Net change		491,853		(155,775)		365,014
Balance at end of year	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196

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EX-3.2

EXHIBIT 3.2

AMENDED AND RESTATED

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT

OF

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS GP, LLC

(A Texas Limited Liability Company)

March 25, 2014

THE MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS REFERENCED HEREIN HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED FOR INVESTMENT AND HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS.  WITHOUT REGISTRATION, THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, HYPOTHECATED, OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED AT ANY TIME WHATSOEVER, EXCEPT ON DELIVERY TO THE COMPANY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY THAT REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THE TRANSFER, OR THE SUBMISSION TO THE COMPANY OF OTHER EVIDENCE SATISFACTORY TO THE Company TO THE EFFECT THAT ANY TRANSFER WILL NOT BE IN VIOLATION OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR ANY RULE OR REGULATIONS PROMULGATED THEREUNDER.  ADDITIONALLY, ANY SALE OR OTHER TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS IS SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS THAT ARE SET FORTH IN this Agreement.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page
ARTICLE I.	DEFINITIONS	1
1.1	Definitions	1
1.2	Other Definitional Provisions	7
ARTICLE II.	FORMATION	7
2.1	Name and Formation	7
2.2	Principal Place of Business	7
2.3	Registered Office and Agent	7
2.4	Duration	7
2.5	Purposes and Powers	7
ARTICLE III.	MEMBER MATTERS; CAPITALIZATION; Transfer Restrictions	7
3.1	Members and Rights of Membership Interests	7
3.2	Liability of the Members	8
3.3	Annual and Special Meetings	8
3.4	Actions Without a Meeting	8
3.5	Limitations on Transfers	8
3.6	Liquidity Event	8
3.7	Indirect Transfer	9
3.8	Death of Certain Individuals	9
3.9	Certificates	10
ARTICLE IV.	DISTRIBUTIONS	12
4.1	Distributions	12
4.2	Limitation Upon Distribution	12
ARTICLE V.	CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS AND CAPITAL ACCOUNTS.	12
5.1	Class A Member Contribution	12
5.2	Subsequent Capital Contributions	12
ARTICLE VI.	MANAGEMENT BY BOARD	13
6.1	General	13
6.2	Composition	13
6.3	Class B Appointees	13
6.4	Mandatory Unanimous Consent Matters	13
6.5	Valid Board	14
6.6	Officers	14
6.7	Waiver of Fiduciary Duties	16
ARTICLE VII.	BOOKS, ACCOUNTS AND INFORMATION	16
7.1	Records and Reports	16

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

		Page
7.2	Returns and Other Elections	16
ARTICLE VIII.	DISSOLUTION AND TERMINATION	16
8.1	Dissolution	16
8.2	Distribution of Assets Upon Dissolution	16
8.3	Articles of Dissolution	17
ARTICLE IX.	MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS	17
9.1	Amendments	17
9.2	Confidentiality	17
9.3	Incorporated Documents	17
9.4	Notices	18
9.5	Entire Agreement	18

Attachment:  Exhibit A

AMENDED AND RESTATED

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT

OF

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS GP, LLC

(A Texas Limited Liability Company)

This Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement (this “Agreement”) of Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC, a Texas limited liability company (the “Company”), is entered into by and between ALTA MESA RESOURCES, LP, a Texas limited partnership (the “Class A Member”), and ALTA MESA INVESTMENT HOLDINGS INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Class B Member” and together with the Class A Member, the “Members”), as of March 25, 2014 (the “Effective Date”).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the Company was formed as a manager-managed limited liability company under the laws of the State of Texas by filing articles of organization (as amended from time to time, the “Articles of Organization”) with the Texas Secretary of State on September 26, 2005; and

WHEREAS, prior to the Effective Date, the Company has been governed by Regulations of the Company dated September 26, 2005 (the “Regulations”) and was owned entirely by the Class A Member; and

WHEREAS, the Class A Member now desires to amend and restate the Regulations  as a limited liability company agreement pursuant to Section 9.4 of the Regulations and admit the Class B Member as a member of the Company on the term set forth herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Regulations are hereby amended and restated to read as follows:

ARTICLE I.
DEFINITIONS

1.1 Definitions.  Capitalized terms used herein and not defined have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Stockholders Agreement. Additionally, the following terms used in this Agreement shall have the following meaning:

“Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with that Person.  For purposes of this definition, “control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of

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voting securities, by contract or otherwise.

“AMIH Unanimous Consent” means, as of any determination date, if no Conversion Event has occurred, “Unanimous Consent” as such term is defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations and in respect of the matters set forth in Section 6(c) thereof, or, if a Conversion Event has occurred, “Unanimous Consent” as such term is defined in the Stockholders Agreement and in respect of the matters set forth in Section 10 thereof.

“Agreement” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Applicable Laws”means any applicable law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, decision, order or determination of any governmental authority.

“Articles of Organization” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Recitals.

“Breaching Class A Member”  has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3.7.

“Business Day”  means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York or Texas are authorized or required by law or executive order to close.

“Board” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 6.1.

“Capital Contributions” means any contribution to the capital of the Company in cash or property by the Members whenever made.

“Class A Member” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Class A Appointees” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 6.2.

“Class A Units” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3.1(a).

“Class B Member” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Class B Units” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3.1(a).

“Class B Appointee” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 6.2.

“Code”  means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

“Company”  has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Company Tax Matters Member”has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 9.7(a).

“Conversion Event” shall mean the conversion of all of the outstanding shares of preferred stock of the Class B Member held by the Highbridge Holders into shares of common stock of the Class B Member.

“Deceased Executive” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 3.8(a).

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“Effective Date” has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Equity Securities” shall mean (i) any shares of capital stock or membership interests, (ii) any rights, options, warrants or similar securities to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock or membership interests, and (iii) debt or other evidences of indebtedness, capital stock or other securities directly or indirectly convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for any shares of capital stock or membership interests.  For purposes of this Agreement, when either the term “Equity Securities” or the term “capital stock” is used with respect to any Person that is not a corporation, including PubCo, such term shall have the meaning that, with respect to such Person, including PubCo (which may or may not be a corporation), achieves an identical effect to the meaning of such term when it is used with respect to the Class B Member, a corporation.

“Highbridge Holders” has the meaning ascribed to such term in the Stockholders Agreement.

“Immediate Family” means, with respect to any individual, (i) that individual’s spouse, parents and lineal descendants (including by adoption) and any trust the sole beneficiaries of which are that individual or any of that individual’s spouse, parents or lineal descendants (including by adoption), and (ii) that individual’s former spouse. 

“Indirect Permitted Transferee” means, subject to Section 3.8, with respect to any Class A Member or any owner of a Class A Member, (a) Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, (b) a member of the Immediate Family of an individual that directly or indirectly owns Equity Securities in such Class A Member; provided, that, either Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, as applicable, for so long as such individual is living, must retain, directly or indirectly, voting control of the Units held by such Class A Memberpursuant to a voting agreement that is delivered to the Company and the Highbridge Holders within five (5) Business Days after the applicable Transfer, and (c) any owner or Affiliate of such Class A Member; provided, that, either Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, as applicable, for so long as such individual is living, must retain, directly or indirectly, voting control of the Units held by such Class A Member pursuant to a voting agreement that is delivered to the Company and the Highbridge Holders within five (5) Business Days after the applicable Transfer.

“Indirect Transfer” means, with respect to anyClass A Member, any single or series of related transactions that result in a Person (or Persons acting in concert), other than an Indirect Permitted Transferee of the Class A Member in question, who did not directly or indirectly own Equity Securities in such Class A Member prior to the consummation of such single or series of related transactions acquiring or owning, directly or indirectly, any Equity Securities in such Class A Member.

“IPO” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Liquidity Event.”

“Liquidity Event” means the first to occur, in one or a series of related transactions, of (i) a disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Class B Member and its Subsidiaries to a Person that is not an Affiliate of the Class B Member, whether by virtue of an asset sale or a

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transfer of Equity Securities (whether through a sale, merger consolidation, share exchange or otherwise), except to the extent described in clause (ii) of this definition, (ii) a disposition of all of the Equity Securities of the Class B Member, held directly or indirectly, by the holders thereof (through a sale, merger, consolidation, share exchange or otherwise), (iii) the consummation of a firm underwritten initial public offering registered under the Securities Act of any class of Equity Securities of the Class B Member (or any successor thereto) or any of its Subsidiaries that hold all or substantially all of the Company’s assets on a consolidated basis (an “IPO”) that is not a Qualified IPO and, (iv) a Qualified IPO, and (a) in the case of (i), the distribution by the Class B Member to the holders of Equity Securities of the Class B Member of all or substantially all of the proceeds received by the Class B Member and its Subsidiaries pursuant to such transaction, and (b), in the case of (iii) or (iv),(1) the payment in full by the Class B Member of any Special IPO Dividend (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations)  if  and  as  required  pursuant  to  Section  9(j)  of  the  Series  B  Certificate of Designations and (2) if the IPO or Qualified IPO is of a Subsidiary of the Class B Member or a holding company parent of the Class B Member (the “PubCo”), then either (x) the distribution by the Class B Member (or its holding company parent) to the holders of Equity Securities of the Class B Member the residual traded securities of PubCo or (y) if PubCo is not owned directly by the stockholders of the Class B Member, the distribution to the stockholders of the Class B Member of the maximum amount of cash proceeds, if any, of such IPO or Qualified IPO, as the case may be, that the managing underwriters advising PubCo, in their reasonable discretion, conclude in writing can be distributed to the stockholders of the Class B Member without adversely affecting the price per share of the Equity Securities being sold in connection with such IPO or Qualified IPO, as the case may be.

“Majority Board Consent” means, as of any determination date, the affirmative vote of the Managers then constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the Board based on the number of Managers at a duly called and convened meeting of the Board or the affirmative written consent in lieu of a meeting executed by the Managers then constituting more than fifty percent (50%) of the Board based on the number of Managers.  

“Managers” has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 6.2.

“Members”  has the meaning ascribed to it in the Preamble.

“Original Membership Interests”has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 5.1.

“Partnership”  means Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, a Texas limited partnership.

“Partnership Agreement” means the Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of the Partnership by and among the Company, the Class B Member, and the limited partners named therein dated the Effective Date.

“Partnership Tax Matters Member”has the meaning ascribed to it in Section 9.7(b).

“Passing Holder” and “Passing Holders” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(b).

“Passing Interest” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(a).

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“Passing Interest Notice” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(b).

“Permitted Transfer” means(1) a Transfer pursuant to and in accordance with Section 3.6,  (2) a direct Transfer pursuant to and in accordance with Section 3.8, (3) a Transfer to be made in connection with an IPO or Qualified IPO; or (4) a Transfer at any time of all or any portion of a Class A Member’s Units to: (a)  if such Class A Member is an individual, any members of such Class A Member’s Immediate Family; provided, that, Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, as applicable,for so long as such individual is living, must retain, directly or indirectly, voting control of such Immediate Family Member’sUnitspursuant to a voting agreement that is delivered to the Company and the Highbridge Holders within five (5) Business Days after such Transfer; (b) if such Class A Member is a trust, the beneficiary or beneficiaries thereof; (c) if such Class A Member is an individual, the guardian or legal representative of a Class A Member as to whose estate a guardian or legal representative is appointed and to the executor or administrator of the estate of a deceased Stockholder; (d) another Class A Member; (e) if such Class A Member is an entity, any owner or Affiliate of such Class A Member; provided, that, if such transferee is an owner or Affiliate of such Class A Member, Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, as applicable, for so long as such individual is living, must retain, directly or indirectly, voting control of such Class A Member’s Unitspursuant to a voting agreement that is delivered to the Company and the Highbridge Holders within five (5) Business Days after such Transfer.

“Permitted Transferee” means any Person to whom a Class A Member Transfers its Units in a Permitted Transfer.

“Person”  shall mean any individual, corporation, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, limited liability company, unincorporated organization, other entity or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.

“Preferred Manager” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.2.

“PubCo” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Liquidity Event”.

“Qualified IPO” means an underwritten primary public offering (other than a public offering pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-8 (or any successor form)) of the common equity of the Class B Member or any of its direct or indirect shareholders (or a corporate successor of any of the foregoing) (a) pursuant to an effective registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with the Securities Act (whether alone or in conjunction with a secondary public offering), (b) resulting in gross proceeds of at least $300,000,000 (c) for which, were such public offering to constitute an IPO for purposes of Section 9(g) of the Series B Certificate of Designations, the Conversion Percentage (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations) with respect to such public offering for purposes of Section 9(a)(iv) of the Series B Certificate of Designations would be less than forty-seven and five-tenths percent (47.50%) based on the assumed distribution of the Hypothetical IPO Proceeds (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations) in connection with such public offering pursuant to Section 9(g) of the Series B Certificate of Designations and (d) with respect to which the Class B Member shall be able to satisfy in full its payment

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obligations to the Highbridge Holders in respect of payments of the Special IPO Dividend (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations) if and as required pursuant to Section 9(j) of the Series B Certificate of Designations.  

“Regulations”  has the meaning ascribed to it in the Recitals.

“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

“Series B Certificate of Designations” means  the Certificate of Designations of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock of the Class B Memberfiled with the Delaware Secretary of State on or about the date hereof, as amended, restated or modified from time to time.

“Stockholders Agreement”  means the Stockholders Agreement by and among the Class B Member and the equityholders of the Class B Member dated the Effective Date.

“Subject Holder” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(b).  

“Subsidiary”  of a Person shall mean any other Person of which more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding Equity Securities having ordinary voting power under ordinary circumstances to elect a majority of the board of directors or similar governing body of such other Person (irrespective of whether at such time Equity Securities of any other classes of such other Person shall or might have voting power upon the occurrence of any contingency) is at the time directly or indirectly controlled by such Person, by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or by one or more Subsidiaries of such Person.  Unless otherwise indicated herein, each reference to the term “Subsidiary” shall mean a Subsidiary of the Company.For the avoidance of doubt, the Partnership and all of its Subsidiaries shall constitute Subsidiaries of the Company for purposes of this Agreement. 

“Surviving Party” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(c).  

“TBOC” means the Texas Business Organization Code, as the same may be amended from time to time.

“Transfer” means, with respect to any Units, any assignment, sale, transfer, conveyance, pledge, grant of an option or other disposition or act of alienation of such or of any interest therein, whether voluntary or involuntary or by operation of law.

“Unanimous Consent” means, as of any determination date, the affirmative vote or written consent of all of the Managers then constituting the entire Board at a duly called and convened meeting of the Board or affirmative written consent in lieu of a meeting executed by all of the Managers then constituting the entire Board.For purposes of clarity, except as otherwise provided in Section 6.2, a Unanimous Consent requires the consent (whether at a meeting or as part of a unanimous written consent) of the Preferred Manager and cannot be obtained during any period that a PreferredManager is not the serving on the Board.

“Voting Agreement” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.8(c).  

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1.2 Other Definitional Provisions.  All terms used in this Agreement which are not defined in this Article I have the meanings contained elsewhere in this Agreement.  Defined terms used herein in the singular shall include the plural and vice versa.

ARTICLE II.
FORMATION

2.1 Name and Formation.  The name of the Company is “Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC”.  The Company was formed as a limited liability companyon September 26, 2005.

2.2 Principal Place of Business.  The principal office and place of business of the Company are set forth on Exhibit A.  The Company may locate its place of business and principal office at any other place or places as the Class B  Member or officers of the Company may from time to time deem necessary or advisable.

2.3 Registered Office and Agent.  The registered office and registered agent of the Company shall be the registered office and registered agent named in the Articles of Organization and set forth on Exhibit A.  The Company may change the registered office and registered agent as the Members may from time to time deem necessary or advisable.

2.4 Duration.  The period of duration of the Company is perpetual from the date its Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of Texas, unless the Company is earlier dissolved in accordance with either the provisions of this Agreement or the TBOC.

2.5 Purposes and Powers.

(a) The purposes for which the Company is organized is to acquire and own a partnership interest in the Partnership and to serve as the general partner thereof, and to transact any or all lawful business incidental or related thereto for which limited liability companies may be organized under the TBOC.

(b) The Company shall have any and all powers which are necessary or desirable to carry out the purposes and business of the Company, to the extent the same may be legally exercised by limited liability companies under the TBOC.

ARTICLE III.
MEMBER MATTERS; CAPITALIZATION; Transfer Restrictions

3.1 Members and Rights of Membership Interests.

(a) The membership interests in the Company shall be represented by Class A membership interests (the “Class A Units”) and Class B membership interests(the “Class B Units”), each with the rights, interests and obligations set forth herein.  The Class A Member shall be the owner of all of the Class A Units and shall have and may exercise in accordance with this Agreement all of the rights and powers, and shall have all of the obligations, of the Class A Units.  The Class B Member shall be the owner of all of the Class B Units, and shall have and may exercise in accordance with this Agreement all of the rights and powers, and shall have all of the obligations, of the Class B Units.

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(b) The Class A Units shall have 100% of the economic interests in the Company and each item of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit of the Company shall be allocated and distributed to the Class A Member in the manner and at the times provided for in this Agreement.

(c) The Class B Units shall have no economic interest in the Company and shall not be entitled to receive any allocation or distribution of any item of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit of the Company.

(d) Except as provided in Section 6.4, any action requiring approval of the Members shall require the approval of the Class A Member.

3.2 Liability of the Members.  The Members shall not be liable for the debts, liabilities or obligations of the Company in excess of their respective Capital Contributions.

3.3 Annual and Special Meetings.  Annual and special meetings of the Members for the transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting shall be held at such place, time and date as shall be agreed by the Members from time to time.

3.4 Actions Without a Meeting.  Notwithstanding any provision contained in this ARTICLE III, all actions of the Members provided for herein may be taken by written consent without a meeting.  Any such action which may be taken by the Members without a meeting shall be effective only if thewritten consent or consents are in writing, set forth the action so taken, and are signed by the number of Members constituting not less than the minimum amount of Members that would be necessary to take such action at a meeting at which the Members entitled to vote on the action were present and voted.

3.5 Limitations on Transfers.The Class A Member shall not Transfer any of its Class A Units without the prior written consent of the Class B Member.

3.6 Liquidity Event.

(a) Drag Along.  If the Class B Member issues a “Liquidity Event Notice” (as such term is defined in the Stockholders Agreement) that involves the direct sale of Class B Units, the Class A Member shall cooperate with the Class B Member in good faith in connection therewith. Each Class A Member shall, and shall cause its Affiliates to, take all actions, including those set forth in Section 13(d) of the Stockholders Agreement, if applicable, reasonably necessary or appropriate to (i) cooperate with the Class B Member in working toward the consummation of a Liquidity Event and (ii) execute and perform such sale, conveyance, transfer, assignment or any other documents of any kind as are or become necessary to effect a Liquidity Event.  The Class B Member shall, and shall cause its Affiliates to, collaborate with the Class A Member in good faith in order to optimize the tax structure of the Liquidity Event for all Members.

(b) Mandatory Contribution.  If the Class A Member receives a “Liquidity Event Notice”in respect of an IPO or a Qualified IPO,  the Class A Member shall contribute all of its outstanding Class A Units to the Class B Member in connection

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therewith at the instruction of the Class B Member,  pursuant to a Contribution Agreement that is in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

3.7 Indirect Transfer.No Indirect Transfer in respect of a Class A Member shall occur, and no Class A Member shall cause or permit such an Indirect Transfer to occur in respect of such Class A Member, without the prior written consent of the Class B Member.  If, any such Indirect Transfer occurs with respect to any Class A Member in violation of this Section 3.7 and such Indirect Transfer has not, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Class B Member been cured or reversed or has not otherwise ceased to exist within ten (10) days following the earlier to occur of (i) the applicable Class A Member becoming aware of the occurrence of such Indirect Transfer or (ii) notice of such Indirect Transfer being provided to such Class A Member by the Company orthe Class B Member, then such Class A Member shall, effective as of the occurrence of such Indirect Transfer, constitute a “Breaching Class A Member” for purposes of this Agreement.  In consideration for the benefits provided to each Class A Member through its ownership of the Class A Units owned by it and its rights under this Agreement, the receipt and sufficiency of which are each hereby irrevocably acknowledged, each Class A Member agrees that if such Class A Member in the future constitutes a Breaching Class A Member, then from and after the occurrence of the Indirect Transfer that causes such Class A Member to constitute a Breaching Class A Member, it shall have irrevocably surrendered its Class A Units pro rata to limited partners holding “Class A Units” (as defined in the Partnership Agreement) of the Partnership.   For purposes of clarity, in the event an “Indirect Transfer” occurs pursuant to the Stockholders Agreement and such event would constitute an Indirect Transfer hereunder and notice of such event is provided to the Class A Member or its Affiliates pursuant to the Stockholders Agreement, such notice shall also constitute notice of an Indirect Transfer for purposes of this Section 3.7.

3.8 Death of Certain Individuals

(a) Upon the death of Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle (the “Deceased Executive”), all or any portion of the Units held directly or indirectly by suchDeceased Executive (including, for purposes of clarity, the Units of any Class A Member over or with respect to which suchDeceased Executive possessed or held (including, pursuant to the definition of Permitted Transfer, any Class A Member over which suchDeceased Executive was required to possess or hold), directly or indirectly, voting control of the Units held by such Class A Member, whether under a Voting Agreement or otherwise) (such Unitsbeing referred to herein as the “Passing Interest”) shall be subject to the provisions of this Section 3.8.  

(b) Upon suchDeceased Executive’s death, the Company shall give prompt written notice to the Class B Member and the Highbridge Holdersof such event (the “Passing Interest Notice”), which such notice shall contain the names and addresses for purposes of notice of (i) if all or any portion of the Passing Interest that is directly held by suchDeceased Executive’s personal representative (the personal representative of the Deceased Executive’s estate, the “Personal Representative”) and (ii) if all or any portion of the Passing Interest is directly held by any Class A Member (any such Class A Member, a “Subject Holder” and together with each other Subject Holder, if any, and the

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Personal Representative, if any, collectively referred to herein as the “Passing Holders” and individually referred to herein as a “Passing Holder”).  

(c) If, following the delivery of any Passing Interest Notice, either Michael E. Ellis or Harlan H. Chappelle, as applicable (the “Surviving Party”), survives such Deceased Executive, then, within thirty (30) days after delivery of such Passing Interest Notice, each Passing Holder shall transfer voting control of the Passing Interest to the Surviving Party, and the Passing Interest may be transferred or retained, as applicable, to, or by such Persons who would have otherwise held such Passing Interest had such Passing Interest not been subject to the provisions of this Section 3.8, and such Persons may hold suchportion of such Passing Interest subject to the terms and conditions hereof, including entering into a Voting Agreement.  If the Transfer of such portion of such Passing Interest is in connection with an Indirect Transfer, after giving effect to such Indirect Transfer (but prior to giving effect to any future Indirect Transfer or Transfer), the holders of suchportion of such Passing Interest will be considered for all purposes hereunder an IndirectPermitted Transferee with respect to such Passing Interest.  If the Transfer of such portion of such Passing Interest is in connection with a direct Transferafter giving effect to such direct Transfer (but prior to giving effect to any future Indirect Transfer or Transfer), such Transfer will be considered a Permitted Transfer for all purposes hereunder and the holders of such portion of such Passing Interest will be considered for all purposes hereunder a Permitted Transferee with respect to such Passing Interest.  A “Voting Agreement” is an agreement between the Passing Holder and the Surviving Party, whereby voting control of the Passing Interest is held by the Surviving Party.  The Surviving Party will provide a copy of the Voting Agreement to the Company and the Highbridge Holders within forty-five (45) days of the end of such thirty (30)-day period.  If the Surviving Party is a party to a Voting Agreement and such individual dies, then the provisions of this Section 3.8 shall apply with respect to the Units held by the Passing Holder and its successors, assigns and transferees.  

(d) Notwithstanding the foregoing Section 3.8(c), if following the delivery of any Passing Interest Notice, neither Michael E. Ellis nor Harlan H. Chappelle is still living, then, each Passing Holder shall be subject to, and upon the request of the Highbridge Holders, shall enter into, a voting agreement substantially in the form of the Highbridge Voting Agreement that will be attached as an exhibit to the Stockholders Agreement following the Effective Date with conforming changes.

3.1 Certificates.

(a) The Company shall provide each owner of membership interests in the Company a certificate in such form as is approved by the Company and conforms with applicable law, certifying the membership interests owned by it.  Further, for purposes of providing for transfer of, perfecting a lien or encumbrance in, and other relevant matters related to a membership interest, a membership interest will be deemed to be a “security” subject to the rules set forth in Chapters 8 and 9 of the Texas Uniform Commercial Code and any similar Uniform Commercial Code provision adopted by any other relevant jurisdiction.

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(b) In the absence of a more restrictive legend, all certificates evidencing membership interests will be stamped or typed in a conspicuous place with the following legend:

THE MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED FOR INVESTMENT AND HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS.  WITHOUT REGISTRATION, THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, HYPOTHECATED, OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED AT ANY TIME WHATSOEVER, EXCEPT ON DELIVERY TO THE COMPANY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY THAT REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THE TRANSFER, OR THE SUBMISSION TO THE COMPANY OF OTHER EVIDENCE SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY TO THE EFFECT THAT ANY TRANSFER WILL NOT BE IN VIOLATION OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, AND APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR ANY RULE OR REGULATIONS PROMULGATED THEREUNDER.

ANY SALE, TRANSFER, ASSIGNMENT, PLEDGE, ENCUMBRANCE OR DISPOSITION OF THE MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE OR ANY INTEREST THEREIN IS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF THE AMENDED AND RESTATED LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT OF THE COMPANY DATED AS OF MARCH 25, 2014.

(c) The Company may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Company alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the Person claiming the certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed.  When authorizing such issue of a new certificate or certificates, the Company may, in its discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed certificate or certificates, or its legal representative, to advertise the same in such manner as it will require and/or to give the Company a bond in such sum as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the Company with respect to the certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.

(d) Upon surrender to the Company or its transfer agent, if any, of a certificate representing membership interests duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation or transfer in accordance with this Agreement and of the payment of all taxes applicable to the transfer of said membership interest, the Company will be obligated to issue a new certificate to the Person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and record the transaction upon its books, provided,  however, that the Company will not be so obligated unless such transfer was made in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement and any applicable state and federal laws.

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(e) The Company will be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a Person registered on its books as the owner of the indicated membership interests and will not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such membership interests on the part of any Person other than such registered owner, whether or not it will have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by law.

ARTICLE IV. DISTRIBUTIONS

4.1 Distributions.  Subject to Section 4.2 and the other provisions of this Agreement, the Company shall make distributions to the Class A Member at such times as determined by the Class A Member.

4.2 Limitation Upon Distribution.

(a) No distribution shall be declared and paid unless, if after the distribution is made, the value of assets of the Company would exceed the liabilities of the Company, except liabilities to the Class A Member on account of its Capital Contributions.

(b) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, without first obtaining the Unanimous Consent of the Board, the Company shall not cause or permit the Partnership to make any distribution of cash or property to any holder of Class A Units (as defined in the Partnership Agreement) unless, at the time of such distribution, no PIK Dividends (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations (as defined in the Stockholders Agreement)) are accrued and unpaid at such time.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent a tax distribution is made from the Partnership to the Company pursuant to Section 4.2 of the Partnership Agreement, the Company shall distribute the same to the Class A Member promptly upon receipt of such distribution.

ARTICLE V. CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS AND CAPITAL ACCOUNTS.

5.1 Class A Member Contribution.  The Class A Member made an initial contribution to the capital of the Company in the amount of $10,000.00 in cash in exchange for a 100% membership interest in the Company (the “Original Membership Interests”).  In connection with the execution of this Agreement, the Company and the Class A Member hereby agree to cancel and retire the Original Membership Interests and in consideration for such cancellation and retirement the Company shall issue 100% of the Class A Units to the Class A Member.

5.2 Subsequent Capital Contributions.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, no Member shall be permitted or required to make any capital contribution to the Company without the consent of the Class B Member.

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ARTICLE VI.
MANAGEMENT BY BOARD

6.1 General.  The management of the Company is reserved to a board of managers (the “Board”).  The powers of the Company shall be exercised by or under the authority of, and the business and affairs of the Company shall be managed under the direction of, the Board, which shall make all decisions and take all actions for the Company in its individual capacity and in its capacity as general partner of the Partnership.  Notwithstanding any provision contained in this Article VI, all actions of the Managers provided for herein may be taken by written consent without a meeting, or any meeting thereof may be held by means of a conference telephone.  Any such action that may be taken by the Managers without a meeting shall be effective only if the written consent or consents are in writing, set forth the action so taken, and are signed by the number of Managers constituting not less than the minimum amount of Managers that would be necessary to take such action at a meeting at which the Managers entitled to vote on the action were present and voted.

6.2 Composition.  The Board shall be comprised of five (5) managers (each a “Manager” and collectively the “Managers”), each of which shall be appointed by the Class B Member (each, a  “Class B Appointee”).  The Class B Member shall at all times cause (a) the authorized and actual number of Managers serving on the Board to be the same as the authorized and actual number of directors serving on the board of directors of the Class B Member  and (b) the composition of the Board to be the same as the composition of the board of directors of the Class B Member, including the Preferred Director (as defined in the Series B Certificate of Designations), to the extent then applicable, or the Highbridge Nominee(as defined in the Stockholders Agreement), to the extent then applicable (any such Manager, the “Preferred Manager”).  In the event the Highbridge Holders fail to nominate a director to the board of directors of the Class B Member or fill any vacancy in such directorship, and any such vacancy lasts for more than thirty (30) days, then, until such time as the Highbridge Holders elect a director to the board of directors of the Class B Member, the Board may act by Majority Board Consent and the Unanimous Consent provisions shall not apply (including with respect to Section 6.4).

6.3 Class B Appointees.  A Class B Appointee may not be removed from the Board or as a Manager (with or without cause) except at the written direction of the Class B Member subject to Section 6.2, which Class B Member will thereupon be entitled to appoint an alternative Manager to fill the vacancyin accordance withSection 6.2.   Solely for purposes of achieving and maintaining compliance with Section 6.2, theClass B Member shall appoint or change or replace a Class B Appointee to or on the Board, respectively,and shall provide twenty-four(24) hours’ prior written notice to the Board and the Class A Member of such appointment, change or replacement, as applicable.  Any vacancy in the Board, if created by the death, disability, removal, resignation or retirement of a Class B Appointee,  may be filled only by the Class B Member in accordance with Section 6.2 and this Section 6.3.

6.4 Mandatory Unanimous Consent Matters.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement,Articles of Organization or any other agreement or arrangement,subject to Section 6.2,  for so long as any Class B Unit is outstanding, without Unanimous Consent, the Company shall not (directly or indirectly, through any Subsidiary or otherwise) and

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the Board shall not (directly or through committees) cause or permit the Company (directly or indirectly, through any Subsidiary or otherwise) to, in its individual capacity or in its capacity as general partner of the Partnership, take, or cause or permit any of its officers or Subsidiaries to take, any action that would require AMIH Unanimous Consent if the Class B Member or any of its Subsidiaries were to take the same or similar action.

6.5 Valid Board.  At all times that the Board is in compliance with Section 6.2, the Board shall be deemed a “Valid Board” as of such determination time for purposes of this Agreement.  Any action authorized by any Board, whether by Unanimous Consent or otherwise, other than a Valid Board shall be void ab initio and shall have no force or effect.

6.6 Officers.

(a) Subject to Sections 6.4 and 6.5, the Boardmay appoint such officers of the Company as it deems necessary.  Each officer shall be appointed for such term and shall exercise such powers, perform such duties and have such authority as determined from time to time by the Board.  The Boardmay appoint a Chief Executive Officer, President, one or more Vice Presidents, a Secretary, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and any other officers or assistant officers as it deems appropriate.  Any two or more offices may be held by the same person.

(b) Except as modified by the Board by written resolution, officers will have such powers and duties generally pertaining to their offices and such powers and duties as conferred by this Agreement.

(i) Chief Executive Officer.  The Chief Executive Officer shall preside at all meetings of the Members and exercise and perform such other powers and duties as may from time to time be assigned to the Chief Executive Officer by the Boardor by this Agreement.

(ii) President.  The President of the Company, subject to the control of the Board, shall have the responsibility for the general direction of the affairs of the Company, and general supervision over its other officers, responsibility for the general direction of the operational affairs of the Company, and general overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the Company.  The President may sign in the name of the Company (1) all contracts or other instruments authorized by the Boardand (2) all contracts or instruments in the usual and regular course of business of the Company, except in cases where the signing thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Boardor by this Agreement to another officer or agent of the Company or when the Boardshall have expressly provided that the President shall not have such authority.  In addition, the President shall perform all duties incident to the office of President and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him or her by the Boardor as prescribed by this Agreement.

(iii) Vice Presidents.  At the request of the President, or in his or her absence or disability, the Vice Presidents, in the order of their election, shall

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perform the duties of the President, and, when so acting, shall have all the powers of, and be subject to all restrictions upon, the President.  The Vice Presidents shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as may from time to time be assigned to them by the Board or the President.

(iv) Secretary.  The Secretary shall keep the minutes of all meetings of the Members and shall have general charge of such books and records of the Company as the Boardmay direct, and in general shall perform all duties and exercise all powers incident to the office of Secretary and such other duties and powers as the Boardor the President may from time to time assign to or confer on the Secretary.

(v) Treasurer.  The Treasurer shall have control of and shall be responsible for all matters pertaining to the accounts and finances of the Company and shall direct the manner of certifying the same, including the manner of keeping all vouchers for payments by the Company and all other documents relating to such payments; all operating and financial statements of the Company and its various committees; the books of account of the Company, their arrangements and classification; the accounting and auditing practices of the Company; all matters relating to taxation; the care and custody of all monies, funds and securities of the Company; and the collection of all accounts and the maintenance of full and accurate accounts of all receipts, disbursements and contributions of the Company.  The Treasurer shall have the power to endorse for deposit or collection or otherwise all checks, drafts, notes, bills of exchange or other commercial papers payable to the Company, and to give proper receipts or discharges for all payments to the Company.  The Treasurer shall perform such duties and exercise such powers, as are incident to the Office of Treasurer and such other duties and powers as the Board or the President may from time to time assign to or confer on the Treasurer.

(vi) Chief Financial Officer.  The Chief Financial Officer shall have the duty of oversight over all Company financial matters, including supervision over the duties of the Treasurer and controller of the Company.  The Chief Financial Officer shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as are incident to the office of Chief Financial Officer, and such other duties and powers as the Board or the President may from time to time to assign to or confer on the President.

(c) Subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, the compensation of all officers of the Company shall be fixed by the Board.

(d) Each officer of the Company shall hold office until his successor is chosen and qualified or until his death, resignation or removal from office.  Any officer appointed by the Boardmay be removed either with or without cause by the Boardat any time, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contractual rights, if any, of the individual so removed.  If for any reason an officer’s position becomes vacant, the vacancy may be filled by the Board.

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6.7 Waiver of Fiduciary Duties.  This Agreement is not intended to, and does not, create or impose any fiduciary duty on the Managers or Members.The Members and Managers may engage in, and possess interests in, other businesses, activities, ventures, enterprises and investments of any and every type and description, with no duty or obligation (i) to refrain from engaging in such activities, (ii) to offer the right to participate in such activities to the Company or (iii) to account to, or to share the results or profits of such activities with the Company.  Any doctrine of “company opportunity” or similar doctrine is hereby expressly disclaimed.  The Members hereby waive any and all fiduciary duties that, absent such waiver, may be implied by law, and in doing so, recognize, acknowledge and agree that their duties and obligations to one another and to the Company are only as expressly set forth in this Agreement or the non-waivable provisions of applicable law.

ARTICLE VII.
BOOKS, ACCOUNTS AND INFORMATION

7.1 Records and Reports.  The Company shall maintain records and accounts of all operations and expenditures of the Company and all records required to be maintained pursuant to the TBOC.

7.2 Returns and Other Elections.  The Class A Member shall cause the preparation and timely filing of all tax returns required to be filed by the Company pursuant to the Code and all other tax returns deemed necessary and required in each jurisdiction in which the Company does business.

ARTICLE VIII.
DISSOLUTION AND TERMINATION

8.1 Dissolution.

(a) The Company shall be dissolved upon the Unanimous Consent of the Board.

(b) Upon dissolution of the Company, the business and affairs of the Company shall be wound up, and the assets of the Company shall be liquidated under this ARTICLE VIII.

(c) Dissolution of the Company shall be effective as of the day on which the event occurs giving rise to the dissolution, but the Company shall not terminate until there has been a winding up of the Company’s business and affairs, and the assets of the Company have been distributed as provided in Section 8.2.

(d) Upon dissolution of the Company, the Membersmay cause any part or all of the assets of the Company to be sold in such manner as the Members shall determine in an effort to obtain the best prices for such assets; provided, however that the Membersmay distribute assets of the Company in kind to the extent practicable.

8.2 Distribution of Assets Upon Dissolution.  In settling accounts after dissolution, the assets of the Company shall be paid in the following order:

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(a) First, to creditors, in the order of priority as provided by applicable law, except those to any Member on account of its Capital Contributions; and

(b) Second, any remainder shall be distributed to the Class A Member.

8.3 Articles of Dissolution.  When all liabilities and obligations of the Company have been paid or discharged, or adequate provision has been made therefor, and all of the remaining property and assets of the Company have been distributed to the Class A Member, the Articles of Dissolution shall be executed on behalf of the Company by the Class B Appointeeor appropriate officer of the Company and shall be filed with the Secretary of State of Texas, and the Class B Appointeeor appropriate officer of the Company shall execute, acknowledge and file any and all other instruments necessary or appropriate to reflect the dissolution and termination of the Company.

ARTICLE IX.
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

9.1 Amendments.  This Agreement and the Articles of Organization may be amended, supplemented or restated only upon theUnanimousConsent of the Board.  Upon obtaining Unanimous Consent to any amendment to the Articles of Organization, the appropriate officer of the Company shall cause Articles of Amendment to be prepared, executed and filed in accordance with the TBOC.

9.2 Confidentiality.  Each Member agrees that, except as required by law or consented to in writing by the Company, it will, and will cause its directors, officers, employees, representatives and/or agents (collectively, “Representatives”) to, keep strictly confidential all information concerning the Company or its business, properties or plans; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not apply to (a) any information that is or becomes generally available to the public (other than as a result of a disclosure directly or indirectly by such Member or its Representatives in violation hereof), (b) any disclosure of information to the investors, limited partners or potential investors of any Member as such Member may reasonably deem necessary or appropriate, (c) any information the disclosure of which is required by law, provided that the Member promptly notifies the Company of, and takes reasonable steps to minimize the extent of, any such required disclosure or (d) any disclosure of information to lenders or prospective or permitted assignees of any Member, provided that any such lender or prospective or permitted assignee has agreed in writing to be bound by, or is already bound by, confidentiality obligations reasonably comparable in the aggregate to the provisions contained in this Section 9.2.

9.3 Incorporated Documents.  The Stockholders Agreement and the Series B Certificate of Designations are incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof.  Each of the Stockholders Agreement and the Series B Certificate of Designations is on file with the Company at its principal executive office and will be provided to the Members upon their written request.  The Stockholders Agreement shall continue to be incorporated into this agreement notwithstanding the termination of such agreement pursuant to Section 29 thereof.  The Series B Certificate of Designations shall continue to be incorporated into this Agreement notwithstanding the partial or complete conversion of all of the preferred stock established thereby.

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9.4 Notices.

(a) Except as expressly set forth to the contrary in this Agreement, all notices, requests or consents provided for or required to be given hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to be duly given if personally delivered or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, or nationally recognized overnight delivery service with proof of receipt maintained, at the address set forth on Exhibit A (or any other address that any such party may designate by written notice to the other parties).

(b) Any such notice shall, if delivered personally, be deemed received upon delivery; shall, if delivered by certified mail, be deemed received upon the earlier of actual receipt thereof or five Business Days after the date of deposit in the United States mail, as the case may be; and shall, if delivered by nationally recognized overnight delivery service, be deemed received upon the first Business Day after the date of deposit with the delivery service.

(c) Whenever any notice is required to be given by applicable law, the Articles of Organization or this Agreement, a written waiver thereof, signed by the Person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice.

9.5 Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, the Exhibit and Schedule thereto, the Series B Certificate of Designations and the Stockholders Agreement embody the entire agreement and understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and supersede all prior agreements or understandings (whether written or oral), with respect to the subject matter hereof.

9.6 Further Assurances.  In connection with this Agreement, the Company and each Member shall execute and deliver all such future instruments and take such other and further action as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to carry out the provisions of this Agreement and the intention of the parties as expressed herein.

9.7 Tax Matters.

(a) The Class A Member and Class B Member hereby agree to treat, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Company as an entity disregarded as separate from its owner the Class A Member, and shall not take any position inconsistent with such treatment. As such the Class A Member shall be the responsible party for all tax matters on behalf of the Company (the “Company Tax Matters Member”), and shall timely file or cause to be filed all tax returns required to be filed by the Company and pay or cause to be paid any taxes due or payable with respect to the Company.  The Company Tax Matters Member is responsible for and authorized to take such actions and to execute and file all statements and forms on behalf of the Company which may be permitted or required by the applicable provisions of the Code or Treasury Regulations issued thereunder.  The Company Tax Matters Member shall have full and exclusive power and authority on behalf of the Company to represent the Company (at the Company’s expense) in connection with all examinations of the Company’s affairs by tax authorities, including resulting administrative and judicial proceedings, and to expend Company

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funds for professional services and costs associated therewith.  The Company Tax Matters Member shall keep the other Members informed as to the status of any audit of the Company’s tax affairs.

(b) The Class B Member shall have the sole and exclusive right to cause the Company to act in its capacity as the “Tax Matters Partner” pursuant to Section 11.7 of the Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of the Partnership (the “Partnership Tax Matters Member”). The Partnership Tax Matters Member is authorized to cause the Company to take such actions and to execute and file all statements and forms on behalf of the Partnership in its capacity as Tax Matters Partner which may be permitted or required by the applicable provisions of the Code or Treasury Regulations issued thereunder.  The Partnership Tax Matters Member is authorized to cause the Company to make any election permissible under law (including the election under Section 754 of the Code) that is in its sole determination in the best interests of the Partnership, and the Partnership Tax Matters Member shall cause the Company to determine the manner in which, in the event of a transfer of all or part of a limited partner’s units, the shares of profits and losses are allocated between the transferor and the transferee, such manner which shall be in the sole discretion of the Partnership Tax Matters Member, provided that such manner is not inconsistent with the applicable provisions of the Code and the Treasury Regulations.  The Partnership Tax Matters Member shall have full and exclusive power and authority to cause the Company to act on behalf of the Partnership in any representation of the Partnership (at the Partnership’s expense) in connection with all examinations of the Partnership’s affairs by tax authorities, including resulting administrative and judicial proceedings, and to cause the Company to expend Partnership funds for professional services and costs associated therewith.  The Partnership Tax Matters Member shall keep the other Members informed as to the status of any audit of the Partnership’s tax affairs.

9.8 Governing Law; Severability; Jurisdiction.

(a) Governing Law. This Agreement and any claim, controversy or dispute arising under or related in any way to this Agreement, the transactions leading to this Agreement or contemplated hereby, and/or the interpretation and enforcement of the rights and duties of the parties hereunder or related in any way to the foregoing, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal, substantive laws of the State of Texas applicable to agreements entered into and to be performed solely within such state without giving effect to the principles of conflict of laws thereof.

(b) CONSENT TO JURISDICTION AND SERVICE OF PROCESS.  ANY PROCEEDING ARISING UNDER OR RELATED IN ANY WAY TO THIS AGREEMENT, AND/OR THE INTERPRETATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF THE PARTIES HEREUNDER OR RELATED IN ANY WAY TO THE FOREGOING MAY ONLY BE INSTITUTED IN THE STATE OR FEDERAL COURTS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE AND EACH PARTY WAIVES ANY OBJECTION WHICH SUCH PARTY MAY NOW OR HEREAFTER HAVE TO THE LAYING OF THE VENUE OF ANY SUCH PROCEEDING, AND IRREVOCABLY SUBMITS TO THE JURISDICTION OF ANY SUCH COURT IN

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ANY SUCH PROCEEDING.  SERVICE OF PROCESS WITH RESPECT THERETO MAY BE MADE UPON A PARTY HERETO BY MAILING A COPY THEREOF BY REGISTERED OR CERTIFIED MAIL, POSTAGE PREPAID, TO SUCH PARTY AT ITS ADDRESS AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 9.4. 

