Edgar Filing: US ENERGY CORP

form10_q.htm

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x	Quarterly report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
	For the quarter ended March 31, 2012 or

o	Transition report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
	For the transition period from ___________ to ____________

Commission File Number: 0-6814

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Wyoming		83-0205516
(State or other jurisdiction of		(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)		Identification No.)

877 North 8th West, Riverton, WY		82501
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:		(307) 856-9271

Not Applicable

(Former name, address and fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Company was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES x NO o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

YES x NO o

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES o NO x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

At May 09, 2012 there were issued and outstanding 27,460,978 shares of the Company’s common stock, $0.01 par value.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP. and SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX

		Page No.
PART I.	FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.	Financial Statements.

	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2012 (unaudited) and December 31, 2011 (unaudited)	4-5

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)	6-7

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Loss for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)	8

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)	9-10

	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)	11-23

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	24-35

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	35-36

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	37

PART II.	OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	37

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	37

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	37

Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	37

Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	38

Item 5.	Other Information	38

Item 6.	Exhibits	38

	Signatures	39

	Certifications	See Exhibits

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. Financial Statements

U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
ASSETS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except shares)

	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	7,784	$	12,874
Available for sale securities		179		166
Accounts receivable
Trade		4,751		5,496
Income taxes		9		113
Commodity risk management asset		101		3
Assets held for sale		18,075		18,132
Other current assets		282		352
Total current assets		31,181		37,136

Investment		2,563		2,623

Properties and equipment
Oil & gas properties under full cost method,
net of $32,202 and $28,561 accumulated
depletion, depreciation and amortization		82,856		90,942
Undeveloped mining claims		20,739		20,739
Property, plant and equipment, net		9,031		9,196
Net properties and equipment		112,626		120,877

Other assets		1,851		1,803
Total assets	$	148,221	$	162,439

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except shares)

	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	7,892	$	9,370
Accrued compensation		343		501
Commodity risk management liability		758		601
Current portion of debt		200		200
Liabilities held for sale		10,147		10,241
Other current liabilities		24		24
Total current liabilities		19,364		20,937

Long-term debt, net of current portion		200		12,200

Deferred tax liability		744		1,189

Asset retirement obligations		564		510

Other accrued liabilities		809		822

Commitment and contigencies

Shareholders' equity
Common stock, $.01 par value; unlimited shares
authorized; 27,445,978 and 27,409,908
shares issued, respectively		274		274
Additional paid-in capital		122,645		122,523
Accumulated surplus		3,525		3,906
Unrealized gain on marketable securities		96		78
Total shareholders' equity		126,540		126,781
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	148,221	$	162,439

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands except per share data)

	Three months ended March 31,
	2012			2011
Oil, gas, and NGL production revenues:	$	8,335		$	6,679

Operating expenses:
Oil and gas		2,893			4,079
Oil and gas depreciation, depletion and amortization		3,641			2,785
Water treatment plant		509			429
Mineral holding costs		110			43
General and administrative		1,894			2,411
		9,047			9,747
Loss from operations		(712	)		(3,068	)
Other income and expenses:
Realized loss on risk management activities		(143	)		(555	)
Unrealized loss on risk management activities		(59	)		(1,241	)
Gain on the sale of assets		10			--
Equity loss in unconsolidated investment		(60	)		(64	)
Gain on sale of marketable securities		47			--
Miscellaneous income and (expenses)		118			(1	)
Interest income		5			20
Interest expense		(39	)		(23	)
		(121	)		(1,864	)
Loss before income taxes and discontinued operations		(833	)		(4,932	)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

-6-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands except per share data)

	Three months ended March 31,
	2012			2011
Income taxes:
Current benefit from (provision for)		(104	)		--
Deferred benefit from (provision for)		492			2,594
		388			2,594

Loss from continuing operations		(445	)		(2,338	)

Discontinued operations:
Discontinued operations, net of taxes		64			129
		64			129
Net loss	$	(381	)	$	(2,209	)

Net loss per share basic and diluted
Loss from continuing operations	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.08	)
Income from discontinued operations		--			--
Net loss	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.08	)

Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic and Diluted		27,438,584			27,186,438

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

	Three months ended March 31,
	2012			2011
Net loss	$	(381	)	$	(2,209	)

Other comprehensive income (loss):
Marketable securities, net of tax		18			(9	)
Total comprehensive loss		(363	)		(2,218	)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

-8-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
	(In thousands)
	For the three months ended March 31,
	2012			2011
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$	(381	)	$	(2,209	)
(Gain) from discontinued operations		(64	)		(129	)
Loss from continuing operations		(445	)		(2,338	)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to
net cash provided by operations
Depreciation, depletion & amortization		3,798			2,937
Change in fair value of commodity price
risk management activities, net		59			1,241
Accretion of discount on treasury investment		--			(15	)
Gain on sale of marketable securities		(47	)		--
Equity loss from Standard Steam		60			64
Net change in deferred income taxes		(455	)		(2,452	)
(Gain) on sale of assets		(10	)		--
Noncash compensation		50			376
Noncash services		23			(30	)
Net changes in assets and liabilities		(2,269	)		1,626
Net cash provided by operating activities		764			1,409
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net redemption of treasury investments		--			11,009
Acquisition & development of oil & gas properties		(12,047	)		(13,584	)
Acquisition of property and equipment		(3	)		(16	)
Proceeds from sale of oil and gas properties		18,119			--
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities		62			--
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment		22			--
Net change in restricted investments		(84	)		(33	)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities:		6,069			(2,624	)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
	(In thousands)
	For the three months ended March 31,
	2012			2011
Cash flows from financing activities:
Issuance of common stock		50			(186	)
Tax benefit from the exercise of stock options		--			3,000
Repayments of debt		(12,065	)		--
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities		(12,015	)		2,814

Net cash provided by operating activities
of discontinued operations		92			66
Net cash used in investing activities
of discontinued operations		--			(1	)

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		(5,090	)		1,664

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		12,874			5,812


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	7,784		$	7,476

Supplemental disclosures:
Income tax paid	$	--		$	--

Interest paid	$	64		$	5

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

Unrealized gain	$	96		$	633

Acquisition and development of oil and gas
properties through accounts payable	$	1,581		$	4,088

Acquisition and development of oil and gas
through asset retirement obligations	$	45		$	4

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1) Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the periods ended March 31, 2012 and March 31, 2011 have been prepared by U.S. Energy Corp. (“we,” “us,” “U.S. Energy” or the “Company”) in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The financial statements at March 31, 2012 include the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary Energy One LLC (“Energy One”), which owns the majority of the Company’s oil and gas assets. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2011 was derived from audited financial statements. In the opinion of the Company, the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company for the reported periods. Entities in which the Company holds at least 20% ownership or in which there are other indicators of significant influence are accounted for by the equity method, whereby the Company records its proportionate share of the entities’ results of operations. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's December 31, 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Subsequent events have been evaluated for financial reporting purposes through the date of the filing of this Form 10-Q. See Note 13.

2) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

For detailed descriptions of our significant accounting policies, please see Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 (Note B pages 86 to 94).

We follow accounting standards set by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, commonly referred to as the “FASB.” The FASB sets generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) that we follow to ensure we consistently report our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates include oil and gas reserves used for depletion and impairment considerations and the cost of future asset retirement obligations. Due to inherent uncertainties, including the future prices of oil and gas, these estimates could change in the near term and such changes could be material.

