Edgar Filing: GRAN TIERRA ENERGY INC.

GTE - 2012.12.31 - 10K

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)



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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012



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 001-34018

GRAN TIERRA ENERGY INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)



Nevada		98-0479924
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

300, 625 11 Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2R 0E1
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(403) 265-3221

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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



Title of each class		Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share		NYSE MKT
		Toronto Stock Exchange

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes ý No o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes o No ý

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, 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 ý No o

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

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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.



Large accelerated filer x	Accelerated filer o
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 Act). Yes o No ý

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was approximately $1.3 billion (including shares issuable upon exercise of exchangeable shares). Aggregate market value excludes an aggregate of 1,267,207 shares of Common Stock and 9,348,650 shares issuable upon exercise of exchangeable shares held by officers and directors on such date. Exclusion of shares held by any of these persons should not be construed to indicate that such person possesses the power, direct or indirect, to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of the registrant, or that such person is controlled by or under common control with the registrant.

On February 20, 2013, the following numbers of shares of the registrant’s capital stock were outstanding: 268,621,445 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $0.001 par value; one share of Special A Voting Stock, $0.001 par value, representing 6,223,810 shares of Gran Tierra Goldstrike Inc., which are exchangeable on a 1-for-1 basis into the registrant’s Common Stock; and one share of Special B Voting Stock, $0.001 par value, representing 7,058,678 shares of Gran Tierra Exchangeco Inc., which are exchangeable on a 1-for-1 basis into the registrant’s Common Stock.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The information required by Part III of this report, to the extent not set forth herein, is incorporated by reference from the registrant’s definitive proxy statement relating to the 2013 annual meeting of stockholders, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2012.

Gran Tierra Energy Inc.

Annual Report on Form 10-K

Year Ended December 31, 2012

Table of contents



		Page

PART I
Item 1.	Business	7
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	37
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	52
Item 2.	Properties	52
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	52
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	52

PART II
Item 5.	Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	55
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	57
Item 7.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	58
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	87
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	88
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	119
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	120
Item 9B.	Other Information	122

PART III
Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	122
Item 11.	Executive Compensation	122
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	122
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	123
Item 14.	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	123

PART IV
Item 15.	Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules	123

SIGNATURES		124
EXHIBIT INDEX		126

STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K, particularly in Item 1. “Business” and Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including without limitation statements in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, regarding our financial position, estimated quantities and net present values of reserves, business strategy, plans and objectives of our management for future operations, covenant compliance, capital spending plans and those statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “project”, “target”, “goal”, “plan”, “objective”, “should”, or similar expressions or variations on these expressions are forward-looking statements. We can give no assurances that the assumptions upon which the forward-looking statements are based will prove to be correct or that, even if correct, intervening circumstances will not occur to cause actual results to be different than expected. Because forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. There are a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, those set out in Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The information included herein is given as of the filing date of this Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and, except as otherwise required by the federal securities laws, we disclaim any obligations or undertaking to publicly release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any forward-looking statement is based.

GLOSSARY OF OIL AND GAS TERMS

In this document, the abbreviations set forth below have the following meanings:



bbl	barrel	Mcf	thousand cubic feet
Mbbl	thousand barrels	MMcf	million cubic feet
MMbbl	million barrels	Bcf	billion cubic feet
BOE	barrels of oil equivalent	MMBtu	million British thermal units
MMBOE	million barrels of oil equivalent	NGL	natural gas liquids
BOEPD	barrels of oil equivalent per day	NAR	net after royalty
BOPD	barrels of oil per day

NGL volumes are converted to BOE on a one-to-one basis with oil. Gas volumes are converted to BOE at the rate of 6 Mcf of gas per bbl of oil, based upon the approximate relative energy content of gas and oil. The rate is not necessarily indicative of the relationship between oil and gas prices.

In the discussion that follows we discuss our interests in wells and/or acres in gross and net terms. Gross oil and natural gas wells or acres refer to the total number of wells or acres in which we own a working interest. Net oil and natural gas wells or acres are determined by multiplying gross wells or acres by the working interest that we own in such wells or acres. Working interest refers to the interest we own in a property, which entitles us to receive a specified percentage of the proceeds of the sale of oil and natural gas, and also requires us to bear a specified percentage of the cost to explore for, develop and produce that oil and natural gas. A working interest owner that owns a portion of the working interest may participate either as operator, or by voting its percentage interest to approve or disapprove the appointment of an operator, in drilling and other major activities in connection with the development of a property.

We also refer to royalties and farm-in or farm-out transactions. Royalties include payments to governments on the production of oil and gas, either in kind or in cash. Royalties also include overriding royalties paid to third parties. Our reserves, production volumes and sales are reported net after deduction of royalties. Production volumes are also reported net of inventory adjustments. Farm-in or farm-out transactions refer to transactions in which a portion of a working interest is sold by an owner of an oil and gas property. The transaction is labeled a farm-in by the purchaser of the working interest and a farm-out by the seller of the working interest. Payment in a farm-in or farm-out transaction can be in cash or in kind by committing to perform and/or pay for certain work obligations.

In the petroleum industry, geologic settings with proven petroleum source rocks, migration pathways, reservoir rocks and traps are referred to as petroleum systems.

Several items that relate to oil and gas operations, including aeromagnetic and aerogravity surveys, seismic operations and several kinds of drilling and other well operations, are also discussed in this document.

Aeromagnetic and aerogravity surveys are a remote sensing process by which data is gathered about the subsurface of the earth. An airplane is equipped with extremely sensitive instruments that measure changes in the earth's gravitational and magnetic field. Variations as small as 1/1,000th in the gravitational and magnetic field strength and direction can indicate structural changes below the ground surface. These structural changes may influence the trapping of hydrocarbons. These surveys are an efficient way of gathering data over large regions.

Seismic data is used by oil and natural gas companies as the principal source of information to locate oil and natural gas deposits, both for exploration for new deposits and to manage or enhance production from known reservoirs. To gather seismic data, an energy source is used to send sound waves into the subsurface strata. These waves are reflected back to the surface by underground formations, where they are detected by geophones which digitize and record the reflected waves. Computer software applications are then used to process the raw data to develop an image of underground formations. 2-D seismic is the standard acquisition technique used to image geologic formations over a broad area. 2-D seismic data is collected by a single line of energy sources which reflect seismic waves to a single line of geophones. When processed, 2-D seismic data produces an image of a single vertical plane of sub-surface data. 3-D seismic data is collected using a grid of energy sources, which are generally spread over several square miles. A 3-D seismic survey produces a three dimensional image of the subsurface geology by collecting seismic data along parallel lines and creating a cube of information that can be divided into various planes, thus improving visualization. Consequently, 3-D seismic data is generally considered a more reliable indicator of potential oil and natural gas reservoirs in the area evaluated.

Wells drilled are classified as exploration, development, injector or stratigraphic. An exploration well is a well drilled in search of a previously undiscovered hydrocarbon-bearing reservoir. A development well is a well drilled to develop a hydrocarbon-bearing reservoir that is already discovered. Exploration and development wells are tested during and after the drilling process to determine if they have oil or natural gas that can be produced economically in commercial quantities. If they do, the well will be completed for production, which could involve a variety of equipment, the specifics of which depend on a number of technical geological and engineering considerations. If there is no oil or natural gas (a “dry” well), or there is oil and natural gas but the quantities are too small and/or too difficult to produce, the well will be abandoned. Abandonment is a completion operation that involves closing or “plugging” the well and remediating the drilling site. An injector well is a development well that will be used to inject fluid into a reservoir to increase production from other wells. A stratigraphic well is a drilling effort, geologically directed, to obtain information pertaining to a specific geologic condition. These wells customarily are drilled without the intent of being completed for hydrocarbon production. The classification also includes tests identified as core tests and all types of expendable holes related to hydrocarbon exploration. Stratigraphic tests are classified as “exploratory type” if drilled in an unknown area or “development type” if drilled in a known area.

Workover is a term used to describe remedial operations on a previously completed well to clean, repair and/or maintain the well for the purpose of increasing or restoring production. It could include well deepening, plugging portions of the well, working with cementing, scale removal, acidizing, fracture stimulation, changing tubulars or installing/changing equipment to provide artificial lift.

The SEC definitions related to oil and natural gas reserves, per Regulation S-X, reflecting our use of deterministic reserve estimation methods, are as follows:

•

Reserves. Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of oil and gas and related substances anticipated to be economically producible, as of a given date, by application of development projects to known accumulations. In addition, there must exist, or there must be a reasonable expectation that there will exist, the legal right to produce or a revenue interest in the production, installed means of delivering oil and gas or related substances to market, and all permits and financing required to implement the project.

•

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


i.	The area of the reservoir considered as proved includes:


A.	The area identified by drilling and limited by fluid contacts, if any, and


B.	Adjacent undrilled portions of the reservoir that can, with reasonable certainty, be judged to be continuous with it and to contain economically producible oil or gas on the basis of available geoscience and engineering data.


ii.	In the absence of data on fluid contacts, proved quantities in a reservoir are limited by the lowest known hydrocarbons as seen in a well penetration unless geoscience, engineering, or performance data and reliable technology establishes a lower contact with reasonable certainty.


iii.	Where direct observation from well penetrations has defined a highest known oil ("HKO") elevation and the potential exists for an associated gas cap, proved oil reserves may be assigned in the structurally higher portions of the reservoir only if geoscience, engineering, or performance data and reliable technology establish the higher contact with reasonable certainty.


iv.	Reserves which can be produced economically through application of improved recovery techniques (including, but not limited to, fluid injection) are included in the proved classification when:


A.	Successful testing by a pilot project in an area of the reservoir with properties no more favorable than in the reservoir as a whole, the operation of an installed program in the reservoir or an analogous reservoir, or other evidence using reliable technology establishes the reasonable certainty of the engineering analysis on which the project or program was based; and


B.	The project has been approved for development by all necessary parties and entities, including governmental entities.

Existing economic conditions include prices and costs at which economic producibility from a reservoir is to be determined. The price shall be the average price during the 12-month period prior to the ending date of the period covered by the report, determined as an unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month within such period, unless prices are defined by contractual arrangements, excluding escalations based upon future conditions.


•	Probable reserves. Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves but which, together with proved reserves, are as likely as not to be recovered.


i.	When deterministic methods are used, it is as likely as not that actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the sum of estimated proved plus probable reserves. When probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 50% probability that the actual quantities recovered will equal or exceed the proved plus probable reserves estimates.

ii.

Probable reserves may be assigned to areas of a reservoir adjacent to proved reserves where data control or interpretations of available data are less certain, even if the interpreted reservoir continuity of structure or productivity does not meet the reasonable certainty criterion. Probable reserves may be assigned to areas that are structurally higher than the proved area if these areas are in communication with the proved reservoir.


iii.	Probable reserves estimates also include potential incremental quantities associated with a greater percentage recovery of the hydrocarbons in place than assumed for proved reserves.


iv.	See also guidelines in paragraphs (a)(17)(iv) and (a)(17)(vi) of section 210.4-10(a) of Regulations S-X.


•	Possible reserves. Possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves.


i.	When deterministic methods are used, the total quantities ultimately recovered from a project have a low probability of exceeding proved plus probable plus possible reserves. When probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 10% probability that the total quantities ultimately recovered will equal or exceed the proved plus probable plus possible reserves estimates.


ii.	Possible reserves may be assigned to areas of a reservoir adjacent to probable reserves where data control and interpretations of available data are progressively less certain. Frequently, this will be in areas where geoscience and engineering data are unable to define clearly the area and vertical limits of commercial production from the reservoir by a defined project.


iii.	Possible reserves also include incremental quantities associated with a greater percentage recovery of the hydrocarbons in place than the recovery quantities assumed for probable reserves.


iv.	The proved plus probable and proved plus probable plus possible reserves estimates must be based on reasonable alternative technical and commercial interpretations within the reservoir or subject project that are clearly documented, including comparisons to results in successful similar projects.

Possible reserves may be assigned where geoscience and engineering data identify directly adjacent portions of a reservoir within the same accumulation that may be separated from proved areas by faults with displacement less than formation thickness or other geological discontinuities and that have not been penetrated by a wellbore, and the registrant believes that such adjacent portions are in communication with the known (proved) reservoir. Possible reserves may be assigned to areas that are structurally higher or lower than the proved area if these areas are in communication with the proved reservoir.

vi.

Pursuant to paragraph (a)(22)(iii) of section 210.4-10(a) of Regulations S-X, where direct observation has defined a HKO elevation and the potential exists for an associated gas cap, proved oil reserves should be assigned in the structurally higher portions of the reservoir above the HKO only if the higher contact can be established with reasonable certainty through reliable technology. Portions of the reservoir that do not meet this reasonable certainty criterion may be assigned as probable and possible oil or gas based on reservoir fluid properties and pressure gradient interpretations.

•

Reasonable certainty. If deterministic methods are used, reasonable certainty means a high degree of confidence that the quantities will be recovered. A high degree of confidence exists if the quantity is much more likely to be achieved than not, and as changes due to increased availability of geoscience (geological, geophysical and geochemical), engineering and economic data are made to estimated ultimate recovery ("EUR") with time, reasonably certain EUR is much more likely to increase or remain constant than to decrease.


•	Deterministic estimate. The method of estimating reserves or resources is called deterministic when a single value for each parameter (from the geoscience, engineering, or economic data) in the reserves calculation is used in the reserves estimation procedure.


•	Probabilistic estimate. The method of estimating reserves or resources is called probabilistic when the full range of values that could reasonably occur for each unknown parameter (from the geoscience, engineering or economic data) is used to generate a full range of possible outcomes and their associated probabilities of occurrences.


•	Developed oil and gas reserves. Developed oil and gas reserves are reserves of any category that can be expected to be recovered:


i.	Through existing wells with existing equipment and operating methods or in which the cost of the required equipment is relatively minor compared with the cost of a new well; and


ii.	Through installed extraction equipment and infrastructure operational at the time of the reserves estimate if the extraction is by means not involving a well.


•	Undeveloped oil and gas reserves. Undeveloped oil and gas reserves are reserves of any category that are expected to be recovered from new wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion.


i.	Reserves on undrilled acreage shall be limited to those directly offsetting development spacing areas that are reasonably certain of production when drilled, unless evidence using reliable technology exists that establishes reasonable certainty of economic producibility at greater distances.


ii.	Undrilled locations can be classified as having undeveloped reserves only if a development plan has been adopted indicating that they are scheduled to be drilled within five years, unless the specific circumstances, justify a longer time.

iii.

Under no circumstances shall estimates for undeveloped reserves be attributable to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is contemplated, unless such techniques have been proved effective by actual projects in the same reservoir or an analogous reservoir, as defined in paragraph (a)(2) of section 201.4-10(a) of Regulation S-X, or by other evidence using reliable technology establishing reasonable certainty.

PART I

Item 1. Business

General

Gran Tierra Energy Inc. together with its subsidiaries (“Gran Tierra”, "us", "our", or “we”) is an independent international energy company engaged in oil and gas acquisition, exploration, development and production. We own oil and gas properties in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil.

Our principal executive offices are located at 300, 625-11th Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The telephone number at our principal executive office is (403) 265-3221. All dollar ($) amounts referred to in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are United States (U.S.) dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

Development of Our Business

Our company was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on June 6, 2003, originally under the name Goldstrike Inc. We made our initial acquisition of oil and gas producing and non-producing properties in Argentina in September 2005. Since then, we have acquired oil and gas producing and non-producing assets in Colombia, Peru, Argentina and Brazil, with our largest acquisitions being the acquisition of Solana Resources Limited (“Solana”) in 2008 and Petrolifera Petroleum Limited (“Petrolifera”) in 2011.

