|
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
|
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Feb. 23, 2012
|
Jun. 30, 2011
|
|
| Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | |||
| Entity Registrant Name | Dorchester Minerals, L.P. | ||
| Document Type | 10-K | ||
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 30,675,431 | ||
| Entity Public Float | $ 761,277,396 | ||
| Amendment Flag | false | ||
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001172358 | ||
| Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | ||
| Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
| Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
| Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | No | ||
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2011 | ||
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2011 | ||
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY |
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, minus any "/A" suffix. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, 497, NCSR, N-CSR, N-CSRS, N-Q, 10-KT, 10-QT, 20-FT, POS AM and Other. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of registrant's classes of common stock, as of latest practicable date. Where multiple classes exist define each class by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have 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 registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, or (4) Smaller Reporting Company. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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- Details
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- Definition
Accumulated Amortization, at the balance sheet date, of finite-lived, amortizable assets that are an addition or improvement to assets held under lease arrangement. No definition available.
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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- Definition
Net amount, at the balance sheet date, of finite-lived, amortizable assets that are an addition or improvement to assets held under lease arrangement. No definition available.
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- Details
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- Details
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and due within one year (or the operating cycle, if longer), including liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received, taxes, interest, rent and utilities, accrued salaries and bonuses, payroll taxes and fringe benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amounts due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Amount of receivables arising from transactions with related parties due within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
For a classified balance sheet, the cumulative difference as of the balance sheet date between the payments required by a lease agreement and the rental income or expense recognized on a straight-line basis, or other systematic and rational basis more representative of the time pattern in which use or benefit is granted or derived from the leased property, expected to be recognized in income or expense, by the lessor or lessee, respectively, within one year of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
For a classified balance sheet, the cumulative difference between the rental income or payments required by a lease agreement and the rental income or expense recognized on a straight-line basis, or other systematic and rational basis more representative of the time pattern in which use or benefit is granted or derived from the leased property, expected to be recognized in income or expense, by the lessor or lessee, respectively, more than one year after the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The amount of the general partner's ownership interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Gross amount, at the balance sheet date, of long-lived, depreciable assets that are an addition or improvement to assets held under lease arrangement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total of all Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity items (or Partners' Capital, as applicable), including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of the limited partners' ownership interests. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Depletion of oil and gas property carried under the full cost method. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Oil and gas properties, gross, carried under the full cost method. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Oil and gas properties, net of depletion, carried under the full cost method. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of ownership interest of different classes of partners in limited partnership. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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|
Consolidated Income Statement (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Operating revenues: | |||
| Lease bonus | $ 517 | $ 3,819 | $ 688 |
| Other | 102 | 134 | 82 |
| Total operating revenues | 69,489 | 61,094 | 43,631 |
| Costs and expenses: | |||
| Production taxes | 2,430 | 1,729 | 1,202 |
| Operating expenses | 2,445 | 2,442 | 2,160 |
| Depreciation, depletion and amortization | 18,348 | 17,988 | 15,599 |
| General and administrative expenses | 4,088 | 4,128 | 3,715 |
| Total costs and expenses | 27,311 | 26,287 | 22,676 |
| Operating income | 42,178 | 34,807 | 20,955 |
| Other income, net | 37 | 76 | 726 |
| Net income | 42,215 | 34,883 | 21,681 |
| Allocation of net income: | |||
| General Partner | 1,359 | 1,157 | 698 |
| Unitholders | 40,856 | 33,726 | 20,983 |
| Net income per common unit (basic and diluted) (in Dollars per share) | $ 1.33 | $ 1.11 | $ 0.72 |
| Weighted average common units outstanding (000's) (in Shares) | 30,675 | 30,469 | 29,044 |
|
Royalty Revenue [Member]
|
|||
| Operating revenues: | |||
| Royalties | 53,345 | 45,095 | 33,412 |
|
Net Profits Interests [Member]
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|||
| Operating revenues: | |||
| Royalties | $ 15,525 | $ 12,046 | $ 9,449 |
| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Full Cost Depletion and Leasehold Amortization expense. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Revenue earned during the period from initial cash payments made to a lessor by a lessee in consideration for the execution and conveyance of an oil and/or gas lease. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of net income or loss for the period per each limited partnership unit in instances when basic and diluted earnings per unit are the same amount and aggregated on the face of the financial statements. Basic earnings per unit is the amount of net income or loss for the period per unit outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per unit includes the amount of net income or loss for the period available to each limited partnership unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of units for all dilutive potential units outstanding during the reporting period. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The average number of limited partnership units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per limited partnership unit. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total costs related to oil and gas produced and sold during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of an entity, including affiliates of the reporting entity, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate amount of net income allocated to general partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate amount of net income allocated to limited partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate revenue during the period related to oil and gas business activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Revenues from the sale of other goods or rendering of other services, not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy; net of (reduced by) sales adjustments, returns, allowances, and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
A tax assessed on oil and gas production. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Revenue earned during the period from the leasing or otherwise lending to a third party the entity's rights or title to certain property. Royalty revenue is derived from a percentage or stated amount of sales proceeds or revenue generated by the third party using the entity's property. Examples of property from which royalties may be derived include patents and oil and mineral rights. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Details
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- Details
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Full Cost Depletion and Leasehold Amortization expense. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Cash and accounts receivable less accounts payable received when purchasing mineral interests in oil and gas properties not intended for resale. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash and cash equivalents. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of cash distributions paid to a common shareholder or unit-holder by a LLC or LP. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due from customers for the credit sale of goods and services; includes accounts receivable and other types of receivables. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amounts payable to vendors for goods and services received and the amount of obligations and expenses incurred but not paid. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in receivables to be collected from other entities that could exert significant influence over the reporting entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow from investing activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The charge against earnings in the period representing the allocation of deferred costs to periods expected to benefit from such costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The value of the noncash (or part noncash) consideration given (for example, liability, equity) in a transaction. Noncash is defined as transactions during a period that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of a transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cash outflow for purchases of and capital improvements on property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures), software, and other intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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|