Properties and Equipment

Land, buildings, improvements, machinery and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation of buildings, improvements, machinery and equipment is provided principally by the straight-line method over estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 45 years.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

Components of Property and Equipment as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 are as follows:

	(In thousands)
	March 31,			December 31,
	2012			2011
Oil & Gas properties
Unproved	$	11,667		$	17,098
Wells in progress		5,795			2,909
Proved		97,596			99,496
		115,058			119,503
Less accumulated depreciation
depletion and amortization		(32,202	)		(28,561	)
Net book value		82,856			90,942

Mining properties		20,739			20,739

Building, land and equipment		14,972			14,984
Less accumulated depreciation		(5,941	)		(5,788	)
Net book value		9,031			9,196
Totals	$	112,626		$	120,877

Oil and Gas Properties

The Company follows the full cost method in accounting for its oil and gas properties. Under the full cost method, all costs associated with the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas properties are capitalized and accumulated in a country-wide cost center. This includes any internal costs that are directly related to development and exploration activities, but does not include any costs related to production, general corporate overhead or similar activities. Proceeds received from property disposals are credited against accumulated cost except when the sale represents a significant disposal of reserves, in which case a gain or loss is recognized. The sum of net capitalized costs and estimated future development and dismantlement costs for each cost center is depleted on the equivalent unit-of-production method, based on proved oil and gas reserves. Excluded from amounts subject to depletion are costs associated with unproved properties.

Full Cost Pool - Full cost pool capitalized costs are amortized over the life of production of proven properties. Capitalized costs at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 which were not included in the amortized cost pool were $17.5 million and $20.0 million, respectively. These costs consist of exploratory wells in progress, seismic costs that are being analyzed for potential drilling locations as well as land costs related to unevaluated properties. No capitalized costs related to unevaluated properties are included in the amortization base at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011. It is anticipated that these costs will be added to the full cost amortization pool in the next two years as properties are proved, drilled or abandoned.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

Ceiling Test Analysis - Under the full cost method, net capitalized costs are limited to the lower of unamortized cost reduced by the related net deferred tax liability and asset retirement obligations or the cost center ceiling. The cost center ceiling is defined as the sum of (i) estimated future net revenue, discounted at 10% per annum, from proved reserves, based on unescalated average prices per barrel of oil and per MMbtu of natural gas at the first day of each month in the 12-month period prior to the end of the reporting period and costs, adjusted for contract provisions and financial derivatives that hedge our oil and gas revenue and asset retirement obligations, (ii) the cost of properties not being amortized, and (iii) the lower of cost or market value of unproved properties included in the cost being amortized, reduced by (iv) the income tax effects related to differences between the book and tax basis of the crude oil and natural gas properties. If the net book value reduced by the related net deferred income tax liability and asset retirement obligations exceeds the cost center ceiling limitation, a non-cash impairment charge is required in the period in which the impairment occurs. At March 31, 2012, the book value of our oil and gas properties did not exceed the cost center ceiling.

We perform a quarterly ceiling test for each of our oil and gas cost centers. There was only one such cost center in 2012. The reserves used in the ceiling test and the ceiling test itself incorporate assumptions regarding pricing and discount rates over which management has no influence in the determination of present value. In arriving at the ceiling test for the quarter ended March 31, 2012, we used $98.15 per barrel for oil and $3.73 per MMbtu for natural gas (and adjusted for property specific gravity, quality, local markets and distance from markets) to compute the future cash flows of our producing properties. The discount factor used was 10%.

At March 31, 2012 and 2011, the ceiling was in excess of the net capitalized costs as adjusted for related deferred income taxes and no impairment was required. Management will continue to review our unproved properties based on market conditions and other changes and if appropriate, unproved property amounts may be reclassified to the amortized base of properties within the full cost pool.

Wells in Progress - Wells in progress represent the costs associated with unproved wells that have not reached total depth or have not been completed as of period end. They are classified as wells in progress and withheld from the depletion calculation. The costs for these wells are then transferred to evaluated property when the wells reach total depth and are completed and the costs become subject to depletion and the ceiling test calculation in future periods.

Mineral Properties

We capitalize all costs incidental to the acquisition of mineral properties. Mineral exploration costs are expensed as incurred. When exploration work indicates that a mineral property can be economically developed as a result of establishing proved and probable reserves, costs for the development of the mineral property as well as capital purchases and capital construction are capitalized and amortized using units of production over the estimated recoverable proved and probable reserves. Costs and expenses related to general corporate overhead are expensed as incurred. All capitalized costs are charged to operations if we subsequently determine that the property is not economical due to permanent decreases in market prices of commodities, excessive production costs or depletion of the mineral resource. Mineral properties at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 reflect capitalized costs associated with our Mt. Emmons molybdenum property near Crested Butte, Colorado.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

Our carrying balance in the Mt. Emmons property at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 is as follows:

	(In thousands)
	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Costs associated with Mount Emmons
beginning of year	$	20,739	$	21,077
Development costs		--		16
Option payment from Thompson Creek		--		(354	)
Costs at the end of the period	$	20,739	$	20,739

Derivative Instruments

The Company uses derivative instruments, typically fixed-rate swaps and costless collars, to manage price risk underlying its oil and gas production. All derivative instruments are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The Company offsets fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty. Although the Company does not designate any of its derivative instruments as a cash flow hedge, such derivative instruments provide an economic hedge of our exposure to commodity price risk associated with forecasted future oil and gas production. These contracts are accounted for using the mark-to-market accounting method and accordingly, the Company recognizes all unrealized and realized gains and losses related to these contracts currently in earnings and they are classified as gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net in our consolidated statements of operations. The Company may also use puts, calls and basis swaps in the future.

The Company’s Board of Directors sets all risk management policies and reviews the status and results of derivative activities, including volumes, types of instruments and counterparties on a quarterly basis. These policies require that derivative instruments be executed only by the Chief Executive Officer or President. The master contracts with approved counterparties identify the Chief Executive Officer and President as the only Company representatives authorized to execute trades. See Note 6, Commodity Price Risk Management, for further discussion.

Revenue Recognition

The Company records oil and natural gas revenue under the sales method of accounting. Under the sales method, we recognize revenues based on the amount of oil or natural gas sold to purchasers, which may differ from the amounts to which we are entitled based on our interest in the properties. Natural gas balancing obligations as of March 31, 2012 were not significant.

Revenues from real estate operations are reported on a gross revenue basis and are recorded at the time the service is provided.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

On January 1, 2012, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05 (“ASC No. 2011-05”), an update to ASC Topic 220 issued by the FASB that states that an entity that reports items of other comprehensive income has the option to present the components of comprehensive income in either one continuous financial statement, or two consecutive financial statements, including reclassification adjustments. Subsequent to the issuance of the authoritative guidance, the FASB issued additional authoritative accounting guidance (“ASC No. 2011-12”) that effectively deferred the requirement to present the reclassification adjustments on the face of the financial statements, as well as the requirement to present the individual components of other comprehensive income for interim periods. The Company has elected to present a separate statement of comprehensive income, including the individual components, titled Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss, as part of Item 1 to this report.

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-11, Balance Sheet: Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (“ASU 2011-11”). The objective of ASU 2011-11 is to require an entity to provide enhanced disclosures that will enable users of its financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements on an entity’s financial position. ASU 2011-11 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013 and should be applied retrospectively. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In May 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement: Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs (“ASU 2011-04”), which provides amendments to FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The objective of ASU 2011-04 is to create common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements between GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The amendments clarify existing fair value measurement and disclosure requirements and make changes to particular principles or requirements for measuring or disclosing information about fair value measurements. These amendments are not expected to have a significant impact on companies applying GAAP. ASU 2011-04 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements other than additional disclosures.