In 2012:


•	in Colombia, we added two blocks through the 2012 Colombia Bid Round and continued to focus on developing our producing fields, including Costayaco and Moqueta, and on the generation of exploration prospects;


•	in Brazil, we acquired the remaining 30% working interest in our Recôncavo Basin Blocks, received declaration of commerciality for the Tiê field and received regulatory approval for the farm-out of Block BM-CAL-7 in the offshore Camamu Basin;

•

in Peru, PeruPetro signed the assignment documents for Block 95, officially transferring 60% of the block and operatorship to us and we entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining 40% working interest in this block; we commenced drilling an exploration well on Block 95; and, in Blocks 123 and 129, increased our working interest from 20% to 100%, subject to regulatory approval, and, subsequent to year end, assumed operatorship;


•	in Argentina, we continued to focus on developing our producing fields, including the Surubi, Puesto Morales and Rinconada Norte fields.

In the year ended December 31, 2012, we incurred capital expenditures of $349.8 million (excluding changes in non-cash working capital and including the $36.6 million acquisition in Brazil and net of proceeds from disposition of oil and gas properties), including acquisitions of $49.1 million, drilling expenditures of $218.1 million, facilities expenses of $17.9 million, geological and geophysical ("G&G") expenses of $48.0 million and other expenditures of $16.7 million.

Our acreage as of December 31, 2012, including acquisitions and excluding farm-outs and relinquishments which were subject to various government approvals, included:


•	4.5 million gross acres in Colombia (3.7 million net) covering 23 exploration and production contracts, six of which were producing and 21 of which were operated by Gran Tierra (excludes four blocks or 277,072 gross and 210,692 net acres for which working interest changes were subject to approval);


•	1.3 million gross acres (0.6 million net) in Argentina covering 11 exploration and production contracts, eight of which were producing and nine of which were operated by Gran Tierra;


•	6.4 million gross acres (6.4 million net) in Peru covering five exploration licenses, all of which were frontier exploration areas and three of which were operated by Gran Tierra (includes three blocks or 3.3 million net acres which were subject to government approval). Subsequent to year end, we assumed operatorship of the two remaining blocks in Peru; and


•	0.4 million gross acres (61 thousand net) in Brazil covering five exploration blocks, one of which was producing and four of which were operated by Gran Tierra.

Oil and Gas Properties – Colombia

We have interests in 23 blocks in Colombia, and are the operator in 21 blocks. The Chaza, Guayuyaco, Garibay, and Santana Blocks have producing oil wells. The Magangué and Sierra Nevada Blocks each have one producing gas well. During the year ended December 31, 2012, 66% of our consolidated production, NAR adjusted for inventory changes, was from the Chaza Block.

In 2012, we were awarded two exploration blocks, Sinu-1 and Sinu-3 in the Sinu Basin, in the 2012 Colombia Bid Round.

Royalties

Colombian royalties are established under law 756 of 2002. All discoveries made subsequent to the enactment of this law have the sliding scale royalty described below. Discoveries made before the enactment of this law have a royalty of 20%. The Agencia Nacional de Hidrocarburos (National Hydrocarbons Agency) (“ANH”) contracts to which Gran Tierra is a party all have royalties that are based on a sliding scale described in law 756. This royalty works on an individual oil field basis starting with a base royalty rate of 8% for gross production of less than 5,000 BOPD. The royalty increases in a linear fashion from 8% to 20% for gross production between 5,000 and 125,000 BOPD, and is stable at 20% for gross production between 125,000 and 400,000 BOPD. For gross production between 400,000 and 600,000 BOPD the rate increases in a linear fashion from 20% to 25%. For gross production in excess of 600,000 BOPD the royalty rate is fixed at 25%. The Llanos-22 Block has an additional royalty of 1%.

For gas fields, the royalty is on an individual gas field basis starting with a base royalty rate of 6.4% for gross production of less than 28.5 MMcf of gas per day. The royalty increases in a linear fashion from 6.4% to 20% for gross production between 28.5 MMcf of gas per day and 3.42 Bcf of gas per day, and is stable at 16% for gross production between 712.5 to 2,280 MMcf of gas per day. For gross production between 2.28 to 3.42 Bcf of gas per day the rate increases in a linear fashion from 16% to 20%. For gross production in excess of 3.42 Bcf of gas per day the royalty rate is fixed at 20%.

Our production from the Costayaco field is also subject to an additional royalty (the "HPR royalty") that applies when cumulative gross production from a commercial field is greater than five MMbbl. This additional royalty is calculated on the difference between a trigger price defined by the ANH and the sales price. As the Chaza Block exploration and production contract (the "Chaza Contract") stands currently, any new Exploitation Area on this ANH contracted block will also be subject to this additional royalty once the production from each new field exceeds five MMbbl of cumulative production. The Moqueta discovery in the Chaza Block and the Jilguero discovery in the Garibay Block will both be subject to this additional royalty after each field produces five MMbbl.

The ANH has requested that the additional royalty be paid with respect to production from the recently drilled wells relating to the Moqueta discovery and has initiated a noncompliance procedure under the Chaza Contract. The Moqueta discovery is not located in the Costayaco Exploitation Area. Further, we view the Costayaco field and the Moqueta discovery as two clearly separate and independent hydrocarbon accumulations. Therefore, it is our view that it is clear that, pursuant to the Chaza Contract, the additional compensation payments are only to be paid with respect to production from the Moqueta wells when the accumulated oil production from any new Exploitation Area created with respect to the Moqueta discovery exceeds five MMbbl. Discussions with the ANH have not resolved this issue and we have initiated the dispute resolution process and filed an arbitration claim. As at December 31, 2012, total cumulative production from the Moqueta field was 0.9 MMbbl. The estimated compensation which would be payable on cumulative production to date if the ANH’s interpretation is successful is $15.1 million.

For exploration and production contracts awarded in the 2010 and 2012 Colombia Bid Rounds, including such contracts awarded to Gran Tierra, the high price royalty will apply once the production from the area governed by the contract, rather than any particular Exploitation Area designated under the contract, exceeds five MMbbl of cumulative production. We expect that this criteria for the high price royalty will apply for subsequent bid rounds.

The Santana and Magangué Blocks have a flat 20% royalty as those discoveries were made before 2002. The Guayuyaco and Rio Magdalena Blocks have the sliding scale royalty but do not have the additional royalty.

In addition to these government royalties, Gran Tierra’s original interests in the Santana, Guayuyaco, Chaza, Rio Magdalena, Mecaya and Azar Blocks acquired on our entry into Colombia in 2006 are subject to a third party royalty. The additional interest in Guayuyaco and Chaza acquired by Gran Tierra on the acquisition of Solana in 2008 is not subject to this third party royalty. On June 20, 2006, Gran Tierra entered into a participation agreement that would effectively compensate Crosby Capital, LLC ("Crosby") for its share in certain Colombian properties. The compensation is in the form of overriding royalty rights that applies to production from historical properties.. The historical properties are Santana, Guayuyaco, Rio Magdalena, Talora (sold), Chaza, Primavera (relinquished), Mecaya and Azar. The overriding royalty rights starts with a 2% rate on working interest production less government royalties. For new commercial fields discovered within 10 years of the agreement date and after a prescribed threshold is reached, Crosby reserves the right to convert the overriding royalty rights to a net profit interest. This net profit interest ranges from 7.5% to 10% of working interest production less sliding scale government royalties, as described above, and operating and overhead costs. No adjustment is made for the HPR royalty. On certain pre-existing fields, Crosby does not have the right to convert its overriding royalty rights to a net profit interest. The overriding royalty rights and net profit interests are calculated on Gran Tierra’s working interest production after royalties, excluding the working interest acquired from Solana. In addition, there is a conditional overriding royalty rights that applies only to the pre-existing fields.

Chaza Block

The Chaza Block covers 46,676 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin and is governed by the terms of an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH, which was signed June 27, 2005. We are the operator and hold a 100% working interest in this block. The discovery of the Costayaco field in the Chaza Block was the result of drilling the Costayaco-1 exploration well in the second quarter of 2007. This well commenced production in July 2007. We were granted an additional exploratory program which extended the exploration phase of the contract to June 26, 2013. The additional exploration phase required one exploration well to be drilled and this obligation was satisfied by the completion of the Pacayaco-1 and Pacayaco-1 ST1 oil exploration wells in 2011. The production phase for this block will end in 2033. After the expiration of the production phase, we must carry out an abandonment program to the satisfaction of ANH. In conjunction with the abandonment, we must establish and maintain an abandonment fund to ensure that financial resources are available at the end of the contract.

In 2012, we drilled and completed the Costayaco-15 and Costayaco-16 development wells and commenced drilling the Costayaco-17 development well in the Costayaco field. We also drilled and completed initial testing of the Moqueta-7 development well and commenced drilling the Moqueta-8 development well in the Moqueta field. We also continued facilities work at the Costayaco and Moqueta fields and acquired 3-D seismic on the Costayaco, Moqueta and Verdayaco fields.

In 2013, we plan to conduct initial testing of the Moqueta-8 development well, drill the Moqueta Deep exploration well and drill five gross development wells.

Guayuyaco Block

The Guayuyaco Block contract was signed in September 2002 and covers 52,366 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin, which includes the area surrounding the producing fields of the Santana contract area. The Guayuyaco Block is governed by an Association Contract with Ecopetrol S.A. (“Ecopetrol”), the Colombian majority state owned oil company. We are the operator and have a 70% working interest, with the remaining interest held by Ecopetrol. Ecopetrol has the option to back-in to a 30% participation interest in any other new discoveries in the block. We have completed all of our obligations in relation to this contract.

The Guayuyaco field was discovered in 2005. Two wells are now producing in this field: Guayuyaco-1 commenced production in February 2005 and Guayuyaco-2 began production in September 2005. The Juanambu field, also in the Guayuyaco Block, has three producing wells: Juanambu-1 began commercial production in November 2007, Juanambu-2 began production in March 2010 and Juanambu-3 began production in April 2011. The production phase of the contract will end in 2030, following which, the property will be returned to the government upon expiration of the production contract, and we are not obligated to perform remediation work.

In 2012, we acquired 3-D seismic on this block. In 2013, we plan to drill the Miraflor West-1 oil exploration well and an additional oil exploration well.

Garibay Block

Solana acquired the Garibay Block in October 2005. The block covers 75,936 gross acres in the Llanos Basin and we have a non-operated 50% working interest. CEPSAC has the remaining interest and is the operator. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We applied and were granted an additional exploratory program which extended the exploration phase of the contract to October 24, 2013. There was an obligation to drill one exploration well in this exploration phase, which we satisfied by drilling the Bordon-1 oil exploration well in 2012. This well was plugged and abandoned in 2012. In 2013, we plan to convert the Jilguero-2 well to a water injector well, acquire 80 square kilometers of 3-D seismic and perform facilities work.

Llanos-22 Block

During 2011, we earned a 45% non-operated working interest in the Llanos-22 Block in the Llanos Basin pursuant to farm-out agreements with CEPSAC (CEPSAC retained a 55% working interest and operatorship). CEPSAC farmed-in for a 30% working interest on the Piedemonte Norte Block. The Llanos-22 Block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH and covers 84,757 gross acres. The second exploration phase of the contract requires two wells to be drilled or one well and the relinquishment of 50% of the block prior to February 4, 2015.

Together with our partner, we successfully drilled and tested the Ramiriqui-1 oil exploration well in 2012. In 2013, we plan to drill one gross oil development well which will satisfy the second phase obligation.

Santana Block

The Santana Block contract was signed in July 1987 and covers 1,119 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin and includes 11 gross producing wells in four fields — Linda, Mary, Miraflor and Toroyaco. Activities are governed by terms of a Shared Risk Contract with Ecopetrol and we are the operator. We hold a 35% working interest in all fields and Ecopetrol holds the remaining interest. The block has been producing since 1991. Under the Shared Risk Contract, Ecopetrol initially backed into a 50% working interest upon declaration of commerciality in 1991. In June 1996, when the block reached seven MMbbl of oil produced, Ecopetrol had the right to back into a further 15% working interest, which it exercised, for a total ownership of 65%. We have completed all of our obligations in relation to the contract. The production phase of the contract will end in 2015, at which time the property will be returned to the government and we are not obligated to perform remediation work.

In 2012, we performed minor facilities maintenance. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Sierra Nevada Block

We acquired our interest in the Sierra Nevada Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Sierra Nevada Block is located in the Lower Magdalena Basin and covers 178,162 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH and a third party has a 1% overriding royalty right on the block. We are in the fourth of six exploration phases, which would have ended on December 28, 2012, but we applied to the ANH and were granted a two-month extension to February 28, 2013. The final exploration phase is scheduled to end in June 2014 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, we drilled the Florida West exploration well, which was plugged and abandoned and satisfied the fourth phase commitment, and relinquished 15% of the block. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Magdalena Block

We acquired our interest in the Magdalena Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Magdalena Block is located in the Lower Magdalena Basin and covers 594,803 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH and a third party has a 1% overriding royalty right on the block. We are in the third of six exploration phases, which ends on May 1, 2013, and required one exploration well to be drilled; however, we requested and were granted ANH approval to change the work obligation to a 2-D seismic program. The final exploration phase is scheduled to end in February 2016 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, we acquired 53 square kilometers of 3-D seismic on this block. In 2013, we plan to acquire 85 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block to satisfy the third phase obligation.

Piedemonte Norte Block

In June 2009, we completed the conversion of our Technical Evaluation Areas (“TEA”) in the Putumayo Basin to blocks with Exploration and Exploitation Contracts with the ANH. The Piedemonte Norte Block covers 78,742 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin and we hold a 70% working interest. In 2011, we farmed out 30% of the block to CEPSAC, but retained operatorship. This asset swap was in connection with the Llanos-22 Block farm-in agreement. The first exploration phase was to end on October 10, 2012, and required the acquisition, processing and interpretation of 70 kilometers of 2-D seismic; however, the block is under suspension pending receipt of an environmental permit. This contract has six exploration phases and the final exploration phase of the contract ends in October 2017; however, since this block is under suspension, the contract expiration will likely be delayed. The exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures. In 2013, we plan to acquire 70 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block which will satisfy the first phase obligation.

Piedemonte Sur Block

The Piedemonte Sur Block was part of the Putumayo West A TEA and became an exploration block with an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH in June 2009. The Piedemonte Sur Block covers 73,898 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. We are in a unified phase two and three of six exploration phases. This phase requires the acquisition of 55 kilometers of 2-D seismic and the drilling of one exploration well by July 26, 2013; however, we expect to apply for an extension of this phase. The exploration phase will end in July 2016 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures. In 2013, we plan to acquire 51 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block.

Magangué Block

Solana acquired the Magangué Block in October 2006. It is held pursuant to an Association Contract with Ecopetrol and covers 20,647 gross acres in the Lower Magdalena Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 42% working interest and our partner Ecopetrol has the remaining working interest. This block contains the producing Guepaje gas field. The production phase of the contract will end in 2017. We have completed all of our obligations in relation to the contract.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures on this block and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Mecaya Block

The Mecaya Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH was signed June 2006. The Mecaya Block covers 74,128 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin. We are the operator and have a 15% working interest. Two partners have the remaining working interest. We are in a unified phase one and two of four exploration phases and are obligated to complete 52 square kilometers of 3-D seismic or drill one exploration well. We were contractually obligated to complete this work by June 2009; however, the contract terms have been suspended due to operational difficulties in the area. The exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures on this block, and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Cauca 6 Block

We were awarded the Cauca 6 Block in the 2010 Colombia Bid Round. The block covers 571,098 gross acres in the Cauca Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The block is held under a TEA Contract with the ANH. We are in the exploration phase of the contract which requires the acquisition of 200 kilometers of 2-D seismic and the drilling of one stratigraphic well by December 15, 2014. This TEA contract would then be converted into an Exploration and Exploitation Contract.