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partnership Capital (USD $)
|
General Partner 1 [Member]
USD ($)
|
Limited Partner 1 [Member]
USD ($)
|
Limited Partner Units [Member]
|
Total
USD ($)
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance at January 1, 2009 at Dec. 31, 2008 | $ 5,971,000 | $ 132,611,000 | $ 138,582,000 | |
| Balance at January 1, 2009 (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2008 | 28,240,431 | |||
| Net earnings | 698,000 | 20,983,000 | 21,681,000 | |
| Acquisition of assets for units | 36,496,000 | 36,496,000 | ||
| Acquisition of assets for units (in Shares) | 1,600,000 | |||
| Distributions | (1,429,000) | (43,299,000) | (44,728,000) | |
| Balance at Dec. 31, 2009 | 5,240,000 | 146,791,000 | 152,031,000 | |
| Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2009 | 29,840,431 | |||
| Net earnings | 1,157,000 | 33,726,000 | 34,883,000 | |
| Acquisition of assets for units | 17,685,000 | 17,685,000 | ||
| Acquisition of assets for units (in Shares) | 835,000 | |||
| Distributions | (1,728,000) | (50,470,000) | (52,198,000) | |
| Balance at Dec. 31, 2010 | 4,669,000 | 147,732,000 | 152,401,000 | |
| Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2010 | 30,675,431 | |||
| Net earnings | 1,359,000 | 40,856,000 | 42,215,000 | |
| Distributions | (1,786,000) | (50,719,000) | (52,505,000) | |
| Balance at Dec. 31, 2011 | $ 4,242,000 | $ 137,869,000 | $ 142,111,000 | |
| Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2011 | 30,675,431 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of ownership interest of different classes of partners in limited partnership. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Change in the different classes of partners' capital accounts during the year due to acquisitions. Partners include general, limited and preferred partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total distributions to each class of partners (i.e., general, limited and preferred partners). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of each class of partnership units outstanding at the balance sheet date. Units represent shares of ownership of the general, limited, and preferred partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Change in the number of units for each class of partners' capital accounts during the year due to acquisitions. Partners include general, limited and preferred partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Partnership Capital (Parentheticals) (Limited Partner 1 [Member], USD $)
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Limited Partner 1 [Member]
|
|||
| Distributions, per unit | $ 1.65339 | $ 1.654050 | $ 1.501608 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the distribution per unit of limited partner interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 1. General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
|
12 Months Ended | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
||||
| Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] |
Nature
of
Operations
— In these Notes, the term “Partnership,”
as well as the terms “us,” “our,”
“we,” and “its” are sometimes used as
abbreviated references to Dorchester Minerals, L.P. itself or
Dorchester Minerals, L.P. and its related entities. Our
Partnership is a Dallas, Texas based owner of producing and
nonproducing natural gas and crude oil royalty, net profits,
and leasehold interests in 574 counties and 25 states. We are
a publicly traded Delaware limited partnership that was
formed in December 2001, and commenced operations on January
31, 2003.
Basis
of
Presentation
— Per-unit information is calculated by dividing
the income or loss applicable to holders of our
Partnership’s common units by the weighted average
number of units outstanding. The Partnership has no
potentially dilutive securities and, consequently, basic and
dilutive income per unit do not differ.
Principles of
Consolidation — The consolidated financial
statements include the accounts of Dorchester Minerals, L.P.,
Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma, LP, Dorchester Minerals
Oklahoma GP, Inc, Maecenas Minerals LLP, and
Dorchester-Maecenas GP LLC. Dorchester Minerals Acquisition
LP and Dorchester Minerals Acquisition GP, Inc. were merged
into Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma, LP and Dorchester Minerals
Oklahoma GP, Inc. effective December 31, 2009. All
significant intercompany balances and transactions have been
eliminated in consolidation.
Estimates
— The preparation
of financial statements in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America
requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets 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.
For example, estimates of uncollected revenues and unpaid
expenses from royalties and net profits interests in
properties operated by non-affiliated entities are
particularly subjective due to our inability to gain accurate
and timely information. Therefore, actual results could
differ from those estimates. See “Item 1. Business
— Customers and Pricing” and “Item 2.
“Properties — Royalty Properties” for
additional discussion.
The
discounted present value of our proved oil and natural gas
reserves is a major component of the ceiling calculation and
requires many subjective judgments. Estimates of reserves are
forecasts based on engineering and geological analyses.
Different reserve engineers could reach different conclusions
as to estimated quantities of oil and natural gas reserves
based on the same information. The passage of time provides
more qualitative information regarding reserve estimates, and
revisions are made to prior estimates based on updated
information. However, there can be no assurance that more
significant revisions will not be necessary in the future.
Significant downward revisions could result in an impairment
representing a non-cash charge to income. In addition to the
impact on the calculation of the ceiling test, estimates of
proved reserves are also a major component of the calculation
of depletion. See the discussion under Oil and Natural Gas
Properties.
General
Partner—Our general
partner is Dorchester Minerals Management LP, referred to in
these Notes as “our general partner.” Our general
partner owns all of the partnership interests in Dorchester
Minerals Operating LP, the operating partnership. See Note 3
—Related
Party Transactions. The general partner is allocated 4% and
1% of our Royalty Properties’ revenues and NPI
revenues, respectively. Our executive officers all own an
interest in our general partner and receive no compensation
for services provided as officers of our Partnership.
Cash and Cash
Equivalents—Our principal
banking relationships are with major financial institutions.
Cash balances in these accounts may, at times, exceed
federally insured limits. We have not experienced any losses
in such cash accounts and do not believe we are exposed to
any significant risk on cash and cash equivalents. Short term
investments with a maturity of three months or less are
considered to be cash equivalents and are carried at cost,
which approximates fair value. Other income includes interest
earned on short term investments of $200, $1,000, and $14,000
in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.
Concentration of
Credit Risks—Our Partnership,
as a royalty owner, has no control over the volumes or method
of sale of oil and natural gas produced and sold from the
Royalty Properties. It is believed that the loss of any
single customer would not have a material adverse effect on
the consolidated results of our operations.
Fair Value of
Financial Instruments—The carrying amount of
cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables
approximates fair value because of the short maturity of
those instruments. These estimated fair values may not be
representative of actual values of the financial instruments
that could have been realized as of year-end or that will be
realized in the future.
Trade
Receivables—Our Partnership’s
trade receivables consist primarily of Royalty Properties
payments receivable and NPI payments receivable. Most
payments are received two to four months after production
date. No allowance for doubtful accounts is deemed necessary
based upon our history of collection and review of current
receivables.
Oil
and
Natural
Gas Properties —
We utilize the full cost method of accounting for costs
related to our oil and natural gas properties. Under this
method, all such costs are capitalized and amortized on an
aggregate basis over the estimated lives of the properties
using the units-of-production method. These capitalized
costs are subject to a ceiling test, however, which limits
such pooled costs to the aggregate of the present value of
future net revenues attributable to proved oil and natural
gas reserves discounted at 10% plus the lower of cost or
market value of unproved properties. Our Partnership did
not assign any value to unproved properties, including
nonproducing royalty, mineral and leasehold interests. The
full cost ceiling is evaluated at the end of each quarter
and when events indicate possible
impairment. There have been no impairments for
the years 2011, 2010, and 2009.