3) Mineral Property Transactions

Bakken/Three Forks Shale Sale. On January 24, 2012 (but effective December 1, 2011), we sold an undivided 75% of our undeveloped acreage with Zavanna, LLC (“Zavanna”) in the Yellowstone and SEHR prospects to GeoResources, Inc. (56.25%) and Yuma Exploration and Production Company, Inc. (18.75%) for $16.7 million and $1.4 million in reimbursed well costs. These amounts were recorded as credits to our full cost pool. In addition we transferred $5.3 million in costs from unevaluated properties to proved properties as a result of this sale. Under the terms of the agreement, we retained the remaining 25% of our interest in the undeveloped acreage and our original working interest in the initial 10 developed wells in the prospects. Our average working interest in the remaining locations will be approximately 8.75% and net revenue interests in new wells after the sale are expected to be in the range of 6.7375% to 7.0%, proportionately reduced depending on Zavanna’s actual working interest percentages.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

4) Assets Held for Sale

In January 2011, we made the decision to sell our Remington Village multifamily project in Gillette, Wyoming and plan to use the proceeds to further the development of our oil and gas business. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, we recorded a $3.1 million and $1.5 million, respectively, impairment to adjust the carrying value of the multifamily project to the approximate appraised value. At March 31, 2012, management has determined that no further impairment is needed. As of March 31, 2012, the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets present $18.1 million in book value of assets held for sale, net of accumulated depreciation, and $10.1 million in liabilities held for sale. Because Remington Village has been classified as an asset held for sale, the scheduled depreciation of $224,000 for the first three months of 2012 or the $237,000 for the first three months of 2011 was not recorded. Remington is pledged as collateral on a $10.0 million note. At such time as Remington is sold, the debt balance will be retired.

Operations related to Remington Village are shown in discontinued operations on the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

5) Asset Retirement Obligations

We record the fair value of the reclamation liability for our inactive mining properties and our operating oil and gas properties as of the date that the liability is incurred. We review the liability each quarter and determine if a change in estimate is required as well as accrete the discounted liability on a quarterly basis for the future liability. Final determinations are made during the fourth quarter of each year. We deduct any actual funds expended for reclamation during the quarter in which it occurs.

The following is a reconciliation of the total liability for asset retirement obligations:

	(In thousands)
	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Beginning asset retirement obligation	$	510	$	303
Accretion of discount		9		23
Liabilities incurred		45		187
Liabilities sold		--		(3	)
Ending asset retirement obligation	$	564	$	510

Mining properties	$	153	$	149
Oil & Gas wells		411		361
Ending asset retirement obligation	$	564	$	510

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

6) Commodity Price Risk Management

Through our wholly-owned subsidiary Energy One, we have entered into commodity derivative contracts (“economic hedges”) with BNP Paribas (“BNP”), as described below. The derivative contracts are priced using West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) quoted prices. The Company is a guarantor of Energy One’s obligations under the economic hedges. The objective of utilizing the economic hedges is to reduce the effect of price changes on a portion of our future oil production, achieve more predictable cash flows in an environment of volatile oil and gas prices and to manage our exposure to commodity price risk. The use of these derivative instruments limits the downside risk of adverse price movements. However, there is a risk that such use may limit our ability to benefit from favorable price movements. Energy One may, from time to time, add incremental derivatives to hedge additional production, restructure existing derivative contracts or enter into new transactions to modify the terms of current contracts in order to realize the current value of its existing positions. The Company does not engage in speculative derivative activities or derivative trading activities, nor does it use derivatives with leveraged features.

Energy One's commodity derivative contracts as of March 31, 2012 are summarized below:

			Quantity
Settlement Period	Counterparty	Basis	(Bbl/d)		Strike Price

Crude Oil Costless Collar
10/01/11 - 09/30/12	BNP Parabis	WTI		400	Put:	$	80.00
					Call:	$	99.00
Crude Oil Costless Collar
01/01/12 - 12/31/12	BNP Parabis	WTI		200	Put:	$	90.00
					Call:	$	106.50
Crude Oil Costless Collar
10/01/12 - 09/30/13	BNP Parabis	WTI		200	Put:	$	95.00
					Call:	$	116.60

The following table details the fair value of the derivatives recorded in the applicable condensed consolidated balance sheet, by category:

	(in thousands)
	Derivative Assets			Derivative Liabilities
	Balance Sheet	Fair		Balance Sheet	Fair
	Classification	Value		Classification	Value

Crude oil costless collars	Current Asset	$	101	Current Liability	$	758

Unrealized gains and losses resulting from derivatives are recorded at fair value on the condensed consolidated balance sheet and changes in fair value are recognized in the unrealized gain (loss) on risk management activities line on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Realized gains and losses resulting from the contract settlement of derivatives are recorded in the commodity price risk management activities line on the condensed consolidated statement of income.

-17-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

7) Fair Value Measurements

We follow authoritative guidance regarding fair value measurements for all assets and liabilities measured at fair value. That guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs the Company uses to measure fair value based on the significance level of the following inputs:

·	Level 1 - Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

·	Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and model-derived valuations whose inputs or significant value drivers are observable.

·	Level 3 - Significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable.

Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of the nonfinancial assets and liabilities and their placement in the fair value hierarchy levels. As of March 31, 2012, we held $179,000 of investments in marketable securities. We determine our estimate of the fair value of derivate instruments using a market approach based on several factors, including quoted prices in active markets, and quotes from third parties. The fair values of our other accrued liabilities that are reflected on the balance sheet are detailed below. Other accrued liabilities decreased to $809,000 at March 31, 2012 as a result of payments of the liability. The other accrued liabilities are the long term portion of the executive retirement program.

	(In thousands)
			Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2012 Using
	March 31		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets		Significant Other Observable Inputs		Significant Unobservable Inputs
Description	2012		(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)

Commodity risk management assets	$	101	$	--	$	101	$	--
Available for sale securities		179		179		--		--

Total assets	$	280	$	179	$	101	$	--

Commodity risk management liability	$	758	$	--	$	758	$	--
Other accrued liabilities		809		--		--		809

Total	$	1,567	$	--	$	758	$	809

-18-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

The following table summarizes, by major security type, the fair value and any unrealized gain of our available for sale securities. The unrealized gain is recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as other comprehensive income, a component of shareholders’ equity.

	(In thousands)
March 31, 2012
	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
			Unrealized				Unrealized				Unrealized
Description of Securities	Fair Value		Gain		Fair Value		Gain		Fair Value		Gain

Available for sale securities	$	179	$	150	$	--	$	--	$	179	$	150

Total	$	179	$	150	$	--	$	--	$	179	$	150

Our other financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, other current liabilities and long-term debt. The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and other current liabilities approximate fair value because of their immediate or short-term maturities. The carrying value of our debt approximates its fair market value since interest rates have remained generally unchanged from the issuance of the debt. The fair value and carrying value of our debt was $10.2 million as of March 31, 2012.

8) Debt

At March 31, 2012, total debt in the amount of $10.2 million consists of debt on our multifamily housing project and the purchase of land near our Mt. Emmons molybdenum property. The debt on our multifamily housing project has an interest rate of 5.50% and the land debt bears an interest rate of 6.0% per annum.

On May 5, 2011 we borrowed $10.0 million from a commercial bank against Remington Village. At March 31, 2012, the balance due on this note is $9.8 million. The note is collateralized by the Company’s multi-family property in Gillette, Wyoming. The note is amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment at the end of five years with an interest rate of 5.50% per annum. Proceeds of the note were used to fund general business obligations. When Remington is sold, the proceeds from the sale will first be applied to the retirement of the debt and the remainder applied to general corporate overhead and project development. Therefore, the debt is included in current liabilities held for sale.