In 2012, we conducted surface and subsurface geological studies and an aeromagnetic survey. In 2013, we plan to acquire 200 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block.

Cauca 7 Block

We were awarded the Cauca 7 Block in the 2010 Colombia Bid Round. The block covers 785,452 gross acres in the Cauca Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The block is held under a TEA Contract with the ANH. The exploration phase of the contract requires the acquisition of 250 kilometers of 2-D seismic and the drilling of one stratigraphic well by December 15, 2014. This TEA contract would then be converted into an Exploration and Exploitation Contract.

In 2012, we conducted surface and subsurface geological studies and an aeromagnetic survey. In 2013 we plan to acquire 250 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block.

Putumayo 10 Block

We were awarded the Putumayo 10 Block in June 2010 in the 2010 Colombia Bid Round. The block covers 114,096 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We are in the first of two exploration phases of the contract. This phase requires the acquisition of 73 kilometers of 2-D seismic and two exploration wells to be drilled by September 15, 2014. The exploration phase ends in September 2017 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures. In 2013, we plan to acquire 100 kilometers of 2-D seismic on this block.

Putumayo 1 Block

We acquired a 55% operated working interest in the Putumayo-1 Block in 2010. The block covers 114,881 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We are in the first of two exploration phases. This phase required the acquisition of 159 square kilometers of 3-D seismic and one exploration well to be drilled by May 3, 2012; however, we requested and were granted an extension to May 3, 2013. The exploration phase ends in September 2015 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, we initiated the acquisition of 3-D seismic on this block and, in 2013, we plan to acquire a further 228 square kilometers of 3-D seismic and drill one gross oil exploration well.

Catguas A and B Blocks

Solana acquired the Catguas Block in November 2005. We are the operator of the block which covers 330,354 gross acres in the Catatumbo Basin. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We have a 100% working interest in the block; however, in December 2005, Solana and its partner signed a participation agreement whereby they defined the areas A and B and distributed them between the partners in the block. The participation agreement will transfer a 15% working interest in the southern part of the block (Catguas B) and a 50% working interest in the remainder of the block (Catguas A) to our partner. This agreement is subject to approval by ANH. Catguas A covers 74,119 gross acres and Catguas B covers 256,235 gross acres. We are in a unified phase two and three of six exploration periods in the contract. This phase was to end in May 2007; however, the block contract is in suspension by ANH as a result of force majeure. This phase requires three exploratory wells or two exploratory wells to be drilled and one re-entry and the acquisition of 50 square kilometers of 3-D seismic. There will be two subsequent exploration periods of 12 months each in length, which both require the drilling of one exploration well. The exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures on this block, and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Sinu-1 Block

We acquired a 60% operated working interest in the Sinu-1 Block in the 2012 Colombia Bid Round. The block covers 503,000 gross acres in the Sinu Basin. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We are in the community consultation phase which will end on November 28, 2013.

Sinu-3 Block

We acquired a 51% operated working interest in the Sinu-3 Block in the 2012 Colombia Bid Round. The block covers 483,000 gross acres in the Sinu Basin. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We are in the community consultation phase which will end on November 28, 2013.

Turpial Block

We acquired our interest in the Turpial Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Turpial block is located in the Middle Magdalena Basin in central Colombia and covers 111,066 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 50% working interest and our partner holds the remaining working interest. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH and a third party has a 1% overriding royalty right on the block. We are in the fourth phase of six exploration phases. This phase requires one exploration well to be drilled by November 3, 2013. The exploration phase will end in August 2015 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, we drilled the Turpial-1 oil exploration well which satisfied the fourth exploration phase commitment. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Azar Block

We have a 100% working interest in the Azar Block; however, we have entered two farm-out agreements to transfer 60% of our working interest. The farm-outs are subject to ANH approval. This block covers 47,226 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin and we are the operator. The block is held under an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH. We are in the sixth exploration phase which requires one exploration well to be drilled. The exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved. The property will be returned to the government upon expiration of the production contract. If we make a commercial discovery on the block and produce oil, we will be obligated to perform abandonment activities under the same conditions as those for the Chaza Block.

In 2012, we drilled the La Vega Este-1 oil exploration well which was plugged and abandoned during the year, and satisfied the fifth exploration phase well commitment. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Rumiyaco Block

The Rumiyaco Block was part of the Putumayo West B TEA and became an exploration block with an Exploration and Exploitation Contract with the ANH in June 2009. Rumiyaco covers 82,624 gross acres in the Putumayo Basin. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. We are in the fourth of six exploration phases. This phase requires one exploration well to be drilled by September 4, 2013. The exploration phase ends in September 2015 and the exploitation phase would end 24 years after commerciality, if a discovery is approved.

In 2012, we acquired 52 square kilometers of 3-D seismic on this block. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Rio Magdalena Block

The Rio Magdalena Association Contract with Ecopetrol was signed in February 2002. The Rio Magdalena Block covers 36,156 gross acres in the Magdalena Basin. We are the operator of the block and hold a 70% working interest. An agreement to transfer a further interest to our partner and reduce our working interest to 30.8% is pending approval by Ecopetrol. According to the terms of the Association Contract, Ecopetrol may back-in for a 30% working interest in any discoveries on the block upon commercialization. The exploration phase of the contract ended on September 14, 2010, and the production period will end in 2030, at which time the property will be returned to the government. As a result, there will be no reclamation costs.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Oil and Gas Properties – Argentina

Our Argentina properties are located in the Noroeste Basin in northern Argentina and the Neuquen Basin in central Argentina. The Puesto Morales, Puesto Morales Este, Rinconada Norte, Rinconada Sur, Surubi, El Chivil, Palmar Largo and El Vinalar Blocks have producing oil wells and the Puesto Morales Block also has producing gas wells. During the year ended December 31, 2012, 12% of our consolidated production, NAR adjusted for inventory changes, was from the Puesto Morales Block and 6% was from the Surubi Block. For all of our blocks in Argentina, upon expiry of the block rights, ownership of producing assets will revert to the provincial government.

As some of our oil production in Argentina is trucked to a local refinery, sales of oil in the Noroeste Basin can be seasonally delayed by adverse weather and road conditions, particularly during the months November through February when the area is subject to periods of heavy rain and flooding. While storage facilities are designed to accommodate ordinary disruptions without curtailing production, delayed sales will delay revenues and may adversely impact our working capital position in Argentina.

We relinquished our interest in the Puesto Guevara Block during 2012.

Royalties in Argentina are based on a provincial royalty plus an additional provincial turnover tax. The provincial royalty rate is 24% for the Puesto Morales Este Block and 12% on all other blocks in Argentina. The provincial turnover tax ranges from 1.5% to 3% on our blocks.

Rio Negro Province, which includes the Puesto Morales, Puesto Morales Este, Rinconada Norte and Rinconada Sur Blocks, has enacted new legislation that changes the royalty regime associated with concession agreement extensions. Royalties in Rio Negro Province will increase a minimum of 3.5% and a required bonus payment, not determinable at this time, will be negotiated for the concession agreement extension. In addition, there is an additional royalty component of 0.5% per dollar per bbl on realized oil prices greater than $80 per bbl and 0.5% per dollar per MMBtu for gas prices above $3.50 per MMBtu. Under the new legislation, negotiations are required to be carried out within the first half of 2013 and the resulting new terms are expected to come into effect immediately thereafter.

Puesto Morales Block

We acquired our interest in the Puesto Morales Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Puesto Morales Block covers 31,254 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The contract was awarded on October 18, 2010, and the exploitation phase will end on January 22, 2016, with a possible ten year extension. We have commenced negotiations for an extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, we drilled and completed seven development wells and commenced drilling an additional two development wells, one of which was suspended, continued a well workover program, commenced a waterflood program and performed facility upgrades. In 2013, we plan to drill five development wells, continue the waterflood and workover programs and perform facilities upgrades.

Rinconada Sur Block

We acquired our interest in the Rinconada Sur Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Rinconada Sur Block covers 28,417 gross acres and is part of the Puesto Morales concession. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The contract was awarded on October 18, 2010, and the exploitation phase will end on January 22, 2016, with a possible ten year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, we completed one development well and drilled one exploration well which was plugged and abandoned subsequent to year-end. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Puesto Morales Este Block

We acquired our interest in the Puesto Morales Este Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Puesto Morales Este Block covers 1,483 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. The contract was awarded on October 18, 2010, and the exploitation phase will end on October 17, 2035, with a possible five year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Rinconada Norte Block

We acquired our interest in the Rinconada Norte Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Rinconada Norte Block covers 23,475 gross acres. We have a 35% non-operated working interest. Our partner is the operator and has the remaining working interest. This is an exploitation concession and the exploitation phase will end on January 22, 2016, with a possible ten year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, our partner drilled four gross exploration wells and three gross development wells. One exploration well was producing at year-end, one was plugged and abandoned and two were under evaluation. One development well was completed during the year and two wells were in progress at year-end. In 2013, no significant capital expenditures are planned.

Surubi Block

We purchased the Surubi Block in late 2006. We are the operator of the Surubi Block, which covers 90,811 gross acres, and have an 85% working interest. In 2008, we drilled the Proa-1 discovery well, which began production in September 2008. The provincial oil company, Recursos Energeticos Formosa S.A., farmed-in to the block for a 15% working interest, and is paying its share of well costs from its share of production from the Proa-1 well. The contract for this block will end on August 17, 2026. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, we drilled and completed the Proa-2 development well, which began production in April 2012. In 2013, we plan to perform facilities work.

El Chivil Block

We purchased the El Chivil Block in 2006. We are the operator and hold a 100% working interest in the block which covers 30,393 gross acres. The contract for this block will end on September 7, 2015, with a possible ten year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, regular field maintenance and workover activities were performed and the same are planned for 2013.

Palmar Largo Block

We purchased a 14% non-operated working interest in the Palmar Largo Block in September 2005. Three partners hold the remaining working interest. The Palmar Largo Block covers 186,441 gross acres. This asset comprises several producing oil fields in the Noroeste Basin and is subdivided into three sub-blocks, including Balbuena Este. The Palmar Largo Block contract will end in 2017, with a possible ten year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

El Vinalar Block

In June 2006, we acquired a 50% working interest in the El Vinalar Block, which covers 61,035 gross acres. We are the operator of the block. The El Vinalar Block contract will end on April 19, 2016, with a possible ten year extension. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures. In 2013, we plan to perform workovers and facilities upgrades.

Valle Morado Block

We purchased our original interest in the Valle Morado Block in 2006 and purchased a further 3.4% working interest during 2011. This block covers 44,446 gross acres and we are the operator with a 96.6% working interest. The Valle Morado GTE.St.VMor-2001 well was first drilled in 1989. A previous operator completed a 3-D seismic program over the field and constructed a gas plant and pipeline infrastructure. Production began in 1999 from the GTE.St.VMor-2001 well, but was shut-in in 2001 due to water incursion. During 2008, we performed long-term testing on the well. In July 2010, we commenced a re-entry and sidetrack operation on the well; however, these operations were suspended in February 2011 and the wellbore was abandoned due to operational challenges. We continue to review alternatives associated with the field development. The contract for this block expires in 2034. We have no work commitments on this block. In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures and no significant expenditures are planned for 2013.

Santa Victoria Block

We purchased the Santa Victoria Block in 2006. This block covers 516,942 gross acres. We are the operator and have a 50% working interest. In 2011, we relinquished 50% of the block as a condition to enter into the second phase and also farmed-out 50% of our working interest. In 2013, we expect to assume, subject to regulatory approval, a 100% working interest, due to our joint venture partner's decision to leave the joint venture. We are in the second of three exploration phases. This phase requires one exploration well to be drilled or 720 units of work ($3.6 million) to be completed by March 29, 2013, but we have commenced negotiations to extend the expiry date of this phase. The exploration phase ends in March 2014. In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures. In 2013, we plan to drill a gas exploration well.

Vaca Mahuida Block

We acquired our interest in the Vaca Mahuida Block through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. The Vaca Mahuida Block covers 253,331 gross acres. We are the operator and have a 25% working interest. Our three partners share the remaining working interest. After three gas discoveries in 2010, an exploitation concession was requested and we are awaiting regulatory approval. We satisfied our obligation to perform long-term production gas tests and are evaluating the potential of these prospects and the block. We have no work commitments on this block.

In 2012, there were no significant capital expenditures and no significant capital expenditures are planned for 2013.

Oil and Gas Properties - Brazil

In September 2012, we received declaration of commerciality for the Tiê field on Block REC-T-155. On October 8, 2012, we received Agência Nacional de Petróleo, Gás Natural e Biocombustíveis ("ANP") approval and acquired the remaining 30% working interest in our four exploration blocks in the Recôncavo Basin pursuant to the terms of a purchase and sale agreement dated January 20, 2012. With the exception of one block which has three producing wells, the remaining blocks are unproved properties.

In September 2011, we announced farm-out agreements with Statoil pursuant to which we would receive an assignment from Statoil of a non-operated 10% working interest in Block BM-CAL-7 and a non-operated 15% working interest in Block BM-CAL-10. In 2012, we received ANP approval for Block BM-CAL-7 and the assignment became effective on April 3, 2012.

During the first quarter of 2012, the ANP announced the 1-STAT-7-BAS exploration well drilling had been completed on Block BM-CAL-10. In accordance with the terms of the farm-out agreement, we gave notice to Statoil that we would not enter into and assume our share of the work obligations of the second exploration period of Block BM-CAL-10. As a result, the farm-out agreement terminated and we did not receive any interest in Block BM-CAL-10.

All of our onshore blocks in Brazil are subject to an 11% royalty, which consists of a 10% crown royalty and a 1% landowner royalty. Our offshore blocks are subject to a 10% crown royalty.

Blocks REC-T-129, REC-T-142, REC-T-155, and REC-T-224

Blocks REC-T-129, REC-T-142, REC-T-155 and REC-T-224 are located approximately 70 kilometers northeast of Salvador, Brazil in the Recôncavo Basin and cover 27,075 gross acres. We are the operator with a 100% working interest. On October 8, 2012, we received regulatory approval and acquired the remaining 30% working interest in these blocks. All four blocks are in the second exploration phase which will end in the fourth quarter of 2013. This phase requires the drilling of an exploration well on each block.

In 2012, we drilled and completed two development wells, 3-GTE-03-BA and 4-GTE-04-BA, in the Tiê field on Block REC-T-155 and drilled a horizontal oil exploration well, 1-GTE-05HP-BA, on Block REC-T-142. In 2013, we plan to drill two horizontal exploration wells on Block REC-T-155 and Block REC-T-129, perform additional completion work on the 3-GTE-03-BA and 3-GTE-04-BA producing wells in the Tiê field and perform fracture stimulation operations on Block REC-T-142. We also plan to perform facilities and pipeline work on Block REC-T-155.