While
the quantities of proved reserves require substantial
judgment, the associated prices of oil and natural gas
reserves that are included in the discounted present value
of our reserves are objectively determined. The ceiling
test calculation requires use of the unweighted arithmetic
average of the first day of the month price during the
12-month period ending on the balance sheet date and costs
in effect as of the last day of the accounting period,
which are generally held constant for the life of the
properties. As a result, the present value is not
necessarily an indication of the fair value of the
reserves. Oil and natural gas prices have historically been
volatile, and the prevailing prices at any given time may
not reflect our Partnership’s or the industry’s
forecast of future prices.
Our
Partnership’s properties are being depleted on the
unit-of-production method using estimates of proved oil and
natural gas reserves. Gains and losses are recognized upon
the disposition of oil and natural gas properties involving a
significant portion (greater than 25%) of our
Partnership’s reserves. Proceeds from other
dispositions of oil and natural gas properties are credited
to the full cost pool. No gains or losses have been recorded
for 2011, 2010 or 2009.
Due
to the nature of our interests, we have no exploratory wells
or associated costs pending determination, and no exploratory
well costs were charged to expense for the years 2011, 2010
and 2009.
Leasehold
Improvements —
Leasehold improvements include $415,000 received in 2004 as
an incentive in our office space lease and is offset in
liabilities as deferred rent. Leasehold improvements are
amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or
the related lease life of 10 years. For leases with renewal
periods at the Partnership’s option, we have used the
original lease term, excluding renewal option periods to
determine useful life. Deferred rent incentive is being
amortized to general and administrative expense over the same
term as the leasehold improvements, which is 10 years.
Asset Retirement
Obligations — Based on the nature of our
property ownership, we have no material obligation required
to be recorded.
Revenue
Recognition — The pricing
of oil and natural gas sales from the Royalty Properties is
primarily determined by supply and demand in the marketplace
and can fluctuate considerably. As a royalty owner, we have
extremely limited involvement and operational control over
the volumes and method of sale of oil and natural gas
produced and sold from the Royalty Properties.
Revenues
from Royalty Properties and NPIs are recorded under the cash
receipts approach as directly received from the
remitters’ statement accompanying the revenue check.
Since the revenue checks are generally received two to four
months after the production month, the Partnership accrues
for revenue earned but not received by estimating production
volumes and product prices.
Income
Taxes —
We are treated as a
partnership for income tax purposes and, as a result, our
income or loss is includable in the tax returns of the
individual unitholders. Unitholders should consult tax
advisors concerning their own tax situations. Depletion of
oil and natural gas properties is an expense allowable to
each individual partner, and the depletion expense as
reported on the consolidated financial statements will not be
indicative of the depletion expense an individual partner or
unitholder may be able to deduct for income tax
purposes.
Texas
imposes a franchise tax (commonly referred to as the Texas
margin tax) at a rate of 1% on gross revenues less certain
deductions, as specifically set forth in the Texas margin tax
statute. The Texas margin tax applies to corporations and
limited liability companies, general and limited partnerships
(unless otherwise exempt), limited liability partnerships,
trusts (unless otherwise exempt), business trusts, business
associations, professional associations, joint stock
companies, holding companies, joint ventures and certain
other business entities having limited liability
protection.
Limited
partnerships that receive at least 90% of their gross income
from designated passive sources, including royalties from
mineral properties and other non-operated mineral interest
income, and do not receive more than 10% of their income from
operating an active trade or business, are generally exempt
from the Texas margin tax as “passive
entities.” We believe our Partnership meets
the requirements for being considered a “passive
entity” for Texas margin tax purposes and, therefore,
it is exempt from the Texas
margin
tax. If the Partnership is exempt from Texas margin tax as a
passive entity, each unitholder that is considered a taxable
entity under the Texas margin tax would generally be required
to include its portion of Partnership revenues in its own
Texas margin tax computation. The Texas Administrative Code
provides such income is sourced according to the principal
place of business of the Partnership, which would be the
state of Texas.
Each
unitholder is urged to consult an independent tax advisor
regarding the requirements for filing state income, franchise
and Texas margin tax returns.
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for the organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure, and significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. May be provided in more than one note to the financial statements, as long as users are provided with an understanding of (1) the significant judgments and assumptions made by an enterprise in determining whether it must consolidate a VIE and/or disclose information about its involvement with a VIE, (2) the nature of restrictions on a consolidated VIE's assets reported by an enterprise in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets, (3) the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with an enterprise's involvement with the VIE, and (4) how an enterprise's involvement with the VIE affects the enterprise's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Describes procedure if disclosures are provided in more than one note to the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 2. Acquisition for Units
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Acquisition For Units |
We
have an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-4
registering 5,000,000 common units that may be offered and
issued by the Partnership from time to time in connection
with asset acquisitions or other business combination
transactions. On March 31, 2010, Dorchester Minerals, LP and
a newly formed subsidiary acquired all of the outstanding
partnership interests in Maecenas Minerals, LLP, a Texas
limited liability partnership that owns producing and
nonproducing mineral and royalty interests located in 17
states, in exchange for 835,000 common units of Dorchester
Minerals, L.P. valued at $17,685,000 and issued pursuant to
the shelf registration statement. The Consolidated
Balance Sheets presented include $17,121,000 in property
additions as well as other assets and liabilities
acquired. After the issuance, 2,565,000 units
remain available under the shelf registration
statement.
On
June 30, 2009, we acquired producing and non-producing
Barnett Shale mineral and royalty interests located in
Tarrant County, Texas for 1,600,000 common units of
Dorchester Minerals, L.P. issued pursuant to the shelf
registration statement. Net assets acquired at the date of
acquisition totaled $36,496,000. The balance sheets presented
include $35,245,000 in property additions.
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- Definition
Disclosure of the acquisition of assets for units of limited partnership interest incurred for the year. No definition available.