The land debt of $400,000 is due in two equal annual payments of $200,000 plus accrued interest. The next payment is due on January 2, 2013.

9) Shareholders’ Equity

Common Stock

During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company issued 36,070 shares of common stock. These shares consist of (a) 15,000 shares issued to officers of the Company pursuant to the 2001 Stock Compensation Plan, (b) 20,000 shares issued as a result of options being exercised by a former director of the Company and (c) a net of 1,070 shares issued as a result of the exercise of options by employees of the Company.

-19-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

The following table details the changes in common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2012:

(Amounts in thousands, except for share amounts)
					Additional
	Common Stock				Paid-In
	Shares		Amount		Capital

Balance January 1, 2012		27,409,908	$	274	$	122,523
2001 stock compensation plan		15,000		--		48
Exercise of employee stock options		1,070		--		--
Exercise of outside director options		20,000		--		50
Expense of employee options vesting		--		--		2
Expense of outside director warrants vesting		--		--		22
Balance March 31, 2012		27,445,978	$	274	$	122,645

Employee Stock Option Plans

All options outstanding at March 31, 2012 were granted pursuant to the U.S. Energy Corp. 2001 Incentive Stock Option Plan (the "2001 ISOP"). The 2001 ISOP had a term of 10 years, and expired on December 6, 2011. Options issued prior to that date will survive to their expiration date which does not exceed a ten year period from date of grant and are subject to vesting and forfeiture provisions.

The Company recorded $2,000 and $251,000 of related compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of March 31, 2012, there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to stock option awards. As a result of the exercise of 4,167 options held by a former employee, 1,070 shares of common stock were issued during the three months ended March 31, 2012.

Director Option Plans

From time to time we issue stock options to non-employee directors for services. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we issued 70,000 options to non-employee directors. The options were issued at the closing price of $2.85 on the date of grant, 60,000 options vest over a three year period and expire ten years from the date of grant or one year after the Board member no longer serves on the Board and 10,000 options vested immediately and expire ten years from the date of grant or one year after the Board member no longer serves on the Board. The options were valued under Black-Scholes using a risk free interest rate of 1.13% to 1.41%, expected life of 5 to 6 years and expected volatility of 62.75% to 63.59%.

During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we recorded $23,000 in expense for options issued to non-employee directors. We will recognize an additional $145,000 in expense over the vesting period of the outstanding options. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we issued 20,000 shares of common stock to directors of the Company as the result of the exercise of 20,000 outstanding options.

-20-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

The following table represents the activity in employee stock options and non-employee director stock options for the three months ended March 31, 2012:

	March 31, 2012
	Employee Stock Options					Director Stock Options
				Weighted					Weighted
				Average					Average
				Exercise					Exercise
	Options			Price		Options			Price

Outstanding balance at December 31, 2011		2,318,399		$	3.94		210,000		$	3.10
Granted		--		$	--		70,000		$	2.85
Forfeited		--		$	--		--		$	--
Expired		(50,000	)	$	4.97		--		$	--
Exercised		(4,167	)	$	2.52		(20,000	)	$	2.52
Outstanding at March 31, 2012		2,264,232		$	3.92		260,000		$	3.08
Exercisable at March 31, 2012		2,264,232		$	3.92		173,334		$	2.96

Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life - Years					4.67					4.82

Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding				$	558,000				$	95,000

10) Income Taxes

The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for deferred income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets or liabilities at the end of each period are determined using the tax rate in effect at that time.

The deferred income tax liability for an oil and gas exploration company is dependent on many variables such as estimating the economic lives of depleting oil and gas reserves and commodity prices. Accordingly, the liability is subject to continual recalculation, revision of the numerous estimates required, and may change significantly in the event of such things as major acquisitions, divestitures, product price changes, changes in reserve estimates, changes in reserve lives, and changes in tax rates or tax laws.

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U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

11) Segment Information

As of March 31, 2012, we had two reportable segments: Oil and Gas and Maintenance of Mineral Properties. A summary of results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2012, and 2011, and total assets as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 by segment are as follows:

	(In thousands)
	For the three months ended
	March 31,
	2012			2011
Revenues:
Oil and gas	$	8,335		$	6,679
Total revenues:		8,335			6,679

Operating expenses:
Oil and gas		6,534			6,864
Mineral properties		619			472
Total operating expenses:		7,153			7,336

Interest expense
Oil and gas		30			9
Mineral properties		6			9
Total interest expense:		36			18

Operating (loss) income
Oil and gas	$	1,771		$	(194	)
Mineral properties		(625	)		(481	)
Operating income (loss)
from identified segments		1,146			(675	)

General and administrative expenses		(1,894	)		(2,411	)
Add back interest expense		36			18
Other revenues and expenses:		(121	)		(1,864	)
Loss before income taxes
and discontinued operations	$	(833	)	$	(4,932	)

Depreciation depletion and amortization expense:
Oil and gas	$	3,641		$	2,785
Mineral properties		32			26
Corporate		125			126
Total depreciation expense	$	3,798		$	2,937

-22-

U.S. ENERGY CORP.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

(Continued)

	(In thousands)
	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Assets by segment
Oil and Gas	$	94,507	$	109,141
Mineral		20,755		20,755
Corporate		32,959		32,543
Total assets	$	148,221	$	162,439

12) Equity Income in Unconsolidated Investment

We recorded an equity loss from our unconsolidated investment in Standard Steam, LLC (“SST”) during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, of $60,000 and $64,000, respectively.

13) Subsequent Events

Montana Acreage Sale. On May 9, 2012, the Company signed a Letter Agreement to sell an undivided 87.5% of its acreage in Daniels County, Montana to a third party for $3.68 million. The agreement is conditioned upon execution of a mutually acceptable Purchase and Sale Agreement and will be effective on June 1, 2012. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company will retain a 12.5% working interest in the acreage and reserved overriding royalty interests (“ORRI”) in excess of 81%. The purchaser will also commit to drill a vertical test well to depths sufficient to core the Bakken and Three Forks formations on or before December 31, 2015. The Company will deliver an 80% NRI to the purchaser and 1% ORRI to a land broker. The Company will also pay the land broker a 10% commission for the cash consideration paid by the purchaser.

-23-

ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following is Management's Discussion and Analysis of significant factors that have affected liquidity, capital resources and results of operations during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 2011. The following also updates information as to our financial condition provided in our 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Statements in the following discussion may be forward-looking and involve risk and uncertainty. The following discussion should also be read in conjunction with our condensed financial statements and the notes thereto.

General Overview

We are an independent energy company focused on the acquisition and development of oil and gas producing properties in the continental United States. Our business is currently focused in the Rocky Mountain region (specifically the Williston Basin of North Dakota and Montana), Texas and Louisiana, however, we do not intend to limit our focus to these geographic areas. We continue to focus on increasing production, reserves, revenues and cash flow from operations while managing our level of debt.

We currently explore for and produce oil and gas through a non-operator business model; however, we operated our Colorado oil and gas property for our own account and may expand our operations to other areas. As a non-operator, we rely on our operating partners to propose, permit and manage wells. Before a well is drilled, the operator is required to provide all oil and gas interest owners in the designated well the opportunity to participate in the drilling costs and revenues of the well on a pro-rata basis. After the well is completed, our operating partners also transport, market and account for all production.