Block BM-CAL-7

Block BM-CAL-7 is located in the Camamu Basin, offshore Bahia, Brazil and covers 337,561 gross acres. We have a 10% non-operated working interest in this block. We received ANP approval for this working interest during 2012 and the assignment became effective on April 3, 2012. Block BM-CAL-7 is in the first of two exploration phases which is due to end in April 2013, but we have applied to the ANP for a 12 month extension. This phase requires one exploration well to be drilled and the acquisition of 1,366 square kilometers of 3-D seismic. Our partner had previously satisfied the seismic commitment and, in 2012, we purchased an existing 3-D seismic program. In 2013, we plan to conduct evaluation work to mature prospects for drilling expected to take place in 2014.

Oil and Gas Properties - Peru

On January 17, 2012, PeruPetro signed the assignment documents for Block 95, officially transferring 60% of the block and operatorship to us. During June 2012, we entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining 40% working interest in Block 95. Subsequent to December 31, 2012, we received regulatory approval for the assignment of the remaining 40% working interest. In the fourth quarter of 2012, we increased our working interest in Blocks 123 and 129 to 100%, subject to regulatory approval, and, in January 2013, assumed operatorship.

All blocks in Peru are subject to a license agreement with PeruPetro. There is a 5-20%, sliding scale, royalty rate on the lands, dependent on production levels. Production less than 5,000 BOPD is assessed a royalty of 5%, for production between 5,000 and 100,000 BOPD there is a linear sliding scale between 5% and 20%. Production over 100,000 BOPD has a flat royalty of 20%. This royalty structure applies to all blocks in Peru that we have an interest in. Block 133 has an additional royalty factor of 15%.

Block 95

In December 2010, we acquired a 60% working interest in Block 95 and, during the second quarter of 2012, we entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining 40% working interest. Subsequent to December 31, 2012, we received regulatory approval and the Public Deed for the assignment of the remaining interest. We are the operator of this block. Block 95 has an area of 1,274,399 gross acres. An oil field has already been discovered on Block 95, with a discovery well drilled in 1974 flowing 807 BOPD naturally without pumps. We are in the third exploration phase of six which required the drilling of one well or the completion of 400 units of work. This phase was delayed as a result of force majeure. Force majeure ended in December 2012 and we were granted a six month extension to June 27, 2013. In 2012, we completed civil construction of a drilling platform and dock facility and commenced drilling an oil exploration well. We also applied for a variety of permits in preparation for drilling the oil exploration well and for future seismic programs. In 2013, we completed drilling of the exploration well and obtained initial well-log results, which indicated an oil saturated reservoir. We plan to extend the exploration well with a horizontal leg to initiate long-term testing. Timing for initiation of the long-term testing has not been determined yet, but it is expected to commence within a period of 12 months, subject to facilities upgrade, and execution of crude oil transportation and delivery agreements.

Block 123 and Block 129

In September 2010, we acquired a 20% working interest in Block 123 and Block 129. In October 2012, we increased our working interest in Blocks 123 and 129 to 100% through the assumption of our partners' interests, subject to regulatory approval, and assumed operatorship on January 1, 2013. Blocks 123 and 129 have a total area of 3,491,240 gross acres. We are in the third exploration phase of five on Block 123, which was to end on November 29, 2012, but we applied for and were granted two three month extensions to May 31, 2013. On Block 129, the third exploration phase of five was due to end on February 26, 2013, but we applied for and were granted a six month extension to August 26, 2013. This phase requires the acquisition of 2-D seismic totaling 504 kilometers over the two blocks.

In 2012, we acquired 2-D seismic on these blocks. In 2013, we plan to acquire 567 kilometers of 2-D seismic and pursue Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") approvals.

Block 107

We acquired our interest in Block 107 through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. Block 107 covers 623,504 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest and a third party has a 3% overriding royalty right on the block. We are in the fourth and final exploration phase, which requires one exploration well to be drilled or 300 units of work. The block has been under force majeure since May 25, 2012. The fourth phase will end 12 months after force majeure is lifted, but we plan to apply for an extension of the exploration period.

In 2012, we acquired an overriding royalty right that was held by a third party and advanced permitting for drilling. In 2013, we plan to complete a 392 kilometer infill 2-D seismic program, which will satisfy our fourth phase work obligation, and begin pre-drilling activities.

Block 133

We acquired our interest in Block 133 through the Petrolifera acquisition in March 2011. Block 133 covers 978,663 gross acres. We are the operator of the block with a 100% working interest. We are in the second exploration phase of four, which was to end on February 14, 2013; however, PeruPetro has frozen the phase until June 7, 2013. This phase requires the acquisition of 150 kilometers of 2-D seismic which will be followed by the relinquishment of 20% of the block.

In 2012, we performed G&G studies. In 2013, we plan to complete airborne gravity and magnetic surveys and request approval for this work to satisfy the second phase work obligation. We also plan to continue EIAs.

Reserves

The following table sets forth our reserves as of December 31, 2012. The process of estimating oil and gas reserves is complex and requires significant judgment, as discussed in Item 1A. “Risk Factors”. The reserve estimation process requires us to use significant decisions and assumptions in the evaluation of available geological, geophysical, engineering and economic data for each property. Therefore the accuracy of the reserve estimate is dependent on the quality of the data, the accuracy of the assumptions based on the data, and the interpretations and judgment related to the data.

We have developed internal policies for estimating and evaluating reserves. The policies we have developed are applied company wide, and are comprehensive in nature. Gran Tierra’s internal controls over reserve estimates include reconciliation and review controls, including an independent internal review of assumptions used in the estimation by our reserves committee, and 100% of our reserves are evaluated by an independent reservoir engineering firm, GLJ Petroleum Consultants Ltd., at least annually.

The primary internal technical person in charge of overseeing the preparation of our reserve estimates is the General Manager of Engineering and Development Planning. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in petroleum engineering and is a professional engineer and member of the Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta. He is responsible for our engineering activities including reserves reporting, asset evaluation, reservoir management, and field development. He has over 30 years of industry experience in various domestic and international engineering and management roles.

The technical person responsible for overseeing the reserves evaluation is a Vice President, Corporate Evaluations of GLJ Petroleum Consultants Ltd. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering physics and is a registered professional engineer in the Province of Alberta. He has over 20 years of industry experience in various domestic and international engineering and management roles.

By applying our policies we have developed SEC compliant reserve estimates and disclosures. Our policies are applied by all staff involved in generating and reporting reserve estimates including geological, engineering and finance personnel. Calculations and data are reviewed at multiple levels of the organization to ensure consistent and appropriate standards and procedures.

No estimates of reserves comparable to those included herein have been included in a report to any federal agency other than the SEC.



	Liquids (1)	Natural Gas
Reserves Category	(Mbbl)	(MMcf)
Proved
Developed
Colombia	24,677	8,551
Argentina	2,459	2,777
Brazil	347	—
Total proved developed reserves	27,483	11,328
Undeveloped
Colombia	6,432	921
Argentina	3,335	527
Brazil	1,244	—
Total proved undeveloped reserves	11,011	1,448
Total proved reserves	38,494	12,776

Probable
Developed
Colombia	5,673	783
Argentina	716	298
Brazil	397	—
Total probable developed reserves	6,786	1,081
Undeveloped
Colombia	5,242	2,517
Argentina	1,814	1,538
Brazil	942	—
Total probable undeveloped reserves	7,998	4,055
Total probable reserves	14,784	5,136

Possible
Developed
Colombia	4,739	1,902
Argentina	1,447	695
Brazil	686	—
Total possible developed reserves	6,872	2,597
Undeveloped
Colombia	8,428	2,337
Argentina	4,772	46,733
Brazil	1,384	—
Total possible undeveloped reserves	14,584	49,070
Total possible reserves	21,456	51,667

(1) Liquids include oil and NGLs. We have NGL reserves in small amounts in Colombia and Argentina only. Brazil liquids reserves are 100% oil.

Proved Undeveloped Reserves

At December 31, 2012, we had total proved undeveloped reserves NAR of 11.2 MMBOE (December 31, 2011 - 8.2 MMBOE), including 6.6 MMBOE in Colombia (December 31, 2011 – 4.6 MMBOE), 3.4 MMBOE in Argentina (December 31, 2011 – 3.3 MMBOE) and 1.2 MMBOE in Brazil (December 31, 2011 – 0.3 MMBOE). Approximately 27% of proved undeveloped reserves are located in our Puesto Morales field in Argentina. This field was acquired as a result of the Petrolifera acquisition in 2011. Additionally, approximately 22% and 28% of proved undeveloped reserves are in our Moqueta and Costayaco fields in Colombia. None of our proved undeveloped reserves at December 31, 2012, have remained undeveloped for five years or more since initial disclosure as proved reserves and we have adopted a development plan which indicates that the proved undeveloped reserves are scheduled to be drilled within five years of initial disclosure as proved reserves.

Significant changes in proved undeveloped reserves are summarized in the table below:



	Oil Equivalent (MMBOE)
Balance, December 31, 2011	8.2
Purchases	0.1
Discoveries and extensions	3.9
Converted to proved producing	(3.6	)
Technical revisions	2.6
Balance, December 31, 2012	11.2

In 2012, we converted 3.6 MMBOE, or 44% of the total year-end 2011 proved undeveloped reserves, to developed status. In 2012, we made investments, consisting solely of capital expenditures, of $44.0 million in Colombia and $19.5 million in Argentina associated with the development of proved undeveloped reserves. Approximately 94% of proved undeveloped reserves conversions occurred in the Costayaco and Moqueta fields in Colombia and 3% in the Puesto Morales field in Argentina. The majority of proved undeveloped conversions occurred as a result of ongoing development activities in the Costayaco and Moqueta fields in Colombia, including infill drilling and a pressure maintenance project in the Costayaco field and infill drilling and facilities development in the Moqueta field. The waterflood optimization program for the Sierra Blancas reservoir and the commencement of a horizontal well development program for the Loma Montosa reservoir, both in the Puesto Morales field in Argentina, also converted proved undeveloped reserves to proved developed reserves.

Sensitivity of Reserves to Prices by Principal Product Type and Price Scenario

The following table sets forth our reserves as at December 31, 2012, using different price cases involving changes to the Brent price. Firstly with a 10% increase and secondly with a 10% decrease. Natural gas prices are not affected by Brent, therefore the volumes of natural gas reserves do not change. Additionally, the oil price in Argentina is set by the government as described below under the caption “Marketing and Major Customers”. Oil prices in Argentina are not sensitive to changes in Brent prices, therefore the price scenarios considered do not result in changes to oil and natural gas reserves for Argentina. Cost schedules were held constant for the two price cases.



	Proved Reserves		Probable Reserves		Possible Reserves
Price Case	Liquids	Natural Gas	Liquids	Natural Gas	Liquids	Natural Gas
Price Case	(Mbbl)(1)	(MMcf)	(Mbbl)	(MMcf)	(Mbbl)(1)	(MMcf)
Brent +10%
Colombia	31,192	9,705	10,529	3,310	13,077	3,948
Argentina	5,794	3,304	2,530	1,836	6,219	47,427
Brazil	1,593	—	1,341	—	2,072	—
	38,579	13,009	14,400	5,146	21,368	51,375

Brent – 10%
Colombia	30,964	9,443	11,178	3,347	13,621	4,255
Argentina	5,794	3,304	2,530	1,836	6,219	47,427
Brazil	1,586	—	1,334	—	2,063	—
	38,344	12,747	15,042	5,183	21,903	51,682

(1) Proved and possible liquid reserves are higher as a result of a 10% decrease in Brent as compared with a 10% increase in Brent. The lower price results in reduced additional government and third party royalties paid, increasing the NAR volumes.

Production Revenue and Price History

Certain information concerning oil and natural gas production, prices, revenues and operating expenses for the three years ended December 31, 2012, is set forth in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and in the Unaudited Supplementary Data provided following our Financial Statements in Item 8, which information is incorporated by reference here. We prepared the estimate of standardized measure of proved reserves in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 932, “Extractive Activities – Oil and Gas”.

Drilling Activities

The following table summarizes the results of our exploration and development drilling activity for the past three years. Wells labeled as “In Progress” were in progress as of December 31, 2012.



	2012		2011		2010
	Gross	Net	Gross	Net	Gross	Net
Colombia
Exploration
Productive	—	—	1.00	0.50	4.00	3.50
Dry	3.00	2.50	6.00	6.00	1.00	1.00
In Progress	2.00	0.95	1.00	0.44	3.00	2.43
Development
Productive	3.00	3.00	8.00	7.20	2.00	1.70
Dry	—	—	1.00	1.00	—	—
In Progress	2.00	2.00	—	—	2.00	2.00
Total Colombia	10.00	8.45	17.00	15.14	12.00	10.63

Argentina
Exploration
Productive	1.00	0.35	2.00	0.70	—	—
Dry	2.00	1.35	1.00	1.00	—	—
In Progress	3.00	1.70	2.00	0.70	—	—
Development
Productive	10.00	9.20	3.00	3.00	—	—
Dry	1.00	1.00	—	—	—	—
In Progress	3.00	1.70	2.00	2.00	1.00	0.93
Total Argentina	20.00	15.30	10.00	7.40	1.00	0.93

Brazil
Exploration
Productive	—	—	—	—	—	—
Dry	—	—	—	—	—	—
In Progress	1.00	1.00	2.00	1.40	—	—
Development
Productive	2.00	2.00	—	—	—	—
Dry	—	—	—	—	—	—
In Progress	—		1.00	0.70	—	—
Total Brazil	3.00	3.00	3.00	2.10	—	—

Peru
Exploration
Productive	—	—	—	—	—	—
Dry	—	—	1.00	1.00	—	—
In Progress	1.00	1.00	—	—	—	—
Development
Productive	—	—	—	—	—	—
Dry	—	—	—	—	—	—
In Progress	—	—	—	—	—	—
Total Peru	1.00	1.00	1.00	1.00	—	—
Total	34.00	27.75	31.00	25.64	13.00	11.56

In 2012, we also undertook a pressure maintenance project in the Costayaco field in Colombia and the Puesto Morales Block in Argentina. We also undertook a waterflood optimization program for the Sierra Blancas reservoir in Argentina.

As at February 20, 2013, the results of wells in progress at December 31, 2012, are as follows:



	Productive		Dry		Still in Progress
	Gross	Net	Gross	Net	Gross	Net
Colombia	1.00	1.00	—	—	3.00	1.95
Argentina	2.00	1.35	—	—	4.00	2.05
Brazil	—	—	—	—	1.00	1.00
Peru	—	—	—	—	1.00	1.00
	3.00	2.35	—	—	9.00	6.00

Well Statistics

The following table sets forth our producing wells as of December 31, 2012:



	Oil Wells		Gas Wells		Total Wells
	Gross	Net	Gross	Net	Gross	Net
Colombia (1)	29.0	20.5	1.0	0.4	30.0	20.9
Argentina (2)	85.0	70.1	11.0	11.0	96.0	81.1
Brazil	3.0	3.0	—	—	3.0	3.0
Peru	—	—	—	—	—	—
	117.0	93.6	12.0	11.4	129.0	105.0

(1) Includes 5.0 gross and net water injector wells and 20.0 gross and 15.9 net wells with multiple completions.

(2) Includes 15.0 gross and net water injector wells and 1.0 gross and net well with multiple completions.