(c) WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.  EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY WHICH MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES, AND THEREFORE EACH SUCH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT SUCH PARTY MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT.  EACH PARTY CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER, (B) EACH SUCH PARTY UNDERSTANDS AND HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (C) EACH SUCH PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY, AND (D) EACH SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 9.8(c).

(d) In the event of a direct conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and (i) any provision of the Articles of Organization or (ii) any mandatory, non-waivable provision of the TBOC, such provision of the Articles of Organization or the TBOC shall control.  If any provision of the TBOC provides that it may be varied or superseded in the agreement of a limited liability company (or otherwise by agreement of the members of a limited liability company), such provision shall be deemed superseded and waived in its entirety if this Agreement contains a provision addressing the same issue or subject matter.

(e) If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable under present or future laws effective during the term of this Agreement, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision had never comprised a part of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement.  Furthermore, in lieu of each such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision, there shall be added automatically as a part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid and enforceable.

9.9 Binding Effect.  Subject to the restrictions on Transfer set forth in this Agreement, this Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Company and each Member and their respective heirs, permitted successors, permitted assigns, permitted

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distributees and legal representatives; and by their signatures hereto, the Company and each Member intends to and does hereby become bound.  Nothing expressed or mentioned in this Agreement is intended or shall be construed to give any Person other than the parties hereto and their respective permitted successors and assigns any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under, in or in respect of this Agreement or any provision herein contained.  The rights under this Agreement may be assigned by a Member to a transferee of all or a portion of such Member’s Units transferred in accordance with this Agreement (and shall be assigned to the extent this Agreement requires such assignment), but only to the extent of such Units so transferred; it being understood that the assignment of any rights under this Agreement shall not constitute admission to the Company as a Member unless and until such transferee is duly admitted as a Member in accordance with this Agreement.

9.10 Severability.  If any provisions contained in this Agreement shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not invalidate the entire Agreement.  Instead, such provision shall be deemed to be modified to the extent necessary to render it valid and enforceable and if no such modification shall render it valid and enforceable then the Agreement shall be construed as if not containing such provision.

9.11 Time of the Essence.  Time is of the essence with respect to this Agreement.

9.12 No Third Party Beneficiaries.  Except for the provisions of Section 3.8, which may be enforced solely by any Highbridge Holder,  nothing herein expressed or implied is intended to confer upon any person, other than the parties hereto or their respective permitted assigns, successors, heirs and legal representatives, any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement.

9.13 Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in counterparts and all such counterparts shall be construed together to form a single document.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Pages Follow]

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The undersigned, being all of the Members of the Company, do hereby ratify, confirm and approve the adoption of this Agreement as the limited liability company agreement of the Company, and does hereby assume and agree to be bound by and to perform all of the terms and provisions set forth in this Agreement effective as of the date first written above.

	Alta Mesa Resources, LP,
	a Texas limited partnership
By:		Alta Mesa Resources GP, LLC,
		a Texas limited liability company,
		its General Partner
By:		/s/ Michael E. Ellis
		Michael E. Ellis,
		Manager

Signatures Continued on Next Page.

	ALTA MESA INVESTMENT HOLDINGS INC.,
	a Delaware corporation
By:		/s/ Harlan H. Chappelle
		Harlan H. Chappelle,
		President and Chief Executive Officer

End of Signatures.

Exhibit A

AMENDED AND RESTATED

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENTOF

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS GP, LLC

Company Information:

Name of Company:	Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC
Address of Company:	15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400 Houston, Texas 77094
Registered Agent & Registered Office:	Harlan H. Chappelle 15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400 Houston, Texas 77094

Class A Member Information:

Name of Class A Member:	Alta Mesa Resources, LP, a Texas limited partnership
Address:	15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400 Houston, Texas 77094
Capital Contribution:	$10,000.00
Class A Membership Interest:	100%
Date Became Member:	September 26, 2005

Class B Member Information:

	Delaware corporation
Name of Class B Member:	Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc., a  Delaware corporation
Address:	15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400 Houston, TX  77094 Attention:  Michael McCabe with copies to: Highbridge Principal Strategies, LLC 40 West 57th Street 33rd Floor New York, NY 10019 Attention:  Jeff Hostettler
Capital Contribution:	$0.00
Class B Membership Interest:	100%

B-1

Date Became Member: March 25, 2014

EX-10.4

Exhibit 10.4

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”), is made and entered into as of March25, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Alta Mesa Services, LP, a Texas limited partnership (hereafter “Partnership”) and Harlan H. Chappelle (hereafter “Executive”). The Partnership and Executive may sometimes hereafter be referred to singularly as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties.”

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Partnership desires to continue to secure the employment services of Executive subject to the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

WHEREAS the Partnership provides various services including management services to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Holding Co.”), Alta Mesa Holdings GP (“General Partner”), and all Subsidiaries of Holding Co., under the Shared Services and Expenses Agreement dated as of January 1, 2006, between the Partnership, Holding Co., General Partner and the Subsidiaries (“Services Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Partnership and the Executive previously entered into an Employment Agreement as of August 31, 2006, and both parties desire to amend and restate that Employment Agreement upon the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1.     Employment. During the Employment Period (as defined inSection 4 hereof), the Partnership shall employ Executive, and Executive shall serve as, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Partnership. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be at the main business offices of the Partnership in Houston, Texas.

2.     Compensation.

(a)     Base Salary.  The Partnership shall pay to Executive during the Employment Period a base salary of $485,000 per year, as adjusted pursuant to the subsequent provisions of this paragraph (the “Base Salary”). The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the Partnership’s normal payroll schedule and procedures for its executives. Nothing contained herein shall preclude the payment of any other compensation to Executive at any time as determined by the Partnership.

(b)     Annual Bonus. In addition to the Base Salary in Section 2(a), for each annual fiscal year of the Partnership during the Employment Period (as definedin Section (4)) (each such annual period being referred to as a “Bonus Period”), Executive shall be entitled to a bonus equal to a percentageof Executive’sBase Salary paid during each such one year period

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(referred to herein as the “Annual Bonus”), such percentage to be established by the Partnership in its sole discretion, and approved by Holding Co.; provided, however, Executive shall be entitled to the Annual Bonus only if Executive has met the performance criteria set by the Partnership for the applicable period.

In the event that the Employment Period ends before the end of the BonusPeriod, Executive shall be entitled to a pro rata portion of the Annual Bonus for that year (based on the number of daysinwhichExecutivewasemployedduringtheyeardividedby365),as determined based on satisfaction of the performance criteria for that periodon a proratabasis, unless Executive was terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)(2)),in whicheventExecutive shall not be entitled to any Annual Bonus for that year. Executiveacknowledges that the amount and performance criteriafor Executive’sAnnualBonusto beearnedfor eachBonus Periodshall be setonorbeforethebeginningoftheapplicableBonusPeriod.  Executive shall be made aware of the performance criteria in writing before the applicable Bonus Period begins.  If Executivesuccessfully meetstheperformancecriteriaestablishedbythePartnership,thePartnershipshallpay Executive the earnedAnnualBonusamountwithintheearlierof:  (i)sixtydays(60)daysafter the end of the Bonus Period or (ii) sixty days (60) after the end of the Employment Period, as applicable.

(c)     Compensation in Event of Injury or Sickness. In the event Executive becomes injured or suffers a medically determinable physical or mental illness, as determined by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive in the same manner as provided in Section 6(d)(5), Executive shall be entitled to receive continued Base Salary as set forth in Section 2(a) for a period of six (6) months following the occurrence of such injury or sickness; provided, however, such Base Salary shall be reduced by any short-term and/or long-term disability benefits that are received by Executive under such programs sponsored by the Partnership during such six (6) month period.

(d)     Special Bonus.  In addition to other compensation paid to Executive hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to a one-time only special bonus payment in an aggregate amount equal to (i) the Executive’s net investment income tax under Sections 1 and 1411 of the Code, respectively, directly associated with the Executive’s contribution of Class A Limited Partner interests in the Partnership to Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation (“AMIH”) in the calendar year 2014, plus (ii) the Executive’s federal and state (as the case may be) tax liabilities directly associated with his employment by the Partnership, including any tax liabilities directly associated with Executive providing services to the Holding Co., the General Partner, or any of the Subsidiaries,  (collectively, subsections (i) and (ii), the “Tax Liability”); provided, that, in no event will this one-timespecial bonus payment for the Tax Liability made to Executive under this Section 2(d) exceed $550,000.  The amount due Executive hereunder shall be paid by the Partnership upon ten (10) days written notice from Executive to the Partnership, which shall include a tax analysis of such Tax Liability from Executive’s certified public accountant.

3.     Duties and Responsibilities of Executive.During the Employment Period, Executive’s services shall be devoted on substantially a full-time basis to (i) the business of the Partnership as directed by the General Partner under the Services Agreement and(ii) performance of the duties and responsibilities assigned to Executive by the Board or the Chief

2

Executive Officer, to the best of Executive’s ability and with reasonable diligence. In determining Executive’s duties and responsibilities, Executive shall not be assigned duties and responsibilities that are inappropriate for Executive’s position.This Section 3 shall not be construed as preventing Executive from (a) engaging in reasonable volunteer services for charitable, educational or civic organizations, or (b) investing personal assets in such a manner that will not require a material amount of the Executive’s time or services in the operation of the businesses in which such investments are made; provided, however, no such other activity shall conflict with Executive’s loyalties and duties to the Partnership. Executive shall at all times use best efforts to comply in good faith with United States laws applicable to Executive’s actions on behalf of the Partnership and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 6(d)(l)). Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for purposes of the Partnership’s business. The Parties agree that Executive’s principal work location cannotbe relocated further than 50 miles from Executive’s principal work location on the Effective Date, except as mutually agreed by the Parties.

4.     Term of Employment.Executive’s initial term of employment with the Partnership under this Agreement shall be for the period from the Effective Date through the date that is four (4) years from the Effective Date (the “Initial Term of Employment”). Thereafter, the Employment Period hereunder shall be automatically extended repetitively for an additional one (1) year period on each anniversary of the Effective Date, unless Notice of Termination (pursuant to Section 7) is given by either the Partnership or Executive to the other Party at least sixty (60) days prior to the end of the Initial Term of Employment or any one-year extension thereof, as applicable, that the Agreement will not be renewed for a successive one-year period after the end of the current one-year period. The Partnership and Executive shall each have the right to give Notice of Termination at will, with or without cause, at any time subject, however, to the terms and conditions of this Agreement regarding the rights and duties of the Parties upon termination of employment. The Initial Term of Employment and any one-year extension of employment hereunder, shall each be referred to herein as a  “Term of Employment.”  The period from the Effective Date through the date of Executive’s termination of employment with the Partnership and all Affiliates, for whatever reason, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” Notwithstanding the above, Executive agreestoremainavailable beyond the Employment Period to provideassistance to the Partnership or its Affiliates in the event the Partnership or its Affiliate become involved in litigation regarding matters of which Executive has relevant knowledge resulting from Executive’s employment with the Partnership. Such post-termination assistance shall be provided by Executive in the capacity of an independent contractor at an agreed-upon, reasonable consulting fee, and shall not be deemed to create or continue an employee-employer relationship or to represent a continuation of any provision ofthis Agreement.

5.     Benefits.Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, during the Employment Period, Executive shall be entitled to all of the following:

(a)     Reimbursement of Business Expenses. The Partnership shall pay or reimburse Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other business expenses paid or incurred by Executive in the performance of duties hereunder.  The Partnership shall also provide Executive with suitable office space, including staff support, paid parking, and necessary equipment, including butnot limited to cellular telephone and laptop computer.

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(b)     Other Employee Benefits.  Executive shall be entitled to participate in any pension, retirement, 401(k), profit-sharing, and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the same extent as available to other key management employees of the Partnership under the terms of such plans or programs. Executive shall also be entitled to participate in any group insurance, hospitalization, medical, dental, health, life,accident, disability and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to theextent available to other key management employees of the Partnership, and their spouses and eligible dependents, under the terms of such plans or programs including any medical expense reimbursement account and post-retirement medical program as available tootherkey management employees of the Partnership.

(c)     Vacation and Holidays. Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year (prorated in any calendar year during which Executive is employed for less than the entire year based on the number of days in such calendar year in which Executive was employed). Executive shall also be entitled to all paid holidays and personal days provided by the Partnership for its key management employees under the Partnership’s personnel policy as then effective. Unused vacation shal1 not carryover to the following year unless specifically approved by the Partnership.

(d)     Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any nonqualified plan of deferred compensation maintained by the Partnership, Holding Co., the General Partner or any of the Subsidiaries, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of such entities.  If, and to the extent, that any such plan relates or is attributable to compensation derived from the equity of Holding Co., such compensation shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(e)     Equity Grants. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any long-term incentive plan providing for equity grants or other incentive awards, the amount of which is based upon the value of the Partnership or an Affiliate, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of the Partnership.  Specifically, the Partnership shall provide a participation in the equity of Holding Co. for the benefit of the Executive. Such participation in any equity plan shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(f)     Annual Physical. Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of an annual physical examination by a physician (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership.

(g)     Key Man Life Insurance. The Partnership may, at any time during the term of this Agreement, apply for and procure as owner, and for its sole benefit, life insurance on the Executive’s life in such amounts and in such forms as the Partnership may select. Executive hereby acknowledges that Executive will have no interest whatsoever in any such insurance policy. Executive must submit to such medical examinations, supply such information, and execute such documents as may be reasonably requested by the insuring companies to obtain any such key man policy.

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(h)     Tax Planning, Preparation and Advice.  Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of tax preparation and planning by a certified financial planner or certified public accountant (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership, provided that such annual reimbursement shall not exceed $5,000.00.

(i)     Automobile Allowance.  The Partnership will provide the Executive with an automobile, as well as gas expenses and insurance for said automobile.  In the event that the Partnership no longer provides Executive with an automobile, the Partnership shall provide a monthly car allowance of $2,000.00.

6.     Rights and Payments upon Termination.The Executive’s rightto compensation and benefits for periods after the date on which Executive’s employment terminates with the Partnership and all Affiliates (the “Termination Date’’), shall be determined in accordance with this Section 6, as follows:

(a)     Minimum Payments and Vesting. Executive shall be entitled to the following minimum payments under this Section 6(a) in addition to any other payments or benefits to which Executive is entitled to receive under the terms of any employee benefit plan orprogram or Section 6(b):

(1)     unpaid salary for the full month in which the Termination Date occurred; provided, however, if Executive is terminated for Cause (as definedin Section6(d)), Executive shall only be entitled to receive accruedbut unpaid salary through the Termination Date;

(2)     unpaid vacation days for that year which haveaccruedthroughthe Termination Date;

(3)     reimbursement of reasonable business expenses which were incurredbut unpaid as of the Termination Date; and

(4)     to the extent Executive participated inanynonqualifieddeferred compensation orincentiveplanorprogramwithvestingcriteria,or received any equity grant that is not fully vested, Executive willbe automatically 100% vested as of the Termination Date.

Such salary and accrued vacation days shall be paid to Executive within five (5) business days following the Termination Date in a cash lump sum less applicable withholdings. Business expenses shall be reimbursed in accordance with the Partnership’s normal procedures.

(b)     Other Severance Payments.  In the event that during the Term of Employment (i) Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by the Partnership (except due to a “No Severance Benefits Event” (as defined in Section 6(d)(8)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to “Disability” or “Retirement’ (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)(5) and 6(d)(9)), (iii) Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 6(d)(7)), or (iv) the Partnership provides notice in accordance with Section 4

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that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4); then in any such event under clause (i), clause (ii) clause (iii), or clause (iv), the following severance benefits shall be provided to Executive or, in the event of death before receiving all such benefits, to Executive’s ‘‘Designated Beneficiary” (as defined in Section 6(d)(4))  following death:

(1)     The Partnership shall pay as additional compensation (the “Additional Payment”), (A) an amount equal to two (2) years of Base Salary in effect as of the Termination Date, and (B) an amount equal  to two times (2x) the amount of the Annual Bonus paid to the Executive for the year immediately preceding the Termination Date.  The Partnership shall make the Additional Payment to Executive in a cash lump sum, net of applicable withholdings, not later than sixty (60) calendar days following the Termination Date.

(2)     COBRA Coverage.  The Partnership shall maintain continued group health plan coverage following the Termination Date under all plans subject to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 as amended (“COBRA”) (as codified in Code Section 4980B and Part 6 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA) for Executive and Executive’s eligible spouse and dependents for the maximum period for which such qualified beneficiaries are eligible to receive COBRA coverage.  However, Executive (and Executive’s spouse and dependents) shall not be required to pay more  for suchCOBRA coverage than is charged by the Partnership to its key management employees who are then in active service for the Partnership and receiving coverage under such plan and, therefore, the Partnership shall be responsible for the difference between the amount charged hereunder and the full COBRA premiums for a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Termination Date. In all other respects, Executive (and Executives spouse and dependents) shall be treated the same as other COBRA qualified beneficiaries under the terms of such plans and the provisions of COBRA. In the event of any change to a group health plan following the Termination Date, Executive and Executive’s spouse and dependents, as applicable, shall be treated consistently with the then-current key management employees of the Partnership with respect to the terms and conditions of coverage and other substantive provisions of the plan. Executive and Executive’s spouse hereby agree to acquire and maintain any and all coverage that either or both of them are entitled to at any time during their lives under the Medicare program or any similar program of the United States or any agency thereof. Executive and Executive’s spouse further agree to pay any required premiums for Medicare coverage from their personal funds.

For purposes of clarity, in the event that (i) Executive voluntarily resigns or otherwise voluntarily terminates employment, except due to Disability or Retirement or for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to a No Severance Benefits Event (as defined in Section 6(d)), or (iii) the Executive provides notice in accordance with Section 4 that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4) then, in any such event under clause (i), (ii) or (iii), the Partnership shall have no obligation to provide the severance benefits described in paragraphs (1) and (2) (above) of this Section 6(b), except to offer COBRA coverage (as required by COBRA law) but not at the discounted rate described in paragraph (2).

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Executive shall still be entitled to the minimum benefits provided under Section 6(a). The severance payments provided under Section 6(b) shall supersede and replace any severance payments under any severance pay plan that the Partnership or any Affiliate maintains for key management employees or employees generally.

(c)     Release Agreement.  Notwithstanding any provisionof the Agreement to the contrary, in order to receive the severance benefits provided under Section 6(b), the Executivemustfirstexecuteanappropriatereleaseagreement(onaformprovidedbythePartnership) whereby the Executive agrees to release and waive, in return for such severance benefits, any claims that Executive may have against the Partnership or any of its Affiliates including, without limitation, for unlawful discrimination (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act); provided, however, such release agreement shall not release any claim or cause of action by or on behalf of the Executive for (a) any payment or benefit that may be due or payable under this Agreement or any employee benefit plan or program prior to the receipt thereof,(b)non­ payment of salary or benefits to which Executive is entitled from the Partnership as of the Termination Date, or (c) a breach of this Agreement by the Partnership.

(d)     Definitions.

(1)      “Affiliate” means Holding Co., General Partner, the Subsidiaries and any parent or subsidiary company, or any other entity in whatever form, ofwhich the Partnership has any controlling ownership interest or ownership or management control, or vice-versa, as determined by the Partnership.

(2)      “Cause” means any of the following:(A) the Executive’s conviction by a courtof competent jurisdiction of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony, orentering the plea of nolo contendere to such crime by the Executive; (B) the commission by the Executive of a demonstrable act of fraud, or a misappropriation of funds orproperty, of or upon the Partnership or any Affiliate; (C) the engagement by the Executive, without the written approval of the Partnershipand Holding Co., in any material activity which directly competes with the business of the Partnership or any Affiliate, or which would directly result in a material injury to the business or reputation of the Partnership or any Affiliate (including the partners of Holding Co.); or (D) (i) the breach by Executive of any material provision of this Agreement, and Executive’s continued failure to cure such breach within a reasonable time period set by the Partnership but in no event less than twenty (20) calendar days after Executive’s receipt of such notice.

(3)      ‘‘Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,  as amended or its successor.  References herein to any Section of the Code shall include any successor provisions of the Code.

(4)      “Designated Beneficiary” means the Executive’s surviving spouse, if any. If there is no such surviving spouse at the time of Executive’s death, then the Designated Beneficiary hereunder shall be Executive’s estate.

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(5)      “Disability” shall mean that (a)Executive is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, or (b) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, Executive is receiving income replacement for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of the Partnership. Evidence of such Disability shall be certified by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive. In the event that the Parties are not able to agree on the choice of a physician, each shall select one physician who, in turn, shall select a third physician to render such certification. All costs relating to the determination of whether Executive has incurred a Disability shall be paid by the Partnership. Executive agrees to submit to any examinations that are reasonably required by the attending physician or other healthcare service providers to determine whether Executive has a Disability.

(6)      “Dispute” means any dispute, disagreement, claim, or controversy arising from, in connection with, or relating to (a) the employment, or termination of employment, of Executive, or (b) the Agreement, or the validity, interpretation, performance, breach or termination of the Agreement.

(7)      “Good Reason” means the occurrence of any of the following, if not cured and corrected by the Partnership orits successor, within60 days after written notice thereof is provided by Executive to the Partnership or its successor: (a) the demotion or reduction in title or rank of Executive, or theassignment to Executive of duties that are materiallyinconsistent with Executive’s current positions, duties, responsibilities and status with the Partnership, or any removal of the Executive from, or any failure to re­ elect the Executive to, any of such positions(other than a change due to  the Executive’sDisabilityor as an accommodationunderthe Americanwith Disabilities Act), except for any such demotion, reduction, assignment, removal or failure that occurs in connection with (i) Executive’s termination of employment for Cause, Disability or death, or(ii) Executive’s prior written consent; (b) the reduction of the Executive’s annual base salary or bonus opportunity as compared to base salary and bonus opportunity as effective immediately prior to such reduction without the prior written consent of Executive; (c) a relocation of Executive’s principal work location to a location in excess of 50 miles from its then current location.

(8)      “No Severance Benefits Event” means termination of Executive’s employment by the Partnership (i) for Cause (as defined above) or due to death.

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(9)      “Retirement” means the termination of Executive’s employment for normal retirement at or after attaining age seventy (70), provided that, on the date of retirement, Executive has accrued at least five years of active service as an employee with the Partnership or its Affiliates.

7.     Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Partnership or the Executive shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other Party hereto. For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Notice of Termination” means a written notice which indicates the specific termination provisionof this Agreementrelied uponand sets forth in reasonable detailthe factsandcircumstancesclaimed to providea basisfor terminationof the Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated.

8.     No Mitigation.  Subject to Section 6(b)(2), Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment or other benefits provided under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner.

9.     Restrictive Covenants.  As an inducement to the Partnership to enter into this Agreement, Executive represents to, and covenants with or in favor of, the Partnership that Executive will comply with all of the restrictive covenants in Sections 9 through 17, as a condition to the Partnership’s obligation to provide any benefits to Executive under this Agreement.

10.    Trade Secrets.

(a)     Access to Trade Secrets. As of the Effective Date and on an ongoing basis, the Partnership agrees to give Executive access to Trade Secrets which the Executive did not have access to, or knowledge of, before the Effective Date.

(b)     Agreement Not to Use or Disclose Trade Secrets. In exchange for the Partnership’s promises to provide Executive with access to Trade Secrets and the other consideration and benefits provided to Executive under this Agreement, Executive agrees, during the Employment Period, and any time thereafter, not todiscloseto anyone, including, without limitation, any person, firm, corporation or other entity, or publish or use for any purpose, any Trade Secrets, except asrequiredinthe ordinary course of the Partnership’s business or as authorized by the Partnership.

(c)     Agreement to Refrain from Defamatory Statements. Executive shall refrain, both during the Employment Period and thereafter, from publishing any oral or written statements about any directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate that are slanderous, libelous, or defamatory; or that disclose private or confidential information about the business affairs, directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate; or that constitute an intrusion into the seclusion or private lives of any such person; or that give rise to unreasonable publicity about the private life of any such person; or that place any such person in a false light before the public; or that constitute a misappropriation of the name or likeness of any such person. A violation or threatened violation of these restrictive covenants may be enjoined by a court of law notwithstanding the arbitration provisions of Section 29.

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(d)     Definitions.The following terms, when used in this Agreement, are defined below:

(1)      “Restricted Territory”    means any county, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, of any state, district, or territory of North America in which the Partnership conducts its business; and any area adjacent to such counties, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, to the extent such adjacent areas are within a 50-mile radius of any producing property or leasehold of the Partnership.

(2)      “Trade Secrets” means any and all information and materials (in any form or medium) that are proprietary to the Partnership or an Affiliate, or are treated as confidential by the Partnership or Affiliate as part of, or relating to, all or any portion of its or their business, including information and materials about the products and services offered by the Partnership or an Affiliate; compilations of information, records and specifications, properties, processes, programs,and systems of the Partnership or Affiliate; researchfor the Partnership or an Affiliate; and methods of doing business of the Partnership or an Affiliate. Trade Secrets include, without limitation,all of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s technical and business information, whether patentable or not, which is of a confidential, trade secret or proprietary character, and which is either developed by the Executive alone, or with others or by others; lists of customers; identity of customers contract terms; bidding information and strategies; pricing methods or information; computer software; computer software methods and documentation; hardware; the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s methods of business operations; the procedures, forms and techniques used in conducting its business operations; and other documents, information or data that the Partnership requires to be maintained in confidence for the Partnership’s business success.

11.    Duty to Return Partnership Documents and Property. Upon termination of the Employment Period, Executive shall immediately return and deliver to the Partnership any and all papers, books, records, documents, memoranda and manuals, e-mail, electronic or magnetic recordings or data, including all copies thereof, belonging to the Partnership or relating to its business, in Executive’s possession, whether prepared by Executive or others. If at any time after the Employment Period, Executive determines that Executive has any Trade Secrets in Executive’s possession or control, Executive shall immediately return them to the Partnership,including all copies thereof.

12.    Best Efforts and Disclosure.  Executive agrees that, while employed with the Partnership, Executive’s services shall be devoted on a full time basis to the Partnership’s business, and Executive shall use best efforts to promote its success. Further, Executive shall promptly disclose to the Partnership all ideas, inventions, computer programs, and discoveries, whether or not patentable or copyrightable, which Executive may conceive or make, alone or with others, during the Employment Period, whether or not during working hours, and which directly or indirectly:

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(a)     relate toa matterwithinthescope, field,dutiesor responsibilityof Executive’s employment with the Partnership; or

(b)     are basedonany knowledgeof theactualor anticipatedbusinessor interests of the Partnership; or

(c)     are aided by the use of time, materials, facilities or informationof the Partnership.

Executive assigns to the Partnership, without further compensation, any and all rights, titles and interest in all such ideas, inventions, computer programs and discoveries in all countries of the world. Executive recognizes that all ideas inventions, computer programs and discoveries of the type described above, conceived or made by Executive alone or with others within 12 months after the Termination Date (voluntary or otherwise), are likely to have been conceived in significant part either while employed by the Partnership or as a direct result of knowledge Executive had of proprietary information or Trade Secrets. Accordingly, Executive agrees that such ideas, inventions or discoveries shall be presumed to have been conceived during the Employment Period, unless and until the contrary is clearly established by the Executive.

13.    Inventions and Other Works.Any and all writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and/or techniques which Executive may make, conceive, discover, or develop, either solely or jointly with any other person or persons, at any time during the Employment Period, whether at the request or upon the suggestion of the Partnership or otherwise, which relate to or are useful in connection with any business now or hereafter carried on or contemplated by the Partnership, including developments or expansions of its present fields of operations, shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Partnership. Executive agrees to take any and all actions necessary or appropriate so that the Partnership can prepare and present applications for copyright or Letters Patent therefor, and secure such copyright or Letters Patent wherever possible, as well as reissue renewals, and extensions thereof, and obtain the record title to such copyright or patents. Executive shall not be entitled to any additional or special compensation or reimbursement regarding any such writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and techniques. Executive acknowledges that the Partnership from time to time may have agreements with other persons or entities which impose obligations or restrictions on the Partnership regarding inventions made duringthe courseofworkthereunderor regardingtheconfidentialnatureofsuchwork.Executive agrees to be bound by all such obligations and restrictions, and to take all action necessary to discharge the obligations of the Partnership.

14.    Non-Solicitation Restriction.  Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 13 and other provisions of this Agreement.  During the Executive’s employment and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive hereby covenants and agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, either individually or as a principal, partner, agent, consultant, contractor, employee, or as a director or officer of any entity, or in any other manner or capacity

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whatsoever, except on behalf of the Partnership, solicit business, attempt to solicit business, or conduct business, in products or services competitive with any products or services offered or performed by the Partnership or its Affiliates in any business which the Partnership or any of its Affiliates does business or has any business interest within the Restricted Territory as of the Termination Date, (a) from those individuals or entities with whom the Partnership or Affiliate conducted business in the Restricted Territory during the Executive’s employment with the Partnership or (b) with respect to any assets or holdings in which the Partnership or Affiliate had any interest in the Restricted Territory at any time during the one (1) year period ending on the Termination Date.

15.    Non-Competition Restriction. Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 14 and other provisions of this Agreement. Executive hereby covenants and agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, withoutthe prior written consent of the Partnership, engage in any capacity in which Executive would perform any duties similar to those Executive performed while employed with the Partnership, directly or indirectly (whether as proprietor, stockholder, director, partner, employee, agent, independent contractor, consultant, trustee, or in any other capacity), with respect to any entity engaged or preparing to engage in the business of oil and gas exploration and production within the Restricted Territory (a “Competing Enterprise”); provided, however, Executive shall not be deemed to be participating or engaging in a Competing Enterprise solely by virtue of the ownership of not more than one percent (1%) of any class of stock or other securities which are publicly traded on a national securities exchange or in a recognized over-the-counter market.

16.    No Recruitment Restriction. Executive agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, either directly or indirectly, or by acting in concert with others, hire any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate or solicit or influence, or seek to solicit or influence, any employee or independent contractor performing servicesfor the Partnership or any Affiliate to terminate, reduce or otherwise adversely affect Executive’s employment or other relationship with the Partnership or any Affiliate.

17.    Business Opportunities.  During the Employment Period and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), the Executive assigns and agrees to assign without further compensation to the Partnership, its Affiliates and its successors, assigns or designees, all of the Executive’s right, title and interest in and to all Business Opportunities (defined below), and further acknowledges and agrees that all Business Opportunities constitute the exclusive property of the Partnership.  The Executive shall present all Business Opportunities to the Partnership, and shall not exploit a Business Opportunity.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Business Opportunities” means all business ideas, prospects, or proposals pertaining to oil and gas exploration and production, or any other aspect of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s business,and any business the Partnership or any Affiliate prepared to conduct,or contemplated conducting during Executive’s employment with the Partnership, which are developed by the Executive or originated by any third party and brought to the

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attention of the Executive, together with information relating thereto;  provided however, that for the one (1) year period following the Termination Date, “Business Opportunities” shall be limited to those Business Opportunities in the Restricted Territory.  For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 17 is not intended to limit or narrow the Executive’s duties or obligations under federal or state law with respect to corporate opportunities. 

18.    Tolling.If Executive violates any of the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 17, then notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the restrictive period will be suspended and will not run in favor of Executive from the time of the commencement of any such violation, unless and until such time when the Executive cures the violation to the reasonable satisfaction of the Partnership.

19.    Reformation.If a court or arbitrator rules that any time period or the geographic area specified in any restrictive covenant in Sections 9 through 17 is unenforceable, then the time period will be reduced by the number of months, or the geographic area will be reduced by the elimination of such unenforceable portion, or both, so that the restrictions may be enforced in the geographic area and for the time to the full extent permitted by law.

20.    No Previous Restrictive Agreements.Executive represents that, except as disclosed in writing to the Partnership as of the Effective Date, Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other third party to (a) refrain from using or disclosing any confidential or proprietary information in the course of Executive’s employment by the Partnership or (b) refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or any other person or entity. Executive further represents that Executive’s performance under this Agreement and work duties for the Partnership do not, and will not, breach any agreement to keep in confidence proprietary information, knowledge or data acquired by Executive in confidence or in trust prior to Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and Executive will not disclose to the Partnership or induce the Partnership to use any confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer or others.

21.    Conflicts of Interest.In keeping with Executive’s fiduciary duties to Partnership, Executive hereby agrees that Executive shall not become involved in a conflict of interest, or upon discovery thereof, allow such a conflict to continue at any time during the Employment Period. In this respect, Executive agrees to fully comply with the conflict of interest agreement entered into by Executive as an employee, officer or director of the Partnership or an Affiliate. In the instance of a violation of the conflict of interest agreement to which Executive is a party, it may be necessary for the Partnership to terminate Executive’s employment for Cause (as defined in Section 6(d)).

22.    Remedies.  Executive acknowledges that the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 21of this Agreement, in view of the nature of the Partnership’s business, are reasonable and necessary to protect the Partnership’s legitimate business interests, and that any violation of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury to the Partnership. Notwithstanding the arbitration provisions in Section 29, in the event of a breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any provision of Sections 9 through 21of this Agreement, the Partnership shall be entitled to a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief restraining Executive from the commission of

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any breach, and to recover the Partnership’s attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses related to the breach or threatened breach. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as prohibiting the Partnership from pursuing any other remedies available to it for any such breach or threatened breach, including, without limitation, the recovery of money damages, attorneys’fees, and costs. These covenants and agreements shall each be construed as independent of any other provisions in this Agreement, and the existence of any claim or cause of action by Executive against the Partnership, whether predicated on this Agreement or otherwise, shall not constitute a defense to the enforcement by the Partnership of such covenants and agreements.

23.    Withholdings; Right of Offset.  The Partnership may withhold and deduct from any benefits and payments made or to be made pursuant to this Agreement (a) all federal, state, local and other taxes as may be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation or ruling, (b) all other normal employee deductions made with respect to Partnership’s employees generally, and (c) any advances made to Executive and owed to Partnership.

24.    Nonalienation.  The right to receive payments under this Agreement shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge or encumbrance by Executive, dependents or beneficiaries of Executive, or to any other person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments hereunder. The right to receive payments hereunder shall not be subject to or liable for the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of any person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments, nor may the same be subject to attachment or seizure by any creditor of such person under any circumstances, and any such attempted attachment or seizure shall be void and of no force and effect.

25.    Incompetent or Minor Payees.Should the Partnership determine, in its discretion, that any person to whom any payment is payable under this Agreement has been determined to be legally incompetent or is a minor, any payment due hereunder, notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, may be made in any one or more of the following ways: (a) directly to such minor or person; (b) to the legal guardianor otherduly appointed personal representative of the person or estate of such minor or person; or (c) to such adult or adults as have, in the good faith knowledge of the Partnership, assumed custody and support of such minor or person; and any payment so made shall constitute full and complete discharge of any liability under this Agreement in respect to the amount paid.

26.    Severability.  It is the desire of the Parties hereto that this Agreement be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law, and should any provision contained herein be held unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction or arbitrator (pursuant to Section 29), the Parties hereby agree and consent that such provision shall be reformed to create a valid and enforceable provision to the maximum extent permitted by law; provided, however, if such provision cannot be reformed, it shall be deemed ineffective and deleted herefrom without affecting any other provision of this Agreement. This Agreement should be construed by limiting and reducing it only to the minimum extent necessary to be enforceable under then applicable law.

27.    Title and Headings; Construction.  Titles and headings to Sections hereof are for the purpose of reference only and shall in no way limit, define or otherwise affect the provisions

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hereof. The words “herein”, “hereof’, “hereunder” andother compounds of the word “here” shall refer to the entire Agreement and not to any particular provision.

28.    Governing Law; Jurisdiction.All mattersor issues relating to the interpretation, construction, validity, and enforcement of this Agreement shallbe governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any choice-of-law principle that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Texas. Jurisdiction and venue of any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any Dispute (to the extent arbitration is not required under Section 28) shall be exclusively in Harris County, Texas.

29.    Mandatory Arbitration.  Except as provided in subsection (h) of this Section 29, any Dispute (as defined in Section 6(d)) must be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the following:

(a)     Either Party may begin arbitration by filing a demand for arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules and concurrently notifying the other Party of that demand. If the Parties are unable to agree upon a panel of three neutral arbitrators within twenty days after the demand for arbitration was filed (the Parties agree to a reasonable,one-time extension of that twenty-day period), either Party may request the Houston, Texas office of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) to appoint the arbitrator or arbitrators necessary to complete the panel in accordance with the Arbitration Rules. Each arbitrator so appointed shall be deemed accepted by the Parties as part of the panel. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties, by mutual consent, may agree to a single arbitrator instead of a panel of three arbitrators and, in such event, references herein to “panel” shall refer to the single appointed arbitrator.

(b)     The arbitration shall be conducted in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area at a place and time agreed upon by the Parties with the panel, or if the Parties cannot agree, as designated by the panel. The panel may, however, call and conduct hearings andmeetings at such other places as the Parties may agree or as the panel may, on the motion of one Party, determine to be necessary to obtain significant testimony or evidence.

(c)     The panel may authorize any and all forms of discovery upon a Party’s showing of need that the requested discovery is likely to lead to material evidence needed to resolve the Dispute and is not excessive in scope, timing, or cost.

(d)     The arbitration shall be subject to the Federal Arbitration Act and conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the AAA to the extent that they do not conflict with this Section 29.  The Parties and the panel may, however, agree to vary to provisions of this Section 29or the matters otherwise governed by the Arbitration Rules as permitted by law.

(e)     The arbitration hearing shall be held within 60 days after the appointment of the panel. The panel’s final decision or award shall be made within 30 days after the hearing. That final decision or award shall be made by unanimous or majority vote or consent of the arbitrators constituting the panel, and shall be deemed issued at the place of arbitration. The panel’s final decision or award shall be based on the terms and conditions of this Agreement and applicable law.

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(f)     The panel’s final decision or award may include injunctive relief in response to any actual or impending breach of this Agreement or any other actual or impending action or omission of a Party under or in connection with this Agreement.

(g)     The panel’s final decision or award shall be final and binding upon the Parties, and judgment upon that decision or award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. The Parties waive any right to apply or appeal to any court for re1ief from the preceding sentence or from any decision of the panel that is made before the final decision or award.

(h)     Nothing in this Section 29limits the right of either Party to apply to a court having jurisdiction to (i) enforce the agreement to arbitrate in accordance with this Section29, (ii) seek provisional or temporary injunctive relief, in response to an actual or impending breach of the Agreement or otherwise so as to avoid an irreparable damage or maintain the statusquo, until a final arbitration decision or award is rendered or the Dispute is otherwise resolved, orchallenge or vacate any final arbitration decision or award that does not comply with this Section 29. In addition, nothing in this Section 29prohibits the Parties from resolving any Dispute (in whole or in part) at any time by mutual agreement or compromise. This Section 29shall also not preclude the Parties at any time from mutually agreeing to pursue non-binding mediation of the Dispute.

(i)     The panel may proceed to an award notwithstanding the failure of any Party to participate in such proceedings. The prevailing Party in the arbitration proceeding may be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with the arbitration in such amount, if any, as determined by the panel in its discretion. The costs of the arbitration shall be borne equally by the Parties unless otherwise determined by the panel in its award.

(j)     The panel shall be empowered to impose sanctions and to take such other actions as it deems necessary to the same extent a judge could impose sanctions or take such other actions pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and applicable law.Each party agrees to keep all Disputes and arbitration proceedings strictly confidential except for disclosure of information required by applicable law which cannot be waived.

30.    Binding Effect; Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties hereto, and to their respective heirs, executors, beneficiaries, personal representatives, successors and. permitted assigns hereunder. Holding Co. and its partners shall expressly be deemed to be third party beneficiaries of the covenants and agreements of the parties hereto; otherwise this Agreement shall not be for the benefit of any third parties.

31.    Entire Agreement; Amendment and Termination. This Agreement contains the entire agreementof the Parties hereto with respect to the matters covered herein; moreover,thisAgreement supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Parties concerningthe subject matter hereof.  This Agreement may beamended, waived or terminated only by a written instrument that is identified as an amendment, waiver or termination hereto, and is executed on behalf of both Parties.The Executive acknowledges and represents that in executing this Agreement, the Executive did not rely on, has

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not relied on, and specifically disavows any reliance on any communications, promises, statements, inducements, or representation(s), oral or written, by the Company, except as expressly contained in this Agreement.  The Parties represent that they relied on their own judgment in entering into this Agreement.

32.    Survival of Certain Provisions. Wherever appropriate to the intention of the Parties, the respective rights and obligations of the Parties hereunder shall survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.

33.    Waiver of Breach. No waiver by either Party hereto of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by any other Party, or of compliance with any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other Party, will operate orbe construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by such other Party or any similar or dissimilar provision or condition at the same or any subsequent time. The failure of either Party hereto to take any action by reason of any breach will not deprive such Party of the right to take action at any time while such breach continues.

34.    Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Partnership and its Affiliates (and its and their successors), as well as upon any person or entity acquiring, whether by merger, consolidation, purchase of assets, dissolution or otherwise, all or substantially all of the capital stock, business and/or assets of the Partnership (or its successor) regardless of whether the Partnership is the surviving or resulting corporation. The Partnership shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, dissolution or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the capital stock, business or assets of the Partnership to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Partnership would be required to perform it if no such succession had occurred; provided, however, no such assumption shall relieve the Partnership of any of its duties or obligations hereunder unless otherwise agreed, in writing, by Executive.

This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representative, executors, administrators, successors, and heirs. In the event of the death of Executive while any amount is payable hereunder, all such amounts shall be paid to the Designated Beneficiary (as defined in Section 6(d)).

35.    Notice.Each notice or other communication required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and transmitted, delivered,or sent by personal delivery, prepaid courier or messenger service (whether overnight or same-day), or prepaid certified United States mail (with return receipt requested), addressed (in any case) to the other Party at the address for that Party set forth below that Party’s signature on this Agreement, or at such other address as the recipient has designated by Notice to the other Party, by electronic mail, delivery and read receipt required, or by facsimile, confirmation of delivery required.

Each notice or communication so transmitted, delivered, or sent (a) in person, by courier or messenger service, or by certified United States mail shall be deemed given, received,and effective on the date delivered to or refused by the intended recipient (with the return receipt, or the equivalent record of the courier or messenger, being deemed conclusive evidence of delivery or refusal), or (b) by telecopy or facsimile shall be deemed given received) and effective on the

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date of actual receipt(with the confirmationof transmission beingdeemedconclusiveevidenceof receipt, except where the intended recipient has promptly notified the other Party that the transmission is illegible). Nevertheless, if the date of delivery or transmission is not a business day, or if the delivery or transmission is after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, the notice or other communication shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the next business day.

36.    Executive Acknowledgment.  Executive acknowledges (a) being knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, (b) having read this Agreement and understanding its terms and conditions, (c) having been given an ample opportunity to discuss this Agreement with Executive’s personal legal counsel prior to execution, and (d) that no strict rules of construction shall apply for or against the drafter or any other Party. Executive hereby represents that Executive is free to enter into this Agreement including, without limitation, that Executive is not subject to any covenant not to compete that would conflict with any duties under this Agreement.

37.    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a copy hereof containing multiple signature pages, each signed by one party hereto, but together signed by both Parties.

(Signature page follows)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Executive has executed this Agreement and the Partnership has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by its duly authorized representative, to be effective as of the Effective Date.

/s/ Harlan H. Chappelle
HARLAN H. CHAPPELLE
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Harlan H. Chappelle
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

Signatures Continued on Next Page.