We are also involved in the exploration for and development of minerals (molybdenum) through our ownership of the Mt. Emmons Molybdenum Project in Colorado. Gross capitalized dollar amounts invested in each of these areas at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 were as follows:

	(In thousands)
	March 31,		December 31,
	2012		2011
Unproved oil and gas properites	$	17,462	$	17,098
Proved oil and gas properties		97,596		73,844
Undeveloped mining properties		20,739		20,739
	$	135,797	$	111,681

Oil and Gas Activities

We have active agreements with several oil and gas exploration and production companies. Our working interest varies by project, but typically ranges from approximately 5% to 65%. These projects may result in numerous wells being drilled over the next three to five years. We are also actively pursuing the potential acquisition of additional exploration, development or production stage oil and gas properties or companies. The following table details our interests in producing wells as of March 31, 2012 and 2011.

-24-

	March 31,
	2012		2011
	Gross	Net	Gross	Net
Williston Basin:
Productive wells	27.00	8.95	13.00	4.40
Wells being drilled or awaiting completion	7.00	1.08	8.00	2.08

Gulf Coast/South Texas:
Productive wells	5.00	1.12	5.00	0.99
Wells being drilled or awaiting completion	1.00	0.13	2.00	0.27

Eagle Ford:
Productive wells	2.00	0.60	--	--
Wells being drilled or awaiting completion	1.00	0.30	--	--

Austin Chalk:
Productive wells	11.00	2.98	--	--
Wells being drilled or awaiting completion	--	--	--	--

Total:
Productive wells	45.00	13.65	18.00	5.39
Wells being drilled or awaiting completion	9.00	1.51	10.00	2.35

Williston Basin, North Dakota

Rough Rider Prospect. We participate in fifteen 1,280 acre drilling units in the Rough Rider prospect with Brigham Oil & Gas, L.P. (“Brigham”), a subsidiary of Brigham Exploration Company. From August 24, 2009 to March 31, 2012, we have drilled and completed 19 gross Bakken Formation wells (7.30 net) and one gross Three Forks formation well (0.18 net) under the Drilling Participation Agreement with Brigham. Three additional gross wells (0.15 net) are expected to be drilled during the balance of 2012. Brigham operates all of the wells.

During the first three months of 2012, the Company completed two gross wells (0.41 net) in the Rough Rider prospect. Our net investment in the Rough Rider prospect wells was $2.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2012.

Yellowstone and SEHR Prospects. We participate in 27 gross 1,280 acre spacing units in the Yellowstone and SEHR prospects with Zavanna, LLC (“Zavanna”). Through March 31, 2012, we have drilled and completed seven gross Bakken formation wells (1.47 net) in these prospects, including two gross wells (0.12 net) operated by Murex Petroleum. Zavanna operates the remaining wells. At March 31, 2012, two additional gross wells (0.10 net) were being drilled five 5 gross wells (0.98 net) were awaiting completion.

During the first three months of 2012, we completed two gross wells (0.45 net) and drilled three gross wells (0.25 net) in the Yellowstone and SEHR prospects. Our net investment in the Yellowstone and SEHR prospect wells was $6.5 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2012.

-25-

On January 24, 2012 (but effective December 1, 2011), we sold an undivided 75% of our undeveloped acreage in the Yellowstone and SEHR prospects to GeoResources, Inc. (56.25%) and Yuma Exploration and Production Company, Inc. (18.75%) for $16.7 million. Under the terms of the agreement, we retained the remaining 25% of our interest in the undeveloped acreage and our original working interest in the initial 10 developed wells in the prospects. Our average working interest in the remaining locations will be approximately 8.75% and net revenue interests in new wells after the sale are expected to be in the range of 6.7375% to 7.0%, proportionately reduced depending on Zavanna’s actual working interest percentages.

U.S. Gulf Coast (Onshore) / South Texas

We participate with several different operators in the U.S. Gulf Coast (onshore). At March 31, 2012, we had five gross producing wells (1.12 net) in this region. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we drilled one gross well (0.10 net) that was deemed to be nonproductive. Our net costs for this well through March 31, 2012 were $174,000. One gross well (0.13 net) was in progress at March 31, 2012 and commenced production in the second quarter of 2012. Our net investment in Gulf Coast / South Texas wells was $220,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2012.

Eagle Ford Shale

We participate in up to 114 gross (34 net) drilling locations in the Leona River and Booth-Tortuga Eagle Ford prospects with Crimson Exploration Inc. ("Crimson"). During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we drilled and completed one gross well (0.30 net) and drilled one gross well (0.30 net) that is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2012. Our net investment in these wells during the first quarter of 2012 was $2.7 million.

2012 Production Results

The following table provides a regional breakdown of our production during the first quarter of 2012:

	Williston Basin	Gulf Coast / South Texas	Eagle Ford	Austin Chalk	Total
First Three Months of 2012 Production
Oil (Bbl)	87,335	996	2,305	1,946	92,582
Gas (Mcf)	33,730	49,234	5,582	1,226	89,772
NGLs (BBs)	4,053	335	--	104	4,492
Equivalent (BOE)	97,009	9,537	3,236	2,254	112,036
Avg. Daily Equivalent (BOE/d)	1,066	105	36	25	1,231
Relative percentage	87%	9%	3%	2%	100%

-26-

Additional Comparative Data

The following table provides information regarding selected production and financial information for the quarter ended March 31, 2012 and the immediately preceding three quarters.

	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012			December 31, 2011			September 30, 2011		June 30, 2011
	(in Thousands, except for production data)
Production (BOE)		112,036			118,663			120,198		102,413
Oil, gas and NGL production revenue	$	8,335		$	8,846		$	8,408	$	7,025
Unrealized and realized derivative (loss) gain	$	(202	)	$	(1,738	)	$	1,564	$	1,123
Lease opeating expense	$	2,010		$	1,954		$	1,811	$	1,289
Production taxes	$	883		$	921		$	832	$	667
DD&A	$	3,641		$	4,230		$	3,862	$	3,120
General and administrative	$	1,894		$	1,883		$	1,829	$	2,138
Mineral holding costs	$	110		$	140		$	266	$	37
Water treatment plant	$	509		$	454		$	497	$	498
Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	(445	)	$	309		$	130	$	(279	)

Results of Operations

Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2011

During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we recorded a net loss after taxes of $381,000 as compared to a net loss after taxes of $2.2 million during the same period of 2011. Significant components of the change in operating revenues and results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2012 as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2011 are as follows:

-27-

Oil and Gas Operations. Oil and gas operations produced operating income of $1.8 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 as compared to an operating loss of $185,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2011. The increase in earnings from oil and gas operations is primarily due to (a) a $1.7 million increase in revenues due to higher oil sales volumes during 2012 compared to 2011 and (b) $1.4 million lower lease operating expenses in the three months ending March 31, 2012 as compared to the same period of the prior year. This is partially offset by $856,000 higher depletion expense in 2012 and a $564,000 decrease in natural gas revenues. The following table summarizes production volumes, average sales prices and operating revenues for the quarters ended March 31, 2012 and 2011:

	Three Months Ended
	March 31,						Increase
	2012			2011			(Decrease)
Production volumes
Oil (Bbls)		92,582			67,350			25,232
Natural gas (Mcf)		89,772			173,755			(83,983	)
Natural gas liquids (Bbls)		4,492			4,781			(289	)
Equivalent (BOE)		112,036			101,090			10,946
Avg. Daily Equivalent (BOE/d)		1,231			1,123			108
Average sales prices
Oil (per Bbl)	$	84.43		$	83.27		$	1.16
Natural gas (per Mcf)		3.04			4.82			(1.78	)
Natural gas liquids (per Bbl)		54.76			48.94			5.82
Revenue (in thousands)
Oil	$	7,817		$	5,608		$	2,209
Natural gas		273			837			(564	)
Natural gas liquids		245			234			12
Total revenue		8,335			6,679			1,657
Lease operating expense		(2,010	)		(3,397	)		1,387
Production taxes		(883	)		(682	)		(201	)
Income before depreciation, depletion and amortization		5,442			2,600			2,843
Depreciation, depletion and amortization		(3,641	)		(2,785	)		(856	)
Income	$	1,801		$	(185	)	$	1,987

During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we produced approximately 112,036 barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), or an average of 1,231 BOE/day. Portions of our natural gas production are sent to gas processing plants to extract from the gas various natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) that are sold separately from the remaining natural gas. We sell some of our gas before processing and some after processing but in both cases receive revenues based on a share of post-processing proceeds from plant sales of the extracted NGLs and the remaining natural gas. In the table above, our share of processing costs are classified in lease operating expenses.