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Note 3. Related Party Transactions
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] |
Our
general partner owns all of the partnership interests in the
operating partnership. It is the employer of all personnel,
owns the working interests and other properties underlying
our NPIs, and provides day-to-day operational and
administrative services to us and the general partner. In
accordance with our partnership agreement, we reimburse the
general partner for certain allocable general and
administrative costs, including rent, salaries, and employee
benefit plans. These types of reimbursements are limited to
5% of distributions, plus certain costs previously paid. All
such costs have been below the 5% limit amount. Additionally,
certain reimbursable direct costs such as professional and
regulatory fees and ad valorem and severance taxes are not
limited. Significant activity between the partnership and the
operating partnership consists of the following:
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for related party transactions, including the nature of the relationship(s), a description of the transactions, the amount of the transactions, the effects of any change in the method of establishing the terms of the transaction from the previous period, stated interest rate, expiration date, terms and manner of settlement per the agreement with the related party, and amounts due to or from related parties. If the entity and one or more other entities are under common ownership or management control and this control affects the operating results or financial position, disclosure includes the nature of the control relationship even if there are no transactions between the entities. Disclosure may also include the aggregate amount of current and deferred tax expense for each statement of earnings presented where the entity is a member of a group that files a consolidated tax return, the amount of any tax related balances due to or from affiliates as of the date of each statement of financial position presented, the principal provisions of the method by which the consolidated amount of current and deferred tax expense is allocated to the members of the group and the nature and effect of any changes in that method. Examples of related party transactions include transactions between (a) a parent company and its subsidiary; (b) subsidiaries of a common parent; (c) and entity and its principal owners; and (d) affiliates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 4. Commitments and Contingencies
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] |
In
January 2002, some individuals and an association called
Rural Residents for Natural Gas Rights sued Dorchester
Hugoton, Ltd., along with several other operators in Texas
County, Oklahoma regarding the use of natural gas from the
wells in residences. The operating partnership now owns and
operates the properties formerly owned by Dorchester Hugoton.
These properties contribute a significant portion of the NPI
amounts paid to us. On April 9, 2007, plaintiffs, for
immaterial costs, dismissed with prejudice all claims against
the operating partnership regarding such residential gas use.
On October 4, 2004, the plaintiffs filed severed claims
against the operating partnership regarding royalty
underpayments, which the Texas County District Court
subsequently dismissed with a grant of time to replead. On
January 27, 2006, one of the original plaintiffs again sued
the operating partnership for underpayment of royalty,
seeking class action certification. On October 1, 2007, the
Texas County District Court granted the operating
partnership’s motion for summary judgment finding no
royalty underpayments. Subsequently, the District Court
denied the plaintiff’s motion for reconsideration, and
the plaintiff filed an appeal. On March 31, 2010, the appeal
decision reversed and remanded to the Texas County District
Court to resolve material issues of fact. On June
30, 2011, the District Court issued a revised partial summary
judgment in favor of the operating partnership. A
claim of underpayment of royalty remains pending. An adverse
decision could reduce amounts we receive from the
NPIs.
Our
Partnership and the operating partnership are involved in
other legal and/or administrative proceedings arising in the
ordinary course of their businesses, none of which have
predictable outcomes and none of which are believed to have
any significant effect on consolidated financial position,
cash flows, or operating results.
Operating
Leases—We have
entered into a non-cancelable, renewable at prevailing rate
for an additional five years, operating lease agreement in
the ordinary course of our business activities. The lease is
for our office space at 3838 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 300,
Dallas, Texas, and expires in 2015. Rental expense related to
the lease, including operating expenses and consumption of
electricity, was $233,000, $226,000, and $217,000 for the
years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
The base rent escalated in November 2010. Minimum rental
commitments under the terms of our operating lease are as
follows:
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 5. Distribution To Holders Of Common Units
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] |
Unitholder
cash distributions per common unit have been:
Distributions
beginning with the first quarter of 2010 were paid on
30,675,431 units; distributions from the second quarter of
2009 through the fourth quarter of 2009 were paid on
29,840,431 units; previous distributions above were paid on
28,240,431 units. Fourth quarter distributions are paid in
February of the following calendar year to unitholders of
record in January or February of such following year. The
partnership agreement requires the next cash distribution to
be paid by May 15, 2012.
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for the formation, structure, control and ownership of the partnership. Disclosures related to accounts comprising partners' capital. Includes balances of general partners' capital account, limited partners' capital account, preferred partners' capital account and total partners' capital account and units outstanding; accumulated other comprehensive income; amount and nature of changes to amount of partner's capital and units outstanding by class, rights and privileges for each class of units; distribution policies and distributions paid by unit class; impact of and correction of an error in previously issued financial statements; limitations of partners' liability; redemption, conversion and distribution policies; and deferred compensation related to the issuance of units. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 6. Unaudited Oil and Natural Gas Reserve and Standardized Measure Information
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Proved Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities Disclosure [Text Block] |
The
NPIs represent net profits overriding royalty interests in
various properties owned by the operating partnership. The
Royalty Properties consist of producing and nonproducing
mineral, royalty, overriding royalty, net profits, and
leasehold interests located in 574 counties and parishes in
25 states. Amounts set forth herein attributable to the NPIs
reflect our 96.97% net share. The estimated quantities at the
end of 2011 include for the first time 96.97% of the Minerals
NPI reserves shown in “Item 2 –Properties __
Net Profits Interest. Although new discoveries have occurred
on certain of the Royalty Properties, based on engineering
studies available to date, no events have occurred since
December 31, 2011 that would have a material effect
on our estimated proved developed reserves.
In
accordance with FASB ASC 932 and Securities and Exchange
Commission rules and regulations, the following information
is presented with regard to the Royalty Properties and NPIs
oil and natural gas reserves, all of which are proved,
developed and located in the United States. These rules
require inclusion as a supplement to the basic financial
statements a standardized measure of discounted future net
cash flows relating to proved oil and natural gas reserves.
The standardized measure, in management's opinion, should be
examined with caution. The basis for these disclosures is
petroleum engineers’ reserve studies which contain
imprecise estimates of quantities and rates of production of
reserves. Revision of prior year estimates can have a
significant impact on the results. Also, exploration and
production improvement costs in one year may significantly
change previous estimates of proved reserves and their
valuation. Values of unproved properties and anticipated
future price and cost increases or decreases are not
considered. Therefore, the standardized measure is not
necessarily a best estimate of the fair value of oil and
natural gas properties or of future net cash flows.
The
following summaries of changes in reserves and standardized
measure of discounted future net cash flows were prepared
from estimates of proved reserves. The production volumes and
reserve volumes included for properties formerly owned by
Dorchester Hugoton are wellhead volumes, which differ from
sales volumes shown in “Item 7. — Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations” because of fuel, shrinkage and pipeline
loss. The Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash
Flows reflects adjustments for such fuel, shrinkage and
pipeline loss.