ALTA MESA SERVICES, LP,
a  Texaslimited partnership
By:	/s/ Michael A. McCabe
	Michael A. McCabe
	Chief Financial Officer
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Alta Mesa Services, LP
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

End of Signatures.

EX-10.5

Exhibit 10.5

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”), is made and entered into as of March 25, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Alta Mesa Services, LP, a Texas limited partnership (hereafter “Partnership”) and Michael E. Ellis (hereafter “Executive”). The Partnership and Executive may sometimes hereafter be referred to singularly as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties.”

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Partnership desires to continue to secure the employment services of Executive subject to the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

WHEREAS the Partnership provides various services including management services to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Holding Co.”), Alta Mesa Holdings GP (“General Partner”), and all Subsidiaries of Holding Co., under the Shared Services and Expenses Agreement dated as of January 1, 2006, between the Partnership, Holding Co., General Partner and the Subsidiaries (“Services Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Partnership and the Executive previously entered into an Employment Agreement as of August 31, 2006, and both parties desire to amend and restate that Employment Agreement upon the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1.     Employment. During the Employment Period (as defined inSection 4 hereof), the Partnership shall employ Executive, and Executive shall serve as, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Partnership. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be at the main business offices of the Partnership in Houston, Texas.

2.     Compensation.

(a)     Base Salary.  The Partnership shall pay to Executive during the Employment Period a base salary of $485,000 per year, as adjusted pursuant to the subsequent provisions of this paragraph (the “Base Salary”). The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the Partnership’s normal payroll schedule and procedures for its executives. Nothing contained herein shall preclude the payment of any other compensation to Executive at any time as determined by the Partnership.

(b)     Annual Bonus. In addition to the Base Salary in Section 2(a), for each annual fiscal year of the Partnership during the Employment Period (as definedin Section (4)) (each such annual period being referred to as a “Bonus Period”), Executive shall be entitled to a bonus equal to a percentageof Executive’sBase Salary paid during each such one year period

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(referred to herein as the “Annual Bonus”), such percentage to be established by the Partnership in its sole discretion, and approved by Holding Co.; provided, however, Executive shall be entitled to the Annual Bonus only if Executive has met the performance criteria set by the Partnership for the applicable period.

In the event that the Employment Period ends before the end of the BonusPeriod, Executive shall be entitled to a pro rata portion of the Annual Bonus for that year (based on the number of daysinwhichExecutivewasemployedduringtheyeardividedby365),as determined based on satisfaction of the performance criteria for that periodon a proratabasis, unless Executive was terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)(2)),in whicheventExecutive shall not be entitled to any Annual Bonus for that year. Executiveacknowledges that the amount and performance criteriafor Executive’sAnnualBonusto beearnedfor eachBonus Periodshall be setonorbeforethebeginningoftheapplicableBonusPeriod.  Executive shall be informed in writing of the performance criteria prior to applicable Bonus Period.  If Executivesuccessfully meetstheperformancecriteriaestablishedbythePartnership,thePartnershipshallpay Executive the earnedAnnualBonusamountwithintheearlierof:  (i)sixtydays(60)daysafter the end of the Bonus Period or (ii) sixty days (60) after the end of the Employment Period, as applicable.

(c)     Compensation in Event of Injury or Sickness. In the event Executive becomes injured or suffers a medically determinable physical or mental illness, as determined by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive in the same manner as provided in Section 6(d)(5), Executive shall be entitled to receive continued Base Salary as set forth in Section 2(a) for a period of six (6) months following the occurrence of such injury or sickness; provided, however, such Base Salary shall be reduced by any short-term and/or long-term disability benefits that are received by Executive under such programs sponsored by the Partnership during such six (6) month period.

(d)     Special Bonus.  In addition to other compensation paid to Executive hereunder, Executive shall be entitled to a one-time only special bonus payment in an aggregate amount equal to (i) the Executive’s net investment income tax under Sections 1 and 1411 of the Code, respectively, directly associated with the Executive’s contribution of Class A Limited Partner interests in the Partnership to Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation (“AMIH”) in the calendar year 2014, plus (ii) the Executive’s  federal and state (as the case may be) tax liabilities directly associated with his employment by the Partnership, including any tax liabilities directly associated with Executive providing services to the Holding Co., the General Partner, or any of the Subsidiaries, (collectively, subsections (i) and (ii), the “Tax Liability”); provided, that, in no event will this one-time special bonus payment for the Tax Liability made to Executive under this Section 2(d) exceed $550,000.  The amount due Executive hereunder shall be paid by the Partnership upon ten (10) days written notice from Executive to the Partnership, which shall include a tax analysis of such Tax Liability from Executive’s certified public accountant. 

3.     Duties and Responsibilities of Executive.  During the Employment Period, Executive’s services shall be devoted on substantially a full-time basis to (i) the business of the Partnership as directed by the General Partner under the Services Agreement and (ii) performance of the duties and responsibilities assigned to Executive by the Board or the Chief

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Executive Officer, to the best of Executive’s ability and with reasonable diligence. In determining Executive’s duties and responsibilities, Executive shall not be assigned duties and responsibilities that are inappropriate for Executive’s position.  This Section 3 shall not be construed as preventing Executive from (a) engaging in reasonable volunteer services for charitable, educational or civic organizations, or (b) investing personal assets in such a manner that will not require a material amount of the Executive’s time or services in the operation of the businesses in which such investments are made; provided, however, no such other activity shall conflict with Executive’s loyalties and duties to the Partnership.  Executive shall at all times use best efforts to comply in good faith with United States laws applicable to Executive’s actions on behalf of the Partnership and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 6(d)(l)).  Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for purposes of the Partnership’s business.  The Parties agree that Executive’s principal work location cannot be relocated further than 50 miles from Executive’s principal work location on the Effective Date, except as mutually agreed by the Parties.

4.     Term of Employment.  Executive’s initial term of employment with the Partnership under this Agreement shall be for the period from the Effective Date through the date that is four (4) years from the Effective Date (the “Initial Term of Employment”).  Thereafter, the Employment Period hereunder shall be automatically extended repetitively for an additional one (1) year period on each anniversary of the Effective Date, unless Notice of Termination (pursuant to Section 7) is given by either the Partnership or Executive to the other Party at least sixty (60) days prior to the end of the Initial Term of Employment or any one-year extension thereof, as applicable, that the Agreement will not be renewed for a successive one-year period after the end of the current one-year period. The Partnership and Executive shall each have the right to give Notice of Termination at will, with or without cause, at any time subject, however, to the terms and conditions of this Agreement regarding the rights and duties of the Parties upon termination of employment.  The Initial Term of Employment and any one-year extension of employment hereunder, shall each be referred to herein as a “Term of Employment.”  The period from the Effective Date through the date of Executive’s termination of employment with the Partnership and all Affiliates, for whatever reason, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” Notwithstanding the above, Executive agrees to remain available beyond the Employment Period to provide assistance to the Partnership or its Affiliates in the event the Partnership or its Affiliate become involved in litigation regarding matters of which Executive has relevant knowledge resulting from Executive’s employment with the Partnership. Such post-termination assistance shall be provided by Executive in the capacity of an independent contractor at an agreed-upon, reasonable consulting fee, and shall not be deemed to create or continue an employee-employer relationship or to represent a continuation of any provision of this Agreement.

5.     Benefits.  Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, during the Employment Period, Executive shall be entitled to all of the following:

(a)     Reimbursement of Business Expenses. The Partnership shall pay or reimburse Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other business expenses paid or incurred by Executive in the performance of duties hereunder.  The Partnership shall also provide Executive with suitable office space, including staff support, paid parking, and necessary equipment, including but not limited to cellular telephone and laptop computer.

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(b)     Other Employee Benefits.  Executive shall be entitled to participate in any pension, retirement, 401(k), profit-sharing, and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the same extent as available to other key management employees of the Partnership under the terms of such plans or programs.  Executive shall also be entitled to participate in any group insurance, hospitalization, medical, dental, health, life, accident, disability and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the extent available to other key management employees of the Partnership, and their spouses and eligible dependents, under the terms of such plans or programs including any medical expense reimbursement account and post-retirement medical program as available to other key management employees of the Partnership.

(c)     Vacation and Holidays. Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year (prorated in any calendar year during which Executive is employed for less than the entire year based on the number of days in such calendar year in which Executive was employed).  Executive shall also be entitled to all paid holidays and personal days provided by the Partnership for its key management employees under the Partnership’s personnel policy as then effective. Unused vacation shal1 not carry over to the following year unless specifically approved by the Partnership.

(d)     Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any nonqualified plan of deferred compensation maintained by the Partnership, Holding Co., the General Partner or any of the Subsidiaries, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of such entities.  If, and to the extent, that any such plan relates or is attributable to compensation derived from the equity of Holding Co., such compensation shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(e)     Equity Grants. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any long-term incentive plan providing for equity grants or other incentive awards, the amount of which is based upon the value of the Partnership or an Affiliate, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of the Partnership.  Specifically, the Partnership shall provide a participation in the equity of Holding Co. for the benefit of the Executive.  Such participation in any equity plan shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(f)     Annual Physical. Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of an annual physical examination by a physician (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership.

(g)     Key Man Life Insurance. The Partnership may, at any time during the term of this Agreement, apply for and procure as owner, and for its sole benefit, life insurance on the Executive’s life in such amounts and in such forms as the Partnership may select.  Executive hereby acknowledges that Executive will have no interest whatsoever in any such insurance policy.  Executive must submit to such medical examinations, supply such information, and execute such documents as may be reasonably requested by the insuring companies to obtain any such key man policy.

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(h)     Tax Planning, Preparation and Advice.  Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of annual tax preparation and planning by a certified financial planner or certified public accountant (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership, provided that said annual reimbursement shall not exceed $5,000.00.

(i)     Automobile Allowance.  The Partnership shall provide Executive with an automobile, as well as gas and insurance for said automobile.  In the event that the Partnership no longer provides said automobile, the Partnership will provide the Executive with a monthly automobile allowance of $1,500.00.

6.     Rights and Payments upon Termination.  The Executive’s right to compensation and benefits for periods after the date on which Executive’s employment terminates with the Partnership and all Affiliates (the “Termination Date’’), shall be determined in accordance with this Section 6, as follows:

(a)     Minimum Payments and Vesting. Executive shall be entitled to the following minimum payments under this Section 6(a) in addition to any other payments or benefits to which Executive is entitled to receive under the terms of any employee benefit plan or program or Section 6(b):

(1)     unpaid salary for the full month in which the Termination Date occurred; provided, however, if Executive is terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)), Executive shall only be entitled to receive accrued but unpaid salary through the Termination Date;

(2)     unpaid vacation days for that year which have accrued through the Termination Date;

(3)     reimbursement of reasonable business expenses which were incurred but unpaid as of the Termination Date; and

(4)     to the extent Executive participated in any nonqualified deferred compensation or incentive plan or program with vesting criteria, or received any equity grant that is not fully vested, Executive will be automatically 100% vested as of the Termination Date.

Such salary and accrued vacation days shall be paid to Executive within five (5) business days following the Termination Date in a cash lump sum less applicable withholdings. Business expenses shall be reimbursed in accordance with the Partnership’s normal procedures.

(b)     Other Severance Payments. In the event that during the Term of Employment (i) Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by the Partnership (except due to a “No Severance Benefits Event” (as defined in Section 6(d)(8)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to “Disability” or “Retirement’ (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)(5) and 6(d)(9)), (iii) Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 6(d)(7)), or (iv) the Partnership provides notice in accordance with Section 4

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that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4);then in any such event under clause (i), clause (ii) clause (iii), or clause (iv), the following severance benefits shall be provided to Executive or, in the event of death before receiving all such benefits, to Executive’s ‘‘Designated Beneficiary” (as defined in Section 6(d)(4)) following death:

(1)     The Partnership shall pay as additional compensation (the “Additional Payment”), (A) an amount equal to two (2) years of Base Salary in effect as of the Termination Date, and (B) an amount equal  to two times (2x) the amount of the Annual Bonus paid to the Executive for the year immediately preceding the Termination Date.   The Partnership shall make the Additional Payment to Executive in a cash lump sum, net of applicable withholdings, not later than sixty (60) calendar days following the Termination Date.

(2)     COBRA Coverage.  The Partnership shall maintain continued group health plan coverage following the Termination Date under all plans subject to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 as amended (“COBRA”) (as codified in Code Section 4980B and Part 6 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA) for Executive and Executive’s eligible spouse and dependents for the maximum period for which such qualified beneficiaries are eligible to receive COBRA coverage.  However, Executive (and Executive’s spouse and dependents) shall not be required to pay more for such COBRA coverage than is charged by the Partnership to its key management employees who are then in active service for the Partnership and receiving coverage under such plan and, therefore, the Partnership shall be responsible for the difference between the amount charged hereunder and the full COBRA premiums for a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Termination Date.  In all other respects, Executive (and Executives spouse and dependents) shall be treated the same as other COBRA qualified beneficiaries under the terms of such plans and the provisions of COBRA.  In the event of any change to a group health plan following the Termination Date, Executive and Executive’s spouse and dependents, as applicable, shall be treated consistently with the then-current key management employees of the Partnership with respect to the terms and conditions of coverage and other substantive provisions of the plan.  Executive and Executive’s spouse hereby agree to acquire and maintain any and all coverage that either or both of them are entitled to at any time during their lives under the Medicare program or any similar program of the United States or any agency thereof. Executive and Executive’s spouse further agree to pay any required premiums for Medicare coverage from their personal funds.

For purposes of clarity, in the event that (i) Executive voluntarily resigns or otherwise voluntarily terminates employment, except due to Disability or Retirement or for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to a No Severance Benefits Event (as defined in Section 6(d)), or (iii) the Executive provides notice in accordance with Section 4 that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4) then, in any such event under clause (i), (ii) or (iii), the Partnership shall have no obligation to provide the severance benefits described in paragraphs (1) and (2) (above) of this Section 6(b), except to offer COBRA coverage (as required by COBRA law) but not at the discounted rate described in paragraph (2).

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Executive shall still be entitled to the minimum benefits provided under Section 6(a). The severance payments provided under Section 6(b) shall supersede and replace any severance payments under any severance pay plan that the Partnership or any Affiliate maintains for key management employees or employees generally.

(c)     Release Agreement.  Notwithstanding any provision of the Agreement to the contrary, in order to receive the severance benefits provided under Section 6(b), the Executive must first execute an appropriate release agreement (on a form provided by the Partnership) whereby the Executive agrees to release and waive, in return for such severance benefits, any claims that Executive may have against the Partnership or any of its Affiliates including, without limitation, for unlawful discrimination (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act); provided, however, such release agreement shall not release any claim or cause of action by or on behalf of the Executive for (a) any payment or benefit that may be due or payable under this Agreement or any employee benefit plan or program prior to the receipt thereof, (b) non­ payment of salary or benefits to which Executive is entitled from the Partnership as of the Termination Date, or (c) a breach of this Agreement by the Partnership.

(d)     Definitions.

(1)      “Affiliate” means Holding Co., General Partner, the Subsidiaries and any parent or subsidiary company, or any other entity in whatever form, of which the Partnership has any controlling ownership interest or ownership or management control, or vice-versa, as determined by the Partnership.

(2)      “Cause” means any of the following:  (A) the Executive’s conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony, or entering the plea of nolo contendere to such crime by the Executive; (B) the commission by the Executive of a demonstrable act of fraud, or a misappropriation of funds or property, of or upon the Partnership or any Affiliate; (C) the engagement by the Executive, without the written approval of the Partnership and Holding Co., in any material activity which directly competes with the business of the Partnership or any Affiliate, or which would directly result in a material injury to the business or reputation of the Partnership or any Affiliate (including the partners of Holding Co.); or (D) (i) the breach by Executive of any material provision of this Agreement, and Executive’s continued failure to cure such breach within a reasonable time period set by the Partnership but in no event less than twenty (20) calendar days after Executive’s receipt of such notice.

(3)      ‘‘Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended or its successor.  References herein to any Section of the Code shall include any successor provisions of the Code.

(4)      “Designated Beneficiary” means the Executive’s surviving spouse, if any.  If there is no such surviving spouse at the time of Executive’s death, then the Designated Beneficiary hereunder shall be Executive’s estate.

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(5)      “Disability” shall mean that (a) Executive is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, or (b) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, Executive is receiving income replacement for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of the Partnership. Evidence of such Disability shall be certified by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive. In the event that the Parties are not able to agree on the choice of a physician, each shall select one physician who, in turn, shall select a third physician to render such certification. All costs relating to the determination of whether Executive has incurred a Disability shall be paid by the Partnership.  Executive agrees to submit to any examinations that are reasonably required by the attending physician or other healthcare service providers to determine whether Executive has a Disability.

(6)      “Dispute” means any dispute, disagreement, claim, or controversy arising from, in connection with, or relating to (a) the employment, or termination of employment, of Executive, or (b) the Agreement, or the validity, interpretation, performance, breach or termination of the Agreement.

(7)      “Good Reason” means the occurrence of any of the following, if not cured and corrected by the Partnership or its successor, within 60 days after written notice thereof is provided by Executive to the Partnership or its successor: (a) the demotion or reduction in title or rank of Executive, or the assignment to Executive of duties that are materially inconsistent with Executive’s current positions, duties, responsibilities and status with the Partnership, or any removal of the Executive from, or any failure to re­ elect the Executive to, any of such positions (other than a change due to the Executive’s Disability or as an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act), except for any such demotion, reduction, assignment, removal or failure that occurs in connection with (i) Executive’s termination of employment for Cause, Disability or death, or (ii) Executive’s prior written consent; (b) the reduction of the Executive’s annual base salary or bonus opportunity as compared to base salary and bonus opportunity as effective immediately prior to such reduction without the prior written consent of Executive; (c) a relocation of Executive’s principal work location to a location in excess of 50 miles from its then current location.

(8)      “No Severance Benefits Event” means termination of Executive’s employment by the Partnership (i) for Cause (as defined above) or due to death.

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(9)      “Retirement” means the termination of Executive’s employment for normal retirement at or after attaining age seventy (70), provided that, on the date of retirement, Executive has accrued at least five years of active service as an employee with the Partnership or its Affiliates.

7.     Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Partnership or the Executive shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other Party hereto.  For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Notice of Termination” means a written notice which indicates the specific termination provision of this Agreement relied upon and sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of the Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated.

8.     No Mitigation.  Subject to Section 6(b)(2), Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment or other benefits provided under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner.

9.     Restrictive Covenants.  As an inducement to the Partnership to enter into this Agreement, Executive represents to, and covenants with or in favor of, the Partnership that Executive will comply with all of the restrictive covenants in Sections 9 through 17, as a condition to the Partnership’s obligation to provide any benefits to Executive under this Agreement.

10.    Trade Secrets.

(a)     Access to Trade Secrets.  As of the Effective Date and on an ongoing basis, the Partnership agrees to give Executive access to Trade Secrets which the Executive did not have access to, or knowledge of, before the Effective Date.

(b)          Agreement Not to Use or Disclose Trade Secrets. In exchange for the Partnership’s promises to provide Executive with access to Trade Secrets and the other consideration and benefits provided to Executive under this Agreement, Executive agrees, during the Employment Period, and any time thereafter, not to disclose to anyone, including, without limitation, any person, firm, corporation or other entity, or publish or use for any purpose, any Trade Secrets, except as required in the ordinary course of the Partnership’s business or as authorized by the Partnership.

(c)     Agreement to Refrain from Defamatory Statements. Executive shall refrain, both during the Employment Period and thereafter, from publishing any oral or written statements about any directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate that are slanderous, libelous, or defamatory; or that disclose private or confidential information about the business affairs, directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate; or that constitute an intrusion into the seclusion or private lives of any such person; or that give rise to unreasonable publicity about the private life of any such person; or that place any such person in a false light before the public; or that constitute a misappropriation of the name or likeness of any such person. A violation or threatened violation of these restrictive covenants may be enjoined by a court of law notwithstanding the arbitration provisions of Section 29.

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(d)     Definitions.  The following terms, when used in this Agreement, are defined below:

(1)      “Restricted Territory”   means any county, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, of any state, district, or territory of North America in which the Partnership conducts its business; and any area adjacent to such counties, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, to the extent such adjacent areas are within a 50-mile radius of any producing property or leasehold of the Partnership.

(2)      “Trade Secrets” means any and all information and materials (in any form or medium) that are proprietary to the Partnership or an Affiliate, or are treated as confidential by the Partnership or Affiliate as part of, or relating to, all or any portion of its or their business, including information and materials about the products and services offered by the Partnership or an Affiliate; compilations of information, records and specifications, properties, processes, programs, and systems of the Partnership or Affiliate; research for the Partnership or an Affiliate; and methods of doing business of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  Trade Secrets include, without limitation, all of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s technical and business information, whether patentable or not, which is of a confidential, trade secret or proprietary character, and which is either developed by the Executive alone, or with others or by others; lists of customers; identity of customers contract terms; bidding information and strategies; pricing methods or information; computer software; computer software methods and documentation; hardware; the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s methods of business operations; the procedures, forms and techniques used in conducting its business operations; and other documents, information or data that the Partnership requires to be maintained in confidence for the Partnership’s business success.

11.    Duty to Return Partnership Documents and Property. Upon termination of the Employment Period, Executive shall immediately return and deliver to the Partnership any and all papers, books, records, documents, memoranda and manuals, e-mail, electronic or magnetic recordings or data, including all copies thereof, belonging to the Partnership or relating to its business, in Executive’s possession, whether prepared by Executive or others.  If at any time after the Employment Period, Executive determines that Executive has any Trade Secrets in Executive’s possession or control, Executive shall immediately .return them to the Partnership, including all copies thereof.

12.    Best Efforts and Disclosure.  Executive agrees that, while employed with the Partnership, Executive’s services shall be devoted on a full time basis to the Partnership’s business, and Executive shall use best efforts to promote its success.  Further, Executive shall promptly disclose to the Partnership all ideas, inventions, computer programs, and discoveries, whether or not patentable or copyrightable, which Executive may conceive or make, alone or with others, during the Employment Period, whether or not during working hours, and which directly or indirectly:

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(a)     relate to a matter within the scope, field, duties or responsibility of Executive’s employment with the Partnership; or

(b)     are based on any knowledge of the actual or anticipated business or interests of the Partnership; or

(c)     are aided by the use of time, materials, facilities or information of the Partnership.

Executive assigns to the Partnership, without further compensation, any and all rights, titles and interest in all such ideas, inventions, computer programs and discoveries in all countries of the world.  Executive recognizes that all ideas inventions, computer programs and discoveries of the type described above, conceived or made by Executive alone or with others within 12 months after the Termination Date (voluntary or otherwise), are likely to have been conceived in significant part either while employed by the Partnership or as a direct result of knowledge Executive had of proprietary information or Trade Secrets.  Accordingly, Executive agrees that such ideas, inventions or discoveries shall be presumed to have been conceived during the Employment Period, unless and until the contrary is clearly established by the Executive.

13.    Inventions and Other Works.Any and all writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and/or techniques which Executive may make, conceive, discover, or develop, either solely or jointly with any other person or persons, at any time during the Employment Period, whether at the request or upon the suggestion of the Partnership or otherwise, which relate to or are useful in connection with any business now or hereafter carried on or contemplated by the Partnership, including developments or expansions of its present fields of operations, shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Partnership. Executive agrees to take any and all actions necessary or appropriate so that the Partnership can prepare and present applications for copyright or Letters Patent therefor, and secure such copyright or Letters Patent wherever possible, as well as reissue renewals, and extensions thereof, and obtain the record title to such copyright or patents. Executive shall not be entitled to any additional or special compensation or reimbursement .regarding any such writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and techniques. Executive acknowledges that the Partnership from time to time may have agreements with other persons or entities which impose obligations or restrictions on the Partnership regarding inventions made duringthe courseofworkthereunderor regardingtheconfidentialnatureofsuchwork.Executive agrees to be bound by all such obligations and restrictions, and to take all action necessary to discharge the obligations of the Partnership.

14.    Non-Solicitation Restriction.  Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 13 and other provisions of this Agreement.  During the Executive’s employment and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination),Executive hereby covenants and agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, either individually or as a principal, partner, agent, consultant, contractor, employee, or as a director or officer of any entity, or in any other manner or capacity

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whatsoever, except on behalf of the Partnership, solicit business, attempt to solicit business, or conduct business, in products or services competitive with any products or services offered or performed by the Partnership or its Affiliates in any business which the Partnership or any of its Affiliates does business or has any business interest within the Restricted Territory as of the Termination Date,(a) from those individuals or entities with whom the Partnership or Affiliate conducted business in the Restricted Territory during the Executive’s employment with the Partnershipor (b) with respect to any assets or holdings in which the Partnership or Affiliate had any interest in the Restricted Territory, at any time during the one (1) year period preceding the Termination Date.

15.    Non-Competition Restriction. Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 14 and other provisions of this Agreement.  Executive hereby covenants and agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, engage in any capacity in which Executive would perform any similar duties to those performed while at the Partnership, directly or indirectly (whether as proprietor, stockholder, director, partner, employee, agent, independent contractor, consultant, trustee, or in any other capacity), with respect to any entity engaged or preparing to engage in the business of oil and gas exploration and production within the Restricted Territory (a “Competing Enterprise”); provided, however, Executive shall not be deemed to be participating or engaging in a Competing Enterprise solely by virtue of the ownership of not more than one percent (1%) of any class of stock or other securities which are publicly traded on a national securities exchange or in a recognized over-the-counter market.

16.    No Recruitment Restriction.  Executive agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, either directly or indirectly, or by acting in concert with others, hire any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate or solicit or influence, or seek to solicit or influence, any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate to terminate, reduce or otherwise adversely affect Executive’s employment or other relationship with the Partnership or any Affiliate.

17.    Business Opportunities.  During the Employment Period and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), the Executive assigns and agrees to assign without further compensation to the Partnership, its Affiliates and its successors, assigns or designees, all of the Executive’s right, title and interest in and to all Business Opportunities (defined below), and further acknowledges and agrees that all Business Opportunities constitute the exclusive property of the Partnership.  The Executive shall present all Business Opportunities to the Partnership, and shall not exploit a Business Opportunity.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Business Opportunities” means all business ideas, prospects, or proposals pertaining to oil and gas exploration and production, or any other aspect of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s business,and any business the Partnership or any Affiliate prepared to conduct,or contemplated conducting during Executive’s employment with the Partnership, which are developed by the Executive or originated by any third party and brought to the

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attention of the Executive, together with information relating thereto;  provided however, that for the one (1) year period following the Termination Date, “Business Opportunities” shall be limited to those Business Opportunities in the Restricted Territory.  For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 17 is not intended to limit or narrow the Executive’s duties or obligations under federal or state law with respect to corporate opportunities. 

18.    Tolling.  If Executive violates any of the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 17, then notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the restrictive period will be suspended and will not run in favor of Executive from the time of the commencement of any such violation, unless and until such time when the Executive cures the violation to the reasonable satisfaction of the Partnership.

19.    Reformation.  If a court or arbitrator rules that any time period or the geographic area specified in any restrictive covenant in Sections 9 through 17 is unenforceable, then the time period will be reduced by the number of months, or the geographic area will be reduced by the elimination of such unenforceable portion, or both, so that the restrictions may be enforced in the geographic area and for the time to the full extent permitted by law.

20.    No Previous Restrictive Agreements.  Executive represents that, except as disclosed in writing to the Partnership as of the Effective Date, Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other third party to (a) refrain from using or disclosing any confidential or proprietary information in the course of Executive’s employment by the Partnership or (b) refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or any other person or entity.  Executive further represents that Executive’s performance under this Agreement and work duties for the Partnership do not, and will not, breach any agreement to keep in confidence proprietary information, knowledge or data acquired by Executive in confidence or in trust prior to Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and Executive will not disclose to the Partnership or induce the Partnership to use any confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer or others.

21.    Conflicts of Interest.  In keeping with Executive’s fiduciary duties to Partnership, Executive hereby agrees that Executive shall not become involved in a conflict of interest, or upon discovery thereof, allow such a conflict to continue at any time during the Employment Period. In this respect, Executive agrees to fully comply with the conflict of interest agreement entered into by Executive as an employee, officer or director of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  In the instance of a violation of the conflict of interest agreement to which Executive is a party, it may be necessary for the Partnership to terminate Executive’s employment for Cause (as defined in Section 6(d)).

22.    Remedies.  Executive acknowledges that the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 21of this Agreement, in view of the nature of the Partnership’s business, are reasonable and necessary to protect the Partnership’s legitimate business interests, and that any violation of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury to the Partnership. Notwithstanding the arbitration provisions in Section 29, in the event of a breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any provision of Sections 9 through 21of this Agreement, the Partnership shall be entitled to a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief restraining Executive from the commission of

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any breach, and to recover the Partnership s attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses related to the breach or threatened breach. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as prohibiting thePartnership from pursuing any other remedies available to it for any such breach or threatened breach, including, without limitation, the recovery of money damages, attorneys’ fees, and costs. These covenants and agreements shall each be construed as independent of any other provisions in this Agreement, and the existence of any claim or cause of action by Executive against the Partnership, whether predicated on this Agreement or otherwise, shall not constitute a defense to the enforcement by the Partnership of such covenants and agreements.

23.    Withholdings; Right of Offset.  The Partnership may withhold and deduct from any benefits and payments made or to be made pursuant to this Agreement (a) all federal, state, local and other taxes as may be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation or ruling, (b) all other normal employee deductions made with respect to Partnership’s employees generally, and (c) any advances made to Executive and owed to Partnership.

24.    Nonalienation.  The right to receive payments under this Agreement shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge or encumbrance by Executive, dependents or beneficiaries of Executive, or to any other person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments hereunder. The right to receive payments hereunder shall not be subject to or liable for the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of any person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments, nor may the same be subject to attachment or seizure by any creditor of such person under any circumstances, and any such attempted attachment or seizure shall be void and of no force and effect.

25.    Incompetent or Minor Payees.  Should the Partnership determine, in its discretion, that any person to whom any payment is payable under this Agreement has been determined to be legally incompetent or is a minor, any payment due hereunder, notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, may be made in any one or more of the following ways: (a) directly to such minor or person; (b) to the legal guardian or other duly appointed personal representative of the person or estate of such minor or person; or (c) to such adult or adults as have, in the good faith knowledge of the Partnership, assumed custody and support of such minor or person; and any payment so made shall constitute full and complete discharge of any liability under this Agreement in respect to the amount paid.

26.    Severability.  It is the desire of the Parties hereto that this Agreement be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law, and should any provision contained herein be held unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction or arbitrator (pursuant to Section 29), the Parties hereby agree and consent that such provision shall be reformed to create a valid and enforceable provision to the maximum extent permitted by law; provided, however, if such provision cannot be reformed, it shall be deemed ineffective and deleted herefrom without affecting any other provision of this Agreement.  This Agreement should be construed by limiting and reducing it only to the minimum extent necessary to be enforceable under then applicable law.

27.    Title and Headings; Construction.  Titles and headings to Sections hereof are for the purpose of reference only and shall in no way limit, define or otherwise affect the provisions

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hereof. The words “herein”, “hereof’, “hereunder” and other compounds of the word “here” shall refer to the entire Agreement and not to any particular provision.

28.    Governing Law; Jurisdiction.  All matters or issues relating to the interpretation, construction, validity, and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any choice-of-law principle that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Texas.  Jurisdiction and venue of any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any Dispute (to the extent arbitration is not required under Section 28) shall be exclusively in Harris County, Texas.

29.    Mandatory Arbitration.  Except as provided in subsection (h) of this Section 29, any Dispute (as defined in Section 6(d)) must be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the following:

(a)     Either Party may begin arbitration by filing a demand for arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules and concurrently notifying the other Party of that demand. If the Parties are unable to agree upon a panel of three neutral arbitrators within twenty days after the demand for arbitration was filed (the Parties agree to aone-time, reasonable extension of that twenty-day period), either Party may request the Houston, Texas office of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) to appoint the arbitrator or arbitrators necessary to complete the panel in accordance with the Arbitration Rules.  Each arbitrator so appointed shall be deemed accepted by the Parties as part of the panel.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties, by mutual consent, may agree to a single arbitrator instead of a panel of three arbitrators and, in such event, references herein to “panel” shall refer to the single appointed arbitrator.

(b)     The arbitration shall be conducted in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area at a place and time agreed upon by the Parties with the panel, or if the Parties cannot agree, as designated by the panel. The panel may, however, call and conduct hearings and meetings at such other places as the Parties may agree or as the panel may, on the motion of one Party, determine to be necessary to obtain significant testimony or evidence.

(c)     The panel may authorize any and all forms of discovery upon a Party’s showing of need that the requested discovery is likely to lead to material evidence needed to resolve the Dispute and is not excessive in scope, timing, or cost.

(d)     The arbitration shall be subject to the Federal Arbitration Act and conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the AAA to the extent that they do not conflict with this Section 29.  The Parties and the panel may, however, agree to vary to provisions of this Section 29 or the matters otherwise governed by the Arbitration Rules as permitted by law.

(e)     The arbitration hearing shall be held within 60 days after the appointment of the panel. The panel’s final decision or award shall be made within 30 days after the hearing. That final decision or award shall be made by unanimous or majority vote or consent of the arbitrators constituting the panel, and shall be deemed issued at the place of arbitration.  The panel’s final decision or award shall be based on the terms and conditions of this Agreement and applicable law.

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(f)     The panel’s final decision or award may include injunctive relief in response to any actual or impending breach of this Agreement or any other actual or impending action or omission of a Party under or in connection with this Agreement.

(g)     The panel’s final decision or award shall be final and binding upon the Parties, and judgment upon that decision or award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction.  The Parties waive any right to apply or appeal to any court for re1ief from the preceding sentence or from any decision of the panel that is made before the final decision or award.

(h)     Nothing in this Section 29limits the right of either Party to apply to a court having jurisdiction to (i) enforce the agreement to arbitrate in accordance with this Section 29, (ii) seek provisional or temporary injunctive relief, in response to an actual or impending breach of the Agreement or otherwise so as to avoid an irreparable damage or maintain the status quo, until a final arbitration decision or award is rendered or the Dispute is otherwise resolved, or challenge or vacate any final arbitration decision or award that does not comply with this Section 29. In addition, nothing in this Section 29prohibits the Parties from resolving any Dispute (in whole or in part) at any time by mutual agreement or compromise. This Section 29shall also not preclude the Parties at any time from mutually agreeing to pursue non-binding mediation of the Dispute.

(i)     The panel may proceed to an award notwithstanding the failure of any Party to participate in such proceedings.  The prevailing Party in the arbitration proceeding may be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with the arbitration in such amount, if any, as determined by the panel in its discretion.  The costs of the arbitration shall be borne equally by the Parties unless otherwise determined by the panel in its award.

(j)     The panel shall be empowered to impose sanctions and to take such other actions as it deems necessary to the same extent a judge could impose sanctions or take such other actions pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and applicable law. Each party agrees to keep all Disputes and arbitration proceedings strictly confidential except for disclosure of information required by applicable law which cannot be waived.

30.    Binding Effect; Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties hereto, and to their respective heirs, executors, beneficiaries, personal representatives, successors and. permitted assigns hereunder.  Holding Co. and its partners shall expressly be deemed to be third party beneficiaries of the covenants and agreements of the parties hereto; otherwise this Agreement shall not be for the benefit of any third parties.

31.    Entire Agreement; Amendment and Termination. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the Parties hereto with respect to the matters covered herein; moreover, this Agreement supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof.  This Agreement may be amended, waived or terminated only by a written instrument that is identified as an amendment, waiver or termination hereto, and is executed on behalf of both Parties.The Executive acknowledges and represents that in executing this Agreement, the Executive did not rely on, has

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not relied on, and specifically disavows any reliance on any communications, promises, statements, inducements, or representation(s), oral or written, by the Company, except as expressly contained in this Agreement.  The Parties represent that they relied on their own judgment in entering into this Agreement.

32.    Survival of Certain Provisions. Wherever appropriate to the intention of the Parties, the respective rights and obligations of the Parties hereunder shall survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.

33.    Waiver of Breach. No waiver by either Party hereto of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by any other Party, or of compliance with any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other Party, will operate or be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by such other Party or any similar or dissimilar provision or condition at the same or any subsequent time.  The failure of either Party hereto to take any action by reason of any breach will not deprive such Party of the right to take action at any time while such breach continues.

34.    Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Partnership and its Affiliates (and its and their successors), as well as upon any person or entity acquiring, whether by merger, consolidation, purchase of assets, dissolution or otherwise, all or substantially all of the capital stock, business and/or assets of the Partnership (or its successor) regardless of whether the Partnership is the surviving or resulting corporation.  The Partnership shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, dissolution or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the capital stock, business or assets of the Partnership to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Partnership would be required to perform it if no such succession had occurred; provided, however, no such assumption shall relieve the Partnership of any of its duties or obligations hereunder unless otherwise agreed, in writing, by Executive.

This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representative, executors, administrators, successors, and heirs.  In the event of the death of Executive while any amount is payable hereunder, all such amounts shall be paid to the Designated Beneficiary (as defined in Section 6(d)).

35.    Notice.  Each notice or other communication required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and transmitted, delivered, or sent by personal delivery, prepaid courier or messenger service (whether overnight or same-day), prepaid certified United States mail (with return receipt requested), addressed (in any case) to the other Party at the address for that Party set forth below that Party’s signature on this Agreement, or at such other address as the recipient has designated by Notice to the other Party,  by electronic mail, delivery and read receipt required, or by facsimile, confirmation of delivery required.

Each notice or communication so transmitted, delivered, or sent (a) in person, by courier or messenger service, or by certified United States mail shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the date delivered to or refused by the intended recipient (with the return receipt, or the equivalent record of the courier or messenger, being deemed conclusive evidence of delivery or refusal), or (b) by telecopy or facsimile shall be deemed given received) and effective on the

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date of actual receipt (with the confirmation of transmission being deemed conclusive evidence of receipt, except where the intended recipient has promptly notified the other Party that the transmission is illegible).  Nevertheless, if the date of delivery or transmission is not a business day, or if the delivery or transmission is after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, the notice or other communication shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the next business day.

36.    Executive Acknowledgment.  Executive acknowledges (a) being knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, (b) having read this Agreement and understanding its terms and conditions, (c) having been given an ample opportunity to discuss this Agreement with Executive’s personal legal counsel prior to execution, and (d) that no strict rules of construction shall apply for or against the drafter or any other Party.  Executive hereby represents that Executive is free to enter into this Agreement including, without limitation, that Executive is not subject to any covenant not to compete that would conflict with any duties under this Agreement.

37.    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.  Each counterpart may consist of a copy hereof containing multiple signature pages, each signed by one party hereto, but together signed by both Parties.

(Signature page follows)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Executive has executed this Agreement and the Partnership has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by its duly authorized representative, to be effective as of the Effective Date.

/s/ Michael E. Ellis
MICHAEL E. ELLIS
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Michael E. Ellis
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

Signatures Continued on Next Page.

ALTA MESA SERVICES, LP,
a Texas limited partnership
By:	/s/ Michael A. McCabe
	Michael A. McCabe
	Chief Financial Officer
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Alta Mesa Services, LP
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

End of Signatures.

EX-10.6

Exhibit 10.6

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”), is made and entered into as of March25, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Alta Mesa Services, LP, a Texas limited partnership (hereafter “Partnership”) and Michael A. McCabe (hereafter “Executive”). The Partnership and Executive may sometimes hereafter be referred to singularly as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties.”

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Partnership desires to continue to secure the employment services of Executive subject to the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

WHEREAS the Partnership provides various servicesincluding management services to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Holding Co.”), Alta Mesa Holdings GP (“General Partner”), and all Subsidiaries of Holding Co., under the Shared Services and Expenses Agreement dated as of January 1, 2006, between the Partnership, Holding Co., General Partner and the Subsidiaries (“Services Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Partnership and the Executive previously entered into an Employment Agreement as of August 31, 2006, and both parties desire to amend and restate that Employment Agreement upon the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1.     Employment. During the Employment Period (as defined inSection 4 hereof), the Partnership shall employ Executive, and Executive shall serve as, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Partnership. Executive’s principal place of employment shall be at the main business offices of the Partnership in Houston, Texas.

2.     Compensation.

(a)     Base Salary.  The Partnership shall pay to Executive during the Employment Period a base salary of $435,000 per year, as adjusted pursuant to the subsequent provisions of this paragraph (the “Base Salary”). The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the Partnership’s normal payroll schedule and procedures for its executives. Nothing contained herein shall preclude the payment of any other compensation to Executive at any time as determined by the Partnership.

(b)     Annual Bonus. In addition to the Base Salary in Section 2(a), for each annual fiscal year of the Partnership during the Employment Period (as definedin Section (4)) (each such annual period being referred to as a “Bonus Period”), Executive shall be entitled to a bonus equal to a percentageof Executive’sBase Salary paid during each such one year period

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(referred to herein as the “Annual Bonus”), such percentage to be established by the Partnership in its sole discretion, and approved by Holding Co.; provided, however, Executive shall be entitled to the Annual Bonus only if Executive has met the performance criteria set by the Partnership for the applicable period.

In the event that the Employment Period ends before the end of the BonusPeriod, Executive shall be entitled to a pro rata portion of the Annual Bonus for that year (based on the number of daysinwhichExecutivewasemployedduringtheyeardividedby365),as determined based on satisfaction of the performance criteria for that periodon a proratabasis, unless Executive was terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)(2)),in whicheventExecutive shall not be entitled to any Annual Bonus for that year. Executiveacknowledges that the amount and performance criteriafor Executive’sAnnualBonusto beearnedfor eachBonus Periodshall be setonorbeforethebeginningoftheapplicableBonusPeriod.  Executive shall be made aware of the performance criteria in writing before the applicable Bonus Period begins.  If Executivesuccessfully meetstheperformancecriteriaestablishedbythePartnership,thePartnershipshallpay Executive the earnedAnnualBonusamountwithintheearlierof:  (i)sixtydays(60)daysafter the end of the Bonus Period or (ii) sixty days (60) after the end of the Employment Period, as applicable.

(c)     Compensation in Event of Injury or Sickness. In the event Executive becomes injured or suffers a medically determinable physical or mental illness, as determined by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive in the same manner as provided in Section 6(d)(5), Executive shall be entitled to receive continued Base Salary as set forth in Section 2(a) for a period of six (6) months following the occurrence of such injury or sickness; provided, however, such Base Salary shall be reduced by any short-term and/or long-term disability benefits that are received by Executive under such programs sponsored by the Partnership during such six (6) month period.

3.     Duties and Responsibilities of Executive.  During the Employment Period, Executive’s services shall be devoted on substantially a full-time basis to (i) the business of the Partnership as directed by the General Partner under the Services Agreement and (ii) performance of the duties and responsibilities assigned to Executive by the Board or the Chief Executive Officer, to the best of Executive’s ability and with reasonable diligence. In determining Executive’s duties and responsibilities, Executive shall not be assigned duties and responsibilities that are inappropriate for Executive’s position.  This Section 3 shall not be construed as preventing Executive from (a) engaging in reasonable volunteer services for charitable, educational or civic organizations, or (b) investing personal assets in such a manner that will not require a material amount of the Executive’s time or services in the operation of the businesses in which such investments are made; provided, however, no such other activity shall conflict with Executive’s loyalties and duties to the Partnership.  Executive shall at all times use best efforts to comply in good faith with United States laws applicable to Executive’s actions on behalf of the Partnership and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 6(d)(l)).  Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for purposes of the Partnership’s business.  The Parties agree that Executive’s principal work location cannot be relocated further than 50 miles from Executive’s principal work location on the Effective Date, except as mutually agreed by the Parties.

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The Parties agree that Executive’s principal work location cannot be relocated further than 50 miles from Executive’s principal work location.  The Parties agree that Executive shall be allowed to work from his residence in Massachusetts as well as in the Houston office so long as Executive is capable of performing the duties assigned to him, provided that it is mutually agreed by the parties.  In the event that Executivenot be allowed to work from his residence, the Partnership shall provide suitable housing or a housing allowance for Executive’s living in Houston, and provided that said relocation packageshall be suitable and customary for a comparable executive of his standing in this industry.