We recognized $8.3 million in revenues during the three months ended March 31, 2012 as compared to $6.7 million during the same period of the prior year. This $1.6 million increase in revenue is primarily due to higher oil sales volumes in 2012 when compared to 2011. Revenue from gas sales is lower in the three months ended March 31, 2012 when compared to the same period in 2011, primarily due to production declines from wells in the Gulf Coast.

-28-

Our average net realized price for the three months ended March 31, 2012 was $74.40 per BOE compared with $66.07 for the same period in 2011. The increase in our equivalent realized price for production corresponds with a higher percentage of our production coming from oil in 2011 when compared with 2010. Due to takeaway constraints, the discount, or differential, for oil prices in the Williston Basin has increased to $20 to $25 per barrel. Until additional takeaway capacity is available, we expect this differential to continue and our oil sales revenue to be affected by the lower prices.

Lease operating expense of $2.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2012 was comprised of $1.3 million in lease operating expense and $718,000 in workover expense. The $1.4 million reduction in total lease operating expense in 2012 as compared to 2011 is primarily a result of $1.8 million lower workover expense.

Our depletion, depreciation and amortization (DD&A) rate for the three months ended March 31, 2012 was $32.50 per BOE compared to $27.75 per BOE for the same period in 2011. We have been impacted by higher DD&A rates related to our Williston Basin wells due to increases in drilling and completion costs for wells in this region. Our DD&A rate can also fluctuate as a result of impairments, divestitures, changes in the mix of our production, the underlying proved reserve volumes and estimated costs to drill and complete proved undeveloped reserves.

During the balance of 2012 we anticipate completing wells that were drilled during the last quarter of 2011 and the first quarter of 2012 as well as drilling and completing new wells. We also anticipate that our production rates will increase as a result of these activities. In particular, we expect that oil volumes will increase as we drill and complete oil wells in the Williston Basin and other areas. However, natural gas and natural gas liquids volumes are expected to continue to decrease as production declines from the Gulf Coast producing wells. The anticipated net increase in production is projected to add additional cash flows from operations and improve net earnings from our oil and gas operations. However, various factors, including extensive workover costs on existing wells, commodity price differentials, cost overruns on projected drilling projects, unsuccessful wells or other development activities and/or faster than expected declines in production from existing wells, would have a negative effect on production, cash flows and earnings from the oil and gas segment.

Mt. Emmons and Water Treatment Plant Operations. We recorded $509,000 in costs and expenses for the water treatment plant and $110,000 for holding costs for the Mt. Emmons molybdenum property during the three months ended March 31, 2012. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, we recorded $429,000 in operating costs related to the water treatment plant and $43,000 in holding costs. Holding costs during 2011 were partially funded by another party under an operating agreement. As a result of the termination of this agreement in 2011, our 2012 costs are expected to be higher as we will bear the increased share of the costs for the full year.

General and Administrative. General and administrative expenses decreased by $517,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2012 as compared to general and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2011. Lower general and administrative costs in 2012 are primarily a result of $220,000 lower stock options expense, $159,000 lower stock compensation expense and $126,000 lower compensation expense.

Other income and expenses. We recognized an unrealized and realized derivative loss of $202,000 in the first quarter of 2012 compared to a loss of $1.8 million for the same period in 2011. The 2012 amount includes losses on unrealized changes in the fair value of our commodity derivative contracts of $59,000 and realized cash settlement losses on derivatives of $143,000.

-29-

We recorded equity losses of $60,000 and $64,000 from the investment in SST during the quarters ended March 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Equity losses from the investment in SST are expected to continue until such time as SST properties are sold, equity losses reduce our investment to zero or we sell the investment.

Gain on the sale of marketable securities increased to $47,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 from $0 during the quarter ended March 31, 2011 as a result of the sale of shares of Sutter Gold Mining.

Interest income decreased to $5,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 from $20,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2011. The decrease is a result of lower amounts of cash invested in interest bearing instruments during the quarter, and lower interest rates received on those investments.

Interest expense increased to $39,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2011 from $23,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2011. The increase in interest expense was related primarily to the $10.0 million borrowed from a commercial bank in May 2011 and the $12.0 million borrowed under our senior credit facility with Wells Fargo. We repaid the $12.0 million borrowed under our senior credit facility in January 2012.

Discontinued operations. We recorded income of 64,000, net of taxes from the discontinued operations of Remington Village during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 and income of $129,000, net of taxes for the quarter ended March 31, 2011. The decrease in income is primarily a result lower occupancy rates when comparing the quarter ended March 31, 2012 to the quarter ended March 31, 2011.

We therefore recorded a net loss after taxes of $381,000, or $0.01 per share basic and diluted, during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 as compared to a net loss after taxes of $2.2 million, or $0.08 per share basic and diluted, during the quarter ended March 31, 2011.

Overview of Liquidity and Capital Resources

At March 31, 2012, we had $7.8 million in cash and cash equivalents. Our working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) was $11.8 million. As discussed below in Capital Resources and Capital Requirements, we project that our capital resources at March 31, 2012 will be sufficient to fund operations and capital projects through the balance of 2012. Given the size of our potential commitments related to our existing inventory of drilling projects, however, our requirements for additional capital could increase significantly during the remainder of 2012 if we elect to participate in any currently unanticipated drilling of additional wells. As a result, we may consider drawing down additional debt on our senior credit facility, selling or joint venturing an interest in some of our oil and gas assets, or accessing the capital markets or other alternatives, as we determine how to best fund our capital program.

The principal recurring uncertainty which affects the Company is variable prices for commodities producible from our oil, gas and mineral properties. Significant price swings can have adverse or positive effects on our business of exploring for, developing and producing oil and gas or minerals. Availability of drilling and completion equipment and crews fluctuates with the market prices for oil and natural gas and thereby affects the cost of drilling and completing wells. When prices are low there is typically less exploration activity and the cost of drilling and completing wells is generally reduced. Conversely, when prices are high there is generally more exploration activity and the cost of drilling and completing wells generally increases.

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Capital Resources

Potential primary sources of future liquidity include the following:

Oil and Gas Production. At March 31, 2012, we had forty-five gross producing wells (13.65 net). During the three months ended March 31, 2012, we received an average of $2.8 million per month from these producing wells with an average operating cost of $431,000 per month (excluding workover costs) and production taxes of $294,000, for average cash flows of $2.1 million per month from oil and gas production before non-cash depletion expense. We anticipate that cash flows from oil and gas operations will increase through the balance of 2012 as the wells being drilled with Zavanna, Brigham, Crimson and others begin to produce. However, decreases in the price of oil and natural gas, increased operating costs and workover expenses, declines in production rates, and other factors could decrease these average monthly cash flow amounts.