Standardized
Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows
(Dollars
in Thousands Except Where Noted)
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for proved oil and gas reserved quantities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 7. Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] |
Quarterly
financial data for the last two years (in thousands except
per unit data) is summarized as follows:
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- Definition
The entire disclosure for the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure may include a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income or loss before extraordinary items and earnings per share data. It also includes an indication if the information in the note is unaudited, comments on the aggregate effect of year-end adjustments, and an explanation of matters or transactions that affect comparability or are pertinent to an understanding of the information furnished. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)
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12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Basis of Presentation - Per-unit information is calculated by dividing the income or loss applicable to holders of our Partnership's common units by the weighted average number of units outstanding. The Partnership has no potentially dilutive securities and, consequently, basic and dilutive income per unit do not differ. |
| Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Principles of Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Dorchester Minerals, L.P., Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma, LP, Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma GP, Inc, Maecenas Minerals LLP, and Dorchester-Maecenas GP LLC. Dorchester Minerals Acquisition LP and Dorchester Minerals Acquisition GP, Inc. were merged into Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma, LP and Dorchester Minerals Oklahoma GP, Inc. effective December 31, 2009. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. |
| Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets 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. For example, estimates of uncollected revenues and unpaid expenses from royalties and net profits interests in properties operated by non-affiliated entities are particularly subjective due to our inability to gain accurate and timely information. Therefore, actual results could differ from those estimates. See "Item 1. Business - Customers and Pricing" and "Item 2. "Properties - Royalty Properties" for additional discussion. The discounted present value of our proved oil and natural gas reserves is a major component of the ceiling calculation and requires many subjective judgments. Estimates of reserves are forecasts based on engineering and geological analyses. Different reserve engineers could reach different conclusions as to estimated quantities of oil and natural gas reserves based on the same information. The passage of time provides more qualitative information regarding reserve estimates, and revisions are made to prior estimates based on updated information. However, there can be no assurance that more significant revisions will not be necessary in the future. Significant downward revisions could result in an impairment representing a non-cash charge to income. In addition to the impact on the calculation of the ceiling test, estimates of proved reserves are also a major component of the calculation of depletion. See the discussion under Oil and Natural Gas Properties . |
| General Partner [Policy Text Block] | General Partner- Our general partner is Dorchester Minerals Management LP, referred to in these Notes as "our general partner." Our general partner owns all of the partnership interests in Dorchester Minerals Operating LP, the operating partnership. See Note 3 - Related Party Transactions. The general partner is allocated 4% and 1% of our Royalty Properties' revenues and NPI revenues, respectively. Our executive officers all own an interest in our general partner and receive no compensation for services provided as officers of our Partnership. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Cash and Cash Equivalents- Our principal banking relationships are with major financial institutions. Cash balances in these accounts may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. We have not experienced any losses in such cash accounts and do not believe we are exposed to any significant risk on cash and cash equivalents. Short term investments with a maturity of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents and are carried at cost, which approximates fair value. Other income includes interest earned on short term investments of $200, $1,000, and $14,000 in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively. |
| Concentration of Customer Risk [Policy Text Block] | Concentration of Credit Risks- Our Partnership, as a royalty owner, has no control over the volumes or method of sale of oil and natural gas produced and sold from the Royalty Properties. It is believed that the loss of any single customer would not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated results of our operations. |
| Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Fair Value of Financial Instruments- The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables approximates fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments. These estimated fair values may not be representative of actual values of the financial instruments that could have been realized as of year-end or that will be realized in the future. |
| Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Trade Receivables- Our Partnership's trade receivables consist primarily of Royalty Properties payments receivable and NPI payments receivable. Most payments are received two to four months after production date. No allowance for doubtful accounts is deemed necessary based upon our history of collection and review of current receivables. |
| Full Cost or Successful Efforts, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Oil and Natural Gas Properties - We utilize the full cost method of accounting for costs related to our oil and natural gas properties. Under this method, all such costs are capitalized and amortized on an aggregate basis over the estimated lives of the properties using the units-of-production method. These capitalized costs are subject to a ceiling test, however, which limits such pooled costs to the aggregate of the present value of future net revenues attributable to proved oil and natural gas reserves discounted at 10% plus the lower of cost or market value of unproved properties. Our Partnership did not assign any value to unproved properties, including nonproducing royalty, mineral and leasehold interests. The full cost ceiling is evaluated at the end of each quarter and when events indicate possible impairment.There have been no impairments for the years 2011, 2010, and 2009. While the quantities of proved reserves require substantial judgment, the associated prices of oil and natural gas reserves that are included in the discounted present value of our reserves are objectively determined. The ceiling test calculation requires use of the unweighted arithmetic average of the first day of the month price during the 12-month period ending on the balance sheet date and costs in effect as of the last day of the accounting period, which are generally held constant for the life of the properties. As a result, the present value is not necessarily an indication of the fair value of the reserves. Oil and natural gas prices have historically been volatile, and the prevailing prices at any given time may not reflect our Partnership's or the industry's forecast of future prices. Our Partnership's properties are being depleted on the unit-of-production method using estimates of proved oil and natural gas reserves. Gains and losses are recognized upon the disposition of oil and natural gas properties involving a significant portion (greater than 25%) of our Partnership's reserves. Proceeds from other dispositions of oil and natural gas properties are credited to the full cost pool. No gains or losses have been recorded for 2011, 2010 or 2009. Due to the nature of our interests, we have no exploratory wells or associated costs pending determination, and no exploratory well costs were charged to expense for the years 2011, 2010 and 2009. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Leasehold Improvements - Leasehold improvements include $415,000 received in 2004 as an incentive in our office space lease and is offset in liabilities as deferred rent. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the related lease life of 10 years. For leases with renewal periods at the Partnership's option, we have used the original lease term, excluding renewal option periods to determine useful life. Deferred rent incentive is being amortized to general and administrative expense over the same term as the leasehold improvements, which is 10 years. |
| Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Asset Retirement Obligations - Based on the nature of our property ownership, we have no material obligation required to be recorded. |
| Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Revenue Recognition - The pricing of oil and natural gas sales from the Royalty Properties is primarily determined by supply and demand in the marketplace and can fluctuate considerably. As a royalty owner, we have extremely limited involvement and operational control over the volumes and method of sale of oil and natural gas produced and sold from the Royalty Properties. Revenues from Royalty Properties and NPIs are recorded under the cash receipts approach as directly received from the remitters' statement accompanying the revenue check. Since the revenue checks are generally received two to four months after the production month, the Partnership accrues for revenue earned but not received by estimating production volumes and product prices. |
| Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Income Taxes - We are treated as a partnership for income tax purposes and, as a result, our income or loss is includable in the tax returns of the individual unitholders. Unitholders should consult tax advisors concerning their own tax situations. Depletion of oil and natural gas properties is an expense allowable to each individual partner, and the depletion expense as reported on the consolidated financial statements will not be indicative of the depletion expense an individual partner or unitholder may be able to deduct for income tax purposes. Texas imposes a franchise tax (commonly referred to as the Texas margin tax) at a rate of 1% on gross revenues less certain deductions, as specifically set forth in the Texas margin tax statute. The Texas margin tax applies to corporations and limited liability companies, general and limited partnerships (unless otherwise exempt), limited liability partnerships, trusts (unless otherwise exempt), business trusts, business associations, professional associations, joint stock companies, holding companies, joint ventures and certain other business entities having limited liability protection. Limited partnerships that receive at least 90% of their gross income from designated passive sources, including royalties from mineral properties and other non-operated mineral interest income, and do not receive more than 10% of their income from operating an active trade or business, are generally exempt from the Texas margin tax as "passive entities."We believe our Partnership meets the requirements for being considered a "passive entity" for Texas margin tax purposes and, therefore, it is exempt from the Texas margin tax. If the Partnership is exempt from Texas margin tax as a passive entity, each unitholder that is considered a taxable entity under the Texas margin tax would generally be required to include its portion of Partnership revenues in its own Texas margin tax computation. The Texas Administrative Code provides such income is sourced according to the principal place of business of the Partnership, which would be the state of Texas. Each unitholder is urged to consult an independent tax advisor regarding the requirements for filing state income, franchise and Texas margin tax returns. |