4.     Term of Employment.  Executive’s initial term of employment with the Partnership under this Agreement shall be for the period from the Effective Date through the date that is four (4) years from the Effective Date (the “Initial Term of Employment”).  Thereafter, the Employment Period hereunder shall be automatically extended repetitively for an additional one (1) year period on each anniversary of the Effective Date, unless Notice of Termination (pursuant to Section 7) is given by either the Partnership or Executive to the other Party at least sixty (60) days prior to the end of the Initial Term of Employment or any one-year extension thereof, as applicable, that the Agreement will not be renewed for a successive one-year period after the end of the current one-year period. The Partnership and Executive shall each have the right to give Notice of Termination at will, with or without cause, at any time subject, however, to the terms and conditions of this Agreement regarding the rights and duties of the Parties upon termination of employment.  The Initial Term of Employment and any one-year extension of employment hereunder, shall each be referred to herein as a “Term of Employment.”  The period from the Effective Date through the date of Executive’s termination of employment with the Partnership and all Affiliates, for whatever reason, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” Notwithstanding the above, Executive agrees to remain available beyond the Employment Period to provide assistance to the Partnership or its Affiliates in the event the Partnership or its Affiliate become involved in litigation regarding matters of which Executive has relevant knowledge resulting from Executive’s employment with the Partnership. Such post-termination assistance shall be provided by Executive in the capacity of an independent contractor at an agreed-upon, reasonable consulting fee, and shall not be deemed to create or continue an employee-employer relationship or to represent a continuation of any provision of this Agreement.

5.     Benefits.  Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, during the Employment Period, Executive shall be entitled to all of the following:

(a)     Reimbursement of Business Expenses. The Partnership shall pay or reimburse Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other business expenses paid or incurred by Executive in the performance of duties hereunder.  The Partnership shall also provide Executive with suitable office space, including staff support, paid parking, and necessary equipment, including butnot limited to cellular telephone and laptop computer.  The Partnership shall provide suitable housing or a housing allowance for Executive to live in Houston as well as provide an automobile in Houston, or otherwise reimburse the employee for rental or leasing of an automobile while in Houston, and shall reimburse Executive for reasonable travel expenses related to Executive’s travel to and from Houston that is related to the performance of his duties hereunder.

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(b)     Other Employee Benefits.  Executive shall be entitled to participate in any pension, retirement, 401(k), profit-sharing, and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the same extent as available to other key management employees of the Partnership under the terms of such plans or programs.  Executive shall also be entitled to participate in any group insurance, hospitalization, medical, dental, health, life, accident, disability and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the extent available to other key management employees of the Partnership, and their spouses and eligible dependents, under the terms of such plans or programs including any medical expense reimbursement account and post-retirement medical program as available to other key management employees of the Partnership.

(c)     Vacation and Holidays. Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year (prorated in any calendar year during which Executive is employed for less than the entire year based on the number of days in such calendar year in which Executive was employed).  Executive shall also be entitled to all paid holidays and personal days provided by the Partnership for its key management employees under the Partnership’s personnel policy as then effective. Unused vacation shal1 not carry over to the following year unless specifically approved by the Partnership.

(d)     Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any nonqualified plan of deferred compensation maintained by the Partnership, Holding Co., the General Partner or any of the Subsidiaries, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of such entities.  If, and to the extent, that any such plan relates or is attributable to compensation derived from the equity of Holding Co., such compensation shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(e)     Equity Grants. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any long-term incentive plan providing for equity grants or other incentive awards, the amount of which is based upon the value of the Partnership or an Affiliate, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of the Partnership.  Specifically, the Partnership shall provide a participation in the equity of Holding Co. for the benefit of the Executive.  Such participation in any equity plan shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(f)     Annual Physical. Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of an annual physical examination by a physician (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership.

(g)     Key Man Life Insurance. The Partnership may, at any time during the term of this Agreement, apply for and procure as owner, and for its sole benefit, life insurance on the Executive’s life in such amounts and in such forms as the Partnership may select.  Executive hereby acknowledges that Executive will have no interest whatsoever in any such insurance policy.  Executive must submit to such medical examinations, supply such information, and execute such documents as may be reasonably requested by the insuring companies to obtain any such key man policy.

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(h)     Tax Planning, Preparation and Advice.  Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of annual tax preparation and planning by a certified financial planner or certified public accountant (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership, provided that such annual reimbursement shall not exceed $5,000.00

(j)     Automobile Allowance.  The Partnership will provide the Executive with anautomobile, gas expenses and insurance for said automobile.  In the event that the Partnership no longer provides Executive with an automobile, the Partnership shall provide a monthly car allowance of $1,500.00.

6.     Rights and Payments upon Termination.  The Executive’s right to compensation and benefits for periods after the date on which Executive’s employment terminates with the Partnership and all Affiliates (the “Termination Date’’), shall be determined in accordance with this Section 6, as follows:

(a)     Minimum Payments and Vesting. Executive shall be entitled to the following minimum payments under this Section 6(a) in addition to any other payments or benefits to which Executive is entitled to receive under the terms of any employee benefit plan or program or Section 6(b):

(1)     unpaid salary for the full month in which the Termination Date occurred; provided, however, if Executive is terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)), Executive shall only be entitled to receive accrued but unpaid salary through the Termination Date;

(2)     unpaid vacation days for that year which have accrued through the Termination Date;

(3)     reimbursement of reasonable business expenses which were incurred but unpaid as of the Termination Date; and

(4)     to the extent Executive participated in any nonqualified deferred compensation or incentive plan or program with vesting criteria, or received any equity grant that is not fully vested, Executive will be automatically 100% vested as of the Termination Date.

Such salary and accrued vacation days shall be paid to Executive within five (5) business days following the Termination Date in a cash lump sum less applicable withholdings. Business expenses shall be reimbursed in accordance with the Partnership’s normal procedures.

(b)     Other Severance Payments.  In the event that during the Term of Employment (i) Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by the Partnership (except due to a “No Severance Benefits Event” (as defined in Section 6(d)(8)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to “Disability” or “Retirement’ (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)(5) and 6(d)(9)), (iii) Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 6(d)(7)), or (iv) the Partnership provides notice in accordance with Section 4

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that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4), then in any such event under clause (i), clause (ii) or clause (iii) the following severance benefits shall be provided to Executive or, in the event of death before receiving all such benefits, to Executive’s ‘‘Designated Beneficiary” (as defined in Section 6(d)) following death:

(1)     The Partnership shall pay as additional compensation (the “Additional Payment”), (A) an amount equal to two (2) years of Base Salary in effect as of the Termination Date, and (B) an amount equal  to two times (2x) the amount of the Annual Bonus paid to the Executive for the year immediately preceding the Termination Date.  The Partnership shall make the Additional Payment to Executive in a cash lump sum, net of applicable withholdings, not later than sixty (60) calendar days following the Termination Date.

(2)     COBRA Coverage.  The Partnership shall maintain continued group health plan coverage following the Termination Date under all plans subject to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 as amended (“COBRA”) (as codified in Code Section 4980B and Part 6 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA) for Executive and Executive’s eligible spouse and dependents for the maximum period for which such qualified beneficiaries are eligible to receive COBRA coverage.  However, Executive (and Executive’s spouse and dependents) shall not be required to pay more for such COBRA coverage than is charged by the Partnership to its key management employees who are then in active service for the Partnership and receiving coverage under such plan and, therefore, the Partnership shall be responsible for the difference between the amount charged hereunder and the full COBRA premiums for a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Termination Date.  In all other respects, Executive (and Executives spouse and dependents) shall be treated the same as other COBRA qualified beneficiaries under the terms of such plans and the provisions of COBRA.  In the event of any change to a group health plan following the Termination Date, Executive and Executive’s spouse and dependents, as applicable, shall be treated consistently with the then-current key management employees of the Partnership with respect to the terms and conditions of coverage and other substantive provisions of the plan.  Executive and Executive’s spouse hereby agree to acquire and maintain any and all coverage that either or both of them are entitled to at any time during their lives under the Medicare program or any similar program of the United States or any agency thereof. Executive and Executive’s spouse further agree to pay any required premiums for Medicare coverage from their personal funds.

For purposes of clarity, in the event that (i) Executive voluntarily resigns or otherwise voluntarily terminates employment, except due to Disability or Retirement or for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to a No Severance Benefits Event (as defined in Section 6(d)), or (iii) the Executive provides notice in accordance with Section 4 that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4) then, in any such event under clause (i), (ii) or (iii), the Partnership shall have no obligation to provide the severance benefits described in paragraphs (1) and (2) (above) of this Section 6(b), except to offer COBRA coverage (as required by COBRA law) but not at the discounted rate described in paragraph (2).

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Executive shall still be entitled to the minimum benefits provided under Section 6(a). The severance payments provided under Section 6(b) shall supersede and replace any severance payments under any severance pay plan that the Partnership or any Affiliate maintains for key management employees or employees generally.

(c)     Release Agreement.  Notwithstanding any provision of the Agreement to the contrary, in order to receive the severance benefits provided under Section 6(b), the Executive must first execute an appropriate release agreement (on a form provided by the Partnership) whereby the Executive agrees to release and waive, in return for such severance benefits, any claims that Executive may have against the Partnership or any of its Affiliates including, without limitation, for unlawful discrimination (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act); provided, however, such release agreement shall not release any claim or cause of action by or on behalf of the Executive for (a) any payment or benefit that may be due or payable under this Agreement or any employee benefit plan or program prior to the receipt thereof, (b) non­ payment of salary or benefits to which Executive is entitled from the Partnership as of the Termination Date, or (c) a breach of this Agreement by the Partnership.

(d)     Definitions.

(1)      “Affiliate” means Holding Co., General Partner, the Subsidiaries and any parent or subsidiary company, or any other entity in whatever form, of which the Partnership has any controlling ownership interest or ownership or management control, or vice-versa, as determined by the Partnership.

(2)      “Cause” means any of the following:  (A) the Executive’s conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony, or entering the plea of nolo contendere to such crime by the Executive; (B) the commission by the Executive of a demonstrable act of fraud, or a misappropriation of funds or property, of or upon the Partnership or any Affiliate; (C) the engagement by the Executive, without the written approval of the Partnership and Holding Co., in any material activity which directly competes with the business of the Partnership or any Affiliate, or which would directly result in a material injury to the business or reputation of the Partnership or any Affiliate (including the partners of Holding Co.); or (D) (i) the breach by Executive of any material provision of this Agreement, and Executive’s continued failure to cure such breach within a reasonable time period set by the Partnership but in no event less than twenty (20) calendar days after Executive’s receipt of such notice.

(3)      ‘‘Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended or its successor.  References herein to any Section of the Code shall include any successor provisions of the Code.

(4)      “Designated Beneficiary” means the Executive’s surviving spouse, if any.  If there is no such surviving spouse at the time of Executive’s death, then the Designated Beneficiary hereunder shall be Executive’s estate.

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(5)      “Disability” shall mean that (a) Executive is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, or (b) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, Executive is receiving income replacement for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of the Partnership. Evidence of such Disability shall be certified by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive. In the event that the Parties are not able to agree on the choice of a physician, each shall select one physician who, in turn, shall select a third physician to render such certification. All costs relating to the determination of whether Executive has incurred a Disability shall be paid by the Partnership.  Executive agrees to submit to any examinations that are reasonably required by the attending physician or other healthcare service providers to determine whether Executive has a Disability.

(6)      “Dispute” means any dispute, disagreement, claim, or controversy arising from, in connection with, or relating to (a) the employment, or termination of employment, of Executive, or (b) the Agreement, or the validity, interpretation, performance, breach or termination of the Agreement.

(7)      “Good Reason” means the occurrence of any of the following, if not cured and corrected by the Partnership or its successor, within 60 days after written notice thereof is provided by Executive to the Partnership or its successor: (a) the demotion or reduction in title or rank of Executive, or the assignment to Executive of duties that are materially inconsistent with Executive’s current positions, duties, responsibilities and status with the Partnership, or any removal of the Executive from, or any failure to re­ elect the Executive to, any of such positions (other than a change due to the Executive’s Disability or as an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act), except for any such demotion, reduction, assignment, removal or failure that occurs in connection with (i) Executive’s termination of employment for Cause, Disability or death, or (ii) Executive’s prior written consent; (b) the reduction of the Executive’s annual base salary or bonus opportunity as compared to base salary and bonus opportunity as effective immediately prior to such reduction without the prior written consent of Executive; (c) a relocation of Executive’s principal work location to a location in excess of 50 miles from its then current location.

(8)      “No Severance Benefits Event” means termination of Executive’s employment by the Partnership (i) for Cause (as defined above) or due to death.

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(9)      “Retirement” means the termination of Executive’s employment for normal retirement at or after attaining age seventy (70), provided that, on the date of retirement, Executive has accrued at least five years of active service as an employee with the Partnership or its Affiliates.

7.     Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Partnership or the Executive shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other Party hereto.  For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Notice of Termination” means a written notice which indicates the specific termination provision of this Agreement relied upon and sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of the Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated.

8.     No Mitigation.  Subject to Section 6(b)(2), Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment or other benefits provided under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner.

9.     Restrictive Covenants.  As an inducement to the Partnership to enter into this Agreement, Executive represents to, and covenants with or in favor of, the Partnership that Executive will comply with all of the restrictive covenants in Sections 9 through 17, as a condition to the Partnership’s obligation to provide any benefits to Executive under this Agreement.

10.    Trade Secrets.

(a)     Access to Trade Secrets.  As of the Effective Date and on an ongoing basis, the Partnership agrees to give Executive access to Trade Secrets which the Executive did not have access to, or knowledge of, before the Effective Date.

(b)     Agreement Not to Use or Disclose Trade Secrets. In exchange for the Partnership’s promises to provide Executive with access to Trade Secrets and the other consideration and benefits provided to Executive under this Agreement, Executive agrees, during the Employment Period, and any time thereafter, not to disclose to anyone, including, without limitation, any person, firm, corporation or other entity, or publish or use for any purpose, any Trade Secrets, except as required in the ordinary course of the Partnership’s business or as authorized by the Partnership.

(c)     Agreement to Refrain from Defamatory Statements. Executive shall refrain, both during the Employment Period and thereafter, from publishing any oral or written statements about any directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate that are slanderous, libelous, or defamatory; or that disclose private or confidential information about the business affairs, directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate; or that constitute an intrusion into the seclusion or private lives of any such person; or that give rise to unreasonable publicity about the private life of any such person; or that place any such person in a false light before the public; or that constitute a misappropriation of the name or likeness of any such person. A violation or threatened violation of these restrictive covenants may be enjoined by a court of law notwithstanding the arbitration provisions of Section 29.

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(d)     Definitions.  The following terms, when used in this Agreement, are defined below:

(1)      “Restricted Territory”  means any county, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, of any state, district, or territory of North America in which the Partnership conducts its business; and any area adjacent to such counties, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, to the extent such adjacent areas are within a 50-mile radius of any producing property or leasehold of the Partnership.

(2)      “Trade Secrets” means any and all information and materials (in any form or medium) that are proprietary to the Partnership or an Affiliate, or are treated as confidential by the Partnership or Affiliate as part of, or relating to, all or any portion of its or their business, including information and materials about the products and services offered by the Partnership or an Affiliate; compilations of information, records and specifications, properties, processes, programs, and systems of the Partnership or Affiliate; research for the Partnership or an Affiliate; and methods of doing business of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  Trade Secrets include, without limitation, all of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s technical and business information, whether patentable or not, which is of a confidential, trade secret or proprietary character, and which is either developed by the Executive alone, or with others or by others; lists of customers; identity of customers contract terms; bidding information and strategies; pricing methods or information; computer software; computer software methods and documentation; hardware; the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s methods of business operations; the procedures, forms and techniques used in conducting its business operations; and other documents, information or data that the Partnership requires to be maintained in confidence for the Partnership’s business success.

11.    Duty to Return Partnership Documents and Property. Upon termination of the Employment Period, Executive shall immediately return and deliver to the Partnership any and all papers, books, records, documents, memoranda and manuals, e-mail, electronic or magnetic recordings or data, including all copies thereof, belonging to the Partnership or relating to its business, in Executive’s possession, whether prepared by Executive or others.  If at any time after the Employment Period, Executive determines that Executive has any Trade Secrets in Executive’s possession or control, Executive shall immediately return them to the Partnership, including all copies thereof.

12.    Best Efforts and Disclosure.  Executive agrees that, while employed with the Partnership, Executive’s services shall be devoted on a full time basis to the Partnership’s business, and Executive shall use best efforts to promote its success.  Further, Executive shall promptly disclose to the Partnership all ideas, inventions, computer programs, and discoveries, whether or not patentable or copyrightable, which Executive may conceive or make, alone or with others, during the Employment Period, whether or not during working hours, and which directly or indirectly:

(a)     relate to a matter within the scope, field, duties or responsibility of Executive’s employment with the Partnership; or

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(b)     are based on any knowledge of the actual or anticipated business or interests of the Partnership; or

(c)     are aided by the use of time, materials, facilities or information of the Partnership.

Executive assigns to the Partnership, without further compensation, any and all rights, titles and interest in all such ideas, inventions, computer programs and discoveries in all countries of the world.  Executive recognizes that all ideas inventions, computer programs and discoveries of the type described above, conceived or made by Executive alone or with others within 12 months after the Termination Date (voluntary or otherwise), are likely to have been conceived in significant part either while employed by the Partnership or as a direct result of knowledge Executive had of proprietary information or Trade Secrets.  Accordingly, Executive agrees that such ideas, inventions or discoveries shall be presumed to have been conceived during the Employment Period, unless and until the contrary is clearly established by the Executive.

13.    Inventions and Other Works.  Any and all writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and/or techniques which Executive may make, conceive, discover, or develop, either solely or jointly with any other person or persons, at any time during the Employment Period, whether at the request or upon the suggestion of the Partnership or otherwise, which relate to or are useful in connection with any business now or hereafter carried on or contemplated by the Partnership, including developments or expansions of its present fields of operations, shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Partnership. Executive agrees to take any and all actions necessary or appropriate so that the Partnership can prepare and present applications for copyright or Letters Patent therefor, and secure such copyright or Letters Patent wherever possible, as well as reissue renewals, and extensions thereof, and obtain the record title to such copyright or patents.  Executive shall not be entitled to any additional or special compensation or reimbursement regarding any such writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and techniques. Executive acknowledges that the Partnership from time to time may have agreements with other persons or entities which impose obligations or restrictions on the Partnership regarding inventions made during the course of work thereunder or regarding the confidential nature of such work.  Executive agrees to be bound by all such obligations and restrictions, and to take all action necessary to discharge the obligations of the Partnership.

14.    Non-Solicitation Restriction.  Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 13 and other provisions of this Agreement.  During the Executive’s employment and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive hereby covenants and agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, either individually or as a principal, partner, agent, consultant, contractor, employee, or as a director or officer of any entity, or in any other manner or capacity whatsoever, except on behalf of the Partnership, solicit business, attempt to solicit business, or conduct business, in products or services competitive with any products or services offered or performed by the Partnership or its Affiliates in any business which the Partnership or any of its

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Affiliates does business or has any business interest within the Restricted Territory as of the Termination Date, (a) from or with those individuals or entities with whom the Partnership or Affiliate conducted business in the Restricted Territory during the Executive’s employment with the Partnershipor (b) with respect to any assets or holdings in which the Partnership or Affiliate had any interestin the Restricted Territory at any time during the one (1) year period preceding the Termination Date. 

15.    Non-Competition Restriction. Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 14 and other provisions of this Agreement.  Executive hereby covenants and agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, engage in any capacity in which Executive would perform any duties similar to those Executive performed while employed with the Partnership, directly or indirectly (whether as proprietor, stockholder, director, partner, employee, agent, independent contractor, consultant, trustee, or in any other capacity), with respect to any entity engaged or preparing to engage in the business of oil and gas exploration and production within the Restricted Territory (a “Competing Enterprise”); provided, however, Executive shall not be deemed to be participating or engaging in a Competing Enterprise solely by virtue of the ownership of not more than one percent (1%) of any class of stock or other securities which are publicly traded on a national securities exchange or in a recognized over-the-counter market.

16.    No Recruitment Restriction.  Executive agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, either directly or indirectly, or by acting in concert with others, hire any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate or solicit or influence, or seek to solicit or influence, any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate to terminate, reduce or otherwise adversely affect Executive’s employment or other relationship with the Partnership or any Affiliate.

17.    Business Opportunities.  During the Employment Period and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), the Executive assigns and agrees to assign without further compensation to the Partnership, its Affiliates and its successors, assigns or designees, all of the Executive’s right, title and interest in and to all Business Opportunities (defined below), and further acknowledges and agrees that all Business Opportunities constitute the exclusive property of the Partnership.  The Executive shall present all Business Opportunities to the Partnership, and shall not exploit a Business Opportunity.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Business Opportunities” means all business ideas, prospects, or proposals pertaining to oil and gas exploration and production, or any other aspect of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s business,and any business the Partnership or any Affiliate prepared to conduct,or contemplated conducting during Executive’s employment with the Partnership, which are developed by the Executive or originated by any third party and brought to the attention of the Executive, together with information relating thereto;  provided however, that for the one (1) year period following the Termination Date, “Business Opportunities” shall be limited to those Business Opportunities in the Restricted Territory.  For the avoidance of doubt,

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this Section 17 is not intended to limit or narrow the Executive’s duties or obligations under federal or state law with respect to corporate opportunities. 

18.    Tolling.  If Executive violates any of the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 17, then notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the restrictive period will be suspended and will not run in favor of Executive from the time of the commencement of any such violation, unless and until such time when the Executive cures the violation to the reasonable satisfaction of the Partnership.

19.     Reformation.  If a court or arbitrator rules that any time period or the geographic area specified in any restrictive covenant in Sections 9 through 17 is unenforceable, then the time period will be reduced by the number of months, or the geographic area will be reduced by the elimination of such unenforceable portion, or both, so that the restrictions may be enforced in the geographic area and for the time to the full extent permitted by law.

20.    No Previous Restrictive Agreements.  Executive represents that, except as disclosed in writing to the Partnership as of the Effective Date, Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other third party to (a) refrain from using or disclosing any confidential or proprietary information in the course of Executive’s employment by the Partnership or (b) refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or any other person or entity.  Executive further represents that Executive’s performance under this Agreement and work duties for the Partnership do not, and will not, breach any agreement to keep in confidence proprietary information, knowledge or data acquired by Executive in confidence or in trust prior to Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and Executive will not disclose to the Partnership or induce the Partnership to use any confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer or others.

21.    Conflicts of Interest.  In keeping with Executive’s fiduciary duties to Partnership, Executive hereby agrees that Executive shall not become involved in a conflict of interest, or upon discovery thereof, allow such a conflict to continue at any time during the Employment Period. In this respect, Executive agrees to fully comply with the conflict of interest agreement entered into by Executive as an employee, officer or director of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  In the instance of a violation of the conflict of interest agreement to which Executive is a party, it may be necessary for the Partnership to terminate Executive’s employment for Cause (as defined in Section 6(d)).

22.    Remedies.  Executive acknowledges that the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 21of this Agreement, in view of the nature of the Partnership’s business, are reasonable and necessary to protect the Partnership’s legitimate business interests, and that any violation of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury to the Partnership. Notwithstanding the arbitration provisions in Section 29, in the event of a breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any provision of Sections 9 through 21of this Agreement, the Partnership shall be entitled to a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief restraining Executive from the commission of any breach, and to recover the Partnership s attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses related to the breach or threatened breach. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as prohibiting thePartnership from pursuing any other remedies available to it for any such breach

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or threatened breach, including, without limitation, the recovery of money damages, attorneys’ fees, and costs. These covenants and agreements shall each be construed as independent of any other provisions in this Agreement, and the existence of any claim or cause of action by Executive against the Partnership, whether predicated on this Agreement or otherwise, shall not constitute a defense to the enforcement by the Partnership of such covenants and agreements.

23.    Withholdings; Right of Offset.  The Partnership may withhold and deduct from any benefits and payments made or to be made pursuant to this Agreement (a) all federal, state, local and other taxes as may be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation or ruling, (b) all other normal employee deductions made with respect to Partnership’s employees generally, and (c) any advances made to Executive and owed to Partnership.

24.    Nonalienation.  The right to receive payments under this Agreement shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge or encumbrance by Executive, dependents or beneficiaries of Executive, or to any other person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments hereunder. The right to receive payments hereunder shall not be subject to or liable for the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of any person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments, nor may the same be subject to attachment or seizure by any creditor of such person under any circumstances, and any such attempted attachment or seizure shall be void and of no force and effect.

25.    Incompetent or Minor Payees.  Should the Partnership determine, in its discretion, that any person to whom any payment is payable under this Agreement has been determined to be legally incompetent or is a minor, any payment due hereunder, notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, may be made in any one or more of the following ways: (a) directly to such minor or person; (b) to the legal guardian or other duly appointed personal representative of the person or estate of such minor or person; or (c) to such adult or adults as have, in the good faith knowledge of the Partnership, assumed custody and support of such minor or person; and any payment so made shall constitute full and complete discharge of any liability under this Agreement in respect to the amount paid.

26.    Severability.  It is the desire of the Parties hereto that this Agreement be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law, and should any provision contained herein be held unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction or arbitrator (pursuant to Section 29), the Parties hereby agree and consent that such provision shall be reformed to create a valid and enforceable provision to the maximum extent permitted by law; provided, however, if such provision cannot be reformed, it shall be deemed ineffective and deleted herefrom without affecting any other provision of this Agreement.  This Agreement should be construed by limiting and reducing it only to the minimum extent necessary to be enforceable under then applicable law.

27.    Title and Headings; Construction.  Titles and headings to Sections hereof are for the purpose of reference only and shall in no way limit, define or otherwise affect the provisions hereof. The words “herein”, “hereof’, “hereunder” and other compounds of the word “here” shall refer to the entire Agreement and not to any particular provision.

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28.    Governing Law; Jurisdiction.  All matters or issues relating to the interpretation, construction, validity, and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any choice-of-law principle that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Texas.  Jurisdiction and venue of any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any Dispute (to the extent arbitration is not required under Section 29) shall be exclusively in Harris County, Texas.

29.    Mandatory Arbitration.  Except as provided in subsection (h) of this Section 29, any Dispute (as defined in Section 6(d)) must be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the following:

(a)     Either Party may begin arbitration by filing a demand for arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules and concurrently notifying the other Party of that demand. If the Parties are unable to agree upon a panel of three neutral arbitrators within twenty days after the demand for arbitration was filed (the Parties agree to a reasonable, one-time extension of that twenty-day period), either Party may request the Houston, Texas office of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) to appoint the arbitrator or arbitrators necessary to complete the panel in accordance with the Arbitration Rules.  Each arbitrator so appointed shall be deemed accepted by the Parties as part of the panel.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties, by mutual consent, may agree to a single arbitrator instead of a panel of three arbitrators and, in such event, references herein to “panel” shall refer to the single appointed arbitrator.

(b)     The arbitration shall be conducted in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area at a place and time agreed upon by the Parties with the panel, or if the Parties cannot agree, as designated by the panel. The panel may, however, call and conduct hearings and meetings at such other places as the Parties may agree or as the panel may, on the motion of one Party, determine to be necessary to obtain significant testimony or evidence.

(c)     The panel may authorize any and all forms of discovery upon a Party’s showing of need that the requested discovery is likely to lead to material evidence needed to resolve the Dispute and is not excessive in scope, timing, or cost.

(d)     The arbitration shall be subject to the Federal Arbitration Act and conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the AAA to the extent that they do not conflict with this Section 29.  The Parties and the panel may, however, agree to vary to provisions of this Section 29or the matters otherwise governed by the Arbitration Rules as permitted by law.

(e)     The arbitration hearing shall be held within 60 days after the appointment of the panel. The panel’s final decision or award shall be made within 30 days after the hearing. That final decision or award shall be made by unanimous or majority vote or consent of the arbitrators constituting the panel, and shall be deemed issued at the place of arbitration.  The panel’s final decision or award shall be based on the terms and conditions of this Agreement and applicable law.

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(f)     The panel’s final decision or award may include injunctive relief in response to any actual or impending breach of this Agreement or any other actual or impending action or omission of a Party under or in connection with this Agreement.

(g)     The panel’s final decision or award shall be final and binding upon the Parties, and judgment upon that decision or award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction.  The Parties waive any right to apply or appeal to any court for re1ief from the preceding sentence or from any decision of the panel that is made before the final decision or award.

(h)     Nothing in this Section 29limits the right of either Party to apply to a court having jurisdiction to (i) enforce the agreement to arbitrate in accordance with this Section 29, (ii) seek provisional or temporary injunctive relief, in response to an actual or impending breach of the Agreement or otherwise so as to avoid an irreparable damage or maintain the status quo, until a final arbitration decision or award is rendered or the Dispute is otherwise resolved, or challenge or vacate any final arbitration decision or award that does not comply with this Section 29. In addition, nothing in this Section 29prohibits the Parties from resolving any Dispute (in whole or in part) at any time by mutual agreement or compromise. This Section 29shall also not preclude the Parties at any time from mutually agreeing to pursue non-binding mediation of the Dispute.

(i)     The panel may proceed to an award notwithstanding the failure of any Party to participate in such proceedings.  The prevailing Party in the arbitration proceeding may be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with the arbitration in such amount, if any, as determined by the panel in its discretion.  The costs of the arbitration shall be borne equally by the Parties unless otherwise determined by the panel in its award.

(j)     The panel shall be empowered to impose sanctions and to take such other actions as it deems necessary to the same extent a judge could impose sanctions or take such other actions pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and applicable law. Each party agrees to keep all Disputes and arbitration proceedings strictly confidential except for disclosure of information required by applicable law which cannot be waived.

30.    Binding Effect; Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties hereto, and to their respective heirs, executors, beneficiaries, personal representatives, successors and. permitted assigns hereunder.  Holding Co. and its partners shall expressly be deemed to be third party beneficiaries of the covenants and agreements of the parties hereto; otherwise this Agreement shall not be for the benefit of any third parties.

31.    Entire Agreement; Amendment and Termination. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the Parties hereto with respect to the matters covered herein; moreover, this Agreement supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof.  This Agreement may be amended, waived or terminated only by a written instrument that is identified as an amendment, waiver or termination hereto, and is executed on behalf of both Parties.The Executive acknowledges and represents that in executing this Agreement, the Executive did not rely on, has

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not relied on, and specifically disavows any reliance on any communications, promises, statements, inducements, or representation(s), oral or written, by the Company, except as expressly contained in this Agreement.  The Parties represent that they relied on their own judgment in entering into this Agreement.

32.    Survival of Certain Provisions. Wherever appropriate to the intention of the Parties, the respective rights and obligations of the Parties hereunder shall survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.

33.    Waiver of Breach. No waiver by either Party hereto of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by any other Party, or of compliance with any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other Party, will operate or be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by such other Party or any similar or dissimilar provision or condition at the same or any subsequent time.  The failure of either Party hereto to take any action by reason of any breach will not deprive such Party of the right to take action at any time while such breach continues.

34.    Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Partnership and its Affiliates (and its and their successors), as well as upon any person or entity acquiring, whether by merger, consolidation, purchase of assets, dissolution or otherwise, all or substantially all of the capital stock, business and/or assets of the Partnership (or its successor) regardless of whether the Partnership is the surviving or resulting corporation.  The Partnership shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, dissolution or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the capital stock, business or assets of the Partnership to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Partnership would be required to perform it if no such succession had occurred; provided, however, no such assumption shall relieve the Partnership of any of its duties or obligations hereunder unless otherwise agreed, in writing, by Executive.

This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representative, executors, administrators, successors, and heirs.  In the event of the death of Executive while any amount is payable hereunder, all such amounts shall be paid to the Designated Beneficiary (as defined in Section 6(d)).

35.    Notice.  Each notice or other communication required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and transmitted, delivered, or sent by personal delivery, prepaid courier or messenger service (whether overnight or same-day), or prepaid certified United States mail (with return receipt requested), addressed (in any case) to the other Party at the address for that Party set forth below that Party’s signature on this Agreement, or at such other address as the recipient has designated by Notice to the other Party, by electronic mail, delivery and read receipt required, or by facsimile, confirmation of delivery required.

Each notice or communication so transmitted, delivered, or sent (a) in person, by courier or messenger service, or by certified United States mail shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the date delivered to or refused by the intended recipient (with the return receipt, or the equivalent record of the courier or messenger, being deemed conclusive evidence of delivery or refusal), or (b) by telecopy or facsimile shall be deemed given received) and effective on the

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date of actual receipt (with the confirmation of transmission being deemed conclusive evidence of receipt, except where the intended recipient has promptly notified the other Party that the transmission is illegible).  Nevertheless, if the date of delivery or transmission is not a business day, or if the delivery or transmission is after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, the notice or other communication shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the next business day.

36.    Executive Acknowledgment.  Executive acknowledges (a) being knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, (b) having read this Agreement and understanding its terms and conditions, (c) having been given an ample opportunity to discuss this Agreement with Executive’s personal legal counsel prior to execution, and (d) that no strict rules of construction shall apply for or against the drafter or any other Party.  Executive hereby represents that Executive is free to enter into this Agreement including, without limitation, that Executive is not subject to any covenant not to compete that would conflict with any duties under this Agreement.

37.    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.  Each counterpart may consist of a copy hereof containing multiple signature pages, each signed by one party hereto, but together signed by both Parties.

(Signature page follows)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Executive has executed this Agreement and the Partnership has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by its duly authorized representative, to be effective as of the Effective Date.

/s/ Michael A. McCabe
MICHAEL A. MCCABE
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Michael A. McCabe
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

Signatures Continued on Next Page.

ALTA MESA SERVICES, LP,
a Texas limited partnership
By:	/s/ Harlan H. Chappelle
	Harlan H. Chappelle
	Chief Executive Officer
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Alta Mesa Services, LP
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

End of Signatures.

EX-10.7

Exhibit 10.7

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”), is made and entered into as of March 25, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Alta Mesa Services, LP, a Texas limited partnership (hereafter “Partnership”) and F.  David Murrell (hereafter “Executive”).  The Partnership and Executive may sometimes hereafter be referred to singularly as a “Party” or collectively as the “Parties.”

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Partnership desires to continue to secure the employment services of Executive subject to the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

WHEREAS, the Partnership provides various services including management services to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Holding Co.”), Alta Mesa Holdings GP (“General Partner”), and all Subsidiaries of Holding Co., under the Shared Services and Expenses Agreement dated as of January 1, 2006, between the Partnership, Holding Co., General Partner and the Subsidiaries (“Services Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Partnership and the Executive previously entered into an Employment Agreement as of October 1, 2006, and both parties desire to amend and restate that Employment Agreement upon the terms and conditions hereafter set forth;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1.     Employment.  During the Employment Period (as defined inSection 4 hereof), the Partnership shall employ Executive, and Executive shall serve as, Vice President of Land and Business Development of the Partnership.  Executive’s principal place of employment shall be at the main business offices of the Partnership in Houston, Texas.

2.     Compensation.

(a)     Base Salary.  The Partnership shall pay to Executive during the Employment Period a base salary of $360,000 per year, as adjusted pursuant to the subsequent provisions of this paragraph (the “Base Salary”).  The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the Partnership’s normal payroll schedule and procedures for its executives.  Nothing contained herein shall preclude the payment of any other compensation to Executive at any time as determined by the Partnership.  Employee’s Base Salary shall be reviewed periodically (at intervals of not more than 12 months) by Company executives for the purpose of considering increases thereof.  In evaluating increases in salary, such factors as corporate performance, individual merit, inflation and other appropriate considerations shall be taken into account.

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(b)     Annual Bonus.  In addition to the Base Salary in Section 2(a), for each annual fiscal year of the Partnership during the Employment Period (as definedin Section (4)) (each such annual period being referred to as a “Bonus Period”), Executive shall be entitled to a bonus as determined by the Board of Directors of the Partnership (hereafter “Board”),  in its sole discretion, provided, however, that Executive shall receive a bonus of not less than $50,000 for each Bonus Period.

(c)     Compensation in Event of Injury or Sickness. In the event Executive becomes injured or suffers a medically determinable physical or mental illness, as determined by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive in the same manner as provided in Section 6(d)(5), Executive shall be entitled to receive continued Base Salary as set forth in Section 2(a) for a period of six (6) months following the occurrence of such injury or sickness; provided, however, such Base Salary shall be reduced by any short-term and/or long-term disability benefits that are received by Executive under such programs sponsored by the Partnership during such six (6) month period.

3.     Duties and Responsibilities of Executive.  During the Employment Period, Executive’s services shall be devoted on substantially a full-time basis to (i) the business of the Partnership as directed by the General Partner under the Services Agreement and (ii) performance of the duties and responsibilities assigned to Executive by the Board or the Chief Executive Officer, to the best of Executive’s ability and with reasonable diligence. In determining Executive’s duties and responsibilities, Executive shall not be assigned duties and responsibilities that are inappropriate for Executive’s position.  This Section 3 shall not be construed as preventing Executive from (a) engaging in reasonable volunteer services for charitable, educational or civic organizations, or (b) investing personal assets in such a manner that will not require a material amount of the Executive’s time or services in the operation of the businesses in which such investments are made; provided, however, no such other activity shall conflict with Executive’s loyalties and duties to the Partnership.  Executive shall at all times use best efforts to comply in good faith with United States laws applicable to Executive’s actions on behalf of the Partnership and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 6(d)(l)).  Executive understands and agrees that Executive may be required to travel from time to time for purposes of the Partnership’s business.  The Parties agree that Executive’s principal work location cannot be relocated further than 50 miles from Executive’s principal work location on the Effective Date, except as mutually agreed by the Parties.

4.     Term of Employment.  Executive’s initial term of employment with the Partnership under this Agreement shall be for the period from the Effective Date through the datethat is one (1) year from the Effective Date (the “Initial Term of Employment”).  Thereafter, the Employment Period hereunder shall be automatically extended repetitively for an additional one (1) year period on each anniversary of the Effective Date, unless Notice of Termination (pursuant to Section 7) is given by either the Partnership or Executive to the other Party at least sixty (60) days prior to the end of the Initial Term of Employment or any one-year extension thereof, as applicable, that the Agreement will not be renewed for a successive one-year period after the end of the current one-year period.  The Partnership and Executive shall each have the right to give Notice of Termination at will, with or without cause, at any time subject, however, to the terms and conditions of this Agreement regarding the rights and duties of the Parties upon termination of employment.  The Initial Term of Employment, and any one-year extension of employment hereunder, shall each be referred to herein as a “Term of Employment.”The

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period from the Effective Date through the date of Executive’s termination of employment with the Partnership and all Affiliates, for whatever reason, shall be referred to herein as the “Employment Period.” Notwithstandingthe above, Executive agrees toremainavailable beyond the Employment Period to provide assistance to the Partnership or its Affiliates in the event the Partnership or its Affiliate become involved in litigation regarding matters of which Executive has relevant knowledge resulting from Executive’s employment with the Partnership.  Such post-termination assistance shall be provided by Executive in the capacity of an independent contractor at a mutually agreed-upon, reasonable consulting fee, and shall not be deemed to create or continue an employee-employer relationship or to represent a continuation of any provision of this Agreement.

5.     Benefits.  Subjecttothe termsandconditionsofthisAgreement,duringthe Employment Period, Executive shall be entitled to all of the following:

(a)     Reimbursement of Business Expenses.  The Partnership shall pay or reimburse Executive for all reasonable travel, entertainment and other business expenses paid or incurred by Executive in the performance of duties hereunder.  Such reimbursements shall be made in a timely manner in accordance with the Partnership’s policy upon Executive’s submittal of an expense report and approved by the Partnership.  The Partnership shall also provide Executive with suitable office space, including staff support, paid parking, and necessary equipment, including but not limited to cellular telephone and laptop computer.

(b)     Other Employee Benefits.  Executive shall be entitled to participate in any pension, retirement, 401(k), profit-sharing, and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the same extent as available to other key management employees of the Partnership under the terms of such plans or programs.  Executive shall also be entitled to participate in any group insurance, hospitalization, medical, dental, health, life, accident, disability and other employee benefits plans or programs of the Partnership to the extent available to other executive employees of the Partnership, and their spouses and eligible dependents, under the terms of such plans or programs including any medical expense reimbursement account and post-retirement medical program as available to other key management employees of the Partnership.

(c)     Vacation and Holidays. Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks of paid vacation per calendar year (prorated in any calendar year during which Executive is employed for less than the entire year based on the number of days in such calendar year in which Executive was employed).  Executive shall also be entitled to all paid holidays and personal days provided by the Partnership for its executive employees under the Partnership’s personnel policy as then effective. Unused vacation shal1 not carry over to the following year unless specifically approved by the Partnership.

(d)     Nonqualified Deferred Compensation. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any nonqualified plan of deferred compensation maintained by the Partnership, Holding Co., the General Partner or any of the Subsidiaries, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of such entities.  If, and to the extent, that any such plan relates or is attributable to compensation derived from the equity of Holding Co., such compensation shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

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(e)     Equity Grants. Executive shall be entitled to participate in any long-term incentive plan providing for equity grants or other incentive awards, the amount of which is based upon the value of the Partnership or an Affiliate, to the same extent as available to any other key management employees of the Partnership.  Specifically, the Partnership shall provide a participation in the equity of Holding Co. for the benefit of the Executive.  Such participation in any equity plan shall come solely from the interests held by the Class A Limited Partners in Holding Co.

(f)     Annual Physical. Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of an annual physical examination by a physician (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership.

(g)     Key Man Life Insurance. The Partnership may, at any time during the term of this Agreement, apply for and procure as owner, and for its sole benefit, life insurance on the Executive’s life in such amounts and in such forms as the Partnership may select.  Executive hereby acknowledges that Executive will have no interest whatsoever in any such insurance policy.  Executive must submit to such medical examinations, supply such information, and execute such documents as may be reasonably requested by the insuring companies to obtain any such key man policy.

(h)     Tax Planning, Preparation and Advice.  Executive shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the Partnership for the full cost of annual tax preparation and planning by a certified financial planner or certified public accountant (i) selected by the Partnership or (ii) selected by Executive and approved by the Partnership, provided that the annual reimbursement shall not exceed $5,000.00.

(i)     Automobile Allowance.  The Partnership shall provide Executive with an automobile, as well as gas and insurance for said automobile.  In the event that the Partnership no longer provides said automobile, the Partnership will provide the Executive with a monthly automobile allowance of $1,000.00.

6.     Rights and Payments upon Termination.  The Executive’s right to compensation and benefits for periods after the date on which Executive’s employment terminates with the Partnership and all Affiliates (the “Termination Date’’), shall be determined in accordance with this Section 6, as follows:

(a)     Minimum Payments and Vesting. Executive shall be entitled to the following minimum payments under this Section 6(a) in addition to any other payments or benefits to which Executive is entitled to receive under the terms of any employee benefit plan or program or Section 6(b):

(1)     unpaid salary for the full month in which the Termination Date occurred; provided, however, if Executive is terminated for Cause (as defined in Section6(d)), Executive shall only be entitled to receive accrued but unpaid salary through the Termination Date;

(2)     unpaid vacation days for that year which have accrued through the Termination Date;

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(3)     reimbursement of reasonable business expenses which were incurred but unpaid as of the Termination Date; and

(4)     to the extent Executive participated in any nonqualified deferred compensation or incentive plan or program with vesting criteria, or received any equity grant that is not fully vested, Executive will be automatically 100% vested as of the Termination Date.

Such salary and accrued vacation days shall be paid to Executive within five (5) business days following the Termination Date in a cash lump sum less applicable withholdings. Business expenses shall be reimbursed in accordance with the Partnership’s normal procedures.

