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Asset Retirement Obligations
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2014
Asset Retirement Obligations [Abstract]  
Asset Retirement Obligations
3)       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, and we 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,
 
   
2014
  
2013
 
Beginning asset retirement obligation
 $812  $686 
Accretion of discount
  10   38 
Liabilities incurred
  76   131 
Liabilities settled
  --   (43)
Ending asset retirement obligation
 $898  $812 
          
Mineral properties
 $178  $175 
Oil & Gas wells
  720   637 
Ending asset retirement obligation
 $898  $812