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- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining amounts to accrue and charge against earnings so as to satisfy legal obligations associated with the retirement (through sale, abandonment, recycling, or disposal in some other manner) of a tangible long-lived asset that result from the acquisition, construction, or development and (or) the normal operation of a long-lived asset. This accounting policy disclosure excludes obligations arising 1) in connection with leased property, whether imposed by a lease agreement or by a party other than the lessor, that meet the definition of either minimum lease payments or contingent rentals; 2) solely from a plan to sell or otherwise dispose of a long-lived asset and 3) from certain environmental remediation liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for cash and cash equivalents, including the policy for determining which items are treated as cash equivalents. Other information that may be disclosed includes (1) the nature of any restrictions on the entity's use of its cash and cash equivalents, (2) whether the entity's cash and cash equivalents are insured or expose the entity to credit risk, (3) the classification of any negative balance accounts (overdrafts), and (4) the carrying basis of cash equivalents (for example, at cost) and whether the carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy regarding (1) the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements and (2) its treatment of interests (for example, common stock, a partnership interest or other means of exerting influence) in other entities, for example consolidation or use of the equity or cost methods of accounting. The accounting policy may also address the accounting treatment for intercompany accounts and transactions, noncontrolling interest, and the income statement treatment in consolidation for issuances of stock by a subsidiary. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for computing basic and diluted earnings or loss per share for each class of common stock and participating security. Addresses all significant policy factors, including any antidilutive items that have been excluded from the computation and takes into account stock dividends, splits and reverse splits that occur after the balance sheet date of the latest reporting period but before the issuance of the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for determining the fair value of financial instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for accounting for costs incurred in oil and gas activities. This policy addresses whether an entity uses the successful efforts method or full cost method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for income taxes, which may include its accounting policies for recognizing and measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities and related valuation allowances, recognizing investment tax credits, operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards, and other carryforwards, methodologies for determining its effective income tax rate and the characterization of interest and penalties in the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for property, plant and equipment which may include the basis of such assets, depreciation methods used and estimated useful lives, the entity's capitalization policy, including its accounting treatment for costs incurred for repairs and maintenance activities, whether such asset balances include capitalized interest and the method by which such is calculated, how disposals of such assets are accounted for and how impairment of such assets is assessed and recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition. If the entity has different policies for different types of revenue transactions, the policy for each material type of transaction is generally disclosed. If a sales transaction has multiple element arrangements (for example, delivery of multiple products, services or the rights to use assets) the disclosure may indicate the accounting policy for each unit of accounting as well as how units of accounting are determined and valued. The disclosure may encompass important judgment as to appropriateness of principles related to recognition of revenue. The disclosure also may indicate the entity's treatment of any unearned or deferred revenue that arises from the transaction. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for trade and other accounts receivables. This disclosure may include the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (for example, net realizable value), how the entity determines the level of its allowance for doubtful accounts, when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized, and the entity's income recognition policies for such receivables, including its treatment of related fees and costs, its treatment of premiums, discounts or unearned income, when accrual of interest is discontinued, how the entity records payments received on nonaccrual receivables and its policy for resuming accrual of interest on such receivables. If the enterprise holds a large number of similar loans, disclosure may include the accounting policy for the anticipation of prepayments and significant assumptions underlying prepayment estimates for amortization of premiums, discounts, and nonrefundable fees and costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Disclosure of accounting policy for the use of estimates in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 3. Related Party Transactions (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
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Note 4. Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of a lessee's leasing arrangements including: (1) the basis on which contingent rental payments are determined, (2) the existence and terms of renewal or purchase options and escalation clauses, (3) restrictions imposed by lease arrangements, such as those concerning dividends, additional debt, and further leasing, (4) rent holidays, rent concessions, or leasehold improvement incentives and unusual provisions or conditions. Disclosure may also include the specific period used to amortize material leasehold improvements made at the inception of the lease or during the lease term. Additionally, for operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year: (a) future minimum rental payments required as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) the total of minimum rentals to be received in the future under noncancelable subleases as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, and (c) for all operating leases, rental expense for each period for which an income statement is presented, with separate amounts for minimum rentals, contingent rentals, and sublease rentals. Rental payments under leases with terms of a month or less that were not renewed need not be included. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 5. Distribution To Holders Of Common Units (Tables)
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12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Schedule of Distributions Made to Members or Limited Partners, by Distribution [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of payments of cash or stock or units made to members or limited partners of the LLC or LP during an accounting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 6. Unaudited Oil and Natural Gas Reserve and Standardized Measure Information (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Schedule of Proved Developed and Undeveloped Oil and Gas Reserve Quantities [Table Text Block] |
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| Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Cash Flows Relating to Proved Reserves Disclosure [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the net quantities of an enterprise's interests in proved developed and undeveloped reserves of (a) crude oil (including condensate and natural gas liquids), (b) natural gas (including coal bed methane), (c) synthetic oil, (d) synthetic gas, and (e) other nonrenewable natural resources that are intended to be upgraded during the period as of the beginning of the period, changes in quantities during the period, and as of the end of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas reserves and oil and gas subject to purchase under long-term agreements in which the enterprise participates in the operation of the properties on which the oil and gas is located or otherwise serves as the producer. This information is presented in aggregate and for each geographic area for which reserve quantities are disclosed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 7. Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure includes financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income (loss) before extraordinary items and cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle and earnings per share data. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 1. General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Detail) (USD $)
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12 Months Ended | ||
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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Dec. 31, 2009
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| Number of States in which Entity Operates | 25 | ||
| Investment Income, Interest | $ 200 | $ 1,000 | $ 14,000 |
| Incentive from Lessor | $ 415,000 | ||
| Texas Franchise Tax Rate | 1.00% | ||
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Royalty Revenue [Member]
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| Revenue Allocated To General Partner | 4.00% | ||
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Improvments To Leasehold [Member]
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| Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life | 10 | ||
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Deferred Rent Incentive [Member]
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| Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life | 10 | ||
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NPI Revenues [Member]
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| Revenue Allocated To General Partner 1 | 1.00% | ||
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- Definition
Portion of net revenue, other than NPI income, allocated to general partner after adjustment for depletion expense. No definition available.