(b)     Other Severance Payments.  In the event that during the Term of Employment (i) Executive’s employment is involuntarily terminated by the Partnership (except due to a “No Severance Benefits Event” (as defined in Section 6(d)(8)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to “Disability” or “Retirement’ (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)(5) and 6(d)(9)), (iii) Executive terminates his employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 6(d)(7)), or (iv) the Partnership provides notice in accordance with Section 4 that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4), then in any such event under clause (i), clause (ii) or clause (iii) the following severance benefits shall be provided to Executive or, in the event of death before receiving all such benefits, to Executive’s ‘‘Designated Beneficiary” (as defined in Section 6(d)) following death:

(1)     ThePartnershipshall payasadditionalcompensation(the  “Additional Payment”),an amount equal to

(A)     Eighteen (18) months of the Executive’s Base Salary in effect as of the Termination Date; plus

(B)     Two times (2x) the amount of the Annual Bonus paid to the Executive for the year immediately preceding the Termination Date.

The Partnership shall make the Additional Payment to Executive in a cash lump sum, net of applicable withholdings, not later than thirty (30) calendar days following the Termination Date.

(2)     COBRA Coverage.  The Partnership shall maintain continued group health plan coverage following the Termination Date under all plans subject to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 as amended (“COBRA”) (as codified in Code Section 4980B and Part 6 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA) for Executive and Executive’s eligible spouse and dependents for the maximum period for which such qualified beneficiaries are eligible to receive COBRA coverage.  However, Executive (and Executive’s spouse and dependents) shall not be required to pay more for such COBRA coverage than is charged by the Partnership to its key management employees who are then in active service for the Partnership and receiving coverage under such plan

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and, therefore, the Partnership shall be responsible for the difference between the amount charged hereunder and the full COBRA premiums for a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Termination Date.  In all other respects, Executive (and Executives spouse and dependents) shall be treated the same as other COBRA qualified beneficiaries under the terms of such plans and the provisions of COBRA.  In the event of any change to a group health plan following the Termination Date, Executive and Executive’s spouse and dependents, as applicable, shall be treated consistently with the then-current key management employees of the Partnership with respect to the terms and conditions of coverage and other substantive provisions of the plan.  Executive and Executive’s spouse hereby agree to acquire and maintain any and all coverage that either or both of them are entitled to at any time during their lives under the Medicare program or any similar program of the United States or any agency thereof. Executive and Executive’s spouse further agree to pay any required premiums for Medicare coverage from their personal funds.

For purposes of clarity, in the event that (i) Executive voluntarily resigns or otherwise voluntarily terminates employment, except due to Disability or Retirement or for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in Section 6(d)), (ii) Executive’s employment is terminated due to a No Severance Benefits Event (as defined in Section 6(d)), or (iii) the Executive provides notice in accordance with Section 4 that the Agreement shall not be renewed for an additional one-year period after the Term of Employment (as provided in Section 4) then, in any such event under clause (i), (ii) or (iii), the Partnership shall have no obligation to provide the severance benefits described in paragraphs (1) and (2) (above) of this Section 6(b), except to offer COBRA coverage (as required by COBRA law) but not at the discounted rate described in paragraph (2). Executive shall still be entitled to the minimum benefits provided under Section 6(a). The severance payments provided under Section 6(b) shall supersede and replace any severance payments under any severance pay plan that the Partnership or any Affiliate maintains for key management employees or employees generally.

(c)     Release Agreement.  Notwithstanding any provision of the Agreement to the contrary, in order to receive the severance benefits provided under Section 6(b), the Executive must first execute an appropriate release agreement (on a form provided by the Partnership) whereby the Executive agrees to release and waive, in return for such severance benefits, any claims that Executive may have against the Partnership or any of its Affiliates including, without limitation, for unlawful discrimination (e.g., Title VII of the Civil Rights Act); provided, however, such release agreement shall not release any claim or cause of action by or on behalf of the Executive for (a) any payment or benefit that may be due or payable under this Agreement or any employee benefit plan or program prior to the receipt thereof, (b) non­ payment of salary or benefits to which Executive is entitled from the Partnership as of the Termination Date, or (c) a breach of this Agreement by the Partnership.

(d)     Definitions.

(1)     “Affiliate” means Holding Co., General Partner, the Subsidiaries and any parent or subsidiary company, or any other entity in whatever form, of which the Partnership has any controlling ownership interest or ownership or management control, or vice-versa, as determined by the Partnership.

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(2)     “Cause” means any of the following:  (A) the Executive’s conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction of a crime involving moral turpitude or a felony, or entering the plea of nolo contendere to such crime by the Executive; (B) the commission by the Executive of a demonstrable act of fraud, or a misappropriation of funds or property, of or upon the Partnership or any Affiliate; (C) the engagement by the Executive, without the written approval of the Partnership and Holding Co., in any material activity which directly competes with the business of the Partnership or any Affiliate, or which would directly result in a material injury to the business or reputation of the Partnership or any Affiliate (including the partners of Holding Co.); or (D) (i) the breach by Executive of any material provision of this Agreement, and Executive’s continued failure to cure such breach within a reasonable time period set by the Partnership but in no event less than twenty (20) calendar days after Executive’s receipt of such notice.

(3)     ‘‘Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended or its successor.  References herein to any Section of the Code shall include any successor provisions of the Code.

(4)     “Designated Beneficiary” means the Executive’s surviving spouse, if any.  If there is no such surviving spouse at the time of Executive’s death, then the Designated Beneficiary hereunder shall be Executive’s estate.

(5)     “Disability” shall mean that (a) Executive is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, or (b) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, Executive is receiving income replacement for a period of not less than three months under an accident and health plan covering employees of the Partnership. Evidence of such Disability shall be certified by a physician acceptable to both the Partnership and Executive. In the event that the Parties are not able to agree on the choice of a physician, each shall select one physician who, in turn, shall select a third physician to render such certification. All costs relating to the determination of whether Executive has incurred a Disability shall be paid by the Partnership.  Executive agrees to submit to any examinations that are reasonably required by the attending physician or other healthcare service providers to determine whether Executive has a Disability.

(6)     “Dispute” means any dispute, disagreement, claim, or controversy arising from, in connection with, or relating to (a) the employment, or termination of employment, of Executive, or (b) the Agreement, or the validity, interpretation, performance, breach or termination of the Agreement.

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(7)     “Good Reason” means the occurrence of any of the following, if not cured and corrected by the Partnership or its successor, within 60 days after written notice thereof is provided by Executive to the Partnership or its successor: (a) the demotion or reduction in title or rank of Executive, or the assignment to Executive of duties that are materially inconsistent with Executive’s current positions, duties, responsibilities and status with the Partnership, or any removal of the Executive from, or any failure to re­ elect the Executive to, any of such positions (other than a change due to the Executive’s Disability or as an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act), except for any such demotion, reduction, assignment, removal or failure that occurs in connection with (i) Executive’s termination of employment for Cause, Disability or death, or (ii) Executive’s prior written consent; (b) the reduction of the Executive’s annual base salary or bonus opportunity as compared to base salary and bonus opportunity as effective immediately prior to such reduction without the prior written consent of Executive; (c) a relocation of Executive’s principal work location to a location in excess of 50 miles from its then current location.

(8)     “No Severance Benefits Event” means termination of Executive’s employment by the Partnership for (i) Cause (as defined above) or due to death.

(9)     “Retirement” means the termination of Executive’s employment for normal retirement at or after attaining age seventy (70), provided that, on the date of retirement, Executive has accrued at least five years of active service as an employee with the Partnership or its Affiliates.

7.     Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Partnership or the Executive shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other Party hereto.  For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Notice of Termination” means a written notice which indicates the specific termination provision of this Agreement relied upon and sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of the Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated.

8.     No Mitigation.  Subject to Section 6(b)(2), Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment or other benefits provided under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner.

9.     Restrictive Covenants.  As an inducement to the Partnership to enter into this Agreement, Executive represents to, and covenants with or in favor of, the Partnership that Executive will comply with all of the restrictive covenants in Sections 9 through 17, as a condition to the Partnership’s obligation to provide any benefits to Executive under this Agreement.

10.     Trade Secrets.

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(a)     Access to Trade Secrets.  As of the Effective Date and on an ongoing basis, the Partnership agrees to give Executive access to Trade Secrets which the Executive did not have access to, or knowledge of, before the Effective Date.

(b)     Agreement Not to Use or Disclose Trade Secrets. In exchange for the Partnership’s promises to provide Executive with access to Trade Secrets and the other consideration and benefits provided to Executive under this Agreement, Executive agrees, during the Employment Period, and any time thereafter, not to disclose to anyone, including, without limitation, any person, firm, corporation or other entity, or publish or use for any purpose, any Trade Secrets, except as required in the ordinary course of the Partnership’s business or as authorized by the Partnership.

(c)     Agreement to Refrain from Defamatory Statements. Executive shall refrain, both during the Employment Period and thereafter, from publishing any oral or written statements about any directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate that are slanderous, libelous, or defamatory; or that disclose private or confidential information about the business affairs, directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, investors or representatives of the Partnership or any Affiliate; or that constitute an intrusion into the seclusion or private lives of any such person; or that give rise to unreasonable publicity about the private life of any such person; or that place any such person in a false light before the public; or that constitute a misappropriation of the name or likeness of any such person. A violation or threatened violation of these restrictive covenants may be enjoined by a court of law notwithstanding the arbitration provisions of Section 29.

(d)     Definitions.  The following terms, when used in this Agreement, are defined below:

(1)     “Restricted Territory”  means any county, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, of any state, district, or territory of North America in which the Partnership conducts its business; and any area adjacent to such counties, or equivalent political or governmental subdivision, to the extent such adjacent areas are within a 50-mile radius of any producing property or leasehold of the Partnership.

(2)    “Trade Secrets” means any and all information and materials (in any form or medium) that are proprietary to the Partnership or an Affiliate, or are treated as confidential by the Partnership or Affiliate as part of, or relating to, all or any portion of its or their business, including information and materials about the products and services offered by the Partnership or an Affiliate; compilations of information, records and specifications, properties, processes, programs, and systems of the Partnership or Affiliate; research for the Partnership or an Affiliate; and methods of doing business of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  Trade Secrets include, without limitation, all of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s technical and business information, whether patentable or not, which is of a confidential, trade secret or proprietary character, and which is either developed by the Executive alone, or with others or by others; lists of customers; identity of customers contract terms; bidding information and strategies; pricing

9

methods or information; computer software; computer software methods and documentation; hardware; the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s methods of business operations; the procedures, forms and techniques used in conducting its business operations; and other documents, information or data that the Partnership requires to be maintained in confidence for the Partnership’s business success.

11.     Duty to Return Partnership Documents and Property. Upon termination of the Employment Period, Executive shall immediately return and deliver to the Partnership any and all papers, books, records, documents, memoranda and manuals, e-mail, electronic or magnetic recordings or data, including all copies thereof, belonging to the Partnership or relating to its business, in Executive’s possession, whether prepared by Executive or others.  If at any time after the Employment Period, Executive determines that Executive has any Trade Secrets in Executive’s possession or control, Executive shall immediately return them to the Partnership, including all copies thereof.

12.     Best Efforts and Disclosure.  Executive agrees that, while employed with the Partnership, Executive’s services shall be devoted on a full time basis to the Partnership’s business, and Executive shall use best efforts to promote its success.  Further, Executive shall promptly disclose to the Partnership all ideas, inventions, computer programs, and discoveries, whether or not patentable or copyrightable, which Executive may conceive or make, alone or with others, during the Employment Period, whether or not during working hours, and which directly or indirectly:

(a)     relate to a matter within the scope, field, duties or responsibility of Executive’s employment with the Partnership; or

(b)     are based on any knowledge of the actual or anticipated business or interests of the Partnership; or

(c)     are aided by the use of time, materials, facilities or information of the Partnership.

Executive assigns to the Partnership, without further compensation, any and all rights, titles and interest in all such ideas, inventions, computer programs and discoveries in all countries of the world.  Executive recognizes that all ideas inventions, computer programs and discoveries of the type described above, conceived or made by Executive alone or with others within 12 months after the Termination Date (voluntary or otherwise), are likely to have been conceived in significant part either while employed by the Partnership or as a direct result of knowledge Executive had of proprietary information or Trade Secrets.  Accordingly, Executive agrees that such ideas, inventions or discoveries shall be presumed to have been conceived during the Employment Period, unless and until the contrary is clearly established by the Executive.

13.     Inventions and Other Works.  Any and all writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and/or techniques which Executive may make, conceive, discover, or develop, either solely or jointly with any other person or persons, at any time during the Employment Period, whether at the request or upon the suggestion of the

10

Partnership or otherwise, which relate to or are useful in connection with any business now or hereafter carried on or contemplated by the Partnership, including developments or expansions of its present fields of operations, shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Partnership. Executive agrees to take any and all actions necessary or appropriate so that the Partnership can prepare and present applications for copyright or Letters Patent therefor, and secure such copyright or Letters Patent wherever possible, as well as reissue renewals, and extensions thereof, and obtain the record title to such copyright or patents.  Executive shall not be entitled to any additional or special compensation or reimbursement regarding any such writings, computer software, inventions, improvements, processes, procedures and techniques. Executive acknowledges that the Partnership from time to time may have agreements with other persons or entities which impose obligations or restrictions on the Partnership regarding inventions made during the course of work thereunder or regarding the confidential nature of such work.  Executive agrees to be bound by all such obligations and restrictions, and to take all action necessary to discharge the obligations of the Partnership.

14.     Non-Solicitation Restriction.  Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 13 and other provisions of this Agreement.  During the Executive’s employment and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive hereby covenants and agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, either individually or as a principal, partner, agent, consultant, contractor, employee, or as a director or officer of any entity, or in any other manner or capacity whatsoever, except on behalf of the Partnership, solicit business, attempt to solicit business, or conduct business,  in products or services competitive with any products or services offered or performed by the Partnership or its Affiliates in any business which the Partnership or any of its Affiliates does business or has any business interest within the Restricted Territory as of the Termination Date,(a) from or with those individuals or entities with whom the Partnership or Affiliate conducted business in the Restricted Territory during the Executive’s employment with the Partnership or (b) with respect to any assets or holdings in which the Partnership or Affiliate hadany interestin the Restricted Territory at any time during the one (1) year period preceding the Termination Date. 

15.     Non-Competition Restriction. Executive hereby agrees that in order to protect Trade Secrets, it is necessary to enter into the following restrictive covenant, which is ancillary to the enforceable promises between the Partnership and Executive in Sections 9 through 14 and other provisions of this Agreement.  Executive hereby covenants and agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, without the prior written consent of the Partnership, engage in any capacity in which Executive would perform any duties similar to those Executive performed while employed with the Partnership, directly or indirectly (whether as proprietor, stockholder, director, partner, employee, agent, independent contractor, consultant, trustee, or in any other capacity), with respect to any entity engaged or preparing to engage in the business of oil and gas exploration and production within the Restricted Territory (a “Competing Enterprise”); provided, however, Executive shall not be deemed to be participating or engaging in a Competing Enterprise solely by virtue of the ownership of not

11

more than one percent (1%) of any class of stock or other securities which are publicly traded on a national securities exchange or in a recognized over-the-counter market.

16.     No Recruitment Restriction.  Executive agrees that during the Employment Period, and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), Executive will not, either directly or indirectly, or by acting in concert with others, hire any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate or solicit or influence, or seek to solicit or influence any employee or independent contractor performing services for the Partnership or any Affiliate to terminate, reduce or otherwise adversely affect Executive’s employment or other relationship with the Partnership or any Affiliate.

17.     Business Opportunities.  During the Employment Period and for a period of one (1) year following the Termination Date (regardless of the reason for termination), the Executive assigns and agrees to assign without further compensation to the Partnership, its Affiliates and its successors, assigns or designees, all of the Executive’s right, title and interest in and to all Business Opportunities (defined below), and further acknowledges and agrees that all Business Opportunities constitute the exclusive property of the Partnership.  The Executive shall present all Business Opportunities to the Partnership, and shall not exploit a Business Opportunity.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Business Opportunities” means all business ideas, prospects, or proposals pertaining to oil and gas exploration and production, or any other aspect of the Partnership’s or Affiliate’s business,and any business the Partnership or any Affiliate prepared to conduct,or contemplated conducting during Executive’s employment with the Partnership, which are developed by the Executive or originated by any third party and brought to the attention of the Executive, together with information relating thereto;  provided however, that for the one (1) year period following the Termination Date, “Business Opportunities” shall be limited to those Business Opportunities in the Restricted Territory.  For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 17 is not intended to limit or narrow the Executive’s duties or obligations under federal or state law with respect to corporate opportunities. 

18.     Tolling.  If Executive violates any of the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 17, then notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the restrictive period will be suspended and will not run in favor of Executive from the time of the commencement of any such violation, unless and until such time when the Executive cures the violation to the reasonable satisfaction of the Partnership.

19.     Reformation.  If a court or arbitrator rules that any time period or the geographic area specified in any restrictive covenant in Sections 9 through 17 is unenforceable, then the time period will be reduced by the number of months, or the geographic area will be reduced by the elimination of such unenforceable portion, or both, so that the restrictions may be enforced in the geographic area and for the time to the full extent permitted by law.

20.     No Previous Restrictive Agreements.  Executive represents that, except as disclosed in writing to the Partnership as of the Effective Date, Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other third party to (a) refrain from using or disclosing any confidential or proprietary information in the course of Executive’s employment by the Partnership or (b) refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or any other person or entity.  Executive further represents

12

that Executive’s performance under this Agreement and work duties for the Partnership do not, and will not, breach any agreement to keep in confidence proprietary information, knowledge or data acquired by Executive in confidence or in trust prior to Executive’s employment with the Partnership, and Executive will not disclose to the Partnership or induce the Partnership to use any confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer or others.

21.     Conflicts of Interest.  In keeping with Executive’s fiduciary duties to Partnership, Executive hereby agrees that Executive shall not become involved in a conflict of interest, or upon discovery thereof, allow such a conflict to continue at any time during the Employment Period. In this respect, Executive agrees to fully comply with the conflict of interest agreement entered into by Executive as an employee, officer or director of the Partnership or an Affiliate.  In the instance of a violation of the conflict of interest agreement to which Executive is a party, it may be necessary for the Partnership to terminate Executive’s employment for Cause (as defined in Section 6(d)).

22.     Remedies.  Executive acknowledges that the restrictions contained in Sections 9through 21 of this Agreement, in view of the nature of the Partnership’s business, are reasonable and necessary to protect the Partnership’s legitimate business interests, and that any violation of this Agreement would result in irreparable injury to the Partnership. Notwithstanding the arbitration provisions in Section 29, in the event of a breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any provision of Sections 9 through 21 of this Agreement, the Partnership shall be entitled to a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief restraining Executive from the commission of any breach, and to recover the Partnership’s attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses related to the breach or threatened breach. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed as prohibiting the Partnership from pursuing any other remedies available to it for any such breach or threatened breach, including, without limitation, the recovery of money damages, attorneys’ fees, and costs. These covenants and agreements shall each be construed as independent of any other provisions in this Agreement, and the existence of any claim or cause of action by Executive against the Partnership, whether predicated on this Agreement or otherwise, shall not constitute a defense to the enforcement by the Partnership of such covenants and agreements.

23.     Withholdings; Right of Offset.  The Partnership may withhold and deduct from any benefits and payments made or to be made pursuant to this Agreement (a) all federal, state, local and other taxes as may be required pursuant to any law or governmental regulation or ruling, (b) all other normal employee deductions made with respect to Partnership’s employees generally, and (c) any advances made to Executive and owed to Partnership.

24.     Nonalienation.  The right to receive payments under this Agreement shall not be subject in any manner to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge or encumbrance by Executive, dependents or beneficiaries of Executive, or to any other person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments hereunder. The right to receive payments hereunder shall not be subject to or liable for the debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of any person who is or may become entitled to receive such payments, nor may the same be subject to attachment or seizure by any creditor of such person under any circumstances, and any such attempted attachment or seizure shall be void and of no force and effect.

13

25.     Incompetent or Minor Payees.  Should the Partnership determine, in its discretion, that any person to whom any payment is payable under this Agreement has been determined to be legally incompetent or is a minor, any payment due hereunder, notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, may be made in any one or more of the following ways: (a) directly to such minor or person; (b) to the legal guardian or other duly appointed personal representative of the person or estate of such minor or person; or (c) to such adult or adults as have, in the good faith knowledge of the Partnership, assumed custody and support of such minor or person; and any payment so made shall constitute full and complete discharge of any liability under this Agreement in respect to the amount paid.

26.     Severability.  It is the desire of the Parties hereto that this Agreement be enforced to the maximum extent permitted by law, and should any provision contained herein be held unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction or arbitrator (pursuant to Section 29), the Parties hereby agree and consent that such provision shall be reformed to create a valid and enforceable provision to the maximum extent permitted by law; provided, however, if such provision cannot be reformed, it shall be deemed ineffective and deleted herefrom without affecting any other provision of this Agreement.  This Agreement should be construed by limiting and reducing it only to the minimum extent necessary to be enforceable under then applicable law.

27.     Title and Headings; Construction.  Titles and headings to Sections hereof are for the purpose of reference only and shall in no way limit, define or otherwise affect the provisions hereof. The words “herein”, “hereof’, “hereunder” and other compounds of the word “here” shall refer to the entire Agreement and not to any particular provision.

28.     Governing Law; Jurisdiction.  All matters or issues relating to the interpretation, construction, validity, and enforcement of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without giving effect to any choice-of-law principle that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than Texas.  Jurisdiction and venue of any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or any Dispute (to the extent arbitration is not required under Section 29) shall be exclusively in Harris, Texas.

29.     Mandatory Arbitration.  Except as provided in subsection (h) of this Section 29, any Dispute (as defined in Section 6(d)) must be resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the following:

(a)     Either Party may begin arbitration by filing a demand for arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules and concurrently notifying the other Party of that demand. If the Parties are unable to agree upon a panel of three neutral arbitrators within twenty days after the demand for arbitration was filed (the Parties agree to a one-time, reasonable extension of that twenty-day period), either Party may request the Houston, Texas office of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) to appoint the arbitrator or arbitrators necessary to complete the panel in accordance with the Arbitration Rules.  Each arbitrator so appointed shall be deemed accepted by the Parties as part of the panel.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Parties, by mutual consent, may agree to a single arbitrator instead of a panel of three arbitrators and, in such event, references herein to “panel” shall refer to the single appointed arbitrator.

14

(b)     The arbitration shall be conducted in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area at a place and time agreed upon by the Parties with the panel, or if the Parties cannot agree, as designated by the panel. The panel may, however, call and conduct hearings and meetings at such other places as the Parties may agree or as the panel may, on the motion of one Party, determine to be necessary to obtain significant testimony or evidence.

(c)     The panel may authorize any and all forms of discovery upon a Party’s showing of need that the requested discovery is likely to lead to material evidence needed to resolve the Dispute and is not excessive in scope, timing, or cost.

(d)     The arbitration shall be subject to the Federal Arbitration Act and conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the AAA to the extent that they do not conflict with this Section 29.  The Parties and the panel may, however, agree to vary to provisions of this Section 29 or the matters otherwise governed by the Arbitration Rules as permitted by law.

(e)     The arbitration hearing shall be held within 60 days after the appointment of the panel. The panel’s final decision or award shall be made within 30 days after the hearing. That final decision or award shall be made by unanimous or majority vote or consent of the arbitrators constituting the panel, and shall be deemed issued at the place of arbitration.  The panel’s final decision or award shall be based on the terms and conditions of this Agreement and applicable law.

(f)     The panel’s final decision or award may include injunctive relief in response to any actual or impending breach of this Agreement or any other actual or impending action or omission of a Party under or in connection with this Agreement.

(g)     The panel’s final decision or award shall be final and binding upon the Parties, and judgment upon that decision or award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction.  The Parties waive any right to apply or appeal to any court for re1ief from the preceding sentence or from any decision of the panel that is made before the final decision or award.

(h)     Nothing in this Section 29 limits the right of either Party to apply to a court having jurisdiction to (i) enforce the agreement to arbitrate in accordance with this Section 29, (ii) seek provisional or temporary injunctive relief, in response to an actual or impending breach of the Agreement or otherwise so as to avoid an irreparable damage or maintain the status quo, until a final arbitration decision or award is rendered or the Dispute is otherwise resolved, or challenge or vacate any final arbitration decision or award that does not comply with this Section 29. In addition, nothing in this Section 29 prohibits the Parties from resolving any Dispute (in whole or in part) at any time by mutual agreement or compromise. This Section 29 shall also not preclude the Parties at any time from mutually agreeing to pursue non-binding mediation of the Dispute.

(i)     The panel may proceed to an award notwithstanding the failure of any Party to participate in such proceedings.  The prevailing Party in the arbitration proceeding may be entitled to an award of reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with the arbitration in

15

such amount, if any, as determined by the panel in its discretion.  The costs of the arbitration shall be borne equally by the Parties unless otherwise determined by the panel in its award.

(j)     The panel shall be empowered to impose sanctions and to take such other actions as it deems necessary to the same extent a judge could impose sanctions or take such other actions pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and applicable law. Each party agrees to keep all Disputes and arbitration proceedings strictly confidential except for disclosure of information required by applicable law which cannot be waived.

30.     Binding Effect; Third Party Beneficiaries.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties hereto, and to their respective heirs, executors, beneficiaries, personal representatives, successors and. permitted assigns hereunder.  Holding Co. and its partners shall expressly be deemed to be third party beneficiaries of the covenants and agreements of the parties hereto; otherwise this Agreement shall not be for the benefit of any third parties.

31.     Entire Agreement; Amendment and Termination. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the Parties hereto with respect to the matters covered herein; moreover, this Agreement supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, oral or written, between the Parties concerning the subject matter hereof.  This Agreement may be amended, waived or terminated only by a written instrument that is identified as an amendment, waiver or termination hereto, and is executed on behalf of both Parties.The Executive acknowledges and represents that in executing this Agreement, the Executive did not rely on, has not relied on, and specifically disavows any reliance on any communications, promises, statements, inducements, or representation(s), oral or written, by the Company, except as expressly contained in this Agreement.  The Parties represent that they relied on their own judgment in entering into this Agreement.

32.     Survival of Certain Provisions. Wherever appropriate to the intention of the Parties, the respective rights and obligations of the Parties hereunder shall survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.

33.     Waiver of Breach. No waiver by either Party hereto of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by any other Party, or of compliance with any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other Party, will operate or be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by such other Party or any similar or dissimilar provision or condition at the same or any subsequent time.  The failure of either Party hereto to take any action by reason of any breach will not deprive such Party of the right to take action at any time while such breach continues.

34.     Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Partnership and its Affiliates (and its and their successors), as well as upon any person or entity acquiring, whether by merger, consolidation, purchase of assets, dissolution or otherwise, all or substantially all of the capital stock, business and/or assets of the Partnership (or its successor) regardless of whether the Partnership is the surviving or resulting corporation.  The Partnership shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, dissolution or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the capital stock, business or assets of the Partnership to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same

16

manner and to the same extent that the Partnership would be required to perform it if no such succession had occurred; provided, however, no such assumption shall relieve the Partnership of any of its duties or obligations hereunder unless otherwise agreed, in writing, by Executive.

This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive’s personal or legal representative, executors, administrators, successors, and heirs.  In the event of the death of Executive while any amount is payable hereunder, all such amounts shall be paid to the Designated Beneficiary (as defined in Section 6(d)).

35.     Notice.  Each notice or other communication required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and transmitted, delivered, or sent by personal delivery, prepaid courier or messenger service (whether overnight or same-day), or prepaid certified United States mail (with return receipt requested), addressed (in any case) to the other Party at the address for that Party set forth below that Party’s signature on this Agreement, or at such other address as the recipient has designated by Notice to the other Party, by electronic mail, delivery and read receipt required, or by facsimile, confirmation of delivery required.

Each notice or communication so transmitted, delivered, or sent (a) in person, by courier or messenger service, or by certified United States mail shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the date delivered to or refused by the intended recipient (with the return receipt, or the equivalent record of the courier or messenger, being deemed conclusive evidence of delivery or refusal), or (b) by telecopy or facsimile shall be deemed given received) and effective on the date of actual receipt (with the confirmation of transmission being deemed conclusive evidence of receipt, except where the intended recipient has promptly notified the other Party that the transmission is illegible).  Nevertheless, if the date of delivery or transmission is not a business day, or if the delivery or transmission is after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, the notice or other communication shall be deemed given, received, and effective on the next business day.

36.     Executive Acknowledgment.  Executive acknowledges (a) being knowledgeable and sophisticated as to business matters, including the subject matter of this Agreement, (b) having read this Agreement and understanding its terms and conditions, (c) having been given an ample opportunity to discuss this Agreement with Executive’s personal legal counsel prior to execution, and (d) that no strict rules of construction shall apply for or against the drafter or any other Party.  Executive hereby represents that Executive is free to enter into this Agreement including, without limitation, that Executive is not subject to any covenant not to compete that would conflict with any duties under this Agreement.

37.     Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.  Each counterpart may consist of a copy hereof containing multiple signature pages, each signed by one party hereto, but together signed by both Parties.

(Signature page follows)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Executive has executed this Agreement and the Partnership has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by its duly authorized representative, to be effective as of the Effective Date.

/s/ F.David Murrell
F. DAVID MURRELL
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
F. David Murrell
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

Signatures Continued on Next Page.

ALTA MESA SERVICES, LP,
a Texas limited partnership
By:	/s/ Michael A. McCabe
	Michael A. McCabe
	Chief Financial Officer
Date:	March 25, 2014
Address for Notices:
Alta Mesa Services, LP
c/o Alta Mesa Investment Holdings Inc.
15021 Katy Freeway, Suite 400
Houston, Texas 77094

End of Signatures.

EX-21.1

EXHIBIT 21.1

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP

Subsidiaries

Subsidiary		Jurisdiction of Formation
1.	Alabama Energy Resources, LLC	Texas
2.	Alta Mesa Acquisition Sub, LLC	Texas
3.	Alta Mesa Drilling, LLC	Texas
4.	Alta Mesa Eagle, LLC	Texas
5.	Alta Mesa Energy LLC	Texas
6.	Alta Mesa Finance Services Corp.	Delaware
7.	Alta Mesa GP, LLC	Texas
8.	Alta Mesa Services, LP	Texas
9.	AM Idaho LLC	Texas
10.	AM Michigan LLC	Texas
11.	AMH Energy New Mexico, LLC	Texas
12.	Aransas Resources, L.P.	Texas
13.	ARI Development, LLC	Delaware
14.	Brayton Management GP II, LLC	Texas
15.	Brayton Management GP, LLC	Texas
16.	Brayton Resources II, L.P.	Texas
17.	Brayton Resources, L.P.	Texas
18.	Buckeye Production Company, LP	Texas
19.	Cairn Energy USA, LLC	Delaware
20.	FBB Anadarko, LLC	Delaware
21.	Galveston Bay Resources, LP	Texas
22.	LEADS Resources, L.L.C.	Texas
23.	Louisiana Exploration & Acquisition Partnership, LLC	Delaware
24.	Louisiana Exploration & Acquisitions, LP	Texas
25.	Louisiana Onshore Properties LLC	Delaware
26.	Navasota Resources, Ltd., LLP	Texas
27.	New Exploration Technologies Company, L.L.C.	Texas
28.	Nueces Resources, LP	Texas
29.	Oklahoma Energy Acquisitions, LP	Texas
30.	Orion Operating Company, LP	Texas
31.	Petro Acquisitions, LP	Texas
32.	Petro Operating Company, LP	Texas
33.	Sundance Acquisition, LLC	Texas
34.	TEA Energy Services, LLC	Texas
35.	TE TMR, LLC	Texas
36.	Texas Energy Acquisitions, LP	Texas
37.	The Meridian Production, LLC	Texas
38.	The Meridian Resource & Exploration LLC	Delaware
39.	The Meridian Resource, LLC	Delaware
40.	TMR Drilling, LLC	Texas
41.	TMR Equipment, LLC	Texas
42.	Virginia Oil and Gas, LLC	Delaware

EX-23.1

EXHIBIT 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We hereby consent to the inclusion of our report dated March 27, 2014 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 and for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended December 31, 2013 included in the annual report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and Subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2013.

/s/ UHY LLP

Houston, Texas

March 27, 2014

EX-23.2

Exhibit 23.2

Consent of Independent Petroleum Engineers and Geoscientists

We consent to the references to our firm, in the context in which they appear, and to the references to and the incorporation by reference of our audit letter as of December 31, 2013, included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP for the year ended December 31, 2013, as well as in the notes to the financial statement included therein.

/s/ RYDER SCOTT COMPANY, L.P.

TBPE Firm Registration No. F-1580

Houston, Texas

March 27, 2014

EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I, Harlan H. Chappelle, certify that:

1.I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP;

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and have:

a.Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b.[intentionally omitted]

c.Evaluated the effectiveness of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d.Disclosed in this report any change in Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting.

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s auditors and the audit committee of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a.All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b.Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 27, 2014

 /s/ Harlan H. Chappelle

Harlan H. Chappelle

President and Chief Executive Officer of Alta Mesa

Holdings GP, LLC, general partner of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

I, Michael A. McCabe, certify that:

1.I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP;

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and have:

a.Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b.[intentionally omitted]

c.Evaluated the effectiveness of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d.Disclosed in this report any change in Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting.

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s auditors and the audit committee of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a.All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b.Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in Alta Mesa Holdings, LP’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 27, 2014

 /s/ Michael A. McCabe

Michael A. McCabe

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Alta Mesa

Holdings GP, LLC, general partner of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

OF ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350

In connection with this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP for the period ended December 31, 2013, I, Harlan H. Chappelle, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, hereby certify pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1.This Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2013 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2.The information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2013 fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP for the periods presented therein.

Date: March 27, 2014

 /s/ Harlan H. Chappelle

Harlan H. Chappelle

President and Chief Executive Officer of Alta Mesa

Holdings GP, LLC, general partner of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP

EX-32.2

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

OF ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, LP

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350

In connection with this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP for the period ended December 31, 2013, I, Michael A. McCabe, Chief Financial Officer of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, hereby certify pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

1.This Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2013 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2.The information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2013 fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP for the periods presented therein.

Date: March 27, 2014

 /s/ Michael A. McCabe

Michael A. McCabe

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Alta Mesa

Holdings GP, LLC, general partner of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP

EX-99.1

EXHIBIT 99.1

ALTA MESA HOLDINGS, L.P.

Estimated

Net Reserves

CertainLeasehold and Royalty Interests

SEC Parameters

As of

December 31, 2013

\s\ Kevin E. Gangluff

Kevin E. Gangluff, P.E.

TBPE License No. 75852

Senior Vice President

RYDER SCOTT COMPANY, L.P.

TBPE Firm Registration No. F-1580

RYDER SCOTT COMPANY   PETROLEUM CONSULTANTS

March17, 2014

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

15415 Katy Freeway, Suite 800

Houston, TX 77094

Gentlemen:

At the request of Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P. (Alta Mesa), Ryder Scott Company, L.P. (Ryder Scott) has conducted a reserves audit of the estimates of the proved reserves as of December 31, 2013prepared byAlta Mesa’s engineering and geological staff based on the definitions and disclosure guidelines of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) contained in Title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting, Final Rule released January 14, 2009 in the Federal Register (SEC regulations).Our third party reserves audit, completed on March 3, 2014 and presented herein, was prepared for public disclosure by Alta Mesa in filings made with the SEC in accordance with the disclosure requirements set forth in the SEC regulations.  The estimated reserves shown herein representAlta Mesa’s estimated net reserves attributable to the leasehold interests  in certain properties owned by Alta Mesa and the portion of those reserves reviewed by Ryder Scott, as of December 31, 2013.The properties reviewed by Ryder Scott incorporate773 reserve determinations and are located in the states of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and West Virginia.

The properties reviewed by Ryder Scott account for a portion of Alta Mesa’s total net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013.  Based on the estimates of total net proved reserves prepared by Alta Mesa, the reserves audit conducted by Ryder Scott addresses 81 percent of the total proved developed net liquid hydrocarbon reserves, 69  percent of the total proved developed net gas reserves, 82 percent of the total proved undeveloped net liquid hydrocarbon reserves, and 61 percent of the total proved undeveloped net gas reserves of Alta Mesa. The properties reviewed by Ryder Scott account for a portion of Alta Mesa’s total proved discounted future net income using SEC hydrocarbon price parameters as of December 31, 2013.  Based on the reserve and income projections prepared by Alta Mesa, the audit conducted by Ryder Scott addresses 85 percent of the total proved developed discounted future net income and 82percent of the total proved undeveloped discounted future net income of Alta Mesa.

As prescribed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers in Paragraph 2.2(f) of the Standards Pertaining to the Estimating and Auditing of Oil and Gas Reserves Information (SPE auditing standards), a reserves audit is defined as “the process of reviewing certain of the pertinent facts interpreted and assumptions made that have resulted in an estimate of reserves prepared by others and the rendering of an opinion about (1) the appropriateness of the methodologies employed; (2) the adequacy and quality of the data relied upon; (3) the depth and thoroughness of the reserves estimation process; (4) the classification of reserves appropriate to the relevant definitions used; and (5) the reasonableness of the estimated reserve quantities.”

Based on our review, including the data, technical processes and interpretations presented by Alta Mesa, it is our opinion that the overall procedures and methodologies utilized by Alta Mesa in preparing their estimates of the proved reserves as of December 31, 2013 comply with the current SEC regulations and that the overall proved reserves for the reviewed properties as estimated by Alta Mesa are, in the aggregate, reasonable within the established audit tolerance guidelines of 10 percent as set forth in the SPE auditing standards.

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 2

The estimated reserves presented in this report are related to hydrocarbon prices.  Alta Mesa has informed us that in the preparation of their reserve and income projections, as of December 31, 2013, they used average prices during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered in this report, determined as the unweighted arithmetic averages of the prices in effect on the first-day-of-the-month for each month within such period, unless prices were defined by contractual arrangements, as required by the SEC regulations.  Actual future prices may vary significantly from the prices required by SEC regulations; therefore, volumes of reserves actually recovered and the amounts of income actually received may differ significantly from the estimated quantities presented in this report.  The net reserves as estimated by Alta Mesa attributable to Alta Mesa's interestin properties that we reviewed and the reserves of properties that we did not review are summarized as follows:

SEC PARAMETERS

Estimated Net Reserves

Certain Leasehold and Royalty Interests of

Alta MesaHoldings, L.P.

As of December 31, 2013

	Proved
	Developed			Total
	Producing	Non-Producing	Undeveloped	Proved
Net Reserves of Properties Audited by Ryder Scott
Oil/Condensate – MBarrels	11,459	2,086	13,358	26,903
Plant Products - MBarrels	2,113	146	2,096	4,355
Gas – MMCF	61,660	2,328	24,075	88,063
Net Reserves of Properties Not Audited by Ryder Scott
Oil/Condensate – MBarrels	524	2,266	2,824	5,614
Plant Products –MBarrels	0	879	501	1,380
Gas – MMCF	2,149	26,503	15,550	44,202
Total Net Reserves
Oil/Condensate – MBarrels	11,983	4,352	16,182	32,517
Plant Products – MBarrels	2,113	1,025	2,597	5,735
Gas – MMCF	63,809	28,831	39,625	132,265

Liquid hydrocarbons are expressed in standard 42 gallon barrels.  All gas volumes are reported on an “assold basis”  expressed in millions of cubic feet (MMCF) at the official temperature and pressure bases of the areas in which the gas reserves are located.  The term M barrels denotes 1000’s of barrels.

In certain instances where natural gas is processed in a third party plant, the title to the gas is transferred before the processing plant.  The income received for the gas delivered is determined by a contractually determined volume of a portion of the plant residue sales gas and of the plant products (natural gas liquids) extracted from the natural gas.  Alta Mesa has shown this incremental income from plant products as equivalent plant product volumes in order to provide transparency to investors, banks, and financial institutions regarding specific sources of forecasted income.

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 3

The total future net income discounted at 10 percent prepared by Alta Mesa (which RSC did not review) attributable to Alta Mesa's interest in properties that we reviewed and those properties that we did not review are summarized as follows:

SEC PARAMETERS

Discounted Future Net Income

Certain Leasehold and Royalty Interests of

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

As of December 31, 2013

	Proved
	Developed			Total
	Producing	Non-Producing	Undeveloped	Proved
Future Net Income Discounted at 10% ($M)
Properties Reviewed
by Ryder Scott	587,774	86,234	507,317	1,181,325
Properties Not Reviewed
by Ryder Scott	(9,478)	126,293	108,134	224,949
Total	578,296	212,527	615,451	1,406,274

The discounted future net income shown above is presented at Alta Mesa’s request for your informationand should not be construed as an estimate of fair market value.  Because it was beyond the scope of this audit, Ryder Scott has not conducted an economic analysis to evaluate the net economic benefit from the production of the above reserves volumes. Thus, Alta Mesa’s estimates of the future net income ultimately may or may not be within the 10 percent tolerance.  The term $M denotes thousands of dollars.

Reserves Included in This Report

In our opinion, the proved reserves presented in this report conform to the definition as set forth in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Regulations Part 210.4-10(a).  An abridged version of the SEC reserves definitions from 210.4-10(a) entitled “Petroleum Reserves Definitions” is included as an attachment to this report.

The various proved reserve status categories are defined under the attachment entitled “Petroleum Reserves Status and Definitions Guidelines” in this report.  The proved developed non-producing reserves included herein consist of the shut-in and behind pipe categories.

Reserves are “estimated remaining quantities of oil and gas and related substances anticipated to be economically producible, as of a given date, by application of development projects to known accumulations.”  All reserve estimates involve an assessment of the uncertainty relating the likelihood that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the estimated quantities determined as of the date the estimate is made.  The uncertainty depends chiefly on the amount of reliable geologic and engineering data available at the time of the estimate and the interpretation of these data.  The relative degree of uncertainty may be conveyed by placing reserves into one of two principal classifications, either proved or unproved.  Unproved reserves are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves and may be further sub-classified as probable and possible reserves to denote progressively increasing uncertainty in their recoverability.  At Alta Mesa’s request, this report addresses only the proved reserves attributable to the properties reviewed herein.

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 4

Proved oil and gas reserves are “those quantities of oil and gas which, by analysis of geoscience and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible from a given date forward.”  The proved reserves included herein were estimated using deterministic methods.  The SEC has defined reasonable certainty for proved reserves, when based on deterministic methods, as a “high degree of confidence that the quantities will be recovered.”

Provedreserve estimates will generally be revised only as additional geologic or engineering data become available or as economic conditions change.  For proved reserves, the SEC states that “as changes due to increased availability of geoscience (geological, geophysical, and geochemical), engineering, and economic data are made to the estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) with time, reasonably certain EUR is much more likely to increase or remain constant than to decrease.”  Moreover, estimates of proved reserves may be revised as a result of future operations, effects of regulation by governmental agencies or geopolitical or economic risks.  Therefore, the proved reserves included in this report are estimates only and should not be construed as being exact quantities, and if recovered, could be more or less than the estimated amounts. 

Audit Data, Methodology, Procedure and Assumptions

The estimation of reserves involves two distinct determinations.  The first determination results in the estimation of the quantities of recoverable oil and gas and the second determination results in the estimation of the uncertainty associated with those estimated quantities in accordance with the definitions set forth by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Regulations Part 210.4-10(a).  The process of estimating the quantities of recoverable oil and gas reserves relies on the use of certain generally accepted analytical procedures.  These analytical procedures fall into three broad categories or methods: (1) performance-based methods; (2) volumetric-based methods; and (3) analogy.  These methods may be used singularly or in combination by the reserve evaluator in the process of estimating the quantities of reserves.  Reserve evaluators must select the method or combination of methods which in their professional judgment is most appropriate given the nature and amount of reliable geoscience and engineering data available at the time of the estimate, the established or anticipated performance characteristics of the reservoir being evaluated and the stage of development or producing maturity of the property.