Developed and Undeveloped Acreage

The following table sets forth our developed and undeveloped oil and gas lease and mineral acreage as of December 31, 2012:



	Developed		Undeveloped		Total
	Gross	Net	Gross	Net	Gross	Net
Colombia	459,663	346,667	4,000,524	3,357,946	4,460,187	3,704,613
Argentina	706,640	296,905	561,388	301,401	1,268,028	598,306
Brazil	5,786	5,786	358,849	55,044	364,635	60,830
Peru	—	—	6,367,806	6,367,806	6,367,806	6,367,806
	1,172,089	649,358	11,288,567	10,082,197	12,460,656	10,731,555

(1) Excluded from undeveloped acreages are farm-out or assignment agreements for which government approval is pending. These pending approvals will result in a decrease of 210,692 net acres in Colombia and an increase of 3,302,752 net acres in Peru.

At December 31, 2012, our gross undeveloped acreage was located 56% in Peru (11% Block 95 and 31% Blocks 123 and 129), 36% in Colombia, 5% in Argentina and 3% in Brazil.

Business Strategy

Our plan is to continue to build an international oil and gas company through acquisition and exploitation of under-developed prospective oil and gas assets, and to develop these assets with exploration and development drilling to grow commercial reserves and production. Our initial focus is in select countries in South America, currently Colombia, Argentina, Peru, and Brazil; we will consider other regions for future growth should those regions make strategic and commercial sense in creating additional value.

We have applied a two-stage approach to growth, initially establishing a base of production, development and exploration assets by selective acquisitions, and secondly achieving additional reserve and production growth through drilling. We intend to duplicate this business model in other areas as opportunities arise. We pursue opportunities in countries with proven petroleum systems; attractive royalty, taxation and other fiscal terms; and stable legal systems.

A key to our business plan is positioning and being in the right place at the right time with the right resources. The fundamentals of this strategy are described in more detail below:


•	Position in countries that are welcoming to foreign investment, that provide attractive fiscal terms, that have stable legal systems, that offer opportunities that we believe have been previously ignored or undervalued, and that have an active market with many available deals;


•	Build a balanced portfolio of production, development and exploration assets and opportunities, with a drilling inventory that balances risks and rewards to create value;


•	Retain operatorship of assets whenever possible to retain control of work programs, budgets, prospect generation, drilling operations and development activities; non-operating positions will be taken when operators bring strategic advantage to business growth;


•	Engage qualified, experienced and motivated professionals;


•	Establish an effective local presence, with strong constructive relationships with host governments, ministries, agencies and communities in which we operate;


•	Consolidate land and properties in close proximity to build operating efficiency; and


•	Manage asset and drilling portfolios closely, assessing value to the company and making changes where needed.

Research and Development

We have not expended any resources on pursuing research and development initiatives. We use existing technology and processes for executing our business plan.

Marketing and Major Customers

Colombia

Our oil in Colombia is good quality light oil, with 95% of production coming from the Putumayo Basin with an average API of 29° to 30°. Ecopetrol is the purchaser of most of our Colombia crude oil production and the source of the majority of our revenues. Sales to Ecopetrol accounted for 74%, 87% and 96%, of our consolidated revenues in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

We have entered into agreements to sell to Ecopetrol the volume of crude oil production produced in the Chaza Block, Santana Block and Guayuyaco Block (the “Putumayo production”). The volume of crude oil does not include the volume of oil owned by the ANH corresponding to royalties, other than HPR royalties. These agreements are subject to renegotiation periodically and generally contain mutual termination provisions with 30 days’ notice. The expiry dates of these agreements have been extended multiple times, and will expire November 30, 2013. In the event that Ecopetrol does not accept a full delivery of this production, we may sell to another party the crude oil not accepted. We deliver our oil to Ecopetrol through our transportation facilities which include pipelines, gathering systems and trucking.

Prior to the end of January 2012, the sales point for our sales to Ecopetrol of the Putumayo production to be exported through the Port of Tumaco on the Pacific coast of Colombia was a point in the Putumayo Basin. Beginning in February 2012, the sales point was changed to the Port of Tumaco. Due to the change in the sales point for Putumayo production to the Port of Tumaco, we entered into crude oil transportation agreements with Ecopetrol pursuant to which we pay to Ecopetrol a transportation tariff and transportation tax for the transportation by Ecopetrol of the Putumayo production from the Putumayo Basin to the Port of Tumaco. Under these agreements, Ecopetrol is liable for risk of loss of oil during transportation only if Ecopetrol fails to take reasonable measures to operate the pipeline or is grossly negligent. Currently we have Firm Capacity Transportation Agreements for 6,000 BOPD that are in place for eight years and the remainder of our Putumayo production is transported through the spot agreements. The later agreements are due to expire on June 30, 2013, but contemplate the transfer of pipeline assets to a wholly owned subsidiary of Ecopetrol, CENIT S. A. S. (“CENIT”), at which time Ecopetrol will assign the transportation agreements, as so amended, to CENIT.

In the event Ecopetrol does not accept a full delivery of our production, we have three alternative purchasers: Gunvor Colombia SAS ("Gunvor"), Petrobras Colombia Limited (“Petrobras Colombia”) and one other short-term customer. Sales to Gunvor, Petrobras Colombia and the short-term customer accounted for 2%, 4% and 6% of our consolidated revenues during the year ended December 31, 2012, respectively.

During January 2013, we sold approximately 7,500 BOPD to Gunvor. We are under no obligation to sell any oil to Gunvor until we specify for a particular day the amount of oil we wish to sell to them. Oil is delivered to Gunvor at the Costayaco battery and the sales point is where the oil is loaded into a truck at our loading facility. The Gunvor agreements will expire on December 2, 2013. Oil is delivered to Petrobras Colombia at facilities at Guaduas or Vasconia Station and this is the sales point. We are under no obligation to sell any oil to Petrobras Colombia. Our third short-term customer in Colombia permits us to use excess capacity on their pipeline to transport our oil to the Port of Coveñas up to a maximum of 5,000 BOPD with no minimum volume obligation. For this customer, the delivery point is when the oil is loaded into their trucks, but the sales point is when oil is loaded into their export tanker, which is subject to the export program and off-take procedures of the port of Coveñas.

The majority of the oil produced is transported by pipeline. Varying amounts of oil are trucked: (1) from Santana Station to Ecopetrol’s storage terminal at Orito, a distance of approximately 46 kilometers, (2) from the Costayaco field to Ecopetrol’s storage terminal at Neiva (Dina Station), approximately 350 kilometers north of the Chaza Block, (3) from the Costayaco field to the Atlántico Oil Terminal in Barranquilla, a distance of approximately 1,500 kilometers, (4) from the Garibay field to facilities at Vasconia Station, a distance of approximately 640 kilometers and (5) during 2012, from the Costayaco field to our short-term customer's facilities at Rio Loro Station, approximately 220 kilometers north of the field.

Oil prices for sales to Ecopetrol are defined by agreements with Ecopetrol based on a “marker” price (generally the average export price for crude oil from the port of shipment) with adjustments for quality and specified fees depending on the port, including a port operation fee and a commercialization fee, and a transportation fee and transportation tax. Oil prices for sales to Gunvor are based on the average of WTI prices plus a Vasconia differential and premium, adjusted for trucking costs. Oil prices for sales to Petrobras Colombia are based on Vasconia crude oil price less adjustments for quality, transportation, marketing and handling. Oil prices for sales to our additional short-term purchaser are determined based on Vasconia crude oil price less adjustments for quality, transportation, marketing and handling. We receive revenues for our Colombian oil sales in U.S. dollars.

Argentina

We market our own share of production in Argentina. The purchaser of our oil in the Noroeste Basin of Argentina is Refineria del Norte S.A. (“Refinor”). Our contract with Refinor expired on January 1, 2008; however, we are continuing sales of our oil under monthly agreements with Refinor. In the Noroeste Basin, oil is delivered to the refinery by truck.

At December 31, 2012, Shell C.A.P.S.A. (“Shell”) and YPF S.A. ("YPF") were the main purchasers of our oil in the Neuquen Basin of Argentina. In the Neuquen Basin, oil is delivered to the refinery by pipeline.

Sales to Refinor and Shell accounted for 6% and 3%, respectively, of our oil and natural gas sales in 2012. Sales to Refinor and Shell each accounted for 3% of our oil and natural gas sales in 2011 and sales to Refinor accounted for 4% of our oil and natural gas sales in 2010. The purchaser of our gas in Argentina is Albanesi S.A. Sales to Albanesi S.A. accounted for less than 1% of our oil and natural gas sales in 2012 and 2011 and were nil in 2010.

In Argentina, export prices for oil are subject to an export withholding tax based on WTI price. This export tax has the effect of limiting the actual realized price for sales. Our oil prices are agreed on a spot basis, based on WTI price less adjustments for quality, transportation and an adjustment similar to the export tax. We receive revenues in Argentina pesos, based on U.S. dollar prices at the exchange rate on the payment date.

Brazil

Petróleo Brasileiro S.A (“Petrobras”) is the purchaser of most of the oil produced from Block 155 in Brazil. Oil is trucked 26 miles to the Petrobras Carmo Oil Treatment Station. During 2012, oil prices for sales to Petrobras were based on the monthly average Brent DTD price less $11.15 per barrel. Pursuant to the 2013 oil sales contract with Petrobras, oil prices will be based on the monthly average Brent DTD price less $13.19 per barrel.

There were no sales in any countries other than Colombia, Argentina and Brazil in 2012, 2011 and 2010.

See “Guerrilla Activity in Colombia Has Disrupted and Delayed, and Could Continue to Disrupt or Delay, Our Operations and We Are Concerned About Safeguarding Our Operations and Personnel in Colombia”, “Our Oil Sales Will Depend on a Relatively Small Group of Customers, Which Could Adversely Affect Our Financial Results,” and “Negative Political and Regulatory Developments in Argentina May Negatively Affect our Operations”, “Negative Political Developments in Peru May Negatively Affect our Proposed Operations,” “Our Business is Subject to Local Legal, Political and Economic Factors Which are Beyond Our Control, Which Could Impair Our Ability to Expand Our Operations or Operate Profitably” and other risk factors in Item 1A “Risk Factors” for a description of the risks faced by our dependency on a small number of customers and the regulatory systems under which we operate.

Competition

The oil and gas industry is highly competitive. We face competition from both local and international companies in acquiring properties, contracting for drilling and other oil field equipment and securing trained personnel. Many of these competitors have financial and technical resources that exceed ours, and we believe that these companies have a competitive advantage in these areas. Others are smaller, and we believe our technical and financial capabilities give us a competitive advantage over these companies. Our ability to acquire additional properties and to discover reserves in the future will depend on our ability to evaluate and select suitable properties and to consummate transactions in a highly competitive environment. In addition, there is substantial competition for prospects and resources in the oil and gas industry.

See “Competition in Obtaining Rights to Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Reserves and to Market Our Production May Impair Our Business” in Item 1A “Risk Factors” for risks associated with competition.

Geographic Information

Information regarding our geographic segments, including information on revenues, assets, expenses, and net income can be found in Note 4 to the Financial Statements, Segment and Geographic Reporting, in Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”, which information is incorporated by reference here. Long lived assets are Property, Plant and Equipment, which includes all oil and gas assets, furniture and fixtures, automobiles and computer equipment. No long lived assets are held in our country of domicile, which is the United States of America. ‘All Other’ assets include assets held by our corporate head office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Because all of our exploration and development operations are in South America, we face many risks attendant with these operations. See Item 1A “Risk Factors” for risks associated with our foreign operations.

Regulation

The oil and gas industry in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil is heavily regulated. Rights and obligations with regard to exploration, development and production activities are explicit for each project; economics are governed by a royalty/tax regime. Various government approvals are required for property acquisitions and transfers, including, but not limited to, meeting financial and technical qualification criteria in order to be certified as an oil and gas company in the country. Oil and gas concessions are typically granted for fixed terms with opportunity for extension.

Colombia

In Colombia, prior to 2004, Ecopetrol was the administrator of all hydrocarbons and therefore executed contracts with oil companies under different contractual types such as Association Contracts and Shared Risk Contracts. Under Association Contracts, the oil companies (“Associate”) assumed all risk during the exploration phase and Ecopetrol had the obligation to reimburse to the Associate, after the commerciality was accepted by Ecopetrol, the direct exploration costs which the Associate incurred in proportion to Ecopetrol's working interest. If Ecopetrol did not accept the initial commerciality of a field, the Associate could continue the activities at its sole risk and Ecopetrol would retain the right to back-in later, after Ecopetrol reimbursed the Associate for the initial exploitation work and exploration costs plus certain penalties, depending upon at what stage Ecopetrol later declared commerciality of the field.

Effective June 2003, the regulatory regime in Colombia underwent a significant change with the formation of the ANH. The ANH is now the administrator of the hydrocarbons in the country and therefore is responsible for regulating the Colombian oil and gas industry, including managing all exploration lands. Ecopetrol became a public company owned in majority by the state with the main purpose of exploring and producing hydrocarbons similar to any other oil company. However, Ecopetrol continues to have rights under the existing contracts executed with oil companies before ANH was created. Ecopetrol continues to be the major purchaser and marketer of oil in Colombia, and also operates the majority of the oil transportation infrastructure in the country.

In conjunction with this change, the ANH developed a new exploration risk contract that took effect as of June 2004. This Exploration and Production Contract has significantly changed the way the industry views Colombia. In place of the earlier association contracts, the new agreement provides full risk/reward benefits for the contractor. Under the terms of the contract the successful operator retains the rights to all reserves, production and income from any new exploration block, subject to existing royalty and tax regulations. Each contract contains an exploration phase and a production phase. The exploration phase will contain a number of exploration periods and each period will have an associated work commitment. The production phase will last a number of years (usually 24) from the declaration of a commercial hydrocarbon discovery.

Gran Tierra operates in Colombia through two branches – Gran Tierra Energy Colombia, Ltd. and Petrolifera Petroleum (Colombia) Limited. Both are qualified as operators of oil and gas properties by ANH.

When operating under a contract, the contractor is the owner of the hydrocarbons extracted from the contract area during the performance of operations, and pays royalties which are collected by ANH or Ecopetrol, depending on the type of contract. The contractor can market the hydrocarbons in any manner whatsoever, subject to a limitation in the case of natural emergencies where the law specifies the manner of sale.

Argentina

The Hydrocarbons Law 17.319, enacted in June 1967, established the basic legal framework for the regulation of exploration and production of hydrocarbons in Argentina. The Hydrocarbons Law empowers the National Executive Branch to establish a national policy for development of Argentina’s hydrocarbon reserves, with the main purpose of satisfying domestic demand. However, on January 5, 2007, Law 26.197 was passed by the Government of Argentina. This legal framework replaced article one of the Hydrocarbons Law 17.319 and provides for the provinces to assume complete ownership, authority and administration of the oil and natural gas reserves located within their territories, including offshore areas up to 12 marine miles from the coast line. This includes all exploration permits and exploitation and transportation concessions.

On June 3, 2002, the Government of Argentina issued a resolution authorizing the Energy Secretariat to limit the amount of oil that companies can export. The restriction was to be in place from June 2002 to September 2002. However, on June 14, 2002, the government agreed to abandon the limit on oil export volumes in exchange for a guarantee from oil companies that domestic demand will be supplied. Oil companies also agreed not to raise natural gas and related prices to residential customers during the winter months and to maintain gasoline, natural gas and oil prices in line with those in other South American countries.

Near the end of 2007, the Government of Argentina issued decrees changing the withholding export tax structure and further regulating oil exports.