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- Definition
Portion of NPI income allocated to general partner after adjustment for depletion expense. No definition available.
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- Definition
Texas Franchise Tax Rate as specifically set forth in the Texas margin tax statute. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The useful life of all finite-lived intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This item represents the deferred credit for an incentive or inducement received by a lessee from a lessor, in order to motivate the lessee to enter the lease agreement, which incentive or inducement is to be recognized as a reduction of rental expense over the lease term. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Income derived from investments in debt securities and on cash and cash equivalents the earnings of which reflect the time value of money or transactions in which the payments are for the use or forbearance of money. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The number of states the entity operates in as of the balance sheet date. No definition available.
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Note 2. Acquisition for Units (Detail) (USD $)
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3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Mar. 31, 2010
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Jun. 30, 2009
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Dec. 31, 2010
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Dec. 31, 2009
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Dec. 31, 2011
Units Remaining [Member]
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May 21, 2005
Units Remaining [Member]
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| Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Authorized | 2,565,000 | 5,000,000 | ||||
| Partners' Capital Account, Units, Acquisitions | 835,000 | 1,600,000 | ||||
| Partners' Capital Account, Acquisitions (in Dollars) | $ 17,685,000 | $ 36,496,000 | $ 17,685,000 | $ 36,496,000 | ||
| Capitalized Costs, Mineral Interests in Proved Properties (in Dollars) | $ 17,121,000 | $ 35,245,000 | ||||
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- Definition
Capitalized costs of proved properties that include fee ownership or a lease, concession, or other interest representing the right to extract oil or gas subject to such terms as may be imposed by the conveyance of that interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
The number of limited partner units authorized to be issued. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Change in the different classes of partners' capital accounts during the year due to acquisitions. Partners include general, limited and preferred partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Change in the number of units for each class of partners' capital accounts during the year due to acquisitions. Partners include general, limited and preferred partners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Note 3. Related Party Transactions (Detail)
|
12 Months Ended |
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| General And Administrative Reimbursement Limitations | 5.00% |
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- Definition
General partner reimbursement limitations for certain allocable general and administrative costs, including rent, salaries, and employee benefit plans. No definition available.
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Note 3. Related Party Transactions (Detail) - Significant Activity Between the Partnership and the Operating Partnership (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Dec. 31, 2010
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Dec. 31, 2009
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| Total General & Administrative Amounts | $ 2,616 | $ 2,473 | $ 2,448 | |||||
| Interest Income related to Net Profits Interests Payments | 0 | 2 | 3 | |||||
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Net Profits Interests Payments Receivable or Accrued [Member]
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| From/To Operating Partnership | 7,616 | [1] | 3,651 | [1] | 3,703 | [1] | ||
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General and Administrative Amounts Payable [Member]
|
||||||||
| From/To Operating Partnership | 103 | 121 | 34 | |||||
|
General and Administrative Amounts Accrued [Member]
|
||||||||
| From/To Operating Partnership | $ 67 | $ 45 | $ 33 | |||||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Receivables to be collected from (obligations owed to) related parties, net as of the balance sheet date where one party can exercise control or significant influence over another party; including affiliates, owners or officers and their immediate families, pension trusts, and so forth. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 4. Commitments and Contingencies (Detail) (USD $)
|
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Description of Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases | We have entered into a non-cancelable, renewable at prevailing rate for an additional five years, operating lease agreement in the ordinary course of our business activities. The lease is for our office space at 3838 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 300, Dallas, Texas, and expires in 2015. | ||
| Operating Leases, Rent Expense | $ 233,000 | $ 226,000 | $ 217,000 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
A general description of the nature of the existing leasing arrangements of a lessee for all operating leases including, but not limited to: (1) rental escalation clauses; (2) renewal or purchase options; (3) guarantees or indemnities, if any, (4) restrictions imposed by lease arrangements; (5) unusual provisions or conditions; (6) contingent rentals, if any; and (7) lease expiration dates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Rental expense incurred for leased assets including furniture and equipment which has not been recognized in costs and expenses applicable to sales and revenues; for example, cost of goods sold or other operating costs and expenses. No definition available.
|
|
Note 4. Commitments and Contingencies (Detail) - Minimum Rental Commitments Under the Terms of Operating Lease (USD $)
|
Dec. 31, 2015
|
Dec. 31, 2014
|
Dec. 31, 2013
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | $ 240,000 | |||
| 2013 | 249,000 | |||
| 2014 | 261,000 | |||
| 2015 | 65,000 | |||
| Total | $ 815,000 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The total of future contractually required payments on leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
For leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year, required rental payments due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 5. Distribution To Holders Of Common Units (Detail)
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
Mar. 31, 2009
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding | 30,675,431 | 29,840,431 | 28,240,431 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of limited partner units outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 5. Distribution To Holders Of Common Units (Detail) - Unitholder Cash Distributions Per Common Unit (USD $)
|
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
|
First Quarter [Member]
|
|||
| Cash Distribution Per Unit | $ 0.426745 | $ 0.449222 | $ 0.401205 |
|
Second Quarter [Member]
|
|||
| Cash Distribution Per Unit | $ 0.417027 | $ 0.412207 | $ 0.271354 |
|
Third Quarter [Member]
|
|||
| Cash Distribution Per Unit | $ 0.455546 | $ 0.471081 | $ 0.286968 |
|
Fourth Quarter [Member]
|
|||
| Cash Distribution Per Unit | $ 0.448553 | $ 0.354074 | $ 0.321540 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Per-share or per-unit cash distributions paid to a common shareholder or unit-holder by an LLC or LP. No definition available.