In many cases, the analysis of the available geoscience and engineering data and the subsequent interpretation of this data may indicate a range of possible outcomes in an estimate, irrespective of the method selected by the evaluator.  When a range in the quantity of reserves is identified, the evaluator must determine the uncertainty associated with the incremental quantities of the reserves.  If the reserve quantities are estimated using the deterministic incremental approach, the uncertainty for each discrete incremental quantity of the reserves is addressed by the reserve category assigned by the evaluator.  Therefore, it is the categorization of reserve quantities as proved, probable and/or possible that addresses the inherent uncertainty in the estimated quantities reported.  For proved reserves, uncertainty is defined by the SEC as reasonable certainty wherein the “quantities actually recovered are much more likely than not to be achieved.”  The SEC states that “probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves but which, together with proved reserves, are as likely as not to be recovered.”  The SEC states that “possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves and the total quantities ultimately recovered from a project have a low probability of exceeding proved plus probable plus possible reserves.”  All quantities of reserves within the same reserve category must meet the SEC definitions as noted above.

Estimates of reserves quantities and their associated reserve categories may be revised in the future as additional geoscience or engineering data become available.  Furthermore, estimates of

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 5

reserves quantities and their associated reserve categories may also be revised due to other factors such as changes in economic conditions, results of future operations, effects of regulation by governmental agencies or geopolitical or economic risks as previously noted herein.

The proved reserves for the properties that we reviewed were estimated by performance methods, the volumetric method, analogy, or a combination of methods.  Approximately 90percent of the proved producing reserves attributable to producing wells and/or reservoirs that we reviewed were estimated by performance methods.  These performance methods include, but may not be limited to, decline curve analysis and material balance which utilized extrapolations of historical production and pressure data available Octoberthrough December 2013, in those cases where such data were considered to be definitive.  The data utilized in this analysis were furnished to Ryder Scott by Alta Mesa or obtained from public data sources and were considered sufficient for the purpose thereof.  The remaining10percent of the proved producing reserves that we reviewed were estimated by the volumetric method, analogy, or a combination of methods.  These methods were used where there were inadequate historical performance data to establish a definitive trend and where the use of production performance data as a basis for the reserve estimates was considered to be inappropriate. 

Approximately 63percent of the proved developed non-producing reserves that we reviewed were estimated by the volumetric method.  Approximately 37percent of the developed non-producing reserves that we reviewed were estimated by analogy or past performance.  Approximately 91percent of the proved undeveloped reserves that we reviewed were estimated by analogy.  The other 9percent was estimated by the volumetric method.  The volumetric analysis utilized pertinent well and geoscience data furnished to Ryder Scott by Alta Mesafor our review or which we have obtained from public data sources that were available Octoberthrough December 2013.  The data utilized from the analogues in conjunction with well and geoscience data incorporated into the volumetric analysis were considered sufficient for the purpose thereof. 

Horizontal wells and locations in the Mississippi Lime and Oswego plays in Oklahoma and Eagle Ford play in Texas represent 51 percent of Alta Mesa’s liquids reserves and21 percent of Alta Mesa’s gas reserves.  Sixty-nine percent of liquids reserves and 79 percent of gas reserves associated with horizontal drilling are proved undeveloped or non-producing.  The remainder are producing.

To estimate economically recoverable proved oil and gas reserves, we consider many factors and assumptions including, but not limited to, the use of reservoir parameters derived from geological, geophysical and engineering data which cannot be measured directly, economic criteria based on current costs and SEC pricing requirements, and forecasts of future production rates.  Under the SEC regulations 210.4-10(a)(22)(v) and (26), proved reserves must be anticipated to be economically producible from a given date forward based on existing economic conditions including the prices and costs at which economic producibility from a reservoir is to be determined.  While it may reasonably be anticipated that the future prices received for the sale of production and the operating costs and other costs relating to such production may increase or decrease from those under existing economic conditions, such changes were, in accordance with rules adopted by the SEC, omitted from consideration in conducting this review.

As stated previously, proved reserves must be anticipated to be economically producible from a given date forward based on existing economic conditions including the prices and costs at which economic producibility from a reservoir is to be determined.  To confirm that the proved reserves reviewed by us meet the SEC requirements to be economically producible, we have reviewed certain primary economic data utilized by Alta Mesa relating to hydrocarbon prices and costs as noted herein.

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 6

The hydrocarbon prices furnished by Alta Mesafor the properties reviewed by us are based on SEC price parameters using the average prices during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered in this report, determined as the unweighted arithmetic averages of the prices in effect on the first-day-of-the-month for each month within such period, unless prices were defined by contractual arrangements.  For hydrocarbon products sold under contract, the contract prices, including fixed and determinable escalations exclusive of inflation adjustments, were used until expiration of the contract.  Upon contract expiration, the prices were adjusted to the 12-month unweighted arithmetic average as previously described.

The initial SEC hydrocarbon prices in effect on December 31,  2013for the properties reviewed by us were determined using the 12-month average first-day-of-the-month benchmark prices appropriate to the geographic area where the hydrocarbons are sold.  These benchmark prices are prior to the adjustments for differentials as described herein.  The table below summarizes the “benchmark prices” and “price reference” used by Alta Mesa for the geographic area reviewed by us.  In certain geographic areas, the price reference and benchmark prices may be defined by contractual arrangements.

The product prices which were actually used by Alta Mesa to determine the future gross revenue for each property reviewed by us reflect adjustments to the benchmark prices for gravity, quality, local conditions, gathering and transportation fees and/or distance from market, referred to herein as “differentials.”  The differentials used by Alta Mesawere accepted as factual data; however, we have not conducted an independent verification of the data used by Alta Mesa. 

The table below summarizes Alta Mesa’s net volume weighted benchmark prices adjusted for differentials for the properties reviewed by us and referred to herein as Alta Mesa’s “average realized prices.”  The average realized prices shown in the table below were determined from Alta Mesa’s estimate of the total future gross revenue before production taxes for the properties reviewed by us and Alta Mesa’s estimate of the total net reserves for the properties reviewed by us for the geographic area.  The data shown in the table below is presented in accordance with SEC disclosure requirements for each of the geographic areas reviewed by us.

Geographic Area	Product	Price Reference	Average BenchmarkPrices	Average RealizedPrices
United States	Oil/Condensate	WTI Cushing	$96.94/Bbl	$98.73/Bbl
	NGLs	WTI Cushing	$96.94/Bbl	$37.62/Bbl
	Gas	Henry Hub	$3.67/MCF	$4.036/MCF

The effects of derivative instruments designated as price hedges of oil and gas quantities are not reflected in Alta Mesa’s individual property evaluations. 

Accumulated gas production imbalances, if any, were not taken into account in the proved gas reserve estimates reviewed.  In certain cases, the gas volumes presented herein include gas consumed in operations as reserves.  In those cases, the effective price was reduced such that the fuel use had no value.

Operating costs furnished by Alta Mesa are based on the operating expense reports of Alta Mesa and include only those costs directly applicable to the leases or wellsfor the properties reviewed

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 7

by us.  The operating costs include a portion of general and administrative costs allocated directly to the leases and wells.For operated properties, the operating costs include an appropriate level of corporate general administrative and overhead costs.  The operating costs for non-operated properties include the COPAS overhead costs that are allocated directly to the leases and wells under terms of operating agreements.The operating costs furnished by Alta Mesa were accepted as factual data; however, we have not conducted an independent verification of the data used by Alta Mesa.No deduction was made for loan repayments, interest expenses, or exploration and development prepayments that were not charged directly to the leases or wells.

Development costs furnished by Alta Mesa are based on authorizations for expenditure for the proposed work or actual costs for similar projects.  The development costs furnished by Alta Mesa were accepted as factual data; however, we have not conducted an independent verification of the data used by Alta Mesa.  The estimated net cost of abandonment after salvage was included by Alta Mesa for properties where abandonment costs net of salvage were significant.  Alta Mesa’s estimates of the net abandonment costs were accepted without independent verification. 

The proved developed non-producing and undeveloped reserves for the properties reviewed by us have been incorporated herein in accordance with Alta Mesa’s plans to develop these reserves as of December 31, 2013.  The implementation of Alta Mesa’s development plans as presented to us is subject to the approval process adopted by Alta Mesa’s management.  As the result of our inquiries during the course of our review, Alta Mesa has informed us that the development activities for the properties reviewed by us have been subjected to and received the internal approvals required by Alta Mesa’s management at the appropriate local, regional and/or corporate level.  In addition to the internal approvals as noted, certain development activities may still be subject to specific partner AFE processes, Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) requirements or other administrative approvals external to Alta Mesa.  Alta Mesahas provided written documentation stating their commitment to proceed with the development activities as presented to us. Additionally, Alta Mesa has informed us that they are not aware of any legal, regulatory, political or economic obstacles that would significantly alter their plans.

Current costs used by Alta Mesa were held constant throughout the life of the properties.

Alta Mesa’s forecasts of future production rates are based on historical performance from wells currently on production.  If no production decline trend has been established, future production rates were held constant, or adjusted for the effects of curtailment where appropriate, until a decline in ability to produce was anticipated.  An estimated rate of decline was then applied to depletion of the reserves.  If a decline trend has been established, this trend was used as the basis for estimating future production rates. 

Test data and other related information were used by Alta Mesato estimate the anticipated initial production rates for those wells or locations that are not currently producing.  For reserves not yet on production, sales were estimated to commence at an anticipated date furnished by Alta Mesa.  Wells or locations that are not currently producing may start producing earlier or later than anticipated in Alta Mesa’s estimates due to unforeseen factors causing a change in the timing to initiate production.  Such factors may include delays due to weather, the availability of rigs, the sequence of drilling, completing and/or recompleting wells and/or constraints set by regulatory bodies. 

The future production rates from wells currently on production or wells or locations that are not currently producing may be more or less than estimated because of changes including, but not limited to, reservoir performance, operating conditions related to surface facilities, compression and artificial lift, pipeline capacity and/or operating conditions, producing market demand and/or allowables or other constraints set by regulatory bodies. 

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 8

Alta Mesa’s operations may be subject to various levels of governmental controls and regulations.  These controls and regulations may include, but may not be limited to, matters relating to land tenure and leasing, the legal rights to produce hydrocarbons, drilling and production practices, environmental protection, marketing and pricing policies, royalties, various taxes and levies including income taxand are subject to change from time to time.  Such changes in governmental regulations and policies may cause volumes of proved reserves actually recovered and amounts of proved income actually received to differ significantly from the estimated quantities.

The estimates of proved reserves presented herein were based upon a detailed study of the properties in which Alta Mesaowns an interest; however, we have not made any field examination of the properties.  No consideration was given in this report to potential environmental liabilities that may exist nor were any costs included by Alta Mesafor potential liabilities to restore and clean up damages, if any, caused by past operating practices.

Certain technical personnel of Alta Mesa are responsible for the preparation of reserve estimates on new properties and for the preparation of revised estimates, when necessary, on old properties.  These personnel assembled the necessary data and maintained the data and workpapers in an orderly manner.  We consulted with these technical personnel and had access to their workpapers and supporting data in the course of our audit.

Alta Mesa has informed us that they have furnished us all of the material accounts, records, geological and engineering data, and reports and other data required for this investigation.  In performing our audit of Alta Mesa’s forecast of future proved production, we have relied upon data furnished by Alta Mesa with respect to property interests owned, production and well tests from examined wells, normal direct costs of operating the wells or leases, other costs such as transportation and/or processing fees, ad valorem and production taxes, recompletion and development costs, abandonment costs after salvage, product prices based on the SEC regulations, adjustments or differentials to product prices, geological structural and isochore maps, well logs, core analyses, and pressure measurements.  Ryder Scott reviewed such factual data for its reasonableness; however, we have not conducted an independent verification of the data furnished by Alta Mesa.  We consider the factual data furnished to us by Alta Mesa to be appropriate and sufficient for the purpose of our review of Alta Mesa’s estimates of reserves.  In summary, we consider the assumptions, data, methods and analytical procedures used by Alta Mesa and as reviewed by us appropriate for the purpose hereof, and we have used all such methods and procedures that we consider necessary and appropriate under the circumstances to render the conclusions set forth herein.

Audit Opinion

Based on our review, including the data, technical processes and interpretations presented by Alta Mesa, it is our opinion that the overall procedures and methodologies utilized by Alta Mesa in preparing their estimates of the proved reserves as of December 31,  2013 comply with the current SEC regulations and that the overall proved reservesfor the reviewed properties as estimated by Alta Mesa are, in the aggregate, reasonable within the established audit tolerance guidelines of 10 percent as set forth in the SPE auditing standards.

We were in reasonable agreement with Alta Mesa's estimates of proved reserves for the properties which we reviewed;although, in certain cases there was more than an acceptable variance betweenAlta Mesa's estimates and our estimates due to a difference in interpretation of data or due to our having access to data which were not available to Alta Mesa when its reserve estimates were prepared.  However, not withstanding, it is our opinion that on an aggregate basis the data presented

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 9

herein for the properties that we reviewed fairly reflects the estimated net reserves owned by Alta Mesa.

Other Properties

Other properties, as used herein, are those properties of Alta Mesa which we did not review.  The proved net reserves attributable to the other properties account for18percent of the total proved netliquid hydrocarbon reserves, 33percent of the total proved net gas reserves, and 16 percent of the future net income discounted at 10 percentbased on estimates prepared by Alta Mesa as of December 31, 2013.

The same technical personnel of Alta Mesa were responsible for the preparation of the reserve estimates for the properties that we reviewed as well as for the properties not reviewed by Ryder Scott.

Standards of Independence and Professional Qualification

Ryder Scott is an independent petroleum engineering consulting firm that has been providing petroleum consulting services throughout the world for over seventy-fiveyears.  Ryder Scott is employee-owned and maintains offices in Houston, Texas; Denver, Colorado; and Calgary, Alberta, Canada.  We have over eighty engineers and geoscientists on our permanent staff.  By virtue of the size of our firm and the large number of clients for which we provide services, no single client or job represents a material portion of our annual revenue.  We do not serve as officers or directors of any privately-owned or publicly-traded oil and gas company and are separate and independent from the operating and investment decision-making process of our clients.  This allows us to bring the highest level of independence and objectivity to each engagement for our services.

Ryder Scott actively participates inindustry-related professional societies and organizes an annual public forum focused on the subject of reserves evaluations and SEC regulations.  Many of our staff have authored or co-authored technical papers on the subject of reserves related topics.We encourage our staff to maintain and enhance their professional skills by actively participating in ongoing continuing education.

Prior to becoming an officer of the Company, Ryder Scott requires that staff engineers and geoscientists have received professional accreditation in the form of a registered or certified professional engineer’s license or a registered or certified professional geoscientist’s license, or the equivalent thereof, from an appropriate governmental authority or a recognized self-regulating professional organization.

We are independent petroleum engineers with respect to Alta Mesa.  Neither we nor any of our employees have any interest in the subject properties, and neither the employment to do this work nor the compensation is contingent on our estimates of reserves for the properties which were reviewed.

The results of this audit, presented herein, are based on technical analysis conducted by teams of geoscientists and engineers from Ryder Scott.  The professional qualifications of the undersigned, the technical person primarily responsible for overseeing the review of the reserves information discussed in this report, are included as an attachment to this letter.

Alta Mesa Holdings, L.P.

March 17, 2014

Page 10

Terms of Usage

The results of our third party audit, presented in report form herein, were prepared in accordance with the disclosure requirements set forth in the SEC regulations and intended for public disclosure as an exhibit in filings made with the SEC by Alta Mesa.  

We have provided Alta Mesa with a digital version of the original signed copy of this report letter.  In the event there are any differences between the digital version included in filings made by Alta Mesa and the original signed report letter, the original signed report letter shall control and supersede the digital version.

The data and work papers used in the preparation of this report are available for examination by authorized parties in our offices.  Please contact us if we can be of further service.

Very truly yours,

RYDER SCOTT COMPANY, L.P.

TBPE Firm Registration No. F-1580

\s\ Kevin E. Gangluff

Kevin E. Gangluff, P.E.

TBPE License No. 75852

Senior Vice President

Professional Qualifications of Primary Technical Person

The conclusions presented in this report are the result of technical analysis conducted by teams of geoscientists and engineers from Ryder Scott Company, L.P.  Mr. Kevin E. Gangluff is the primary technical person responsible for overseeing the estimate of the reserves, future production and income in this report.

Mr. Gangluff, an employee of Ryder Scott Company, L.P. (Ryder Scott) since 1997, is a Senior Vice President and serves as an Engineering Group Coordinator responsible for coordinating and supervising staff and consulting engineers of the company in ongoing reservoir evaluation studies throughout North America.  Before joining Ryder Scott, Mr. Gangluff served in a number of managerial, supervisory, and engineering positions with Exxon Corporation (now ExxonMobil Corporation), Texas Oil & Gas Corp., and Gruy Engineering Corp.

Mr. Gangluff earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame and a Masters of Business Administration at the University of Texas at Austin.  Mr. Gangluff is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.  He is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association, and the Houston Producers Forum.

In addition to gaining experience and competency through prior work experience, the Texas Board of Professional Engineers requires a minimum of fifteen hours of continuing education annually, including at least one hour in the area of professional ethics, which Mr. Gangluff fulfills.

Based on his educational background, professional training and more than thirty years of practical experience in the estimation and evaluation of petroleum reserves and resources, Mr. Gangluff has attained the professional qualifications as a Reserves Estimator and Reserves Auditor set forth in Article III of the “Standards Pertaining to the Estimating and Auditing of Oil and Gas Reserves Information” promulgated by the Society of Petroleum Engineers as of February 19, 2007.

PETROLEUM RESERVES DEFINITIONS

As Adapted From:

RULE 4-10(a) of REGULATION S-X PART 210

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (SEC)

PREAMBLE

On January 14, 2009, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) published the “Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting; Final Rule” in the Federal Register of National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).  The “Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting; Final Rule” includes revisions and additions to the definition section in Rule 4-10 of Regulation S-X, revisions and additions to the oil and gas reporting requirements in Regulation S-K, and amends and codifies Industry Guide 2 in Regulation S-K.  The “Modernization of Oil and Gas Reporting; Final Rule”, including all references to Regulation S-X and Regulation S-K, shall be referred to herein collectively as the “SEC regulations”.  The SEC regulations take effect for all filings made with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission as of December 31, 2009, or after January 1, 2010.  Reference should be made to the full text under Title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, Regulation S-X Part 210, Rule 4-10(a) for the complete definitions (direct passages excerpted in part or wholly from the aforementioned SEC document are denoted in italics herein).

Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of oil and gas and related substances anticipated to be economically producible, as of a given date, by application of development projects to known accumulations.All reserve estimates involve an assessment of the uncertainty relating the likelihood that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the estimated quantities determined as of the date the estimate is made.  The uncertainty depends chiefly on the amount of reliable geologic and engineering data available at the time of the estimate and the interpretation of these data.  The relative degree of uncertainty may be conveyed by placing reserves into one of two principal classifications, either proved or unproved.  Unproved reserves are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves and may be further sub-classified as probable and possible reserves to denote progressively increasing uncertainty in their recoverability.  Under the SEC regulations as of December 31, 2009, or after January 1, 2010, a company may optionally disclose estimated quantities of probable or possible oil and gas reserves in documents publicly filed with the SEC.  The SEC regulations continue to prohibit disclosure of estimates of oil and gas resources other than reserves and any estimated values of such resources in any document publicly filed with the SEC unless such information is required to be disclosed in the document by foreign or state law as noted in §229.1202 Instruction to Item 1202.

Reserves estimates will generally be revised only as additional geologic or engineering data become available or as economic conditions change.

Reserves may be attributed to either natural energy or improved recovery methods.  Improved recovery methods include all methods for supplementing natural energy or altering natural forces in the reservoir to increase ultimate recovery.  Examples of such methods are pressure maintenance, natural gas cycling, waterflooding, thermal methods, chemical flooding, and the use of miscible and immiscible displacement fluids.  Other improved recovery methods may be developed in the future as petroleum technology continues to evolve.

Reserves may be attributed to either conventional or unconventional petroleum accumulations.  Petroleum accumulations are considered as either conventional or unconventional based on the nature of their in-place characteristics, extraction method applied, or degree of processing prior to sale.  Examples of unconventional petroleum accumulations include coalbed or coalseam methane

PETROLEUM RESERVES DEFINITIONS

Page 2

(CBM/CSM), basin-centered gas, shale gas, gas hydrates, natural bitumen and oil shale deposits.  These unconventional accumulations may require specialized extraction technology and/or significant processing prior to sale. 

Reserves do not include quantities of petroleum being held in inventory.

Because of the differences in uncertainty, caution should be exercised when aggregating quantities of petroleum from different reserves categories.

RESERVES (SEC DEFINITIONS)

Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X §210.4-10(a)(26) defines reserves as follows:

Reserves.  Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of oil and gas and related substances anticipated to be economically producible, as of a given date, by application of development projects to known accumulations.  In addition, there must exist, or there must be a reasonable expectation that there will exist, the legal right to produce or a revenue interest in the production, installed means of delivering oil and gas or related substances to market, and all permits and financing required to implement the project.

Note to paragraph (a)(26): Reserves should not be assigned to adjacent reservoirs isolated by major, potentially sealing, faults until those reservoirs are penetrated and evaluated as economically producible.  Reserves should not be assigned to areas that are clearly separated from a known accumulation by a non-productive reservoir (i.e., absence of reservoir, structurally low reservoir, or negative test results).  Such areas may contain prospective resources (i.e., potentially recoverable resources from undiscovered accumulations).

PROVED RESERVES (SEC DEFINITIONS)

Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X §210.4-10(a)(22) defines proved oil and gas reserves as follows:

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

(i) The area of the reservoir considered as proved includes:

(A) The area identified by drilling and limited by fluid contacts, if any, and

(B) Adjacent undrilled portions of the reservoir that can, with reasonable certainty, be judged to be continuous with it and to contain economically producible oil or gas on the basis of available geoscience and engineering data.

PETROLEUM RESERVES DEFINITIONS

Page 3

PROVED RESERVES (SEC DEFINITIONS) CONTINUED

(ii) In the absence of data on fluid contacts, proved quantities in a reservoir are limited by the lowest known hydrocarbons (LKH) as seen in a well penetration unless geoscience, engineering, or performance data and reliable technology establishes a lower contact with reasonable certainty.

(iii) Where direct observation from well penetrations has defined a highest known oil (HKO) elevation and the potential exists for an associated gas cap, proved oil reserves may be assigned in the structurally higher portions of the reservoir only if geoscience, engineering, or performance data and reliable technology establish the higher contact with reasonable certainty.

(iv) Reserves which can be produced economically through application of improved recovery techniques (including, but not limited to, fluid injection) are included in the proved classification when:

(A) Successful testing by a pilot project in an area of the reservoir with properties no more favorable than in the reservoir as a whole, the operation of an installed program in the reservoir or an analogous reservoir, or other evidence using reliable technology establishes the reasonable certainty of the engineering analysis on which the project or program was based; and

(B) The project has been approved for development by all necessary parties and entities, including governmental entities.

(v) Existing economic conditions include prices and costs at which economic producibility from a reservoir is to be determined. The price shall be the average price during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered by the report, determined as an unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within such period, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.

PETROLEUM RESERVES STATUS DEFINITIONS AND GUIDELINES

As Adapted From:

RULE 4-10(a) of REGULATION S-X PART 210

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION (SEC)

and

PETROLEUM RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (SPE-PRMS)

Sponsored and Approved by:

SOCIETY OF PETROLEUM ENGINEERS (SPE)

WORLD PETROLEUM COUNCIL (WPC)

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF PETROLEUM GEOLOGISTS (AAPG)

SOCIETY OF PETROLEUM EVALUATION ENGINEERS (SPEE)

Reserves status categories define the development and producing status of wells and reservoirs.  Reference should be made to Title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, Regulation S-X Part 210, Rule 4-10(a) and the SPE-PRMS as the following reserves status definitions are based on excerpts from the original documents (direct passages excerpted from the aforementioned SEC and SPE-PRMS documents are denoted in italics herein).

DEVELOPED RESERVES (SEC DEFINITIONS)

Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X §210.4-10(a)(6) defines developed oil and gas reserves as follows:

Developed oil and gas reserves are reserves of any category that can be expected to be recovered:

(i) Through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods or in which the cost of the required equipment is relatively minor compared to the cost of a new well; and

(ii) Through installed extraction equipment and infrastructure operational at the time of the reserves estimate if the extraction is by means not involving a well.

Developed Producing (SPE-PRMS Definitions)

While not a requirement for disclosure under the SEC regulations, developed oil and gas reserves may be further sub-classified according to the guidance contained in the SPE-PRMS as Producing or Non-Producing.

Developed Producing Reserves

Developed Producing Reserves are expected to be recovered from completion intervals that are open and producing at the time of the estimate.

Improved recovery reserves are considered producing only after the improved recovery project is in operation.

PETROLEUM RESERVES STATUS DEFINITIONS AND GUIDELINES

Page 2

Developed Non-Producing

Developed Non-Producing Reserves include shut-in and behind-pipe reserves.

Shut-In

Shut-in Reserves are expected to be recovered from:

(1) completion intervals which are open at the time of the estimate, but which have not  started producing;

(2) wells which were shut-in for market conditions or pipeline connections; or

(3) wells not capable of production for mechanical reasons.

Behind-Pipe

Behind-pipe Reserves are expected to be recovered from zones in existing wells, which will require additional completion work or future re-completion prior to start of production. 

In all cases, production can be initiated or restored with relatively low expenditure compared to the cost of drilling a new well.

UNDEVELOPED RESERVES (SEC DEFINITIONS)

Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X §210.4-10(a)(31) defines undeveloped oil and gas reserves as follows:

Undeveloped oil and gas reserves are reserves of any category that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion.

(i) Reserves on undrilled acreage shall be limited to those directly offsetting development spacing areas that are reasonably certain of production when drilled, unless evidence using reliable technology exists that establishes reasonable certainty of economic producibility at greater distances.

(ii) Undrilled locations can be classified as having undeveloped reserves only if a development plan has been adopted indicating that they are scheduled to be drilled within five years, unless the specific circumstances, justify a longer time.

(iii) Under no circumstances shall estimates for undeveloped reserves be attributable to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is contemplated, unless such techniques have been proved effective by actual projects in the same reservoir or an analogous reservoir, as defined in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, or by other evidence using reliable technology establishing reasonable certainty.

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Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013 Drilling Rig [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Stone [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Stone [Member] bbl	Apr. 21, 2011 Sydson [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Sydson [Member]	Jun. 17, 2011 TODD [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 TODD [Member]	Oct. 02, 2013 Hilltop Divestiture [Member] MMcf	Dec. 31, 2013 Pro Forma [Member] Stone [Member]	Dec. 31, 2012 Pro Forma [Member] Stone [Member]	Dec. 31, 2011 Pro Forma [Member] Sydson And TODD [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Date of Acquisition Agreement				Oct. 01, 2013		Apr. 21, 2011		Jun. 17, 2011
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross				$ 42,163,000
Initial Cash Payment for Busines Acquisition			45,000,000
Total cost of Business Acquisition				47,474,000	28,400,000		23,400,000
Proved Reserves Acquired				1,800,000
Acquisition effective date				Jul. 01, 2013
Revenues had acquisitions occurred as of beginning of year										376,063,000	340,103,000	357,400,000
Net income had acquisitions occurred as of beginning of year										(146,866,000)	(85,985,000)	67,100,000
Estimated net proved reserves associated with sold properties									11,200
Cash purchase price, net of costs of sale									19,000,000
Gain on sale									0
Sale of drilling rig, cash purchase price		7,000,000
Loss on sale of drilling rig	$ 2,715,000	$ 1,200,000

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Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face value of senior notes issued	$ 450,000,000
Notes payable to founder	23,331,000	22,123,000
Interest expense	55,188,000	41,932,000	32,722,000
Debt covenants description	The credit facility and senior notes include covenants requiring that we maintain certain financial covenants including a current ratio, leverage ratio, and interest coverage ratio.
Debt covenant compliance description	At December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with the covenants.
Debt restrictive covenants description	The terms of the credit facility also restrict our ability to make distributions and investments.
Prior to October 15, 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Optional redemption price of Senior Notes	100.00%
Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Date of sixth amended and restated credit agreement	May 13, 2010
Date of maturity of credit facility	May 23, 2016
Credit facility borrowing base	385,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Collateral	The credit facility matures on May 23, 2016 and is secured by substantially all of our oil and gas properties.
Credit facility interest rate	2.75%	2.33%
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument collateral	The senior notes are unsecured and are general obligations of the Company, and effectively rank junior to any of our existing or future secured indebtedness, which includes the credit facility. The senior notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of our material subsidiaries.
Maturity Date of Debt	Oct. 15, 2018
Face value of senior notes issued	450,000,000
Face interest rate of senior notes	9.625%
Effective rate of interest on senior notes	9.783%
Remaining unamortized discount	2,400,000	2,900,000
Senior notes interest payable date	Interest is payable semi-annually each April 15th and October 15th.
Senior Notes [Member] | Prior to October 15, 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Optional redemption clause prior to Oct 2014	Prior to October 15, 2014, we may redeem the senior notes in whole or in part at a price equal to 100 percent of the principal amount plus a specified make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date.
Senior Notes [Member] | Twelve Mos Beginning October 15, 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Optional redemption price of Senior Notes	104.813%
Senior Notes [Member] | Twelve Mos Beginning October 15, 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Optional redemption price of Senior Notes	102.406%
Senior Notes [Member] | Twelve Mos Beginning October 15, 2016 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Optional redemption price of Senior Notes	100.00%
Notes Payable To Founder [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument collateral	These founder notes are unsecured and are subordinate to all debt.
Maturity Date of Debt	Dec. 31, 2018
Rate of interest on notes payable to founder	10.00%
Interest expense	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,200,000
LIBOR [Member] | Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit facility applicable interest rate, description	LIBOR plus applicable margins between 2.00% and 2.75%
LIBOR [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin interest rate	2.00%
LIBOR [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin interest rate	2.75%
Prime [Member] | Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit facility applicable interest rate, description	prime rate of Wells Fargo Bank, N. A., plus a margin ranging from 1.00% to 1.75%
Prime [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin interest rate	1.00%
Prime [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Margin interest rate	1.75%

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Effect Of Derivative Instruments In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and natural gas commodity contracts	$ (35,327)	$ (17,434)	$ 28,169
Unrealized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges	(35,327)	(16,134)	32,256
Not Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges	18,177	35,848	22,815
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and natural gas commodity contracts	(35,327)	(17,434)	28,169
Unrealized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges	(35,327)	(16,134)	32,256
Not Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] | Oil Commodity Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges	(6,193)	(1,162)	(3,756)
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and natural gas commodity contracts	(11,522)	4,882	6,232
Not Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] | Natural Gas Commodity Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges	24,370	38,347	25,208
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and natural gas commodity contracts	(23,805)	(22,316)	21,937
Not Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges		(1,337)	1,363
Unrealized gains (losses) from derivatives not designated as hedges		$ 1,300	$ 4,087

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Components Of Changes In Standardized Measure Of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Components of changes in standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows
Balance at beginning of year	$ 914,421	$ 1,070,196	$ 705,182
Sales of oil and natural gas, net of production costs	(282,129)	(226,896)	(230,140)
Changes in sales and transfer prices, net of production costs	69,609	(291,285)	219,797
Revisions of previous quantity estimates	(150,634)	(250,424)	(15,217)
Purchases of reserves-in-place	93,877	10,283	47,680
Sales of reserves-in-place	(11,193)
Current year discoveries and extensions	621,832	420,496	228,041
Changes in estimated future development costs	11,623	54,493	(5,987)
Development costs incurred during the year	75,973	49,834	47,402
Accretion of discount	91,442	107,020	70,518
Net change in income taxes
Change in production rate (timing) and other	(28,547)	(29,296)	2,920
Net change	491,853	(155,775)	365,014
Balance at end of year	$ 1,406,274	$ 914,421	$ 1,070,196

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Long-Term Debt (Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Long-Term Debt [Abstract]
Credit Facility	$ 319,290	$ 154,790
Senior Notes	447,578	447,068
Total long-term debt	766,868	601,858
Notes payable to founder	$ 23,331	$ 22,123

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Derivative Asset, Setoff Rights, Description	Although our counterparties provide no collateral, the master derivative agreements with each counterparty effectively allow the Company, so long as it is not a defaulting party, after a default or the occurrence of a termination event, to set-off an unpaid hedging agreement receivable against the interest of the counterparty in any outstanding balance under the credit facility. If a counterparty were to default in payment of an obligation under the master derivative agreements, we could be exposed to commodity price fluctuations, and the protection intended by the hedge could be lost. The value of our derivative financial instruments would be impacted.

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Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]

Detail Of Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013			2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capital expenditures	$	18,629	$	37,738
Revenues and royalties payable		9,699		10,788
Operating expenses/taxes		17,071		14,842
Interest		9,146		9,045
Compensation		8,862		5,978
Other		2,711		6,223
Total accrued liabilities		66,118		84,614
Accounts payable		29,977		28,070
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	96,095	$	112,684

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Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Capital expenditures	$ 18,629	$ 37,738
Revenues and royalties payable	9,699	10,788
Operating expenses/taxes	17,071	14,842
Interest	9,146	9,045
Compensation	8,862	5,978
Other	2,711	6,223
Total accrued liabilities	66,118	84,614
Accounts payable	29,977	28,070
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$ 96,095	$ 112,684

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Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Principles Of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, after eliminating all significant intercompany transactions. The Company’s interest in oil and natural gas exploration and production ventures and partnerships are proportionately consolidated.

Use Of Estimates

Use of Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

Reserve estimates significantly impact depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties and are subject to change based on changes in oil and natural gas prices and trends and changes in estimated reserve quantities.  Other significant estimates include those related to oil and natural gas reserves, the value of oil and natural gas properties (including acquisition properties), oil and natural gas revenues, bad debts, asset retirement obligations, derivative contracts, state taxes and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. We review estimates and underlying assumptions on a regular basis.  Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications.Certain amounts in the 2012 and 2011 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation. The reclassifications had no impact on net income (loss) or partners’ capital (deficit).

In 2013 we revised our reporting for natural gas liquids produced in our Oklahoma properties.  Whereas we had previously reported all revenues from Oklahoma for 2012 and 2011 as attributable to a single stream of rich natural gas, we began recording revenues for natural gas liquids from Oklahoma separately in 2013.  For comparability, we have reclassified approximately $3.3 million in revenues from natural gas to natural gas liquids for the year 2012.  For 2011, we have reclassified $5.0 million in natural gas revenues to revenues from natural gas liquids.  These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported total revenues, net income, cash flows, or partners’ capital (deficit).

Cash And Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash balances at financial institutions in the United States of America, which at times exceed federally insured amounts. The Federal Deposit Insurance provides insurance up to $250,000 per depositor. We monitor the financial condition of the financial institutions and have experienced no losses associated with these accounts. Restricted cash in 2012 included a balance on deposit related to deferred payment of certain royalties.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts Receivable. Our receivables arise from the sale of oil and natural gas and joint interest owner receivables for properties in which we serve as the operator. This concentration of customers may impact our overall credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that these entities may be similarly affected by changes in economic or other conditions affecting the oil and natural gas industry. Accounts receivable are generally not collateralized.

Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We routinely assess the recoverability of all material trade and other receivables to determine their collectability. We accrue a reserve when, based on the judgment of management, it is probable that a receivable will not be collected and the amount of the reserve can be reasonably estimated. Accounts receivable are shown net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1.4 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred Financing Costs.Deferred financing costs and the amount of discount at which notes payable have been issued (debt discount) are amortized using the straight-line method, which approximates the interest method, over the term of the related debt. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, amortization of deferred financing costs included in interest expense amounted to $2.8 million, $2.4 million, and $2.8 million, respectively. Deferred financing costs are listed among our long-term assets, net of accumulated amortization of $12.8 million and $9.9 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Property And Equipment

Property and Equipment. Oil and natural gas producing activities are accounted for using the successful efforts method of accounting. Under the successful efforts method, lease acquisition costs and all development costs, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Unproved Properties — Acquisition costs associated with the acquisition of leases are recorded as unproved properties and capitalized as incurred. These consist of costs incurred in obtaining a mineral interest or right in a property, such as a lease, in addition to options to lease, broker fees, recording fees and other similar costs related to activities in acquiring properties. Unproved properties are classified as unproved until proved reserves are discovered, at which time related costs are transferred to proved oil and natural gas properties.

Exploration Expense — Exploration expenses, other than exploration drilling costs, are charged to expense as incurred. These expenses include seismic expenditures and other geological and geophysical costs, expired leases, gain or loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations and lease rentals. The costs of drilling exploratory wells and exploratory-type stratigraphic wells are initially capitalized pending determination of whether the well has discovered proved commercial reserves. If the exploratory well is determined to be unsuccessful, the cost of the well is transferred to expense. Exploratory well drilling costs may continue to be capitalized if the reserve quantity is sufficient to justify completion as a producing well and sufficient progress in assessing the reserves and the economic and operating viability of the project is being made. Assessments of such capitalized costs are made quarterly.

Proved Oil and Natural Gas Properties — Costs incurred to obtain access to proved reserves and to provide facilities for extracting, treating, gathering, and storing oil and natural gas are capitalized. All costs incurred to drill and equip successful exploratory wells, development wells, development-type stratigraphic test wells, and service wells, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Impairment — The capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed quarterly for impairment following the guidance provided in ASC 360-10-35, “Property, Plant and Equipment, Subsequent Measurement,” or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair market value and is not recoverable. The determination of recoverability is based on comparing the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows at a producing field level to the carrying value of the assets. If the future undiscounted cash flows, based on estimates of anticipated production from proved reserves and future crude oil and natural gas prices and operating costs, are lower than the carrying cost, the carrying cost of the asset or group of assets is reduced to fair value. For our proved oil and natural gas properties, we estimate fair value by discounting the projected future cash flows at an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate.

Our evaluation of the Company’s proved properties resulted in impairment expense of $135.2 million, $90.3 million, and $16.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

In addition, the Company recorded other write-downs and impairment expense of casing and tubing to lower of cost or market, of zero,  zero and $162,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Unproved properties are assessed at least annually to determine whether they have been impaired. Individually significant properties are assessed for impairment on a property-by-property basis, while individually insignificant unproved properties may be assessed in the aggregate. If unproved properties are found to be impaired, an impairment allowance is provided and a loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, impairment expense of unproved properties was $8.0 million, $5.9 million, and $1.8 million, respectively.

Management evaluates whether the carrying value of all other long-lived assets has been impaired when circumstances indicate the carrying value of those assets may not be recoverable. This evaluation is based on undiscounted cash flow projections. The carrying amount is not recoverable if it exceeds the undiscounted sum of cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets. Management considers various factors when determining if these assets should be evaluated for impairment.

If the carrying value is not recoverable on an undiscounted basis, the impairment loss is measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Management assesses the fair value of long-lived assets using commonly accepted techniques, and may use more than one method, including, but not limited to, recent third party comparable sales, internally developed discounted cash flow analysis and analysis from outside advisors. Significant changes in market conditions resulting from events such as the condition of an asset or a change in management’s intent to utilize the asset would generally require management to reassess the cash flows related to the long-lived assets. For the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, and 2011, respectively, the Company did not record any impairment expense related to other long-lived assets.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization — Depreciation, depletion, and amortization (“DD&A”) of capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties is computed using the unit-of-production method based upon estimated proved reserves. Assets are grouped for DD&A on the basis of reasonable aggregation of properties with a common geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition, such as a reservoir or field. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties is the sum of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for lease and well equipment costs, which include development costs and successful exploration drilling costs, includes only proved developed reserves.

DD&A expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 related to oil and natural gas properties was $115.5 million, $106.6 million, and $92.3 million, respectively.

Leasehold improvements to offices are depreciated using the straight-line method over the life of the lease. The Company’s drilling rig, which was sold during 2013, was depreciated using the straight-line method of depreciation over a period of approximately fifteen years.  Other property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to seven years. Depreciation expense for non-oil and gas property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $3.1 million, $2.7 million, and $1.9 respectively.

Investment

Investment. The Company’s investment consists of a 10% ownership interest in a drilling company, Orion Drilling Company, LP (“Orion”). The investment is accounted for under the cost method. Under this method, the Company’s share of earnings or losses of the investment are not included in the statements of operations.

Asset Retirement Obligations

Asset Retirement Obligations. We recognize liabilities for the future costs of dismantlement and abandonment of our wells, facilities, and other tangible long-lived assets along with an associated increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset.  The fair value of new asset retirement obligations are estimated using expected future costs discounted to present value.  The cost of the tangible asset, including the asset retirement cost, is depleted over the useful life of the asset.  Accretion expense is recognized as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value.   Asset retirement obligations are subject to revision primarily for changes to the estimated timing and cost of abandonment.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative Financial Instruments. We use derivative contracts to hedge the effects of fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and interest rates. We account for such derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and requires them to be measured at fair value and recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 5 for information on fair value).

Under ASC 815, hedge accounting is used to defer recognition of unrealized changes in the fair value of such financial instruments, for those contracts which qualify as fair value or cash flow hedges, as defined in the guidance. Historically, we have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges. Accordingly, the unrealized changes in fair value of the contracts are included in earnings in the period of the change as “Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts” for oil and natural gas contracts, and in interest expense for interest derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses are recorded in income in the period of settlement, and included in the related revenue account or in interest expense. Cash flows from settlements of derivative contracts are classified with the income or expense item to which such settlements directly relate.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes. The Company has elected under the Internal Revenue Code provisions to be treated as individual partnerships for tax purposes. Accordingly, items of income, expense, gains and losses flow through to the partners and are taxed at the partner level. Accordingly, no tax provision for federal income taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company is subject to the Texas margin tax, which is considered a state income tax, and is included in “Benefit from (provision for) state income tax” on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company records state income tax (current and deferred) based on taxable income, as defined under the rules for the margin tax.

We follow guidance issued by the FASB in accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. This guidance clarifies the accounting for income taxes by prescribing the minimum recognition threshold an income tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the consolidated financial statements and applies to all income tax positions. Each income tax position is assessed using a two step process. A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the income tax position will be sustained, based upon technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities. If the income tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded in the consolidated financial statements equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon its ultimate settlement.

We have considered our exposure under the standard at both the federal and state tax levels.  We have not recorded any liabilities for uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. We record income tax, related interest, and penalties, if any, as a component of income tax expense. We did not incur any interest or penalties on income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, or 2011.  

The Company’s tax returns for the years ended December 31, 2009 forward remain open for examination. None of the Company’s federal or state tax returns are currently under examination by the relevant authorities.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition. We recognize oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids revenues when products are delivered at a fixed or determinable price, title has transferred and collectability is reasonably assured. We use the sales method of accounting for recognition of natural gas imbalances. Revenue from drilling rigs has been recorded when services were performed.

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The fair value of cash, accounts receivable and current liabilities approximate book value due to their short-term nature. The estimate of fair value of long-term debt under our credit facility is not considered to be materially different from carrying value due to market rates of interest. The fair value of the debt to our founder is not practicable to determine. We have estimated the fair value of our $450 million senior notes payable at $482.6 million on December 31, 2013. Derivative financial instruments are carried at fair value. See Note 5 for further information on fair values of financial instruments. See Note 9 for information on long-term debt.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions. Acquisitions are accounted for as purchases using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the results of operations are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the closing date of the acquisitions. Purchase prices are allocated to acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the time of the acquisition.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2013 we adopted ASU No. 2011-11, which increases disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. New disclosures are required to enable users of financial statements to understand significant quantitative differences in balance sheets prepared under GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) related to the offsetting of financial instruments. The additional disclosures are included in Note 6.  