At the end of 2008, the Argentina government launched the Gas Plus and Petroleum Plus programs, programs designed to stimulate investments in and production of natural gas and oil through providing incentives for new production of natural gas or oil, either from new discoveries, enhanced recovery techniques or reactivation of older fields. Companies must apply for the incentives, and qualification is based on a complex set of formulas involving increased production over a calculated base and increases in proved reserves for the year. Gran Tierra has received credits totaling $2.6 million under the Petroleum Plus program related to our production for the first, third and fourth quarters of 2010 and the first quarter of 2008. Claims are pending for certain other quarters in 2011, 2010 and 2009. Realization of the credits is contingent on Gran Tierra establishing a contract with a third party to purchase the credits or exporting oil. We are negotiating with other parties for the sale of other credits.

In October 2010, the Argentina Gas Authority (“ENARGAS”) issued Regulation I-1410 aimed at securing the supply of natural gas to residential consumers and small industry given the decline in gas production and the expected growing demand for gas. The regulation includes all the procedures created by the authorities since 2004 (restrictions of exports, deviation of gas sales to residential consumption) and gives ENARGAS power to control gas marketing in order to assure the supply of gas to residential consumers and small industry. This regulation is being challenged by gas producers on the grounds that it illegally interferes in their gas marketing activities.

After general elections in October 2011, the Government of Argentina decided to remove certain subsidies which were implemented after the 2001/2002 Argentina economic crisis. Consequently, in November 2011, ENARGAS issued Regulation 1982 which broadened the application of a charge to certain industries and services, including oil & gas upstream and natural gas processing activities, and increased the charge. The charge was created in 2008 to fund the importation of natural gas and liquefied natural gas into Argentina. This measure is expected to negatively impact the oil and gas industry in Argentina and has been challenged by some important companies within the industry.

In July 2012, the Argentina government mandated the creation of an oil planning commission that will set national energy goals and have the power to review private oil companies' investment plans. Private companies must submit an annual investment plan by September 30 of each year. The committee will have the power to approve or reject the annual investment plan.. This decree is new and many details are yet to be announced. However, we believe there is a risk that this may cause delays in our operations in Argentina, or cause changes to our investment plans that could negatively affect our business in Argentina or the rest of our operations.

Additionally in Argentina some provincial regulations are changing, introducing new royalties and fees associated with extensions of concession agreements.

Gran Tierra operates in Argentina through Gran Tierra Energy Argentina S.R.L. and two branches: Petrolifera Petroleum (Americas) Limited - Sucursal Argentina and Petrolifera Petroleum Limited - Sucursal Argentina. Gran Tierra Energy Argentina S.R.L. and Petrolifera Petroleum (Americas) Limited - Sucursal Argentina are qualified by the Federal Secretary of Energy to be titleholders of Exploration Permits and Exploitation Concessions as well as to operate them. Petrolifera Petroleum Limited - Sucursal Argentina is qualified to be a titleholder of Exploration Permits and Exploitation Concessions, but not to operate them.

See “Negative Political and Regulatory Developments in Argentina May Negatively Affect our Operations” in Item 1A “Risk Factors” for a description of the risks associated with Argentina government controls.

Peru

Peru’s hydrocarbon legislation, which includes the Organic Hydrocarbon Law No. 26221 enacted in 1993 and the regulations thereunder (the “Organic Hydrocarbon Law”), governs our operations in Peru. This legislation covers the entire range of petroleum operations, defines the roles of Peruvian government agencies which regulate and interact with the oil and gas industry, provides that private investors (either national or foreign) may also make investments in the petroleum sector, and provides for the promotion of the development of hydrocarbon activities based on free competition and free access to all economic activities. This law provides that pipeline transportation and natural gas distribution must be handled via concession contracts with the appropriate governmental authorities. All other petroleum activities are to be freely operated and are subject only to local and international safety and environment standards.

Under the Peruvian legal system, Peru is the owner of the hydrocarbons located below the surface in its national territory. However, Peru has given the ownership right to extracted hydrocarbons to PeruPetro S.A. ("PeruPetro"), a state company responsible for promoting and overseeing the investment of hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation activities in Peru. PeruPetro is empowered to enter into contracts for either the exploration and exploitation or just the exploitation of petroleum and natural gas on behalf of Peru, the nature of which are described further below. The Peruvian government also plays an active role in petroleum operations through the involvement of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the specialized government department in charge of establishing energy, mining and environmental protection policies, enacting the rules applicable to all these sectors and supervising compliance with such policies and rules. We are subject to the laws and regulations of all of these entities and agencies.

PeruPetro enters into either license contracts or service contracts for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation. Peruvian law also allows for other contract models, but the investor must propose contract terms compatible with Peru’s interests. We only operate under license contracts and do not foresee operating under any services contracts. A company must be qualified by PeruPetro to enter into hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation contracts in Peru. In order to qualify, the company must meet the standards under the Regulations Governing the Qualifications of Oil Companies. These qualifications generally require the company to have the technical, legal, economic and financial capacity to comply with all obligations it will assume under the contract based on the characteristics of the area requested, the possible investments and the environmental protection rules governing the performance of its operations. When a contractor is a foreign investor, it is expected to incorporate a subsidiary company or registered branch in accordance with Peruvian corporate law and appoint Peruvian representatives in accordance with the Organic Hydrocarbon Law who will interact with PeruPetro.

Gran Tierra operates in Peru through Gran Tierra Energy Peru S.R.L. and Petrolifera Petroleum Del Peru S.A.C. Gran Tierra has been qualified by PeruPetro with respect to our contracts for Blocks 95, 123 and 129 and Petrolifera has been qualified by PeruPetro with respect to our contracts for Blocks 107 and 133.

When operating under a license contract, the licensee is the owner of the hydrocarbons extracted from the contract area during the performance of operations, and pays royalties which are collected by PeruPetro. The licensee can market or export the hydrocarbons in any manner whatsoever, subject to a limitation in the case of national emergency where the law stipulates such manner.

See “Negative Political Developments in Peru May Negatively Affect our Proposed Operations” in Item 1A “Risk Factors” for a description of the risks associated with the political climate in Peru.

Brazil

In Brazil, Law No. 2004 enacted in 1953 created the state monopoly of the petroleum industry and Petrobras, a state-owned legal entity, which was the sole company conducting exploration and production activities in Brazil.

Amendment No. 9 to the Brazilian Constitution, enacted on November 9, 1995, authorized the Brazilian government to contract with state and private companies, with head offices and management located in Brazil, for the exploration and production of oil and natural gas, as well as to grant authorizations for the refining, transportation, import and export of oil, natural gas and its by-products, discontinuing Petrobras’ exclusive right to explore and produce petroleum and natural gas in Brazil.

The regulatory model is governed by Law No. 9478 of August 6, 1997 (the “Petroleum Law”), as amended, which controls the granting of concessions for carrying out exploration and production activities to Brazilian companies. The Petroleum Law, as amended, also established a legal framework for pre-salt layer areas and strategic areas to be defined by the Brazilian government and which will be subject to the Production Sharing Regime.

In accordance with the Petroleum Law, the acquisition of oil and natural gas property and oil and gas operations by state and private companies is subject to legal, technical and economic standards and regulations issued by the ANP, the agency created by the Petroleum Law and vested with regulatory and inspection authority to ensure adequate operational procedures with respect to industry activities and the supply of fuels throughout the national territory.

The ANP has authority for the implementation of the national oil and natural gas policy in accordance with the National Council of Energy Policy (“CNPE”). The ANP conducts bid rounds to award exploration, development and production contracts, as well as to approve the construction and operation of refineries and gas processing units, transportation facilities (including port terminals), import and export of oil and natural gas, as well as supervision of the activities which integrate the petroleum industry and the general enforcement of the Petroleum Law.

During a public bid procedure, any company evidencing technical, financial and legal standards under the applicable regulations may qualify and apply for particular blocks made available for concession contracts. Qualified companies may compete alone or in association with other companies, including through the formation of “consortia” (unincorporated joint-ventures), provided they agree to comply with all the applicable requirements of Brazilian Corporate Law. Blocks awarded and the duration of the exploration and production periods are defined in the contracts which, besides the usual covenants that can be found in oil concessions, such as exploration and development programs, relinquishment of areas, and unitization, include reversion to the state of certain assets at the end of the concession. Contracts may be assigned or transferred to other Brazilian companies that comply with the technical, financial and legal requirements established by ANP.

Oil and natural gas resources in Brazil, whether onshore or offshore, belong to the Brazilian government. However, under the Concession Regime, after the discovery of oil and gas reserves, ownership is assigned to the concessionaire. Under the principles of the Federal Constitution the national territory comprises all land and the continental shelf. Brazil is a signatory of the conventions regulating the economic use of the sea and its subsoil. Brazil is thus entitled to the enjoyment of the resources over the territorial sea and marine platform up to the limits indicated in the pertinent treaties.

Concessionaires are required under Law No. 9478 to pay the government dues and fees, in addition to the charges for sale of pre-bid data and information. ANP has the power to determine the criteria under which the Government Take will be assessed within the limits established by Decree No. 2,705/98. Government Take comprises (i) signature bonus, (ii) royalties, (iii) special participation and (iv) area rentals. Part of the Government Take is passed on to States and Municipalities and other government branches according to law.

Gran Tierra operates in Brazil through Gran Tierra Energy Brasil Ltda. (“Gran Tierra Brazil”). Gran Tierra Brazil received approval from the ANP as a Class B operator permitting Grant Tierra Brazil to act as an operator both onshore and in the shallow water offshore Brazil.

See Item 1A “Risk Factors” for information regarding the regulatory risks that we face.

Environmental Compliance

Our activities are subject to existing laws and regulations governing environmental quality and pollution control in the foreign countries where we maintain operations. Our activities with respect to exploration, drilling and production from wells, facilities, including the operation and construction of pipelines, plants and other facilities for transporting, processing, treating or storing oil and other products, are subject to stringent environmental regulation by provincial and federal authorities in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil. Such regulations relate to environmental impact studies, permissible levels of air and water emissions, control of hazardous wastes, construction of facilities, recycling requirements, reclamation standards, among others. Risks are inherent in oil and gas exploration, development and production operations, and significant costs and liabilities may be incurred in connection with environmental compliance issues. All licenses and permits which we may require to carry out exploration and production activities may not be obtainable on reasonable terms or on a timely basis, and such laws and regulations may have an adverse effect on any project that we may wish to undertake.

In 2013, we plan to spend approximately $12.0 million in Colombia on capital programs related to environmental studies, community consultations and environmental remediation. In Peru, costs for environmental and social projects are expected to be approximately $6.0 million which mainly relates to environmental and social impact assessments, implementation of environmental management plans, and environmental and social monitoring activities. We plan to spend approximately $1.2 million in Argentina on programs related to environmental matters, including environmental studies, water treatment and chemical storage facilities. In Brazil, we plan to spend approximately $0.9 million on costs for environmental projects.

In 2012, we experienced a limited number of environmental incidents and enacted the following environmental initiatives:

•

In Colombia, oil was released from a flow through drainage chamber in the Mary battery. We have taken measures to contain the release, are continuing to investigate the source of the release and plan to start remediation activities. The remainder related to the integrity of materials, the rollover of two oil transportation trucks and the installation of illegal valves. A number of minor incidents on our blocks occurred, each of which caused small quantities of oil to be spilled. In each of these minor incidents, we completed a full clean up and remediation of the affected area.


•	In Argentina, minor spills occurred relating to pipeline corrosion, an overflowing storage tank and other incidents. In each case, we completed a full clean up and remediation of the affected area.


•	In Peru, we continued the Environmental Monitoring Program for drilling activity on Block 95 and pursued an agreement with the Pacaya Samiria Natural Reserve. We are also seeking the necessary permits for the relocation of four well pads and a seismic project in Block 107 and we began preparations for an Environmental Impact Study for seismic and drilling activities on Block 133.


•	In Brazil, we obtained the necessary licenses for pipelines to connect our wells on Block 155 and are developing a water, soil and air monitoring program.

We will continue to strive to be in compliance with all environmental and pollution control laws and regulations in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil. We plan to continue enacting environmental, health and safety initiatives in order to minimize our environmental impact and expenses. We also plan to continue to improve internal audit procedures and practices in order to monitor current performance and search for improvement.

We expect the cost of compliance with federal, state and local provisions which have been enacted or adopted regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment for the remainder of our operations, will not be material to Gran Tierra.

We have implemented a company wide web based reporting system which allows us to better track incidents and respective corrective actions and associated costs. We have a Corporate Health, Safety and Environment Management System and follow Environmental Best Practices. We have an environmental risk management program in place as well as a waste management system. Air and water testing occur regularly, and environmental contingency plans have been prepared for all sites and ground transportation of oil. We have a regular quarterly comprehensive reporting system, with a schedule of internal audit and routine checking of practices and procedures. Emergency response exercises were conducted in Calgary, Argentina, Colombia, Peru and Brazil.

Community Relation Initiatives

In 2012, we continued standardized, quarterly reporting on our community relation initiatives. We also continuously monitor the needs of the communities where we operate to ensure that our investments meet their requirements and have the highest impact possible.

In addition to employing local people and hiring local companies as often as feasible in all of our operations, we have a program of community investment in all of our operating areas. Projects undertaken in 2012 were as follows:

Colombia

In 2012, our most significant community relations initiatives and investments were made in the Costayaco, Moqueta, Santana and Guayuyaco fields. We made voluntary investments in relation to community support during drilling projects on the Chaza, Sierra Nevada, Turpial, Azar, and Guepaje Blocks during the year and during the Rumiyaco 3-D seismic project. Below is a description of our $2.3 million voluntary social investment, responding to the needs identified and prioritized by the communities in those areas in which we operate.


•	Provided support for education, including providing tuition, supplies and transportation for students in all levels of education.


•	Supported community groups in projects that benefited local families with agriculture and fisheries projects.


•	Provided fiscal support, construction of facilities, transportation of materials and other expertise to projects.


•	Various projects for the support of cultural identity such as sponsorship of local festivals that celebrate indigenous culture and history and sponsorship of local people to attend a conference of indigenous peoples from various areas in the country.


•	Various programs for strengthening local infrastructure such as paving streets in urban areas, construction of culture rooms, fencing at schools, construction of sport facilities and computer rooms, and provision of materials for electric power supply in rural areas.


•	Projects related to health, basic sanitation and housing including improving health facilities, health brigades, and remodeling and equipment of health centers.


•	Provided strong communications with the communities and undertook prior consultations with ethnic minorities.

Argentina

In 2012, we invested approximately $0.6 million in the following activities:


•	Provided and distributed education materials to schools in our operated areas and ran health and environment workshops with students.


•	Created school vegetable gardens and chaguar experimental farming


•	Provided training to teachers and students in health education.


•	Provided basic life necessities (food, clothing, health support) to impoverished people in our operating areas.


•	Delivered medicines to hospitals and supported medical care of children and pregnant women.


•	Provided temporary employment to residents in several of our operating areas.


•	Provided funds in support of beekeeping and crafts projects.


•	Provided cattle guards to the landowners.


•	Delivered drinking water to nearby families.


•	Along with our joint venture partners in the Palmar Largo Block, several other initiatives were undertaken, including projects aimed at developing sustainable income for the communities in the area, fuel and security for local hospitals, and construction of reservoirs and water wells. These projects were operated by PlusPetrol S.A.


•	A social survey was carried out in the Neuquen Basin in order to implement a social and community relations program. The program is expected to start during the first quarter 2013.

Peru

In 2012, we invested approximately $1.9 million in the following activities:


•	Negotiated compensation arrangements with communities for the use of their lands. In Block 95, executed an agreement with the Bretaña town to improve electricity services and the health center.