Normal production declines and the back-in after payout provisions granted to Brigham and Zavanna will eventually decrease the amount of cash flow we receive from these wells. We anticipate drilling more Bakken and Three Forks wells with Brigham and Zavanna in the future and will continue to search for additional drilling opportunities to replace these oil reserves and cash flows.

Cash on Hand. At March 31, 2012, we had $7.8 million in cash and cash equivalents.

Wells Fargo Senior Credit Facility. On July 30, 2010, we established a senior credit facility through our wholly owned subsidiary, Energy One, LLC (“Energy One”) to borrow up to $75 million from a syndicate of banks, financial institutions and other entities, including Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, which recently acquired the North American reserve-based and related diversified energy lending business of BNP Paribas. The senior credit facility is being used to advance our short and mid-terms goals of increasing our investment in oil and gas.

From time to time until the expiration of the credit facility (July 30, 2014) if Energy One is in compliance with the facility documents, Energy One may borrow, pay, and re-borrow funds from the lenders, up to an amount equal to the borrowing base. The borrowing base is redetermined semi-annually, taking into account updated reserve reports. Any proposed increase in the borrowing base will require approval by all lenders in the syndicate, and any proposed borrowing base decrease will require approval by lenders holding not less than two-thirds of outstanding loans and loan commitments. On April 10, 2012, the commitment amount increased to $100 million and the borrowing base increased to $30.0 million (from $28.0 million) as a result of a redetermination using our December 31, 2011 financial statements, production reports and reserve reports. As of March 31, 2012, Energy One was in compliance with all the covenants under the senior credit facility.

At March 31, 2012, we did not have any borrowings under the senior credit facility. On May 1, 2012, we borrowed $5.0 million to fund our drilling programs.

Equity Market. We filed a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 20, 2009 which became effective on November 6, 2009. The registration statement provides for the sale of up to $100 million of the Company’s common stock from time to time. During the fourth quarter of 2009, we sold five million shares of our common stock for $5.25 per share or $26.3 million, $24.3 million net of offering costs. Additional capital may be raised under the registration statement to fund future oil and gas acquisitions and development drilling and other general purposes. Unless extended, the registration statement will expire on November 6, 2012.

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Asset Held for Sale – Remington Village. Until the property is sold, we will continue to receive rental receipts from the property. The property had an average occupancy rate of 87% during 2011 and was 88% occupied as of March 31, 2012. Occupancy is dependent on the regional economy, including local coal mining operations, which has been affected by the global recession. The property generated average positive cash flow from operations of $84,000 per month during the first three months of 2012 and cash flow is projected to remain in that range during the balance of 2012.

On May 5, 2011, we borrowed $10.0 million from a commercial bank against Remington Village. The note is amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment at the end of five years and has an interest rate of 5.50% per annum. The proceeds of the note were used to fund our general business obligations.

Capital Requirements

Our direct capital requirements during the balance of 2012 relate to the funding of our drilling programs, additional oil and gas exploration and development projects, acquisition of prospective oil and gas properties and/or existing production, payment of debt obligations, operating and capital improvement costs of the water treatment plant at the Mt. Emmons project and ongoing permitting activities for the Mt. Emmons project, operations at Remington Village until it is sold and general and administrative costs. We intend to finance our 2012 capital expenditure plan primarily from the sources described above under “Capital Resources”. We may be required to reduce or defer part of our 2012 capital expenditures plan if we are unable to obtain sufficient financing from these sources. We regularly review our capital expenditure budget to assess changes in current and projected cash flows, acquisition opportunities, debt requirements and other factors.

Oil and Gas Exploration and Development. We continue to expect capital expenditures of approximately $43.3 million in our 2012 oil and gas drilling program (through March 31, 2012, we have spent approximately $12.4 million of this budgeted amount). The remaining $30.9 million in capital expenditure is budgeted to be spent on exploration and acquisition initiatives in the Williston Basin of North Dakota, Texas and Louisiana (primarily onshore Gulf Coast) and our operated Montana prospect. Amounts budgeted for each regional drilling program is contingent upon timing, well costs and success. If any of our drilling initiatives are not initially successful or progress more slowly than anticipated, funds allocated for each drilling program may be allocated to other drilling initiatives and/or acquisitions in due course. The actual number of gross and net wells could vary in each of these cases.

Mt. Emmons Molybdenum Project. We are responsible for all costs associated with the Mt. Emmons project, which includes operation of a water treatment plant. Annual water treatment plant operating costs during the remainder of 2012 are expected to be approximately $153,000 per month. Additionally, we have a remaining budget of $756,000 for mining claims fees, permitting and water treatment plant capital improvements which are expected to improve the plant’s efficiency and reduce costs.

In 2009, 160 acres of fee land in the vicinity of the mining claims was purchased by the Company and Thompson Creek Metals Company USA (“TCM”) for $4 million ($2 million in January 2009, $400,000 annually for five years thereafter). On December 6, 2011, TCM notified the Company that it wishes to sell its interest in the property. The Company has 18 months from that date to decide whether to purchase TCM’s interest in the property, at TCM’s cost, and close such purchase.

Real Estate. Cash operating expenses at Remington Village are projected to be approximately $89,000 per month until Remington Village is sold. Additionally, we have budgeted approximately $300,000 for capital improvements on the property.

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Insurance. We have liability insurance coverage in amounts we deem sufficient and in line with industry standards for the location, stage, and type of operations in oil and gas, mineral property development (the Mt. Emmons molybdenum project), and the Remington Village housing complex. Payment of substantial liabilities in excess of coverage could require diversion of internal capital away from regular business, which could result in diminished operations. We have property loss insurance on all major assets equal to the approximate replacement value of the assets.

Reclamation Costs. We have reclamation obligations with an estimated present value of $411,000 related to our oil and gas wells and $153,000 related to the Mt. Emmons molybdenum property. One depleted oil and gas well in Louisiana is expected to be plugged and abandoned in 2012 at a projected net cost to the Company of $46,000. No additional reclamation is expected to be performed during the year ended December 31, 2012 unless a well, or wells, are abandoned due to unexpected operational challenges. As the Mt. Emmons project is developed, the reclamation liability is expected to increase. It is not anticipated that his reclamation work will occur in the near term. Our objective, upon closure of the proposed mine at the Mt. Emmons project, is to eliminate long-term liabilities associated with the property.

Cash flows during the three months ended March 31, 2012:

The following table presents changes in cash flows between the three month periods ended March 31, 2012 and 2011. The analysis following the table should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

	For the Three Months Ended March 31,
	2012			2011			Change
	(in thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	764		$	1,409		$	(645	)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	$	6,069		$	(2,264	)	$	8,333
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	$	(12,015	)	$	2,814		$	(14,829	)

Operating Activities. Cash provided by operations for the three month period ended March 31, 2012 decreased to $764,000 as compared to cash provided by operations of $1.4 million for the same period of the prior year. This $645,000 decrease year over year in cash from operating activities is predominantly a result of $1.5 million reduction in accounts payable. The remainder of the change in cash provided by operations is part of the complete discussion of cash provided by operations in the Results of Operations above.

Investing Activities. Investing activities provided cash during the first three months of 2012 through $18.1 million in proceeds from the sale of oil and gas properties, $62,000 from the sale of shares of Sutter Gold Mining and $22,000 from the sale of property and equipment.

Investing activities consumed cash through the acquisition and development of oil and gas properties in the amount of $12.0 million during the first three months of 2012. Other uses of cash for investing activities in the period were an $84,000 change in restricted investments and $3,000 for the purchase of equipment.