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04. The guidance requires an entity that is joint and severally liable to measure the obligation as the sum of the amount the entity has agreed with co-obligors to pay and any additional amount it expects to pay on behalf of one or more co-obligors. Required disclosures include a description of the nature of the arrangement, how the liability arose, the relationship with co-obligors and the terms and conditions of the arrangement. ASU No. 2013-04 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect the adoption of this pronouncement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Oil Derivative Contracts) (Details) (Oil Derivative Contracts [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 bbl
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2014 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	1,759,875
Weighted Average Swap Price	95.16
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	105.48
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	81.00
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2015 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	766,500
Weighted Average Swap Price	97.60
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	99.30
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	95.73
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2016 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	292,800
Weighted Average Swap Price	94.91
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	94.92
Price Swap Contracts [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	94.90
Short Call Options [Member] | 2014 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	547,500
Weighted Average Option Price	111.10
Short Call Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	114.00
Short Call Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	107.50
Short Call Options [Member] | 2015 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	428,850
Weighted Average Option Price	120.81
Short Call Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	135.98
Short Call Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	115.00
Short Call Options [Member] | 2016 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	859,700
Weighted Average Option Price	108.02
Short Call Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	130.00
Short Call Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	103.87
Short Call Options [Member] | 2017 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	744,950
Weighted Average Option Price	108.04
Short Call Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	114.00
Short Call Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	104.15
Short Call Options [Member] | 2018 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	307,400
Weighted Average Option Price	104.39
Short Call Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	104.65
Short Call Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	104.15
Long Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	816,950
Weighted Average Option Price	90.89
Long Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	95.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	70.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	1,231,850
Weighted Average Option Price	87.15
Long Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	95.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	85.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	859,700
Weighted Average Option Price	85.98
Long Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	95.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	80.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	744,950
Weighted Average Option Price	83.26
Long Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	90.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	80.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	307,400
Weighted Average Option Price	80.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	80.00
Long Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	80.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	1,106,030
Weighted Average Option Price	74.51
Short Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	80.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2014 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	65.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	1,414,350
Weighted Average Option Price	68.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	75.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2015 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	60.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	859,700
Weighted Average Option Price	65.98
Short Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	75.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2016 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	60.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	744,950
Weighted Average Option Price	63.26
Short Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	70.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2017 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	60.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	307,400
Weighted Average Option Price	60.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	60.00
Short Put Options [Member] | 2018 [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	60.00

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Property And Equipment (Property And Equipment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property And Equipment [Abstract]
Unproved properties	$ 86,721	$ 56,364
Accumulated impairment	(7,356)	(6,040)
Unproved properties, net	79,365	50,324
Proved oil and natural gas properties	1,405,658	1,167,935
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment	(793,253)	(578,793)
Proved oil and natural gas properties, net	612,405	589,142
TOTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES, net	691,770	639,466
LAND	1,418	1,185
DRILLING RIG		10,500
Accumulated depreciation		(1,837)
TOTAL DRILLING RIG, net		8,663
Office furniture and equipment, vehicles	13,802	9,657
Accumulated depreciation	(6,120)	(3,474)
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	7,682	6,183
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET	$ 700,870	$ 655,497

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Disclosures (Unaudited) [Abstract]

Estimated Quantities Of Proved Reserves

	Oil	Gas	NGL's	BOE
	(MBbls)	(MMcf)	(MBbls)	(MBbls)
Total Proved Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2010	12,187	241,453	1,735	54,164
Production	(1,580)	(30,307)	(307)	(6,938)
Purchases in place	674	10,385	100	2,505
Discoveries and extensions	4,436	24,142	544	9,004
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	1,216	(28,407)	2,773	(746)
Balance at December 31, 2011	16,933	217,266	4,845	57,989
Production	(2,138)	(21,372)	(365)	(6,065)
Purchases in place	335	6,619	8	1,446
Discoveries and extensions	10,173	18,870	1,187	14,505
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(4,683)	(68,894)	20	(16,144)
Balance at December 31, 2012	20,620	152,489	5,695	51,731
Production	(2,897)	(16,664)	(398)	(6,072)
Purchases in place	1,462	1,265	—	1,673
Discoveries and extensions	14,541	29,012	1,969	21,345
Sales of reserves in place	(13)	(10,912)	—	(1,832)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(1,196)	(22,925)	(1,531)	(6,549)
Balance at December 31, 2013	32,517	132,265	5,735	60,296
Proved Developed Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	11,484	161,395	3,616	41,999
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,467	111,206	4,209	33,211
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,335	92,640	3,138	34,913
Proved Undeveloped Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	5,449	55,871	1,229	15,990
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,153	41,283	1,486	18,520
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,182	39,625	2,597	25,383

Capitalized Costs Relating To Oil And Natural Gas Producing Activities

	December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capitalized costs:
Proved properties	$	1,405,658	$	1,167,935
Unproved properties		86,721		56,364
Total		1,492,379		1,224,299
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(800,609)		(584,833)
Net capitalized costs	$	691,770	$	639,466

Costs Incurred In Oil And Natural Gas Acquisition, Exploration And Development Activities

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Costs incurred during the year:
Property acquisition costs
Unproved	$	34,884	$	31,695	$	37,152
Proved (1)		35,954		12,192		53,601
Exploration		55,300		46,559		24,079
Development (2)		242,912		200,974		142,212
	$	369,050	$	291,420	$	257,044

(1) Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2013 include primarily the proved portion of the Stone acquisition ($30.6 million).  Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2011 include primarily the purchase of Sydson ($28.4 million) and TODD ($23.4 million).

(2)   Includes asset retirement costs of $1.4million, $1.7 million, and $587,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

Results Of Operations From Oil And Natural Gas Producing Activities

.

Components Of The Standardized Measure Of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Future cash flows	$	3,959,938	$	2,742,588	$	2,850,381
Future production costs		(1,146,123)		(928,398)		(803,290)
Future development costs		(474,191)		(348,042)		(297,375)
Future taxes on income		—		—		—
Future net cash flows		2,339,624		1,466,148		1,749,716
Discount to present value at 10 percent per annum		(933,350)		(551,727)		(679,520)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196
Base price for crude oil, per Bbl, in the above computation was:	$	96.78	$	94.71	$	96.19
Base price for natural gas, per Mcf, in the above computation was:	$	3.67	$	2.76	$	4.12

Components Of Changes In Standardized Measure Of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year	$	914,421	$	1,070,196	$	705,182
Sales of oil and natural gas, net of production costs		(282,129)		(226,896)		(230,140)
Changes in sales and transfer prices, net of production costs		69,609		(291,285)		219,797
Revisions of previous quantity estimates		(150,634)		(250,424)		(15,217)
Purchases of reserves-in-place		93,877		10,283		47,680
Sales of reserves-in-place		(11,193)		—		—
Current year discoveries and extensions		621,832		420,496		228,041
Changes in estimated future development costs		11,623		54,493		(5,987)
Development costs incurred during the year		75,973		49,834		47,402
Accretion of discount		91,442		107,020		70,518
Net change in income taxes		—		—		—
Change in production rate (timing) and other		(28,547)		(29,296)		2,920
Net change		491,853		(155,775)		365,014
Balance at end of year	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196

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Asset Retirement Obligations (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Asset Retirement Obligations [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 48,593	$ 46,096	$ 42,713
Liabilities incurred	1,052	787	608
Liabilities assumed with acquired producing properties	5,480	1,476	2,807
Liabilities settled	(1,548)	(3,562)	(1,665)
Liabilities transferred in sales of properties	(606)	0	0
Revisions to estimates	919	1,983	(179)
Accretion expense	2,133	1,813	1,812
Balance, end of year	56,023	48,593	46,096
Less: Current portion	3,844	64	3,030
Long-term portion	52,179	48,529	43,066
Additions To PPE Included In ARO Revisions	$ 408	$ 874	$ (21)

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Capitalized Costs) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Capitalized costs:
Proved properties	$ 1,405,658	$ 1,167,935
Unproved properties	86,721	56,364
Total	1,492,379	1,224,299
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization	(800,609)	(584,833)
TOTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES, net	$ 691,770	$ 639,466

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401(k) Savings Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Savings Plan [Abstract]
Percentage of matching contribution by company	50.00%
Maximum percentage of employee's salary deferral contribution	8.00%
Matching contributions to the plan	$ 585,000	$ 422,000	$ 404,000

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Fair Values Of Derivative Contracts) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	$ 27,850	$ 65,489
Derivative liabilities, Gross, offset against assets for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(18,873)	(30,063)
Derivative Assets, Current	5,572	21,360
Derivative Assets, Noncurrent	3,405	14,066
Derivative assets, net, total	8,977	35,426
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	27,842	30,154
Derivative assets, Gross, offset against liabilities for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(18,873)	(30,063)
Derivative Liabilities, Current	4,483	91
Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent	4,486	0
Derivative liabilities, net, total	8,969	91
Derivative Assets Current [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	13,218	40,116
Derivative liabilities, Gross, offset against assets for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(7,646)	(18,756)
Derivative Assets, Current	5,572	21,360
Derivative Asset Non-Current [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	14,632	25,373
Derivative liabilities, Gross, offset against assets for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(11,227)	(11,307)
Derivative Assets, Noncurrent	3,405	14,066
Derivative Liabilities Current [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	12,129	18,847
Derivative assets, Gross, offset against liabilities for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(7,646)	(18,756)
Derivative Liabilities, Current	4,483	91
Derivative Liabilities Non Current [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	15,713	11,307
Derivative assets, Gross, offset against liabilities for presentation in the Balance Sheet	(11,227)	(11,307)
Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent	$ 4,486

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Property And Equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Property And Equipment [Abstract]

Property And Equipment

NOTE 4 — PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consists of the following:

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES
Unproved properties	$	86,721	$	56,364
Accumulated impairment		(7,356)		(6,040)
Unproved properties, net		79,365		50,324
Proved oil and natural gas properties		1,405,658		1,167,935
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(793,253)		(578,793)
Proved oil and natural gas properties, net		612,405		589,142
TOTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES, net		691,770		639,466
LAND		1,418		1,185
DRILLING RIG		—		10,500
Accumulated depreciation		—		(1,837)
TOTAL DRILLING RIG, net		—		8,663
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Office furniture and equipment, vehicles		13,802		9,657
Accumulated depreciation		(6,120)		(3,474)
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net		7,682		6,183
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	$	700,870	$	655,497

Suspended Well Costs

The following table reflects the net changes in deferred capitalized exploratory well costs during2013,2012, and2011. The table does not include amounts that were capitalized and either subsequently expensed or reclassified to producing well costs in the same year.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	4,627	$	—	$	—
Additions to capitalized well costs pending determination of proved reserves		21,693		4,627		—
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense		(7,956)		—		—
Balance, end of year	$	18,364	$	4,627	$	—

The ending balance in deferred capitalized exploratory well costs includes the costs of four wells in three different prospects.  The largest of these is for an exploratory well in New Mexico, $13.0 million.  We have not capitalized exploratory well costs for periods greater than one year at December 31, 2013 and 2012.

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Significant Risks and Uncertainties (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Significant Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Risks and uncertainties inherent	Our business makes us vulnerable to changes in wellhead prices of crude oil and natural gas. Such prices have been volatile in the past and can be expected to be volatile in the future. By definition, the value of proved reserves is based on recent oil and natural gas prices. Price declines reduce the estimated value of proved reserves and increase annual amortization expense (which is based on proved reserves).

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Property And Equipment (Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Roll Forward Table) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 item	Dec. 31, 2012
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Beginning Balance	$ 4,627
Additions to capitalized well costs pending determination of proved reserves	21,693	4,627
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense	(7,956)
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Ending Balance	18,364	4,627
Number of wells included in ending balance in deferred capitalized exploratory well costs	4
Number of prospects	3
New Mexico [Member]
Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs, Ending Balance	$ 13,000

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Fair Value Disclosures (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Measurement Of Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities On Recurring Basis

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(dollars in thousands)
At December 31, 2013:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,850		—	$	27,850
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,842		—	$	27,842
At December 31, 2012:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	65,489		—	$	65,489
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	30,154		—	$	30,154

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Property And Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Property And Equipment [Abstract]

Property And Equipment

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES
Unproved properties	$	86,721	$	56,364
Accumulated impairment		(7,356)		(6,040)
Unproved properties, net		79,365		50,324
Proved oil and natural gas properties		1,405,658		1,167,935
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(793,253)		(578,793)
Proved oil and natural gas properties, net		612,405		589,142
TOTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS PROPERTIES, net		691,770		639,466
LAND		1,418		1,185
DRILLING RIG		—		10,500
Accumulated depreciation		—		(1,837)
TOTAL DRILLING RIG, net		—		8,663
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Office furniture and equipment, vehicles		13,802		9,657
Accumulated depreciation		(6,120)		(3,474)
OTHER PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net		7,682		6,183
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	$	700,870	$	655,497

Capitalized Exploratory Well Costs Roll Forward Table

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	4,627	$	—	$	—
Additions to capitalized well costs pending determination of proved reserves		21,693		4,627		—
Capitalized exploratory well costs charged to expense		(7,956)		—		—
Balance, end of year	$	18,364	$	4,627	$	—

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Long-Term Debt (Summary Of Future Maturities Of Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of future maturities of long-term debt
2014	$ 0
2015	0
2016	319,290
2017	0
2018	473,331
Total long-term debt	$ 792,621

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Fair Value Disclosures (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Carrying value of oil and gas properties	$ 237,200,000	$ 363,700,000	$ 35,200,000
Written down fair value of oil and gas properties	94,000,000	267,500,000	16,500,000
Impairment charges to oil and gas properties	143,166,000	96,227,000	18,735,000
Impairment of non-oil and gas assets	0	0	162,000
Asset retirement obligation measured at fair value	6,500,000	2,300,000
Stone [Member]
Fair value of oil and gas properties acquired	47,500,000
Sydson [Member]
Fair value of oil and gas properties acquired			28,000,000
TODD [Member]
Fair value of oil and gas properties acquired			$ 23,000,000

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Derivative [Line Items]

Fair Values Of Derivative Contracts

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	13,218	$	(7,646)	$	5,572
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		14,632		(11,227)		3,405
Total	$	27,850	$	(18,873)	$	8,977

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	12,129	$	(7,646)	$	4,483
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		15,713		(11,227)		4,486
Total	$	27,842	$	(18,873)	$	8,969

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	40,116	$	(18,756)	$	21,360
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		25,373		(11,307)		14,066
Total	$	65,489	$	(30,063)	$	35,426

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	18,847	$	(18,756)	$	91
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		11,307		(11,307)		—
Total	$	30,154	$	(30,063)	$	91

Effect Of Derivative Instruments In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations

Derivatives not
designated as hedging	Location of	Classification of	Year Ended December 31,
instruments under ASC 815	Gain (Loss)	Gain (Loss)	2013		2012		2011
Natural gas commodity contracts	Natural gas revenues	Realized	$	24,370	$	38,347	$	25,208
Oil commodity contracts	Oil revenues	Realized		(6,193)		(1,162)		(3,756)
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Realized		—		(1,337)		1,363
Total realized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	18,177	$	35,848	$	22,815
Natural gas commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized	$	(23,805)	$	(22,316)	$	21,937
Oil commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized		(11,522)		4,882		6,232
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and
natural gas commodity contracts				(35,327)		(17,434)		28,169
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Unrealized		—		1,300		4,087
Total unrealized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	(35,327)	$	(16,134)	$	32,256

Natural Gas [Member]

Derivative [Line Items]

Open Derivative Contracts

	Volume in	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	MMBtu	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	10,582,500	$	4.76	$	7.50	$	4.01
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,870,000		5.80		9.00		4.75
Long Put Options	2,570,000		5.14		6.00		4.25
Long Call Options	3,552,500		6.99		9.00		4.20
Short Put Options	4,541,000		3.35		4.00		3.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	1,825,000		5.91		5.91		5.91
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,300,000		4.52		4.52		4.51
Long Put Options	7,300,000		4.00		4.00		4.00
Short Put Options	7,300,000		3.25		3.25		3.25
2016
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	455,000		7.50		7.50		7.50
Long Put Options	455,000		5.50		5.50		5.50
Short Put Options	455,000		4.00		4.00		4.00

Oil [Member]

Derivative [Line Items]

Open Derivative Contracts

	Volume	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	in Bbls	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	1,759,875	$	95.16	$	105.48	$	81.00
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	547,500		111.10		114.00		107.50
Long Put Options	816,950		90.89		95.00		70.00
Short Put Options	1,106,030		74.51		80.00		65.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	766,500		97.60		99.30		95.73
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	428,850		120.81		135.98		115.00
Long Put Options	1,231,850		87.15		95.00		85.00
Short Put Options	1,414,350		68.00		75.00		60.00
2016
Price Swap Contracts	292,800		94.91		94.92		94.90
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	859,700		108.02		130.00		103.87
Long Put Options	859,700		85.98		95.00		80.00
Short Put Options	859,700		65.98		75.00		60.00
2017
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	744,950		108.04		114.00		104.15
Long Put Options	744,950		83.26		90.00		80.00
Short Put Options	744,950		63.26		70.00		60.00
2018
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	307,400		104.39		104.65		104.15
Long Put Options	307,400		80.00		80.00		80.00
Short Put Options	307,400		60.00		60.00		60.00

Open Financial Basis Swap Contracts

						Weighted
						Average Spread
Volume in Bbl	Reference Price 1  (1)	Reference Price 2  (1)	Period			($ per Bbl)
181,000	Brent IPE	Argus Louisiana Light Sweet	Jan ’14	—	Jun  ’14	$	(0.20)

(1)    The spread in these trades limits the differential of the settlement quotation prices for Argus Louisiana Light Sweet crude over Brent IPE.

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Asset Retirement Obligations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Asset Retirement Obligations [Abstract]

Summary Of Changes In Asset Retirement Obligations

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	48,593	$	46,096	$	42,713
Liabilities incurred		1,052		787		608
Liabilities assumed with acquired producing properties		5,480		1,476		2,807
Liabilities settled		(1,548)		(3,562)		(1,665)
Liabilities transferred in sales of properties		(606)		—		—
Revisions to estimates		919		1,983		(179)
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812
Balance, end of year		56,023		48,593		46,096
Less: Current portion		3,844		64		3,030
Long term portion	$	52,179	$	48,529	$	43,066

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Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]

Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures

NOTE 3 — SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES

Stone Acquisition

On October 1, 2013 we closed a transaction to purchase certain producing properties in South Louisiana from Stone Energy Offshore, L.L.C. (“Stone”) for cash consideration of approximately $45 million plus related abandonment costs, which was later modified through settlement adjustments to approximately $42 million cash. The purchase price was funded with borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility. This purchase increases our working interest in numerous wells in our Weeks Island field and adds several properties in which we previously had no working interest. Total estimated net proved reserves associated with the acquisition were 1.8 million BOE as of the effective date of July 1, 2013.  

A summary of the consideration paid and the preliminary allocation of the purchase prices are as follows (dollars in thousands):

	October 1,
	2013
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Summary of Consideration
Cash	$	42,163
Fair value of asset retirement obligations assumed		5,311
Total	$	47,474
Summary of Purchase Price Allocation
Proved oil and natural gas properties	$	30,601
Unproved oil and natural gas properties		16,873
Total	$	47,474

The revenue and earnings related to the Stone acquisition are included in our consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 from date of acquisition. The revenue and earnings of the combined entity, had the acquisitions occurred at January 1, 2012, are provided below. This unaudited pro forma information has been derived from historical information and is for illustrative purposes only. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not attempt to predict or suggest future results. It also does not necessarily reflect what the historical results of the combined company would have been had the companies been combined during these periods. 

	Total			Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Actual results of Stone included in our statement of operations for the period October 1, 2013
through December 31, 2013	$	10,509	$	8,575
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	340,103	$	(85,985)
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	376,063	$	(146,866)

Sydson and TODD Acquisitions

In 2011, we purchased certain oil and natural gas assets from Sydson Energy and certain of its related parties (“Sydson”) for a total of $28.4 million. We also purchased certain properties from Texas Oil Distribution & Development, Inc. and Matrix Petroleum LLC and certain other parties (“TODD”) for a total of $23.4 million. Funding for both acquisitions was provided through our credit facility. Results of the acquisitions are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the respective acquisition dates for Sydson and TODD of April 21, 2011 and June 17, 2011.   Unaudited pro forma revenues and net income for 2011 would have been $357.4 million and $67.1 million, respectively, had the Sydson and TODD acquisitions occurred as of the beginning of that year.

Hilltop Divestiture

On October 2, 2013 we closed the sale of certain of our properties in East Texas to Cubic Oil, Inc., comprising a portion of our Hilltop field (“Hilltop divestiture”). The properties sold were primarily producers of dry natural gas located in Leon County, Texas. As of July 1, 2013, estimated net proved reserves associated with these properties were 11.2 Bcfe. The cash purchase price was approximately $19 million (net of costs of the sale).   There was no material gain on the sale.

Other

During 2013, we sold our drilling rig for a cash purchase price of approximately $7 million and recorded a loss on sale of approximately $1.2 million.

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Long-Term Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Long-Term Debt [Abstract]

Long-Term Debt

	December 31, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Credit Facility	$	319,290	$	154,790
Senior Notes		447,578		447,068
Total long-term debt	$	766,868	$	601,858
Notes payable to founder	$	23,331	$	22,123

Summary Of Future Maturities Of Long-Term Debt

Year ending December 31,
2014	$	—
2015		—
2016		319,290
2017		—
2018		473,331
	$	792,621

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Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures (Summary Of Consideration Paid And The Preliminary Allocation Of Purchase Prices) (Details) (Stone [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stone [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash	$ 42,163
Fair value of asset retirement obligations assumed	5,311
Total	47,474
Proved oil and natural gas properties	30,601
Unproved oil and natural gas properties	16,873
Total	$ 47,474

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Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract]
Notes payable to founder	$ 23,300,000	$ 22,100,000
Founder [Member]
Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract]
Capital distributions	$ 17,500	$ 165,000	$ 165,000
Notes Payable To Founder [Member]
Related Party Transactions (Textual) [Abstract]
Rate of interest on notes payable to founder	10.00%

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 6,537	$ 5,786
Restricted cash		2,305
Accounts receivable, net	43,486	40,715
Other receivables	2,552	4,415
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	3,077	4,501
Derivative financial instruments	5,572	21,360
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS	61,224	79,082
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Oil and natural gas properties, successful efforts method, net	691,770	639,466
Other property and equipment, net	9,100	16,031
TOTAL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET	700,870	655,497
OTHER ASSETS
Investment in Partnership - cost	9,000	9,000
Deferred financing costs, net	10,943	13,685
Derivative financial instruments	3,405	14,066
Advances to operators	6,863	9,416
Deposits and other assets	1,186	1,686
TOTAL OTHER ASSETS	31,397	47,853
TOTAL ASSETS	793,491	782,432
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	96,095	112,684
Current portion, asset retirement obligations	3,844	64
Derivative financial instruments	4,483	91
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES	104,422	112,839
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Asset retirement obligations, net of current portion	52,179	48,529
Long-term debt	766,868	601,858
Notes payable to founder	23,331	22,123
Derivative financial instruments	4,486	0
Other long-term liabilities	2,312	3,451
TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES	849,176	675,961
TOTAL LIABILITIES	953,598	788,800
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE11)
PARTNERS' CAPITAL (DEFICIT)	(160,107)	(6,368)
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL (DEFICIT)	$ 793,491	$ 782,432

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Fair Value Disclosures (Measurement Of Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities On Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross	$ 27,850	$ 65,489
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross	27,842	30,154
Level 1 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross
Level 2 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross	27,850	65,489
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross	27,842	30,154
Level 3 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas, gross

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Nature Of Operations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Nature Of Operations [Abstract]

Nature Of Operations

NOTE 1 — NATURE OF OPERATIONS

Nature of Operations.  Alta Mesa Holdings, LP (“Alta Mesa,” the “Company,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) is engaged primarily in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas properties. Our core properties are located in Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. 

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Commitments And Contingencies (Future Base Rentals For Non-Cancelable Leases) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Future base rentals for non-cancelable leases
2014	$ 2,941
2015	1,895
2016	1,514
2017	1,511
2018	1,529
Thereafter	6,000
Total future base rental	$ 15,390

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Subsequent Events (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Pro Forma Revenues And Net Income Of Disposition Of Asset

				Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	280,618	$	(117,332)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	279,133	$	(197,106)

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Supplemental Quarterly Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Supplemental Quarterly Information [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 86,372	$ 78,836	$ 123,651	$ 69,648	$ 86,170	$ 51,633	$ 108,857	$ 72,639	$ 358,507	$ 319,299	$ 354,207
Income (loss) from operations	(115,469)	(11,915)	29,799	(1,066)	(37,954)	(71,005)	40,405	13,155	(98,651)	(55,399)	96,766
Net income (loss)	$ (129,860)	$ (25,737)	$ 16,168	$ (14,286)	$ (50,240)	$ (80,897)	$ 31,861	$ 3,401	$ (153,715)	$ (95,875)	$ 65,179

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Subsidiary Guarantors

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Subsidiary Guarantors [Abstract]

Subsidiary Guarantors

NOTE 17 — SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS

All of our material wholly-owned subsidiaries are guarantors under the terms of both our senior notes and our credit facility.

Our consolidated financial statements reflect the combined financial position of these subsidiary guarantors. Our parent company, Alta Mesa Holdings, LP, has no independent operations, assets, or liabilities. The guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several. Those subsidiaries which are not wholly owned and are not guarantors are minor. There are no restrictions on dividends, distributions, loans, or other transfers of funds from the subsidiary guarantors to our parent company.

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Supplemental Quarterly Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Supplemental Quarterly Information [Abstract]

Summary Of Quarterly Resulst Of Operations

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2013 were:

	Quarter Ended
2013	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	69,648	$	123,651	$	78,836	$	86,372
Income (loss) from operations		(1,066)		29,799		(11,915)		(115,469)
Net income (loss)	$	(14,286)	$	16,168	$	(25,737)	$	(129,860)

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2012 were:

	Quarter Ended
2012	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	72,639	$	108,857	$	51,633	$	86,170
Income (loss) from operations		13,155		40,405		(71,005)		(37,954)
Net income (loss)	$	3,401	$	31,861	$	(80,897)	$	(50,240)

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Supplemental Oil and Natural Gas Disclosures (Unaudited) [Abstract]

Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Unaudited)

NOTE 19 — SUPPLEMENTAL OIL AND NATURAL GAS DISCLOSURES (Unaudited)

The unaudited reserve and other information presented below is provided as supplemental information in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 932-235. 

Oil and natural gas producing activities are conducted onshore within the continental United States and all of our proved reserves are located within the United States.

Estimated Quantities of Proved Reserves

The following table sets forth our net proved reserves as of December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, and the changes therein during the years then ended. Proved oil and natural gas reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids that geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in future years from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions, i.e., prices and costs as of the date the estimate is made.

	Oil	Gas	NGL's	BOE
	(MBbls)	(MMcf)	(MBbls)	(MBbls)
Total Proved Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2010	12,187	241,453	1,735	54,164
Production	(1,580)	(30,307)	(307)	(6,938)
Purchases in place	674	10,385	100	2,505
Discoveries and extensions	4,436	24,142	544	9,004
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	1,216	(28,407)	2,773	(746)
Balance at December 31, 2011	16,933	217,266	4,845	57,989
Production	(2,138)	(21,372)	(365)	(6,065)
Purchases in place	335	6,619	8	1,446
Discoveries and extensions	10,173	18,870	1,187	14,505
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(4,683)	(68,894)	20	(16,144)
Balance at December 31, 2012	20,620	152,489	5,695	51,731
Production	(2,897)	(16,664)	(398)	(6,072)
Purchases in place	1,462	1,265	—	1,673
Discoveries and extensions	14,541	29,012	1,969	21,345
Sales of reserves in place	(13)	(10,912)	—	(1,832)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(1,196)	(22,925)	(1,531)	(6,549)
Balance at December 31, 2013	32,517	132,265	5,735	60,296
Proved Developed Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	11,484	161,395	3,616	41,999
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,467	111,206	4,209	33,211
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,335	92,640	3,138	34,913
Proved Undeveloped Reserves:
Balance at December 31, 2011	5,449	55,871	1,229	15,990
Balance at December 31, 2012	10,153	41,283	1,486	18,520
Balance at December 31, 2013	16,182	39,625	2,597	25,383

Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Natural Gas Producing Activities

	December 31,
	2013		2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capitalized costs:
Proved properties	$	1,405,658	$	1,167,935
Unproved properties		86,721		56,364
Total		1,492,379		1,224,299
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment		(800,609)		(584,833)
Net capitalized costs	$	691,770	$	639,466

Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities

Acquisition costs in the table below include costs incurred to purchase, lease, or otherwise acquire property. Exploration expenses include additions to exploratory wells, including those in progress, and other exploration expenses, such as geological and geophysical costs. Development costs include additions to production facilities and equipment and additions to development wells, including those in progress.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Costs incurred during the year:
Property acquisition costs
Unproved	$	34,884	$	31,695	$	37,152
Proved (1)		35,954		12,192		53,601
Exploration		55,300		46,559		24,079
Development (2)		242,912		200,974		142,212
	$	369,050	$	291,420	$	257,044

(1) Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2013 include primarily the proved portion of the Stone acquisition ($30.6 million).  Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2011 include primarily the purchase of Sydson ($28.4 million) and TODD ($23.4 million).

(2)   Includes asset retirement costs of $1.4million, $1.7 million, and $587,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

The information that follows has been developed pursuant to ASC 932-235 and utilizes reserve and production data prepared by us. Reserve estimates are inherently imprecise and estimates of new discoveries are less precise than those of producing oil and natural gas properties. Accordingly, these estimates are expected to change as future information becomes available.

Future cash inflows as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 were calculated using an un-weighted arithmetic average of oil and natural gas prices in effect on the first day of each month in the respective year, except where prices are defined by contractual arrangements. Operating costs, production and ad valorem taxes and future development costs are based on current costs with no escalation.

Actual future prices and costs may be materially higher or lower. Actual future net revenues also will be affected by factors such as actual production, supply and demand for oil and natural gas, curtailments or increases in consumption by natural gas purchasers, changes in governmental regulations or taxation and the impact of inflation on costs.

The following table sets forth the components of the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Future cash flows	$	3,959,938	$	2,742,588	$	2,850,381
Future production costs		(1,146,123)		(928,398)		(803,290)
Future development costs		(474,191)		(348,042)		(297,375)
Future taxes on income		—		—		—
Future net cash flows		2,339,624		1,466,148		1,749,716
Discount to present value at 10 percent per annum		(933,350)		(551,727)		(679,520)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196
Base price for crude oil, per Bbl, in the above computation was:	$	96.78	$	94.71	$	96.19
Base price for natural gas, per Mcf, in the above computation was:	$	3.67	$	2.76	$	4.12

No consideration was given to the Company’s hedged transactions.

Changes in Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows

The following table sets forth the changes in standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
		(dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of year	$	914,421	$	1,070,196	$	705,182
Sales of oil and natural gas, net of production costs		(282,129)		(226,896)		(230,140)
Changes in sales and transfer prices, net of production costs		69,609		(291,285)		219,797
Revisions of previous quantity estimates		(150,634)		(250,424)		(15,217)
Purchases of reserves-in-place		93,877		10,283		47,680
Sales of reserves-in-place		(11,193)		—		—
Current year discoveries and extensions		621,832		420,496		228,041
Changes in estimated future development costs		11,623		54,493		(5,987)
Development costs incurred during the year		75,973		49,834		47,402
Accretion of discount		91,442		107,020		70,518
Net change in income taxes		—		—		—
Change in production rate (timing) and other		(28,547)		(29,296)		2,920
Net change		491,853		(155,775)		365,014
Balance at end of year	$	1,406,274	$	914,421	$	1,070,196

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Costs Incurred) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities
Property acquisition costs, unproved properties	$ 34,884		$ 31,695		$ 37,152
Property acquisition costs, proved properties	35,954	[1]	12,192	[1]	53,601	[1]
Costs incurred, exploration	55,300		46,559		24,079
Costs incurred, development	242,912	[2]	200,974	[2]	142,212	[2]
Costs Incurred, Total	369,050		291,420		257,044
Costs Incurred, Additional Information [Abstract]
Development Costs Incurred As Asset Retirement Obligations	1,400		1,700		587
Stone [Member]
Costs Incurred, Additional Information [Abstract]
Total cost of Business Acquisition	30,600
Sydson [Member]
Costs Incurred, Additional Information [Abstract]
Total cost of Business Acquisition					28,400
TODD [Member]
Costs Incurred, Additional Information [Abstract]
Total cost of Business Acquisition					$ 23,400

[1] Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2013 include primarily the proved portion of the Stone acquisition ($30.6 million). Property acquisition costs for proved properties in 2011 include primarily the purchase of Sydson ($28.4 million) and TODD ($23.4 million).

[2] Includes asset retirement costs of $1.4 million, $1.7 million, and $587,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

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Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

NOTE 2 — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

We use accounting policies which reflect industry practices and conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”). As used herein, the following acronyms have the following meanings: “FASB” means the Financial Accounting Standards Board; the “Codification” refers to the Accounting Standards Codification, the collected accounting and reporting guidance maintained by the FASB; “ASC” means Accounting Standards Codification and is generally followed by a number indicating a particular section of the Codification; and “ASU” means Accounting Standards Update, followed by an identification number, which are the periodic updates made to the Codification by the FASB. “SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, after eliminating all significant intercompany transactions. The Company’s interest in oil and natural gas exploration and production ventures and partnerships are proportionately consolidated.

Use of Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

Reserve estimates significantly impact depreciation, depletion and amortization expense and potential impairments of oil and natural gas properties and are subject to change based on changes in oil and natural gas prices and trends and changes in estimated reserve quantities.  Other significant estimates include those related to oil and natural gas reserves, the value of oil and natural gas properties (including acquisition properties), oil and natural gas revenues, bad debts, asset retirement obligations, derivative contracts, state taxes and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. We review estimates and underlying assumptions on a regular basis.  Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Reclassifications.Certain amounts in the 2012 and 2011 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation. The reclassifications had no impact on net income (loss) or partners’ capital (deficit).

In 2013 we revised our reporting for natural gas liquids produced in our Oklahoma properties.  Whereas we had previously reported all revenues from Oklahoma for 2012 and 2011 as attributable to a single stream of rich natural gas, we began recording revenues for natural gas liquids from Oklahoma separately in 2013.  For comparability, we have reclassified approximately $3.3 million in revenues from natural gas to natural gas liquids for the year 2012.  For 2011, we have reclassified $5.0 million in natural gas revenues to revenues from natural gas liquids.  These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported total revenues, net income, cash flows, or partners’ capital (deficit).

Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash balances at financial institutions in the United States of America, which at times exceed federally insured amounts. The Federal Deposit Insurance provides insurance up to $250,000 per depositor. We monitor the financial condition of the financial institutions and have experienced no losses associated with these accounts. Restricted cash in 2012 included a balance on deposit related to deferred payment of certain royalties.

Accounts Receivable. Our receivables arise from the sale of oil and natural gas and joint interest owner receivables for properties in which we serve as the operator. This concentration of customers may impact our overall credit risk, either positively or negatively, in that these entities may be similarly affected by changes in economic or other conditions affecting the oil and natural gas industry. Accounts receivable are generally not collateralized.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We routinely assess the recoverability of all material trade and other receivables to determine their collectability. We accrue a reserve when, based on the judgment of management, it is probable that a receivable will not be collected and the amount of the reserve can be reasonably estimated. Accounts receivable are shown net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1.4 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Deferred Financing Costs.Deferred financing costs and the amount of discount at which notes payable have been issued (debt discount) are amortized using the straight-line method, which approximates the interest method, over the term of the related debt. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, amortization of deferred financing costs included in interest expense amounted to $2.8 million, $2.4 million, and $2.8 million, respectively. Deferred financing costs are listed among our long-term assets, net of accumulated amortization of $12.8 million and $9.9 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Property and Equipment. Oil and natural gas producing activities are accounted for using the successful efforts method of accounting. Under the successful efforts method, lease acquisition costs and all development costs, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Unproved Properties — Acquisition costs associated with the acquisition of leases are recorded as unproved properties and capitalized as incurred. These consist of costs incurred in obtaining a mineral interest or right in a property, such as a lease, in addition to options to lease, broker fees, recording fees and other similar costs related to activities in acquiring properties. Unproved properties are classified as unproved until proved reserves are discovered, at which time related costs are transferred to proved oil and natural gas properties.

Exploration Expense — Exploration expenses, other than exploration drilling costs, are charged to expense as incurred. These expenses include seismic expenditures and other geological and geophysical costs, expired leases, gain or loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations and lease rentals. The costs of drilling exploratory wells and exploratory-type stratigraphic wells are initially capitalized pending determination of whether the well has discovered proved commercial reserves. If the exploratory well is determined to be unsuccessful, the cost of the well is transferred to expense. Exploratory well drilling costs may continue to be capitalized if the reserve quantity is sufficient to justify completion as a producing well and sufficient progress in assessing the reserves and the economic and operating viability of the project is being made. Assessments of such capitalized costs are made quarterly.

Proved Oil and Natural Gas Properties — Costs incurred to obtain access to proved reserves and to provide facilities for extracting, treating, gathering, and storing oil and natural gas are capitalized. All costs incurred to drill and equip successful exploratory wells, development wells, development-type stratigraphic test wells, and service wells, including unsuccessful development wells, are capitalized.

Impairment — The capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties are reviewed quarterly for impairment following the guidance provided in ASC 360-10-35, “Property, Plant and Equipment, Subsequent Measurement,” or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group exceeds its fair market value and is not recoverable. The determination of recoverability is based on comparing the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows at a producing field level to the carrying value of the assets. If the future undiscounted cash flows, based on estimates of anticipated production from proved reserves and future crude oil and natural gas prices and operating costs, are lower than the carrying cost, the carrying cost of the asset or group of assets is reduced to fair value. For our proved oil and natural gas properties, we estimate fair value by discounting the projected future cash flows at an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate.

Our evaluation of the Company’s proved properties resulted in impairment expense of $135.2 million, $90.3 million, and $16.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

In addition, the Company recorded other write-downs and impairment expense of casing and tubing to lower of cost or market, of zero,  zero and $162,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Unproved properties are assessed at least annually to determine whether they have been impaired. Individually significant properties are assessed for impairment on a property-by-property basis, while individually insignificant unproved properties may be assessed in the aggregate. If unproved properties are found to be impaired, an impairment allowance is provided and a loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, impairment expense of unproved properties was $8.0 million, $5.9 million, and $1.8 million, respectively.

Management evaluates whether the carrying value of all other long-lived assets has been impaired when circumstances indicate the carrying value of those assets may not be recoverable. This evaluation is based on undiscounted cash flow projections. The carrying amount is not recoverable if it exceeds the undiscounted sum of cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets. Management considers various factors when determining if these assets should be evaluated for impairment.

If the carrying value is not recoverable on an undiscounted basis, the impairment loss is measured as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Management assesses the fair value of long-lived assets using commonly accepted techniques, and may use more than one method, including, but not limited to, recent third party comparable sales, internally developed discounted cash flow analysis and analysis from outside advisors. Significant changes in market conditions resulting from events such as the condition of an asset or a change in management’s intent to utilize the asset would generally require management to reassess the cash flows related to the long-lived assets. For the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, and 2011, respectively, the Company did not record any impairment expense related to other long-lived assets.

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization — Depreciation, depletion, and amortization (“DD&A”) of capitalized costs of proved oil and natural gas properties is computed using the unit-of-production method based upon estimated proved reserves. Assets are grouped for DD&A on the basis of reasonable aggregation of properties with a common geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition, such as a reservoir or field. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for leasehold acquisition costs and the cost to acquire proved properties is the sum of proved developed reserves and proved undeveloped reserves. The reserve base used to calculate DD&A for lease and well equipment costs, which include development costs and successful exploration drilling costs, includes only proved developed reserves.

DD&A expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 related to oil and natural gas properties was $115.5 million, $106.6 million, and $92.3 million, respectively.

Leasehold improvements to offices are depreciated using the straight-line method over the life of the lease. The Company’s drilling rig, which was sold during 2013, was depreciated using the straight-line method of depreciation over a period of approximately fifteen years.  Other property and equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to seven years. Depreciation expense for non-oil and gas property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $3.1 million, $2.7 million, and $1.9 respectively.

Investment. The Company’s investment consists of a 10% ownership interest in a drilling company, Orion Drilling Company, LP (“Orion”). The investment is accounted for under the cost method. Under this method, the Company’s share of earnings or losses of the investment are not included in the statements of operations.

Asset Retirement Obligations. We recognize liabilities for the future costs of dismantlement and abandonment of our wells, facilities, and other tangible long-lived assets along with an associated increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset.  The fair value of new asset retirement obligations are estimated using expected future costs discounted to present value.  The cost of the tangible asset, including the asset retirement cost, is depleted over the useful life of the asset.  Accretion expense is recognized as the discounted liability is accreted to its expected settlement value.   Asset retirement obligations are subject to revision primarily for changes to the estimated timing and cost of abandonment.

Derivative Financial Instruments. We use derivative contracts to hedge the effects of fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and interest rates. We account for such derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and requires them to be measured at fair value and recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 5 for information on fair value).

Under ASC 815, hedge accounting is used to defer recognition of unrealized changes in the fair value of such financial instruments, for those contracts which qualify as fair value or cash flow hedges, as defined in the guidance. Historically, we have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges. Accordingly, the unrealized changes in fair value of the contracts are included in earnings in the period of the change as “Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts” for oil and natural gas contracts, and in interest expense for interest derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses are recorded in income in the period of settlement, and included in the related revenue account or in interest expense. Cash flows from settlements of derivative contracts are classified with the income or expense item to which such settlements directly relate.

Income Taxes. The Company has elected under the Internal Revenue Code provisions to be treated as individual partnerships for tax purposes. Accordingly, items of income, expense, gains and losses flow through to the partners and are taxed at the partner level. Accordingly, no tax provision for federal income taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements.

The Company is subject to the Texas margin tax, which is considered a state income tax, and is included in “Benefit from (provision for) state income tax” on the consolidated statements of operations. The Company records state income tax (current and deferred) based on taxable income, as defined under the rules for the margin tax.

We follow guidance issued by the FASB in accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. This guidance clarifies the accounting for income taxes by prescribing the minimum recognition threshold an income tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the consolidated financial statements and applies to all income tax positions. Each income tax position is assessed using a two step process. A determination is first made as to whether it is more likely than not that the income tax position will be sustained, based upon technical merits, upon examination by the taxing authorities. If the income tax position is expected to meet the more likely than not criteria, the benefit recorded in the consolidated financial statements equals the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon its ultimate settlement.

We have considered our exposure under the standard at both the federal and state tax levels.  We have not recorded any liabilities for uncertain tax positions as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. We record income tax, related interest, and penalties, if any, as a component of income tax expense. We did not incur any interest or penalties on income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2013,  2012, or 2011.  

The Company’s tax returns for the years ended December 31, 2009 forward remain open for examination. None of the Company’s federal or state tax returns are currently under examination by the relevant authorities.

Revenue Recognition. We recognize oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids revenues when products are delivered at a fixed or determinable price, title has transferred and collectability is reasonably assured. We use the sales method of accounting for recognition of natural gas imbalances. Revenue from drilling rigs has been recorded when services were performed.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The fair value of cash, accounts receivable and current liabilities approximate book value due to their short-term nature. The estimate of fair value of long-term debt under our credit facility is not considered to be materially different from carrying value due to market rates of interest. The fair value of the debt to our founder is not practicable to determine. We have estimated the fair value of our $450 million senior notes payable at $482.6 million on December 31, 2013. Derivative financial instruments are carried at fair value. See Note 5 for further information on fair values of financial instruments. See Note 9 for information on long-term debt.

Acquisitions. Acquisitions are accounted for as purchases using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the results of operations are included in our consolidated statements of operations from the closing date of the acquisitions. Purchase prices are allocated to acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair value at the time of the acquisition.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2013 we adopted ASU No. 2011-11, which increases disclosures about offsetting assets and liabilities. New disclosures are required to enable users of financial statements to understand significant quantitative differences in balance sheets prepared under GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) related to the offsetting of financial instruments. The additional disclosures are included in Note 6.  