|
|
Note 6. Unaudited Oil and Natural Gas Reserve and Standardized Measure Information (Detail)
|
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Number of States in which Entity Operates | 25 |
| NPI Ownership Interest | 96.97% |
| Home Country Proved Reserves, Description | In accordance with FASB ASC 932 and Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations, the following information is presented with regard to the Royalty Properties and NPIs oil and natural gas reserves, all of which are proved, developed and located in the United States. |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Disclosure that states an entity's proved reserves of oil and gas are located entirely within its home country. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The number of states the entity operates in as of the balance sheet date. No definition available.
|
|
Note 6. Unaudited Oil and Natural Gas Reserve and Standardized Measure Information (Detail) - Summary of Changes in Proved Reserves
|
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
|
Proved Developed Producing Reserves, Oil [Member]
|
|||
| Estimated quantity, beginning of year | 3,333 | 3,277 | 3,570 |
| Purchase of minerals in place | 158 | ||
| Revisions in previous estimates | 600 | 230 | 13 |
| Production | (367) | (332) | (306) |
| Estimated quantity, end of year | 3,566 | 3,333 | 3,277 |
|
Proved Developed Producing Reserves, Natural Gas [Member]
|
|||
| Estimated quantity, beginning of year | 61,679 | 60,280 | 60,977 |
| Purchase of minerals in place | 1,163 | 5,585 | |
| Revisions in previous estimates | 15,767 | 8,993 | 2,212 |
| Production | (10,483) | (8,757) | (8,494) |
| Estimated quantity, end of year | 66,963 | 61,679 | 60,280 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net quantity of proved reserves as of the balance sheet date. Proved oil reserves are the estimated quantities of crude oil and natural gas liquids which geological and engineering data demonstrate with reasonable certainty to be recoverable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Production of proved reserves. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Purchase of minerals in place. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Revisions represent changes in previous estimates of proved reserves, either upward or downward, resulting from new information (except for an increase in proved acreage) normally obtained from development drilling and production history or resulting from change in economic factors. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 6. Unaudited Oil and Natural Gas Reserve and Standardized Measure Information (Detail) - The Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows (USD $)
|
12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
||||||
| Future estimated gross revenues | $ 537,389,000 | $ 459,365,000 | $ 333,161,000 | |||||
| Future estimated production costs | (32,874,000) | (28,433,000) | (18,488,000) | |||||
| Future estimated net revenues | 504,515,000 | 430,932,000 | 314,673,000 | |||||
| 10% annual discount for estimated timing of cash flows | (242,925,000) | (211,323,000) | (148,638,000) | |||||
| Standardized measure of discounted future estimated net cash flows | 261,590,000 | 219,609,000 | 166,035,000 | |||||
| Sales of oil and natural gas produced, net of production costs | (63,995,000) | (52,970,000) | (39,498,000) | |||||
| Purchase of reserves in place | 8,804,000 | 7,455,000 | ||||||
| Net changes in prices and production costs | 13,340,000 | 56,751,000 | (8,396,000) | |||||
| Revisions of previous quantity estimates | 67,655,000 | 27,895,000 | 4,751,000 | |||||
| Accretion of discount | 21,961,000 | 16,604,000 | 18,948,000 | |||||
| Change in production rate and other | 3,020,000 | (3,510,000) | (6,709,000) | |||||
| Net change in standardized measure of discounted future estimated net cash flows | 41,981,000 | 53,574,000 | (23,449,000) | |||||
| Depletion of oil and natural gas properties (dollars per mcfe) | 1.44 | 1.67 | 1.51 | |||||
| Property acquisition costs | 17,127,000 | 35,245,000 | ||||||
|
Crude Oil and NGL, Per Barrel [Member]
|
||||||||
| Average price | 92.31 | [1] | 75.56 | [1] | 56.37 | [1] | ||
|
Natural Gas, Per Million Cubic Feet [Member]
|
||||||||
| Average price | $ 4.00 | [1] | $ 4.16 | [1] | $ 3.24 | [1] | ||
|
||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The revenues derived from sales of oil or gas in each geographic area during the reporting period divided by the number of barrels of oil produced or thousands of cubic feet of gas produced. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
No authoritative reference available. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase in the net discounted value of the proved oil and gas reserves due only to the passage of time. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The sum of capitalized costs relating to oil and gas producing activities before accounting for accumulated depreciation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This is the amount that is derived from using a discount rate of ten percent a year to reflect the timing of the future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas reserves. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Cash proceeds expected from future sale of oil and gas from proved reserves located in this geographic region. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
These amounts are the result of subtracting future development and production costs and future income tax expenses from future cash inflows for each geographic region where proved oil and gas reserves exist. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The future cost of producing oil and gas from proved reserves located in this geographic region. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This amount is the future net cash flows less the computed discount. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in the discounted value of the proved oil and gas reserves due to financial transactions where new reserves were purchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) in sales and transfer prices and in production (lifting) costs related to future production. The effects of changes in prices and costs are computed before the effects of changes in quantities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Any changes made during the period to the evaluation or calculation of the estimated quantity of oil or gas in proved reserves. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of sales or transfers of oil gas that was previously included in proved oil and gas reserves. This amount is net of production costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Changes in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved oil and gas reserves that are not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) as a result of changes in the elements used to estimate the discounted future net cash flow relating to proved oil and gas reserves. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
Note 7. Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Detail) - Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Sep. 30, 2011
|
Jun. 30, 2011
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Sep. 30, 2010
|
Jun. 30, 2010
|
Mar. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Total operating revenues | $ 20,440 | $ 18,326 | $ 16,434 | $ 14,289 | $ 14,832 | $ 16,467 | $ 14,256 | $ 15,539 | $ 69,489 | $ 61,094 | $ 43,631 |
| Net income | $ 13,199 | $ 11,506 | $ 9,770 | $ 7,740 | $ 8,489 | $ 9,536 | $ 7,932 | $ 8,926 | $ 42,215 | $ 34,883 | $ 21,681 |
| Net income per Unit (basic and diluted) (in Dollars per share) | $ 0.42 | $ 0.36 | $ 0.31 | $ 0.24 | $ 0.27 | $ 0.30 | $ 0.25 | $ 0.29 | $ 1.33 | $ 1.11 | $ 0.72 |
| Weighted average common units outstanding (in Shares) | 30,675 | 30,675 | 30,675 | 30,675 | 30,675 | 30,675 | 30,675 | 29,849 | 30,675 | 30,469 | 29,044 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of net income or loss for the period per each limited partnership unit in instances when basic and diluted earnings per unit are the same amount and aggregated on the face of the financial statements. Basic earnings per unit is the amount of net income or loss for the period per unit outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per unit includes the amount of net income or loss for the period available to each limited partnership unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of units for all dilutive potential units outstanding during the reporting period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The average number of limited partnership units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per limited partnership unit. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate revenue during the period related to oil and gas business activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|