•	Held consultation and education sessions with various communities located on our blocks and developed technical workshops with indigenous organizations on the uses of natural resources.


•	Provided healthcare support services to communities in our blocks.


•	Provided temporary employment to residents in our blocks.

Brazil

In 2012, we invested approximately $150,000 in a compensation program with communities for use of their lands. We began work on landowner agreements and negotiated payments for carrying out seismic programs on their land. We completed the evaluation and development of a Corporate Social Responsibility (“CSR”) project in the Pojuca Area. We completed an assessment of social initiatives and communities’ needs, as well as stakeholder’s strengths, in municipalities around Block 155. We developed and implemented the program “birds of my land” where children of the community named our Tiê field. We also undertook work to improve waste transportation.

Employees

At December 31, 2012, we had 485 full-time employees: 44 located in the Calgary corporate office, 275 in Colombia (137 staff in Bogota and 138 field personnel), 89 in Argentina (46 office staff in Buenos Aires and 43 field personnel, of which 26 were unionized), 44 in Peru (both field and office staff) and 33 in Brazil (21 office staff in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador and 12 field staff). Other than as disclosed above, none of our employees are represented by labor unions, and we consider our employee relations to be good.

Available Information

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, as well as any amendments to such reports and all other filings pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act which we make available as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC, are available free of charge to the public on our website www.grantierra.com. To access our SEC filings, select SEC Filings from the investor relations menu on our website, which will provide a list of our SEC filings. Our website address is provided solely for informational purposes. We do not intend, by this reference, that our website should be deemed to be part of this Annual Report. Any materials we have filed with the SEC may be read and/or copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street N.E. Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding us. Our SEC filings are also available to the public at the SEC’s website at www.SEC.gov.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Risks Related to Our Business

Guerrilla Activity in Colombia Has Disrupted and Delayed, and Could Continue to Disrupt or Delay, Our Operations and We Are Concerned About Safeguarding Our Operations and Personnel in Colombia.

During 2012, the guerrilla activity in Colombia has increased significantly. This increased activity creates a greater risk for our operations and our employees and our mitigation activities may not be adequate to alleviate the risks arising from such guerrilla activity.

For over 40 years, the Colombian government has been engaged in a civil war with two main Marxist guerrilla groups: the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia ("FARC") and the National Liberation Army ("ELN"). Both of these groups have been designated as terrorist organizations by the United States and the European Union. Another threat comes from criminal gangs formed from the former members of the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia ("AUC") militia, a paramilitary group that originally sprouted up to combat FARC and ELN, which the Colombian government successfully dissolved.

We operate principally in the Putumayo Basin in Colombia, and have properties in other basins, including the Catatumbo, Cauca, Llanos, Middle Magdalena and Lower Magdalena Basins. The Putumayo and Catatumbo regions have been the breeding place of guerrilla activity. Beginning in 1989, our predecessor company's facilities in one field were attacked by guerrillas and operations were briefly disrupted. In October 2010, two of our sites in the Putumayo/Cauca were attacked by FARC guerrillas causing some disruption to operations. Pipelines have also been primary targets because such pipelines cannot be adequately secured due to the sheer size of such pipelines and the remoteness of the areas in which the pipelines are laid. The Ecopetrol-operated OTA pipeline which transports oil from the Putumayo region and upon which we materially rely has been a target by these guerrilla groups. In March and April of 2008, June, July, August and October of 2009, June, August, and September of 2010, February 2011, February to August of 2012 and October 2012 to February 2013, sections of the OTA pipeline were sabotaged by guerrillas, which temporarily reduced our deliveries to Ecopetrol during the affected periods. In the year ended December 31, 2012, the OTA pipeline was shutdown for over 162 days and the shutdown has had a material adverse effect on our deliveries to Ecopetrol and our financial performance for 2012. We have employed mitigation strategies as discussed in the risk "We May Encounter Difficulties Storing and Transporting Our Production, Which Could Cause a Decrease in Our Production or an Increase in Our Expenses" later in this section. Such disruptions may continue indefinitely and could harm our business.

On January 30, 2013, four contract workers employed by companies providing services to Gran Tierra in the Putumayo Basin were abducted, possibly by guerillas. One individual was released within an hour, the other three contractor workers were returned unharmed the next day (January 31, 2013). No employees of Gran Tierra were involved in the incident. Continuing attempts by the Colombian government to reduce or prevent guerrilla activity may not be successful and guerrilla activity may continue to disrupt our operations in the future. Our efforts to increase security measures may not be successful and there can also be no assurance that we can maintain the safety of our or our contractors' field personnel and Bogota head office personnel or operations in Colombia or that this violence will not continue to adversely affect our operations in the future and cause significant loss.

Our Lack of Diversification Will Increase the Risk of an Investment in Our Common Stock.

Our business focuses on the oil and gas industry in a limited number of properties in Colombia, Argentina, Peru, and Brazil. Most of our production is in one basin in Colombia and two basins in Argentina. As a result, we lack diversification, in terms of both the nature and geographic scope of our business. Accordingly, factors affecting our industry or the regions in which we operate, including the geographic remoteness of our operations and weather conditions, will likely impact us more acutely than if our business was more diversified. In particular, most of our production is from the Putumayo Basin in Colombia, and we depend on the OTA pipeline to transport our oil to market. Cash flow from these sales funds a large part of our business. Disruptions to this pipeline, as described in the risk "We May Encounter Difficulties Storing and Transporting Our Production, Which Could Cause a Decrease in Our Production or an Increase in Our Expenses" could harm our business in Colombia and other countries.

We May Encounter Difficulties Storing and Transporting Our Production, Which Could Cause a Decrease in Our Production or an Increase in Our Expenses.

To sell the oil and natural gas that we are able to produce, we have to make arrangements for storage and distribution to the market. We rely on local infrastructure and the availability of transportation for storage and shipment of our products, but infrastructure development and storage and transportation facilities may be insufficient for our needs at commercially acceptable terms in the localities in which we operate. This could be particularly problematic to the extent that our operations are conducted in remote areas that are difficult to access, such as areas that are distant from shipping and/or pipeline facilities. In certain areas, we may be required to rely on only one gathering system, trucking company or pipeline, and, if so, our ability to market our production would be subject to their reliability and operations. These factors may affect our ability to explore and develop properties and to store and transport our oil and gas production, and may increase our expenses. Furthermore, future instability in one or more of the countries in which we operate, weather conditions or natural disasters, actions by companies doing business in those countries, labor disputes or actions taken by the international community may impair the distribution of oil and/or natural gas and in turn diminish our financial condition or ability to maintain our operations.

The majority of our oil in Colombia is delivered by a single pipeline to Ecopetrol and sales of oil have been and could continue to be disrupted by damage to this pipeline or displaced by Ecopetrol’s use of the pipeline itself. Starting in February 2012, we are operating under a new transportation contract with Ecopetrol which changes the point at which Ecopetrol takes delivery of our oil. Previously, Ecopetrol took delivery of our oil at the beginning of the export pipeline. Under the new transportation contract, Ecopetrol takes delivery at the end of the export pipeline. This creates a risk of loss of oil due to sabotage by guerrillas or theft from the pipeline which may result in reduced revenues and increased clean-up or third party costs. We have attempted to mitigate the risk of increased costs with insurance and are investigating potential ways to mitigate and reduce revenue risk. Ecopetrol maintains responsibility for clean-up of any spilled oil and for pipeline repair.

Problems with these pipelines can cause interruptions to our producing activities if they are for a long enough duration that our storage facilities become full. For example, we experienced disruptions in transportation on this pipeline in March and April of 2008, June, July and August of 2009, June, August, and September 2010, February 2011, February to August of 2012 and October 2012 to February 2013 as a result of sabotage by guerrillas. In addition, there is competition for space in these pipelines, and additional discoveries in our area of operations by other companies could decrease the pipeline capacity available to us. Trucking is an alternative to transportation by pipeline; however, it is generally more expensive and carries higher safety risks for us, our employees and the public.

As some of our oil production in Argentina is trucked to a local refinery, sales of oil in the Noroeste Basin can be delayed by adverse weather and road conditions, particularly during the months November through February when the area is subject to periods of heavy rain and flooding. While storage facilities are designed to accommodate ordinary disruptions without curtailing production, delayed sales will delay revenues and may adversely impact our working capital position in Argentina. Furthermore, a prolonged disruption in oil deliveries could exceed storage capacities and shut-in production, which could have a negative impact on future production capability.

Recent alternative transportation arrangements in Colombia allowed us to deliver our full production in January 2013; however, these deliveries carried higher transportation costs than the Ecopetrol operated OTA pipeline transportation costs and are not necessarily sustainable. When disruptions are of a long enough duration, our sales volumes may be lower than normal, which will cause our cash flow to be lower than normal, and if our storage facilities become full, we can be forced to reduce production.

Our Oil Sales Will Depend on a Relatively Small Group of Customers, Which Could Adversely Affect Our Financial Results.

Oil sales in Colombia are mainly to Ecopetrol. While oil prices in Colombia are related to international market prices, lack of competition and reliance on a limited number of customers for sales of oil may diminish prices and depress our financial results.

The entire Argentina domestic refining market is small and export opportunities are limited by available infrastructure. As a result, our oil and gas sales in Argentina will depend on a relatively small group of customers, and currently, on two significant customers. The lack of competition in this market could result in unfavorable sales terms which, in turn, could adversely affect our financial results. Currently, all operators in Argentina are operating without long-term sales contracts. We cannot provide any certainty as to when the situation will be resolved or what the final outcome will be.

In Brazil, there are a number of potential customers for our oil, and we are working to establish relationships with as many as possible to ensure a stable market for our oil. Currently, essentially all of our production in Brazil is sold to Petróleo Brasileiro S.A (“Petrobras”). Petrobras’ refinery in the area of our operations has had some technical difficulties which have restricted its ability to receive deliveries. Our second option in the area is at full capacity. This could mean that we cannot produce to full capacity in the area because of restrictions in being able to deliver our oil.

Our Business is Subject to Local Legal, Political and Economic Factors Which are Beyond Our Control, Which Could Impair Our Ability to Expand Our Operations or Operate Profitably.

We operate our business in Colombia, Argentina, Peru, and Brazil, and may eventually expand to other countries. Exploration and production operations in foreign countries are subject to legal, political and economic uncertainties, including terrorism, military repression, social unrest, strikes by local or national labor groups, interference with private contract rights (such as privatization), extreme fluctuations in currency exchange rates, high rates of inflation, exchange controls, changes in tax rates, changes in laws or policies affecting environmental issues (including land use and water use), workplace safety, foreign investment, foreign trade, investment or taxation, as well as restrictions imposed on the oil and natural gas industry, such as restrictions on production, price controls and export controls. For example, starting on November 21, 2008, we were forced to reduce production in Colombia on a gradual basis, culminating on December 11, 2008, when we suspended all production from the Santana, Guayuyaco and Chaza blocks in the Putumayo Basin. This temporary suspension of production operations was the result of a declaration of a state of emergency and force majeure by Ecopetrol due to a general strike in the region. In January 2009, the situation was resolved and we were able to resume production and sales shipments. Starting in 2010, there was an increased presence of illegitimate unionization activities in the Putumayo Basin by the Sindicato de Trabajadores Petroleros del Putumayo, which disrupted our operations from time to time and may do so in the future. During 2012 and 2011, Argentina has experienced increased union activity and this may create disruptions in our Argentina operations in the future. During 2012 and 2013, we have also experienced related issues with landowners blocking access to our fields for short periods of time in Argentina. South America has a history of political and economic instability. This instability could result in new governments or the adoption of new policies, laws or regulations that might assume a substantially more hostile attitude toward foreign investment, including the imposition of additional taxes. In an extreme case, such a change could result in termination of contract rights and expropriation of foreign-owned assets. Any changes in oil and gas or investment regulations and policies or a shift in political attitudes in Argentina, Colombia, Peru or Brazil or other countries in which we intend to operate are beyond our control and may significantly hamper our ability to expand our operations or operate our business at a profit.

For instance, changes in laws in the jurisdiction in which we operate or expand into with the effect of favoring local enterprises, and changes in political views regarding the exploitation of natural resources and economic pressures, may make it more difficult for us to negotiate agreements on favorable terms, obtain required licenses, comply with regulations or effectively adapt to adverse economic changes, such as increased taxes, higher costs, inflationary pressure and currency fluctuations. In certain jurisdictions the commitment of local business people, government officials and agencies and the judicial system to abide by legal requirements and negotiated agreements may be more uncertain, creating particular concerns with respect to licenses and agreements for business. These licenses and agreements may be susceptible to revision or cancellation and legal redress may be uncertain or delayed. Property right transfers, joint ventures, licenses, license applications or other legal arrangements pursuant to which we operate may be adversely affected by the actions of government authorities and the effectiveness of and enforcement of our rights under such arrangements in these jurisdictions may be impaired.

Additionally in Argentina, some provincial regulations are changing, introducing new royalties and fees associated with extensions of concession agreements. These royalties and fees represent increased costs for the affected concessions, specifically our Rio Negro Province concession, which could result in a decreased rate of return from this asset and could negatively affect our business in Argentina.

We Have an Aggressive Business Plan, and if we do not Have the Resources to Execute on our Business Plan, We May Be Required to Curtail Our Operations.

Our capital program for 2013 calls for approximately $363 million to fund our exploration and development, which we intend to fund through existing cash, cash flows from operations and potential periodic draws from our revolving credit facility. Funding this program relies in part on oil prices remaining high and other factors to generate sufficient cash flow. If we are not able to generate the sales which, together with our current cash resources, are sufficient to fund our capital program, we will not be able to efficiently execute our business plan which would cause us to decrease our exploration and development, which could harm our business outlook, investor confidence and our share price.

Strategic and Business Relationships upon Which We May Rely are Subject to Change, Which May Diminish Our Ability to Conduct Our Operations.

Our ability to successfully bid on and acquire additional properties, to discover reserves, to participate in drilling opportunities and to identify and enter into commercial arrangements will depend on developing and maintaining effective working relationships with industry participants and on our ability to select and evaluate suitable partners and to consummate transactions in a highly competitive environment. These relationships are subject to change and may impair our ability to grow.

To develop our business, we endeavor to use the business relationships of our management and board of directors to enter into strategic and business relationships, which may take the form of joint ventures with other parties or with local government bodies, or contractual arrangements with other oil and gas companies, including those that supply equipment and other resources that we will use in our business. We also have an active business development program to develop those relationships and foster new relationships. We may not be able to establish these business relationships, or if established, we may choose the wrong partner or we may not be able to maintain them. In addition, the dynamics of our relationships with strategic partners may require us to incur expenses or undertake activities we would not otherwise be inclined to take to fulfill our obligations to these partners or maintain our relationships. If we fail to make the cash calls required by our joint venture partners in the joint ventures we do not operate, we may be required to forfeit our interests in these joint ventures. If our strategic relationships are not established or maintained, our business prospects may be limited, which could diminish our ability to conduct our operations.

In addition, in cases where we are the operator, our partners may not be able to fulfill their obligations, which would require us to either take on their obligations in addition to our own, or possibly forfeit our rights to the area involved in the joint venture. In addition, despite our partner’s failure to fulfill its obligations, if we elect to terminate such relationship, we may be involved in litigation with such partners or may be required to pay amounts in settlement to avoid litigation despite such partner’s failure to perform. Alternatively, our partners may be able to fulfill their obligations, but will not agree with our proposals as operator of the property. In this case there could be disagreements between joint venture partners that could be costly in terms of dollars, time, deterioration of the partner relationship, and/or our reputation as a reputable operator. These joint venture partners may not comply with their responsibilities or may engage in conduct that could result in liability to us.