In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-04. The guidance requires an entity that is joint and severally liable to measure the obligation as the sum of the amount the entity has agreed with co-obligors to pay and any additional amount it expects to pay on behalf of one or more co-obligors. Required disclosures include a description of the nature of the arrangement, how the liability arose, the relationship with co-obligors and the terms and conditions of the arrangement. ASU No. 2013-04 is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect the adoption of this pronouncement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

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Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
REVENUES
Oil	$ 291,643	$ 220,638	$ 161,726
Natural gas	85,720	95,922	144,548
Natural gas liquids	15,264	15,606	17,637
Other revenues	1,207	4,567	2,127
Total	393,834	336,733	326,038
Unrealized (loss) - oil and natural gas derivative contracts	(35,327)	(17,434)	28,169
TOTAL REVENUES	358,507	319,299	354,207
EXPENSES
Lease and plant operating expense	70,450	69,047	62,637
Production and ad valorem taxes	26,369	23,485	19,357
Workover expense	13,679	12,740	11,777
Exploration expense	33,065	21,912	15,785
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense	118,558	109,252	94,251
Impairment expense	143,166	96,227	18,735
Accretion expense	2,133	1,813	1,812
Loss on sale of assets	2,715
General and administrative expense	47,023	40,222	33,087
TOTAL EXPENSES	457,158	374,698	257,441
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS	(98,651)	(55,399)	96,766
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest expense	(55,188)	(41,932)	(32,722)
Interest income	124	99	78
Litigation settlement		1,250
Gain on contract settlement			1,285
TOTAL OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)	(55,064)	(40,583)	(31,359)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE STATE INCOME TAXES	(153,715)	(95,982)	65,407
BENEFIT FROM (PROVISION FOR) STATE INCOME TAXES		107	(228)
NET INCOME (LOSS)	$ (153,715)	$ (95,875)	$ 65,179

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Major Customers

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Major Customers [Abstract]

Major Customers

NOTE 12 — MAJOR CUSTOMERS

We sell our oil and natural gas primarily under a contract with ARM Energy Management, LLC (“AEM”). Alta Mesa is a part owner of AEM at less than 10%. AEM purchases our natural gas and sells it under short-term contracts generally with month-to-month pricing based on published regional indices, with differentials for transportation taken into account. AEM purchases our oil and sells it under short-term contracts with monthly pricing based on regional prices, adjusted for transportation, location, and quality. AEM remits monthly proceeds of its sales to us, and receives a 1% marketing fee. Sales to AEM commenced in June 2013. The agreement will terminate in 2018, with additional provisions for extensions beyond five years, and for early termination beginning in January 2015. During the second half of 2013, we sold the majority of our production from operated fields to AEM. Production from non-operated fields, the most significant of which were our Eagleville oil field in South Texas and our Hilltop natural gas field in East Texas, was marketed on our behalf by the operators of those properties. Production from Eagleville is sold by Murphy Oil Corporation (“Murphy”), the operator of that property. Production from Hilltop is sold primarily by EnCana Oil & Gas (USA), Inc. (“EnCana”), the operator of a substantial portion of the wells in that field.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, revenues from AEM were $61.3 million, or 16% of total revenue excluding hedging activities. Based on revenues excluding hedging activities,  three other major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $119.3 million (Murphy), $53.9 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), and $42.0 million (Plains Marketing and Transportation, Inc.)  On the same basis, for the year ended December 31, 2012, three major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $63.3 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), $50.1 million (Murphy), and $44.8 million (EnCana). On the same basis, for the year ended December 31, 2011, two major customers accounted for 10% or more of those revenues individually, with contributions of $67.7 million (Shell Trading (US) Company), and

$40.8 million (EnCana). We believe that the loss of any of our significant direct or  indirect customers, or of AEM, would not have a material adverse effect on us because alternative purchasers are readily available. 

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Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Alta Mesa Holdings, LP
Entity Central Index Key	0001518403
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2013
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	0
Entity Public Float	$ 0
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No

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401(k) Savings Plan

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Savings Plan [Abstract]

401(k) Savings Plan

NOTE 13 — 401(k) SAVINGS PLAN

Employees of Alta Mesa Services and Petro Operating Company, LP (“POC”) may participate in a 401(k) savings plan, whereby the employees may elect to make contributions pursuant to a salary reduction agreement. Alta Mesa Services and POC make a matching contribution equal to 50% of an employee’s salary deferral contribution up to a maximum of 8% of an employee’s salary. Matching contributions to the plan were approximately $585,000,  $422,000, and $404,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

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Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Partners' Capital (Deficit) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partners' Capital (Deficit) [Abstract]
Balance, Beginning	$ (6,368)	$ 89,672	$ 24,658
Distributions	(24)	(165)	(165)
Net income (loss)	(153,715)	(95,875)	65,179
Balance, Ending	$ (160,107)	$ (6,368)	$ 89,672

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Asset Retirement Obligations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Asset Retirement Obligations [Abstract]

Asset Retirement Obligations

NOTE 7 — ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

A summary of the changes in our asset retirement obligations is included in the table below:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning of year	$	48,593	$	46,096	$	42,713
Liabilities incurred		1,052		787		608
Liabilities assumed with acquired producing properties		5,480		1,476		2,807
Liabilities settled		(1,548)		(3,562)		(1,665)
Liabilities transferred in sales of properties		(606)		—		—
Revisions to estimates		919		1,983		(179)
Accretion expense		2,133		1,813		1,812
Balance, end of year		56,023		48,593		46,096
Less: Current portion		3,844		64		3,030
Long term portion	$	52,179	$	48,529	$	43,066

The total revisions included $408,000,  $874,000, and ($21,000) related to additions to property, plant and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

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Derivative Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Derivative Financial Instruments

NOTE 6 — DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

We account for our derivative contracts under the provisions of ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” We have entered into forward-swap contracts and collar contracts to reduce our exposure to price risk in the spot market for oil and natural gas. We also utilize financial basis swap contracts, which address the price differential between market-wide benchmark prices and other benchmark pricing referenced in certain of our crude oil and natural gas sales contracts. Substantially all of our hedging agreements are executed by affiliates of the lenders under our credit facility described in Note 9 below, and are collateralized by the security interests of the respective affiliated lenders in certain of our assets under the credit facility. The contracts settle monthly and are scheduled to coincide with either oil production equivalent to barrels (Bbl) per month or gas production equivalent to volumes in millions of British thermal units (MMBtu) per month. The contracts represent agreements between us and the counter-parties to exchange cash based on a designated price, or in the case of financial basis hedging contracts, based on a designated price differential between various benchmark prices. Cash settlement occurs monthly based on the specified price benchmark.We have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges; accordingly we use mark-to-market accounting, recognizing unrealized gains and losses in the consolidated statement of operations at each reporting date. Realized gains and losses on commodities hedging contracts are included in oil and natural gas revenues.

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swap agreements with financial institutions to mitigate the risk of loss due to changes in interest rates. The interest rate swaps are not designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815. Both realized gains and losses from settlement and unrealized gains and losses from changes in the fair market value of the interest rate swaps are included in interest expense.

No derivative contracts have been entered into for trading purposes, and we typically hold each instrument to maturity.

The second table below provides information on the location and amounts of realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivatives included in the consolidated statement of operations for each of the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Derivative contracts are subject to master netting arrangements and are presented on a net basis in the consolidated balance sheets. This netting can cause derivative assets to be ultimately presented in a (liability) account on the consolidated balance sheets.  Likewise, derivative (liabilities) could be presented in an asset account.

The following table summarizes the fair value (see Note 5 for further discussion of fair value) and classification of our derivative instruments, none of which have been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	13,218	$	(7,646)	$	5,572
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		14,632		(11,227)		3,405
Total	$	27,850	$	(18,873)	$	8,977

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	12,129	$	(7,646)	$	4,483
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		15,713		(11,227)		4,486
Total	$	27,842	$	(18,873)	$	8,969

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Assets
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against assets		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Assets		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current assets	$	40,116	$	(18,756)	$	21,360
Derivative financial instruments, long-term assets		25,373		(11,307)		14,066
Total	$	65,489	$	(30,063)	$	35,426

					Net Fair
	Gross		Gross amounts		Value of Liabilities
December 31, 2012	Fair Value		offset against liabilities		presented in
Balance sheet location	of Liabilities		in the Balance Sheet		the Balance Sheet
	(dollars in thousands)
Derivative financial instruments, current liabilities	$	18,847	$	(18,756)	$	91
Derivative financial instruments, long-term liabilities		11,307		(11,307)		—
Total	$	30,154	$	(30,063)	$	91

The following table summarizes the effect of our derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations (dollars in thousands):

Derivatives not
designated as hedging	Location of	Classification of	Year Ended December 31,
instruments under ASC 815	Gain (Loss)	Gain (Loss)	2013		2012		2011
Natural gas commodity contracts	Natural gas revenues	Realized	$	24,370	$	38,347	$	25,208
Oil commodity contracts	Oil revenues	Realized		(6,193)		(1,162)		(3,756)
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Realized		—		(1,337)		1,363
Total realized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	18,177	$	35,848	$	22,815
Natural gas commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized	$	(23,805)	$	(22,316)	$	21,937
Oil commodity contracts	Unrealized gain (loss) —
	oil and natural gas
	derivative contracts	Unrealized		(11,522)		4,882		6,232
Total unrealized gains (losses) from oil and
natural gas commodity contracts				(35,327)		(17,434)		28,169
Interest rate contracts	Interest expense	Unrealized		—		1,300		4,087
Total unrealized gains (losses) from
derivatives not designated as hedges			$	(35,327)	$	(16,134)	$	32,256

Although our counterparties provide no collateral, the master derivative agreements with each counterparty effectively allow the Company, so long as it is not a defaulting party, after a default or the occurrence of a termination event, to set-off an unpaid hedging agreement receivable against the interest of the counterparty in any outstanding balance under the credit facility. If a counterparty were to default in payment of an obligation under the master derivative agreements, we could be exposed to commodity price fluctuations, and the protection intended by the hedge could be lost. The value of our derivative financial instruments would be impacted.

We had the following open derivative contracts for natural gas at December 31, 2013:

NATURAL GAS DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS

	Volume in	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	MMBtu	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	10,582,500	$	4.76	$	7.50	$	4.01
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,870,000		5.80		9.00		4.75
Long Put Options	2,570,000		5.14		6.00		4.25
Long Call Options	3,552,500		6.99		9.00		4.20
Short Put Options	4,541,000		3.35		4.00		3.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	1,825,000		5.91		5.91		5.91
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	7,300,000		4.52		4.52		4.51
Long Put Options	7,300,000		4.00		4.00		4.00
Short Put Options	7,300,000		3.25		3.25		3.25
2016
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	455,000		7.50		7.50		7.50
Long Put Options	455,000		5.50		5.50		5.50
Short Put Options	455,000		4.00		4.00		4.00

We had the following open derivative contracts for crude oil at December 31, 2013:

OIL DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS

	Volume	Weighted		Range
Period and Type of Contract	in Bbls	Average		High		Low
2014
Price Swap Contracts	1,759,875	$	95.16	$	105.48	$	81.00
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	547,500		111.10		114.00		107.50
Long Put Options	816,950		90.89		95.00		70.00
Short Put Options	1,106,030		74.51		80.00		65.00
2015
Price Swap Contracts	766,500		97.60		99.30		95.73
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	428,850		120.81		135.98		115.00
Long Put Options	1,231,850		87.15		95.00		85.00
Short Put Options	1,414,350		68.00		75.00		60.00
2016
Price Swap Contracts	292,800		94.91		94.92		94.90
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	859,700		108.02		130.00		103.87
Long Put Options	859,700		85.98		95.00		80.00
Short Put Options	859,700		65.98		75.00		60.00
2017
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	744,950		108.04		114.00		104.15
Long Put Options	744,950		83.26		90.00		80.00
Short Put Options	744,950		63.26		70.00		60.00
2018
Collar Contracts
Short Call Options	307,400		104.39		104.65		104.15
Long Put Options	307,400		80.00		80.00		80.00
Short Put Options	307,400		60.00		60.00		60.00

In those instances where contracts are identical as to time period, volume, strike price, and counterparty, but opposite as to direction (long and short), the volumes and average prices have been netted in the two tables above. Prices stated in the table above for oil may settle against either NYMEX or Brent ICE indices or may reflect a mix of positions settling on these two indices.

We had the following open financial basis swap contracts for crude oil at December 31, 2013:

						Weighted
						Average Spread
Volume in Bbl	Reference Price 1  (1)	Reference Price 2  (1)	Period			($ per Bbl)
181,000	Brent IPE	Argus Louisiana Light Sweet	Jan ’14	—	Jun  ’14	$	(0.20)

(1)    The spread in these trades limits the differential of the settlement quotation prices for Argus Louisiana Light Sweet crude over Brent IPE.

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Supplemental Quarterly Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Supplemental Quarterly Information [Abstract]

Supplemental Quarterly Information

NOTE 18 — SUPPLEMENTAL QUARTERLY INFORMATION (Unaudited)

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2013 were:

	Quarter Ended
2013	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	69,648	$	123,651	$	78,836	$	86,372
Income (loss) from operations		(1,066)		29,799		(11,915)		(115,469)
Net income (loss)	$	(14,286)	$	16,168	$	(25,737)	$	(129,860)

Results of operations by quarter for the year ended December 31, 2012 were:

	Quarter Ended
2012	March 31		June 30		Sept 30		Dec 31
		(dollars in thousands)
Revenues	$	72,639	$	108,857	$	51,633	$	86,170
Income (loss) from operations		13,155		40,405		(71,005)		(37,954)
Net income (loss)	$	3,401	$	31,861	$	(80,897)	$	(50,240)

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Significant Risks And Uncertainties

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Significant Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]

Significant Risks And Uncertainties

NOTE 14 — SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

Our business makes us vulnerable to changes in wellhead prices of crude oil and natural gas. Such prices have been volatile in the past and can be expected to be volatile in the future. By definition, the value of proved reserves is based on recent oil and natural gas prices. Price declines reduce the estimated value of proved reserves and increase annual amortization expense (which is based on proved reserves). We mitigate some of this vulnerability by entering into oil and natural gas price derivative contracts. See Note 6.

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Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]

Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities

NOTE 10 — ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES

The following provides the detail of accounts payable and accrued liabilities:

	December 31,		December 31,
	2013			2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Capital expenditures	$	18,629	$	37,738
Revenues and royalties payable		9,699		10,788
Operating expenses/taxes		17,071		14,842
Interest		9,146		9,045
Compensation		8,862		5,978
Other		2,711		6,223
Total accrued liabilities		66,118		84,614
Accounts payable		29,977		28,070
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	96,095	$	112,684

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Major Customers (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013 customer	Dec. 31, 2012 customer	Dec. 31, 2011 customer
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 86,372	$ 78,836	$ 123,651	$ 69,648	$ 86,170	$ 51,633	$ 108,857	$ 72,639	$ 358,507	$ 319,299	$ 354,207
Number of customers that accounted for 10% or more of revenues									3	3	2
Minimum percentage of contribution of customers to revenue									10.00%
Benchmark for determining customer significance									revenues excluding hedging activities
ARM Energy Management, LLC [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Marketing fee									1.00%
Term of agreement left until extensions may come into effect									5 years
Revenues									61,300
Concentration Risk, Percentage									16.00%
ARM Energy Management, LLC [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership	10.00%								10.00%
Murphy [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenues									119,300	50,100
Shell Trading (US) Company [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenues									53,900	63,300	67,700
Plains Marketing And Transportation, Inc. [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenues									42,000
EnCana [Member]
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Revenues										$ 44,800	$ 40,800

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Related Party Transactions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Related Party Transactions [Abstract]

Related Party Transactions

NOTE 8 — RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

We have notes payable to our founder which bear interest at 10% with a balance of $23.3 million and $22.1 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. See further information at Note 9.

Alta Mesa Services, LP (“Alta Mesa Services”), one of our wholly owned subsidiaries, conducts our business and operations and, in addition to the board of directors of our general partner, makes decisions on our behalf. The consolidated statements of operations include the financial activity of Alta Mesa Services for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

During 2013, 2012, and 2011 Michael E. Ellis, our founder, Chief Operating Officer, and Chairman of the Board, received capital distributions from us of $17,500,  $165,000 and $165,000, respectively.

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Long-Term Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Long-Term Debt [Abstract]

Long-Term Debt

NOTE 9 — LONG TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consists of the following:

	December 31, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(dollars in thousands)
Credit Facility	$	319,290	$	154,790
Senior Notes		447,578		447,068
Total long-term debt	$	766,868	$	601,858
Notes payable to founder	$	23,331	$	22,123

Credit Facility. On May 13, 2010, we entered into a Sixth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the “credit facility”). The credit facility matures on May 23, 2016 and is secured by substantially all of our oil and gas properties. The credit facility borrowing base is redetermined periodically and, as of December 31, 2013, the borrowing base under the facility was $385.0 million. The credit facility bears interest at LIBOR plus applicable margins between 2.00% and 2.75% or a “Reference Rate,” which is based on the prime rate of Wells Fargo Bank, N. A., plus a margin ranging from 1.00% to 1.75%, depending on the utilization of our borrowing base. The rate was 2.75% as of December 31, 2013 and 2.33% as of December 31, 2012.  

Senior Notes. We have $450 million in outstanding registered senior notes due October 15, 2018 that carry a stated interest rate of 9.625% and an effective interest rate of 9.783%.  Interest is payable semi-annually each April 15th and October 15th.The senior notes are unsecured and are general obligations of the Company, and effectively rank junior to any of our existing or future secured indebtedness, which includes the credit facility. The senior notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of our material subsidiaries.The balance is presented net of unamortized discount of $2.4 million and $2.9 million at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

The senior notes contain an optional redemption provision available beginning October 15, 2014 allowing us to retire the principal outstanding, in whole or in part, at 104.813%.  Additional optional redemption provisions allow for retirement at 102.406% and 100.0% beginning on each of October 15, 2015 and 2016, respectively.  Prior to October 15, 2014, we may redeem the senior notes in whole or in part at a price equal to 100 percent of the principal amount plus a specified make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date.

Notes Payable to Founder. We have notes payable to our founder which bear simple interest at 10% with a balance of $23.3 million and $22.1 million at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, the notes had a maturity date of December 31, 2018. Interest and principal are payable at maturity. These founder notes are unsecured and are subordinate to all debt. Interest on the notes payable to our founder amounted to $1.2 million during each of 2013, 2012, and 2011. Such amounts have been added to the balance of the founder notes.

Future maturities of long-term debt, including the notes payable to our founder, at December 31, 2013 are as follows (dollars in thousands):

Year ending December 31,
2014	$	—
2015		—
2016		319,290
2017		—
2018		473,331
	$	792,621

The credit facility and senior notes include covenants requiring that we maintain certain financial covenants including a current ratio, leverage ratio, and interest coverage ratio.At December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with the covenants. The terms of the credit facility also restrict our ability to make distributions and investments.

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Commitments And Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]

Commitments And Contingencies

NOTE 11 — COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Contingencies

Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East:On July 24, 2013, the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – East sued us and approximately 100 other energy companies for long-term damage to the wetlands in southeast Louisiana.  Case No. 2013-6911 was filed in state court and subsequently remanded to federal court.  The plaintiff seeks damages and injunctive relief in the form of abatement and restoration of wetlands, alleging that the activities of the oil and gas industry over the past century have contributed significantly to the degradation of the wetlands that protect the populated areas in and around New Orleans from storm surge and other extreme weather effects.  The plaintiff alleges damages from increased costs of providing man-made storm protection structures, and emphasizes the destructive effect of canals built by the oil and gas industry.  Legal arguments include breach of the restoration and maintenance clauses of contracts with the State of Louisiana for drilling, dredging, and right-of-way agreements for pipelines.  Other legal arguments include negligence, strict liability, natural servitude of drain, public nuisance and private nuisance.   Our wholly-owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Company, LLC is named as a defendant with 32 wells, two dredging permits and four right of way agreements in the relevant area.  Almost all of these wells are inactive.

The overall exposure related to this lawsuit is not currently determinable.  While an adverse judgment against us might be possible, we intend to vigorously defend the case.    We have not provided any amount for this matter in our financial statements at December 31, 2013.

Environmental claims:  Various landowners have sued our wholly owned subsidiary The Meridian Resource Corporation and its subsidiaries (“Meridian”), which we acquired in 2010, in lawsuits concerning several fields in which Meridian has had operations. The lawsuits seek injunctive relief and other relief, including unspecified amounts in both actual and punitive damages for alleged breaches of mineral leases and alleged failure to restore the plaintiffs’ lands from alleged contamination and otherwise from Meridian’s oil and natural gas operations. We are unable to express an opinion with respect to the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome of the various environmental claims or to estimate the amount or range of potential loss should the outcome be unfavorable. Therefore, we have not provided any amount for these claims in our consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2013.

Due to the nature of our business, some contamination of the real estate property owned or leased by us is possible. Environmental site assessments of the property would be necessary to adequately determine remediation costs, if any.  Management has established a liability for soil contamination in Florida of $1.1 million at December 31, 2013 and $1.0 million at December 31, 2012, based on our undiscounted engineering estimates. The obligations are included in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. No accrual for environmental claims has been made other than the balance noted above.

Title/lease disputes: Title and lease disputes may arise in the normal course of our operations. These disputes are usually small but could result in an increase or decrease in reserves once a final resolution to the title dispute is made.

Other contingencies: We are subject to legal proceedings, claims and liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business. The outcome cannot be reasonably estimated; however, in the opinion of management, such litigation and claims will be resolved without material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Accruals for losses associated with litigation are made when losses are deemed probable and can be reasonably estimated.

We have a contingent commitment to pay an amount up to a maximum of approximately $2.4 million for properties acquired in 2008. The additional purchase consideration will be paid if certain product price conditions are met.

Commitments

Office and Equipment Leases: We lease office space, as well as certain field equipment such as compressors, under long-term operating lease agreements. The lease for our main office will expire in 2022. Any initial rent-free months are amortized over the life of the lease.Equipment leases are generally for four years or less. Rent expense, including office space and compressors, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 amounted to approximately $5.3 million, $4.5 million, and $4.3 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2013, future base rentals for non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (dollars in thousands):

Year Ending December 31,
2014	$	2,941
2015		1,895
2016		1,514
2017		1,511
2018		1,529
Thereafter		6,000
	$	15,390

Additionally, at December 31, 2013, the Company had posted bonds in the aggregate amount of $13.2 million, primarily to cover future abandonment costs.

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Subsequent Events (Pro Forma Revenues And Net Income Of Disposition Of Asset) (Details) (Subsequent Event [Member], Pro Forma [Member], Eagleville Divestiture [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Subsequent Event [Member] | Pro Forma [Member] | Eagleville Divestiture [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 279,133	$ 280,618
Income (Loss)	$ (197,106)	$ (117,332)

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Reserve Quantities) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 MBbls	Dec. 31, 2012 MBbls	Dec. 31, 2011 MBbls
Oil [Member]
Total Proved Reserves:
Proved Reserves, Beginning Balance	20,620	16,933	12,187
Production	(2,897)	(2,138)	(1,580)
Purchases in place	1,462	335	674
Discoveries and extensions	14,541	10,173	4,436
Sales of reserves in place	(13)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(1,196)	(4,683)	1,216
Proved Reserves, Ending balance	32,517	20,620	16,933
Developed Reserves	16,335	10,467	11,484
Proved Undeveloped Reserves	16,182	10,153	5,449
Natural Gas in MMcf [Member]
Total Proved Reserves:
Proved Reserves, Beginning Balance	152,489	217,266	241,453
Production	(16,664)	(21,372)	(30,307)
Purchases in place	1,265	6,619	10,385
Discoveries and extensions	29,012	18,870	24,142
Sales of reserves in place	(10,912)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(22,925)	(68,894)	(28,407)
Proved Reserves, Ending balance	132,265	152,489	217,266
Developed Reserves	92,640	111,206	161,395
Proved Undeveloped Reserves	39,625	41,283	55,871
Natural Gas Liquids [Member]
Total Proved Reserves:
Proved Reserves, Beginning Balance	5,695	4,845	1,735
Production	(398)	(365)	(307)
Purchases in place		8	100
Discoveries and extensions	1,969	1,187	544
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(1,531)	20	2,773
Proved Reserves, Ending balance	5,735	5,695	4,845
Developed Reserves	3,138	4,209	3,616
Proved Undeveloped Reserves	2,597	1,486	1,229
Barrels of Oil Equivalent [Member]
Total Proved Reserves:
Proved Reserves, Beginning Balance	51,731	57,989	54,164
Production	(6,072)	(6,065)	(6,938)
Purchases in place	1,673	1,446	2,505
Discoveries and extensions	21,345	14,505	9,004
Sales of reserves in place	(1,832)
Revisions of previous quantity estimates and other	(6,549)	(16,144)	(746)
Proved Reserves, Ending balance	60,296	51,731	57,989
Developed Reserves	34,913	33,211	41,999
Proved Undeveloped Reserves	25,383	18,520	15,990

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Subsequent Events (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)			12 Months Ended
	Mar. 25, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] item	Mar. 22, 2014 Eagleville Divestiture [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] item	Dec. 31, 2013 Pro Forma [Member] Eagleville Divestiture [Member] Subsequent Event [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Barrels of Oil Equivalent [Member] MBbls	Dec. 31, 2012 Barrels of Oil Equivalent [Member] MBbls	Dec. 31, 2011 Barrels of Oil Equivalent [Member] MBbls	Jan. 01, 2014 Barrels of Oil Equivalent [Member] Eagleville Divestiture [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] MMBbls
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Number of producing wells		112
Number of wells in which overriding royalty interest is owned		5
Percentage of original working interest net profits interest in wells is retained on, 2014		50.00%
Percentage of original working interest net profits interest in wells is retained on, 2015		30.00%
Percentage of original working interest net profits interest in wells is retained on, 2016		15.00%
Percentage of original working interest net profits interest in wells is retained on, 2017		0.00%
Percentage of undivided interest in mineral leases and interests included in sale		30.00%
Percentage of working interest in all wells in progress on December 31, 2013 or drilled after January 1, 2014 included in sale		30.00%
Cash purchase price, net of costs of transaction		$ 173,000,000
Estimated net proved reserves associated with sold properties				34,913	33,211	41,999	7.7
Gain on sale had it occurred on December 31, 2013			76,100,000
Credit facility borrowing base	285,000,000
Amount of recapitalization	$ 350,000,000
Number of members added to Board of Directors, nominated by Highbridge	1
Number of employees added as member to board of directors	1

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Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]

Future Base Rentals For Non-Cancelable Leases

Year Ending December 31,
2014	$	2,941
2015		1,895
2016		1,514
2017		1,511
2018		1,529
Thereafter		6,000
	$	15,390

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Oil Basis Swaps) (Details) (Financial Basis Swap Contracts For Oil One [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 bbl
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in Bbls	181,000
First remaining period of term of derivative contract	Jan. 01, 2014
Last remaining period of term of derivative contract	Jun. 30, 2014
Spread limit under basis spread commodity contract	(0.20)
Reference Price 1 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Underlying basis	Brent IPE	[1]
Reference Price 2 [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Underlying basis	Argus Louisiana Light Sweet	[1]

[1] The spread in these trades limits the differential of the settlement quotation prices for Argus Louisiana Light Sweet crude over Brent IPE.

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Subsequent Events

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events

NOTE 16 — SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Disposition of Asset

On March 25, 2014 we closed the sale of certain of our properties located primarily in Karnes County, Texas to Memorial Production Partners LP, comprising a portion of our Eagleville field (“Eagleville divestiture”).  The properties sold included a working interest in all of our 112 producing wells and five wells in which we own an overriding royalty interest as of the effective date of January 1, 2014.  We retained a net profits interest in these wells based on 50% of our original working interest in 2014, declining to 30% in 2015, 15% in 2016, and zero in 2017.   Also included in the sale was a 30% undivided interest in all our Eagleville mineral leases and interests, and 30% of our working interest in all our wells in progress on December 31, 2013 or drilled after January 1, 2014.  The cash purchase price was$173 million.  The purchase and sale agreement provides for customary adjustments to the purchase price for revenues and expenses incurred after the effective date.  Cash received was utilized to pay down borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility.

As of January 1, 2014, estimated net proved reserves associated with the sold portion of these properties were approximately 7.7 MMBOE.

Unaudited pro forma revenues and net income are presented below as if the sale occurred on January 1, 2012.  This data is presented for informational purposes only, and is based on certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable, and do not purport to represent our financial condition or our results of operations had the Eagleville divestiture actually occurred on January 1, 2013, or to project the results for any future date or period.

				Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	280,618	$	(117,332)
Pro forma results for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	279,133	$	(197,106)

The gain on sale of the assets is not included as a pro forma adjustment in the presentation above.  We estimate that the gain on this partial sale of Eagleville field, had it occurred on December 31, 2013, would have been approximately $76.1 million.

Borrowing Base

In connection with the partial sale of the Eagleville field, our borrowing base under our credit facility was reduced to $285 million on March 25, 2014.

Partnership Changes

On March 25, 2014, Highbridge Principal Strategies LLC (“Highbridge”) invested in AMIH and enabled AMIH to complete a $350 million recapitalization.  Highbridge received convertible PIK preferred stock in AMIH and senior PIK notes from AMIH.  We expanded our Board of Directors to include one member nominated by Highbridge and one new employee member, our Chief Financial Officer, Michael A. McCabe. AMIH remains our sole Class B partner.

Our partnership agreement was revised to provide, among other things, that all distributions under the amended partnership agreement shall first be made to holders of Class B Units, until all principal and interest has been extinguished under the senior PIK notes issued to Highbridge.  After such extinguishment of the senior PIK notes, distributions shall then be made to holders of Class A and Class B Units pursuant to the distribution formulas set forth in the amended partnership agreement. 

Founder Notes

On March 25, 2014, our notes payable to our founder were amended and restated.  The maturity date of the notes was extended to December 31, 2021.  The interest rate and interest payment terms were not changed.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Policy)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Derivatives And Hedging

Derivative Financial Instruments. We use derivative contracts to hedge the effects of fluctuations in the prices of oil, natural gas and interest rates. We account for such derivative instruments in accordance with ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” which establishes accounting and disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and requires them to be measured at fair value and recorded as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 5 for information on fair value).

Under ASC 815, hedge accounting is used to defer recognition of unrealized changes in the fair value of such financial instruments, for those contracts which qualify as fair value or cash flow hedges, as defined in the guidance. Historically, we have not designated any of our derivative contracts as fair value or cash flow hedges. Accordingly, the unrealized changes in fair value of the contracts are included in earnings in the period of the change as “Unrealized gain (loss) — oil and natural gas derivative contracts” for oil and natural gas contracts, and in interest expense for interest derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses are recorded in income in the period of settlement, and included in the related revenue account or in interest expense. Cash flows from settlements of derivative contracts are classified with the income or expense item to which such settlements directly relate.

Commodity Contract [Member]

Derivatives, Use of Derivatives

We account for our derivative contracts under the provisions of ASC 815, "Derivatives and Hedging." We have entered into forward-swap contracts and collar contracts to reduce our exposure to price risk in the spot market for oil and natural gas. We also utilize financial basis swap contracts, which address the price differential between market-wide benchmark prices and other benchmark pricing referenced in certain of our crude oil and natural gas sales contracts. Substantially all of our hedging agreements are executed by affiliates of the lenders under our credit facility described in Note 9 below, and are collateralized by the security interests of the respective affiliated lenders in certain of our assets under the credit facility. The contracts settle monthly and are scheduled to coincide with either oil production equivalent to barrels (Bbl) per month or gas production equivalent to volumes in millions of British thermal units (MMBtu) per month. The contracts represent agreements between us and the counter-parties to exchange cash based on a designated price, or in the case of financial basis hedging contracts, based on a designated price differential between various benchmark prices. Cash settlement occurs monthly based on the specified price benchmark.

Interest Rate Contracts [Member]

Derivatives, Use of Derivatives

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swap agreements with financial institutions to mitigate the risk of loss due to changes in interest rates.

Netting Presentation for Derivatives Policy [Member]

Derivatives And Hedging

Derivative contracts are subject to master netting arrangements and are presented on a net basis in the consolidated balance sheets. This netting can cause derivative assets to be ultimately presented in a (liability) account on the consolidated balance sheets.  Likewise, derivative (liabilities) could be presented in an asset account.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Natural Gas Derivative Contracts) (Details) (Natural Gas Derivative Contracts [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 MMBTU
2014 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	10,582,500
Weighted Average Swap Price	4.76
2014 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	7.50
2014 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	4.01
2014 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	7,870,000
Weighted Average Option Price	5.80
2014 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	9.00
2014 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.75
2014 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	2,570,000
Weighted Average Option Price	5.14
2014 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	6.00
2014 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.25
2014 [Member] | Long Call Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	3,552,500
Weighted Average Option Price	6.99
2014 [Member] | Long Call Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	9.00
2014 [Member] | Long Call Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.20
2014 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	4,541,000
Weighted Average Option Price	3.35
2014 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.00
2014 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	3.00
2015 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	1,825,000
Weighted Average Swap Price	5.91
2015 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	5.91
2015 [Member] | Price Swap Contracts [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Swap Price	5.91
2015 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	7,300,000
Weighted Average Option Price	4.52
2015 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.52
2015 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.51
2015 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	7,300,000
Weighted Average Option Price	4.00
2015 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.00
2015 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.00
2015 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	7,300,000
Weighted Average Option Price	3.25
2015 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	3.25
2015 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	3.25
2016 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	455,000
Weighted Average Option Price	7.50
2016 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	7.50
2016 [Member] | Short Call Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	7.50
2016 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	455,000
Weighted Average Option Price	5.50
2016 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	5.50
2016 [Member] | Long Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	5.50
2016 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Volume in MMbtu	455,000
Weighted Average Option Price	4.00
2016 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.00
2016 [Member] | Short Put Options [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Option Price	4.00

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Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures (Summary Of Pro Forma Information) (Details) (Stone [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013 Scenario, Actual [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Pro Forma [Member]	Dec. 31, 2012 Pro Forma [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 10,509
Income (Loss)	8,575
Revenue		376,063	340,103
Income (Loss)		$ (146,866)	$ (85,985)

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Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$ (153,715)	$ (95,875)	$ 65,179
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense	118,558	109,252	94,251
Impairment expense	143,166	96,227	18,735
Accretion expense	2,133	1,813	1,812
Amortization of loan costs	2,839	2,424	2,813
Amortization of debt discount	510	322	260
Dry hole expense	15,295	8,454	6,064
Expired leases	3,289		96
Unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives	35,327	16,134	(32,256)
(Gain) on contract settlement			(1,285)
Interest converted into debt	1,208	1,212	1,202
Loss on sale of assets	2,715
Deferred state tax provision			228
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash	2,305	(2,305)
Accounts receivable	(2,771)	92	(2,726)
Other receivables	1,863	(1,609)	3,532
Prepaid expenses and other non-current assets	4,477	(5,558)	(4,478)
Settlement of asset retirement obligation	(1,548)	(3,562)	(1,665)
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and other long-term liabilities	(3,132)	20,172	(1,107)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES	172,519	147,193	150,655
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures for property and equipment	(311,438)	(224,719)	(193,770)
Acquisitions	(51,377)	(30,346)	(72,363)
Proceeds from sale of property	26,668
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES	(336,147)	(255,065)	(266,133)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from long-term debt	214,500	270,000	130,500
Repayments of long-term debt	(50,000)	(155,500)	(15,000)
Additions to deferred financing costs	(97)	(3,307)	(2,063)
Capital distributions	(24)	(165)	(165)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES	164,379	111,028	113,272
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	751	3,156	(2,206)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period	5,786	2,630	4,836
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period	6,537	5,786	2,630
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for interest	50,731	36,853	32,069
Cash paid during the period for state taxes	18	124
Change in asset retirement obligations	854	1,661	587
Asset retirement obligations assumed, purchased properties	5,480	1,476	2,807
Change in accruals or liabilities for capital expenditures	$ (14,085)	$ 22,061	$ (17,478)

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Fair Value Disclosures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Disclosures

NOTE 5 — FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES

The Company follows ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure.” ASC 820 provides a hierarchy of fair value measurements, based on the inputs to the fair value estimation process. It requires disclosure of fair values classified according to defined “levels,” which are based on the reliability of the evidence used to determine fair value, with Level 1 being the most reliable and Level 3 the least. Level 1 evidence consists of observable inputs, such as quoted prices in an active market. Level 2 inputs typically correlate the fair value of the asset or liability to a similar, but not identical item which is actively traded. Level 3 inputs include at least some unobservable inputs, such as valuation models developed using the best information available in the circumstances.

We utilize the modified Black-Scholes and the Turnbull Wakeman option pricing models to estimate the fair value of oil and natural gas derivative contracts. Inputs to these models include observable inputs from the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and other exchanges for futures contracts, and inputs derived from NYMEX observable inputs, such as implied volatility of oil and natural gas prices. We have classified the fair values of all our oil and natural gas derivative contracts as Level 2.

The fair value of our interest rate derivative contracts, which expired in 2012, was calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and is also considered a Level 2 fair value.

Our senior notes are carried at historical cost, net of amortized discount; we estimate the fair value of the senior notes for disclosure purposes (see Note 2). This estimation is based on the most recent trading values of the notes at or near the reporting date, a Level 1 classification.

Oil and natural gas properties are subject to impairment testing and potential impairment write down as described in Note 2. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $237.2 million were written down to their fair value of $94.0 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $143.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $363.7 million were written down to their fair value of $267.5 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $96.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Oil and natural gas properties with a carrying amount of $35.2 million were written down to their fair value of $16.5 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $18.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The impairment analysis is based on the estimated discounted future cash flows for those properties. Significant Level 3 assumptions used in the calculation of estimated discounted cash flows included our estimate of future oil and natural gas prices, production costs, development expenditures, estimated quantities and timing of production of proved reserves, appropriate risk-adjusted discount rates, and other relevant data.

In addition, other equipment, included in oil and gas properties, was impaired zero,  zero, and $162,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, based on market information for similar products, which is a Level 3 value.

In connection with the Stone acquisition in 2013 we recorded oil and natural gas properties with a fair value of $47.5 million.In connection with the Sydson and TODD acquisitions in 2011, we recorded oil and natural gas properties with a fair value of $28 million and $23 million, respectively. Significant Level 3 inputs used were the same as those used in determining impairments based on estimated discounted cash flows for the acquired properties.

New additions to asset retirement obligations result from estimations for new properties, and fair values for them are categorized as Level 3. Such estimations are based on present value techniques which utilize company-specific information for such inputs as cost and timing of plug and abandonment of wells and facilities. We recorded a total of $6.5 million in additions to asset retirement obligations measured at fair value for the year ended December 31, 2013.  We recorded a total of $2.3 million in additions to asset retirement obligations measured at fair value for the year ended December 31, 2012.

The following table presents information about our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques we utilized to determine such fair value:

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(dollars in thousands)
At December 31, 2013:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,850		—	$	27,850
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	27,842		—	$	27,842
At December 31, 2012:
Financial Assets:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	65,489		—	$	65,489
Financial Liabilities:
Derivative contracts for oil and natural gas		—	$	30,154		—	$	30,154

The amounts above are presented on a gross basis; presentation on our consolidated balance sheets utilizes netting of assets and liabilities with the same counterparty where master netting agreements are in place.

For additional information on derivative contracts, see Note 6.

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Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013 Building [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Upstream Equipment [Member]	Dec. 31, 2013 Upstream Equipment [Member] Maximum [Member]	Jul. 24, 2013 Meridian Resource Company, L L C [Member] Board Of Commissioners Of Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority - East [Member] item
Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of wells							32
Number of dredging permits							2
Number of right of way agreements							4
Liability for soil contamination	$ 1.1	$ 1.0
Payment under contingent commitment towards properties acquired	2.4
Term of leases						4 years
Rent expense	5.3	4.5	4.3
Description of Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases				The lease for our main office will expire in 2022. Any initial rent-free months are amortized over the life of the lease.	Equipment leases are generally for four years or less
Performance Bonds Outstanding	$ 13.2

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Supplemental Oil And Natural Gas Disclosures (Standardized Measure Of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Components of the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows
Future cash flows	$ 3,959,938	$ 2,742,588	$ 2,850,381
Future production costs	(1,146,123)	(928,398)	(803,290)
Future development costs	(474,191)	(348,042)	(297,375)
Future taxes on income	0	0	0
Future net cash flows	2,339,624	1,466,148	1,749,716
Discount to present value at 10 percent per annum	(933,350)	(551,727)	(679,520)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows	$ 1,406,274	$ 914,421	$ 1,070,196
Base price for natural gas, per Mcf, in the above computations was:	96.78	94.71	96.19
Base price for crude oil, per Bbl, in the above computations was:	3.67	2.76	4.12

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Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Significant Acquisitions And Divestitures [Abstract]

Summary Of Consideration Paid And The Preliminary Allocation Of Purchase Prices

	October 1,
	2013
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Summary of Consideration
Cash	$	42,163
Fair value of asset retirement obligations assumed		5,311
Total	$	47,474
Summary of Purchase Price Allocation
Proved oil and natural gas properties	$	30,601
Unproved oil and natural gas properties		16,873
Total	$	47,474

Summary Of Pro Forma Information

	Total			Income
		Revenue		(Loss)
	(unaudited)
	(dollars in thousands)
Actual results of Stone included in our statement of operations for the period October 1, 2013
through December 31, 2013	$	10,509	$	8,575
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2012	$	340,103	$	(85,985)
Pro forma results for the combined entity for the year ended December 31, 2013	$	376,063	$	(146,866)

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Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Natural gas revenues reclassified to natural gas liquids		$ 3,300,000	$ 5,000,000
FDIC insured maximum amount	250,000
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	1,400,000	800,000
Amortization of loan costs	2,839,000	2,424,000	2,813,000
Accumulated amortization, deferred financing costs	12,800,000	9,900,000
Impairment expense of proved properties	135,200,000	90,300,000	16,900,000
Impairment expense of unproved properties	8,000,000	5,900,000	1,800,000
Other write-downs and impairment expense	0	0	162,000
Depreciation depletion and amortization related to oil and gas properties	115,500,000	106,600,000	92,300,000
Depreciation expense for other property and equipment	3,100,000	2,700,000	1,900,000
Ownership interest in a drilling company	10.00%
Liability for uncertain tax positions	0	0
Income tax penalties and interest	0	0	0
Face value of senior notes issued	450,000,000
Fair value of senior notes payable	$ 482,600,000
Maximum [Member]
Depreciable life of other property and equipment	7 years
Minimum [Member]
Depreciable life of other property and equipment	3 years

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Partners' Capital

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Partners' Capital [Abstract]

Partners' Capital

NOTE 15 — PARTNERS’ CAPITAL(DEFICIT)

Under the terms of the Alta Mesa Holdings, LP Partnership Agreement (“Partnership Agreement”) the affiliates of Alta Mesa Holdings, LP and certain other parties are Class A limited partners (“Class A Partners”) and our capital partner, Alta Mesa Investment Holdings, Inc. (“AMIH”), was the sole Class B limited partner (“Class B Partner”). AMIH has been an affiliate of Denham Commodity Partners Fund IV LP (“DCPF IV”). DCPF IV is advised by Denham Capital Management LP, a private equity firm focused on energy and commodities.

Management and Control: Our business and affairs are managed by Alta Mesa Holdings GP, LLC, our general partner (“General Partner”). With certain exceptions, the General Partner may not be removed except for the reasons of “cause,” which are defined in the Partnership Agreement. The Class B limited partner has certain approval rights, generally over capital plans and significant transactions in the areas of finance, acquisition, and divestiture.

Distribution and Income Allocation: Net cash flow from operations may be distributed to the Class A and Class B Partners based on a variable formula as defined in the Partnership Agreement.

The Class B Partner may require the General Partner to make distributions; however, any distribution must be permitted under the terms of our credit facility and our senior notes.

Distribution of net cash flow from a Liquidity Event (as defined below) is distributed to the Class A and Class B Partners according to a variable formula as defined in the Partnership Agreement. A “Liquidity Event” is any event in which we receive cash proceeds outside the ordinary course of our business. The Class B Partner can, without consent of any other partners, request that the General Partner take action to cause us, or our assets, to be sold to one or more third parties.