Financing Activities. Financing activities consumed $12.0 million during the three months ended March 31, 2012 through $12.1 million in repayments of debt. Financing activities provided $50,000 through the issuance of common stock.

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Critical Accounting Policies

For detailed descriptions of our significant accounting policies, we refer you to the corresponding section of Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2011 (please see pages 69 to 72).

Future Operations

Management intends to continue the development of our oil and gas portfolio as well as seek additional investment opportunities in the oil and natural gas sector. Long term, we intend to fund the holding and permitting costs associated with the Mt. Emmons property.

Effects of Changes in Prices

Natural resource operations are significantly affected by changes in commodity prices. As prices for a particular commodity increase, values for prospects for that commodity typically also increase, making acquisitions of such properties more costly and sales potentially more valuable. Conversely, a price decline could enhance acquisitions of properties containing that commodity, but could also make sales of such properties more difficult. Operational impacts of changes in commodity prices are common in the oil and gas and mining industries.

At March 31, 2012, we are receiving revenues from our oil and gas business. Our revenues, cash flows, future rate of growth, results of operations, financial condition and ability to finance projected acquisitions of oil and gas producing assets are dependent upon prevailing prices of oil and gas.

Forward Looking Statements

This Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements other than statements of historical facts included in and incorporated by reference into this Form 10-Q are forward-looking statements. When used in this Form 10-Q, the words “will”, “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements in this Form 10-Q include statements regarding our expected future revenue, income, production, liquidity, expenses and capital projects. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including those associated with our ability to find oil and natural gas reserves that are economically recoverable, the volatility of oil and natural gas prices, declines in the values of our properties that have resulted in and may in the future result in additional ceiling test write downs, our ability to replace reserves and sustain production, our estimate of the sufficiency of our existing capital sources, our ability to raise additional capital to fund cash requirements for our participation in oil and gas properties and for future acquisitions, the uncertainties involved in estimating quantities of proved oil and natural gas reserves, in prospect development and property acquisitions or dispositions and in projecting future rates of production or future reserves, the timing of development expenditures and drilling of wells, hurricanes and other natural disasters and the operating hazards attendant to the oil and gas and minerals businesses. In particular, careful consideration should be given to cautionary statements made in the Company’s Risk Factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. The Company undertakes no duty to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

None.

Contractual Obligations

We had three principal categories of contractual obligations at March 31, 2012: Debt to third parties of $10.0 million, executive retirement obligations of $934,000 and asset retirement obligations of $564,000. The debt consists of debt to a commercial bank secured by our multi-family property in Gillette, WY and the purchase of land near our Mt. Emmons molybdenum property. The debt to the commercial bank bears an interest rate of 5.5% per annum and the land debt bears an interest rate of 6.0% per annum. The debt to the commercial bank is amortized over 20 years with a balloon payment due at the end of five years on May 5, 2016. The balloon payment at maturity is $8.8 million. The $400,000 land debt is due in two equal annual payments of $200,000, plus accrued interest. The next payment is due on January 2, 2013. The executive retirement liability will be paid out over varying periods starting after the actual projected retirement dates of the covered executives. The asset retirement obligations will be retired during the next 34 years. The following table shows the scheduled debt payment, projected executive retirement benefits and asset retirement obligations as of March 31, 2012. This table reflects the debt obligation on the Remington Village apartment complex on terms of the note. However, because the related property is reflected as a current asset held for sale, the note is also classified in the financial statements as a current liability held for sale.

	(In thousands)
	Payments due by period
			Less		One to		Three to		More than
			than one		Three		Five		Five
	Total		Year		Years		Years		Years
	$	9,958	$	508	$	9,450	$	--	$	--

Executive retirement		934		125		327		163		319

Asset retirement obligation		564		46		23		14		481

Totals	$	11,456	$	679	$	9,800	$	177	$	800

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Commodity Risk. Our major market risk exposure is the commodity pricing applicable to our oil and natural gas production. Realized commodity prices received for such production are primarily driven by the prevailing worldwide price for oil and spot prices applicable to natural gas. The market prices for oil and natural gas have been highly volatile and are likely to continue to be highly volatile in the future, which will impact our prospective revenues.

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To mitigate some of our commodity risk, we use derivative instruments, typically fixed-rate swaps and costless collars, to manage price risk underlying our oil and gas production. We may also use puts, calls and basis swaps in the future. We do not hold or issue derivative instruments for trading purposes. The objective of utilizing the economic hedges is to reduce the effect of price changes on a portion of our future oil production, to achieve more predictable cash flows in an environment of volatile oil and gas prices and to manage our exposure to commodity price risk. The use of these derivative instruments limits the downside risk of adverse price movements. However, there is a risk that such use may limit our ability to benefit from favorable price movements. Energy One may, from time to time, add incremental derivatives to hedge additional production, restructure existing derivative contracts or enter into new transactions to modify the terms of current contracts in order to realize the current value of its existing positions.

Through Energy One, we have entered into commodity derivative contracts (“economic hedges”) with BNP Paribas, a costless collar and two fixed price swaps, as described below. The derivative contracts are priced using West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) quoted prices. U.S. Energy is a guarantor of Energy One’s obligations under the economic hedges.

Energy One's commodity derivative contracts as of March 31, 2012 are summarized below:

			Quantity
Settlement Period	Counterparty	Basis	(Bbl/d)		Strike Price

Crude Oil Costless Collar
10/01/11 - 09/30/12	BNP Parabis	WTI		400	Put:	$	80.00
					Call:	$	99.00
Crude Oil Costless Collar
01/01/12 - 12/31/12	BNP Parabis	WTI		200	Put:	$	90.00
					Call:	$	106.50
Crude Oil Costless Collar
10/01/12 - 09/30/13	BNP Parabis	WTI		200	Put:	$	95.00
					Call:	$	116.60

The following table details the fair value of the derivatives recorded in the applicable condensed consolidated balance sheet, by category:

	(in thousands)
	Derivative Assets			Derivative Liabilities
	Balance Sheet	Fair		Balance Sheet	Fair
	Classification	Value		Classification	Value

Crude oil costless collars	Current Asset	$	101	Current Liability	$	758

These contracts are accounted for using the mark-to-market accounting method and accordingly, we recognize all unrealized and realized gains and losses related to these contracts currently in earnings and such gains and losses are classified as gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net in our consolidated statements of operations.

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ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of March 31, 2012, the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer, completed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)). Based on that evaluation the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer concluded:

That the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure (a) that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and (b) that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure; and

ii.	That the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings

There have been no material changes from the legal proceedings as previously disclosed in our 2011 Form 10-K in response to Item 3 of Part I of such Form 10-K (pages 45-47).

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A - Risk Factors” (pages 16 to 30) in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, which are expected to materially affect the Company’s business, financial condition or future results. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Company or that it currently deems to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect its business, financial condition and/or operating results.

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

During the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company issued 15,000 shares pursuant to the 2001 Stock Award Plan, comprised of 5,000 shares to each of the executive officers of the Company.

ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not Applicable

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ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

None

ITEM 5. Other Information

Not Applicable

ITEM 6. Exhibits


	31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) / Rule 15d-15(e)
	31.2	Certification of Principal Accounting Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) / Rule 15(e)/15d-15(e)
	32.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
	32.2	Certification of Principal Accounting Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

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SIGNATURES

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

	U.S. ENERGY CORP.
	(Registrant)



Date: May10, 2012	By:	/s/ Keith G. Larsen
		KEITH G. LARSEN
		Chairman and CEO




Date: May 10, 2012	By:	/s/ Bryon G. Mowry
		BRYON G. MOWRY
		Principal Accounting Officer

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