In cases where we are not the operator of the joint venture, the success of the projects held under these joint ventures is substantially dependent on our joint venture partners. The operator is responsible for day-to-day operations, safety, environmental compliance and relationships with government and vendors.

We have various work obligations on our blocks that must be fulfilled or we could face penalties, or lose our rights to those blocks if we do not fulfill our work obligations. Failure to fulfill obligations in one block can also have implications on the ability to operate other blocks in the country ranging from delays in government process and procedure to loss of rights in other blocks or in the country as a whole. Failure to meet obligations in one particular country may also have an impact on our ability to operate in others.

Disputes or Uncertainties May Arise in Relation to our Royalty Obligations

Our production is subject to royalty obligations which may be prescribed by government regulation or by contract. These royalty obligations may be subject to changes in interpretation as business circumstances change.

In accordance with our Hydrocarbon Exploration and Exploitation Agreement with ANH for the Chaza Block in Colombia our oil production from each Exploitation Area on the Block is subject to the payment of additional compensation to the ANH over and above the basic sliding scale royalty that applies when cumulative gross production from an Exploitation Area exceeds five MMbbl. Production from the Costayaco Exploitation Area on the Chaza Block became subject to this additional compensation in the fourth quarter of 2009 after cumulative production from the Costayaco field exceeded five MMbbl.

The ANH has requested that the additional compensation be paid with respect to production from the recently drilled wells relating to the Moqueta discovery and has initiated a noncompliance procedure under the Chaza Contract. The Moqueta discovery is not located in the Costayaco Exploitation Area. Further, we view the Costayaco field and the Moqueta discovery as two clearly separate and independent hydrocarbon accumulations. Therefore, it is our view that it is clear that, pursuant to the Chaza Contract, the additional compensation payments are only to be paid with respect to production from the Moqueta wells when the accumulated oil production from any new Exploitation Area created with respect to the Moqueta discovery exceeds five MMbbl. Discussions with the ANH have not resolved this issue and we have sent notice to the ANH to initiate the dispute resolution process prescribed by the Chaza Contract. No assurance can be made that our interpretation will prevail and, depending on the ultimate size of the cumulative production from the Moqueta field in the future, such amounts may be material if such additional compensation must be paid. As at December 31, 2012, total cumulative production from the Moqueta field was 0.9 MMbbl. The estimated compensation which would be payable on cumulative production to date if the ANH’s interpretation is successful is $15.1 million. At this time no amount has been accrued in the financial statements nor deducted from our reserves for the disputed royalty as Gran Tierra does not consider it probable that a loss will be incurred.

In Brazil, a new regulatory regime was introduced; however, the royalty distribution between producing states has not been approved.

Negative Political and Regulatory Developments in Argentina May Negatively Affect our Operations.

The oil and natural gas industry in Argentina is subject to extensive regulation including land tenure, exploration, development, production, refining, transportation, and marketing, imposed by legislation enacted by various levels of government and, with respect to pricing and taxation of oil and natural gas, by agreements among the federal and provincial governments, all of which are subject to change and could have a material impact on our business in Argentina. The Federal Government of Argentina has implemented controls for domestic fuel prices and has placed a tax on oil and natural gas exports.

In October 2010, ENARGAS issued Regulation I-1410 aiming at securing the supply of natural gas to residential consumers and small industry given the decline in gas production and the expected growing demand for gas. The regulation includes all the procedures created by the authorities since 2004 (restrictions of exports, deviation of gas sales, to residential consumption) and gives ENARGAS power to control gas marketing in order to assure the supply of gas to residential consumers and small industry.

Any future regulations that limit the amount of oil and gas that we could sell or any regulations that limit price increases in Argentina and elsewhere could severely limit the amount of our revenue and affect our results of operations.

Currently most oil and gas producers in Argentina are operating without sales contracts. In 2008, a new withholding tax regime for exports was introduced without specific guidance as to its application. The domestic price was regulated in a similar way, so that both exported and domestically sold products were priced the same. Producers and refiners of oil in Argentina were unable to determine an agreed sales price for oil deliveries to refineries. In our case, the refineries’ price offered to oil producers reflects their price received, less taxes and operating costs and their usual mark up. Along with most other oil producers in Argentina, we are continuing negotiating sales on a spot price basis with refiners and the price is negotiated on a month by month basis. The Provincial governments have also been hurt by these changes as their effective royalty and turnover tax takes have been reduced and capital investment in oilfields has declined, and so they are lobbying to change the situation. The government introduced the Petro Plus and Gas Plus programs in 2009, which grant higher prices to producers that sell production from new reserves. This is a positive step forward that will hopefully lead to further opening of price regulation in Argentina.

Recently, the government of Argentina has been active in the oil and gas business. On April 16, 2012, the government announced their intention to acquire a 51% interest in YPF S.A. ("YPF") from Repsol S.A. (Repsol S.A. holds 56.7% of YPF), and retain 51% control for the Federal Government and distribute 49% of the shares to Argentina provinces. During 2012, the Argentina government took control of YPF's operations and signed deals with Chevron Corporation and others for developing shale resources. Repsol S.A. has filed international complaints and US lawsuits regarding the takeover and subsequent deals. Prior to this announcement, various provincial governments announced contract cancellations effecting YPF, Petrobras Argentina S.A., and Azabache Energy Inc., among others. The reason cited for the contract cancellations was lack of activity in the areas in question. We have experienced recent success in Argentina and have active programs in all areas, which we believe helps mitigate our risk. However, despite the fact that our operating entity in Argentina is a locally incorporated company the employees of which are all Argentine, we are viewed as a foreign company and could therefore face increased risk.

In July 2012, the Argentina government mandated the creation of an oil planning commission that will set national energy goals and have the power to review private oil companies' investment plans. The committee will have the power to approve or reject annual investment plans that must be submitted by private companies by September 30 of each year. This decree is new and many details are yet to be announced. However, we believe there is a risk that this may cause delays in our operations in Argentina, or cause changes to our investment plans that could negatively effect our business in Argentina or the rest of our operations.

Additionally in Argentina some provincial regulations are changing, which are introducing new royalties and fees associated with extensions of concession agreements. These royalties and fees represent increased costs for the affected concessions, specifically our Rio Negro Province concession, which could result in decreased rates of returns from this asset.

Our Business May Suffer If We Do Not Attract and Retain Talented Personnel.

Our success will depend in large measure on the abilities, expertise, judgment, discretion, integrity and good faith of our executive team and other personnel in conducting our business. The loss of any of these individuals or our inability to attract suitably qualified individuals to replace any of them could materially adversely impact our business. We are experiencing difficulties in finding and retaining suitably qualified staff in certain jurisdictions, particularly in Brazil and Peru , where experienced personnel in our industry are in high demand and competition for their talents is intense.

Our success depends on the ability of our management and employees to interpret market and geological data successfully and to interpret and respond to economic, market and other business conditions to locate and adopt appropriate investment opportunities, monitor such investments and ultimately, if required, successfully divest such investments. Further, our key personnel may not continue their association or employment with us and we may not be able to find replacement personnel with comparable skills. If we are unable to attract and retain key personnel, our business may be adversely affected.

Competition in Obtaining Rights to Explore and Develop Oil and Gas Reserves and to Market Our Production May Impair Our Business.

The oil and gas industry is highly competitive. Other oil and gas companies will compete with us by bidding for exploration and production licenses and other properties and services we will need to operate our business in the countries in which we expect to operate. Additionally, other companies engaged in our line of business may compete with us from time to time in obtaining capital from investors. Competitors include larger companies, which, in particular, may have access to greater resources than us, may be more successful in the recruitment and retention of qualified employees and may conduct their own refining and petroleum marketing operations, which may give them a competitive advantage. In addition, actual or potential competitors may be strengthened through the acquisition of additional assets and interests. In the event that we do not succeed in negotiating additional property acquisitions, our future prospects will likely be substantially limited, and our financial condition and results of operations may deteriorate.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Fluctuations May Affect Our Financial Results.

We expect to sell our oil and natural gas production under agreements that will be denominated in U.S. dollars. Many of the operational and other expenses we incur will be paid in the local currency of the country where we perform our operations. Our income taxes in Colombia are paid in Colombian pesos.. Our production in Argentina is primarily invoiced in U.S. dollars, but payment is made in Argentina pesos, at the then current exchange rate. As a result, we are exposed to translation risk when local currency financial statements are translated to U.S. dollars, our functional currency. Since September 1, 2005, exchange rates between the Colombian peso and U.S. dollar have varied between 1,648 pesos to one U.S. dollar to 2,632 pesos to one U.S. dollar, a fluctuation of approximately 60%. Since we began operating in Argentina (September 1, 2005), the rate of exchange between the Argentina peso and U.S. dollar has varied between 3.05 pesos to one U.S. dollar to 4.92 pesos to the U.S. dollar, a fluctuation of approximately 61%. Production in Brazil is invoiced and paid in Brazilian Reals. Since September 1, 2005, the exchange rate of the Brazilian Real has varied between 1.56 Reals to one U.S. dollar to 2.45 Reals to the U.S. dollar, a variance of 57%. Current and deferred tax liabilities in Colombia are denominated in Colombian pesos and the strengthening of 9.0% in the Colombian Peso against the U.S. dollar in the year ended December 31, 2012, resulted in a foreign exchange loss.

Exchange Controls and New Taxes Could Materially Affect our Ability to Fund Our Operations and Realize Profits from Our Foreign Operations.

Foreign operations may require funding if their cash requirements exceed operating cash flow. To the extent that funding is required, there may be exchange controls limiting such funding or adverse tax consequences associated with such funding. In addition, taxes and exchange controls may affect the dividends that we receive from foreign subsidiaries.

The governments in Brazil and Argentina require us to register funds that enter and exit the country with the central bank in each country. In Brazil, Argentina and Colombia, all transactions must be carried out in the local currency of the country. Exchange controls may prevent us from transferring funds abroad. For example, the Argentina government has imposed a number of monetary and currency exchange control measures that include restrictions on the free disposition of funds deposited with banks and tight restrictions on transferring funds abroad, with certain exceptions for transfers related to foreign trade and other authorized transactions approved by the Argentina Central Bank. The Central Bank may require prior authorization and may or may not grant such authorization for our Argentina subsidiaries to make dividend or loan payments to us and there may be a tax imposed with respect to the expatriation of such proceeds.

In Colombia, we participate in a special exchange regime, which allows us to receive revenue in U. S. dollars offshore. This regime gives us flexibility to determine the currency in which we receive our revenues, rather than to be restricted to Colombian pesos if received in Colombia, but also limits the ways in which we are able to fund our operations in Colombia. As such, this could cause us to employ funding strategies for our Colombian operations that are not as tax efficient as might otherwise be if we did not participate in the special exchange regime.

Tax law changes can impact the way we provide cross-border funding to our operating subsidiaries, as well as impact the after tax profits available for expatriation. For example, beginning in 2013, the Colombian rate of tax applicable to ordinary income derived by our Colombian operations has changed for the 3-year period 2013-2015 from 33% to 34%. Also in Colombia, beginning in 2013, a new definition of dividends is applied for branches. In this case, the transfer of branch profits are considered as dividends subject to a 25% tax if those dividends have not already been subject to Colombian tax. We do not currently expect that this change in Colombian law will have a material consequence.

Maintaining Good Community Relationships and Being a Good Corporate Citizen may be Costly and Difficult to Manage.

Our operations have a significant effect on the areas in which we operate. To enjoy the confidence of local populations and the local governments, we must invest in the communities where were operate. In many cases, these communities are impoverished and lack many resources taken for granted in North America. The opportunities for investment are large, many and varied; however, we must be careful to invest carefully in projects that will truly benefit these areas. Improper management of these investments and relationships could lead to a delay in operations, loss of license or major impact to our reputation in these communities, which could adversely affect our business.

Our Operations Involve Substantial Costs and are Subject to Certain Risks Because the Oil and Gas Industries in the Countries in Which We Operate are Less Developed.

The oil and gas industry in South America is not as efficient or developed as the oil and gas industry in North America. As a result, our exploration and development activities may take longer to complete and may be more expensive than similar operations in North America. The availability of technical expertise, specific equipment and supplies may be more limited than in North America. We expect that such factors will subject our international operations to economic and operating risks that may not be experienced in North American operations.

Further, we operate in remote areas and may rely on helicopter, boats or other transport methods. Some of these transport methods may result in increased levels of risk and could lead to operational delays, serious injury or loss of life and could have a significant impact on our reputation.

Negative Political Developments in Peru May Negatively Affect our Proposed Operations.

Peru held a national election in June 2011 after which a new political regime was elected, led by the left-populist candidate, Ollante Humala, who was elected the President. Mr. Humala has noted that the past decade prioritized the strengthening of democracy with economic growth, while the new government will enhance social inclusion to benefit the neediest. This political regime may adopt new policies, laws and regulations that are more hostile toward foreign investment which may result in the imposition of additional taxes, the adoption of regulations that limit price increases, termination of contract rights, or the expropriation of foreign-owned assets. While we do not have any reserves or any producing wells in Peru at this time, we do hold significant land holdings in Peru and such actions by the elected political regime could limit the amount of our future revenue in that country and affect our results of operations.

The United States Government May Impose Economic or Trade Sanctions on Colombia That Could Result In A Significant Loss To Us.

Colombia is among several nations whose eligibility to receive foreign aid from the United States is dependent on its progress in stemming the production and transit of illegal drugs, which is subject to an annual review by the President of the United States. Although Colombia is currently eligible for such aid, Colombia may not remain eligible in the future. A finding by the President that Colombia has failed demonstrably to meet its obligations under international counternarcotics agreements may result in any of the following:


•	all bilateral aid, except anti-narcotics and humanitarian aid, would be suspended;


•	the Export-Import Bank of the United States and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation would not approve financing for new projects in Colombia;


•	United States representatives at multilateral lending institutions would be required to vote against all loan requests from Colombia, although such votes would not constitute vetoes; and


•	the President of the United States and Congress would retain the right to apply future trade sanctions.

Each of these consequences could result in adverse economic consequences in Colombia and could further heighten the political and economic risks associated with our operations there. Any changes in the holders of significant government offices could have adverse consequences on our relationship with ANH and Ecopetrol and the Colombian government’s ability to control guerrilla activities and could exacerbate the factors relating to our foreign operations. Any sanctions imposed on Colombia by the United States government could threaten our ability to obtain necessary financing to develop the Colombian properties or cause Colombia to retaliate against us, including by nationalizing our Colombian assets.

Accordingly, the imposition of the foregoing economic and trade sanctions on Colombia would likely result in a substantial loss and a decrease in the price of shares of our Common Stock. The United States may impose sanctions on Colombia in the future, and we cannot predict the effect in Colombia that these sanctions might cause.

We May Be Unable to Obtain Additional Capital That We Will Require to Implement Our Business Plan, Which Could Restrict Our Ability to Grow.

We expect that our existing cash resources and the availability to draw cash under our credit agreement will be sufficient to fund our currently planned activities. We may require additional capital to expand our exploration and development programs to additional properties. We may be unable to obtain additional capital required.

When we require additional capital, we plan to pursue sources of capital through various financing transactions or arrangements, including joint venturing of projects, debt financing, equity financing or other means. We may not be successful in locating suitable financing transactions in the time period required or at all, and we may not obtain the capital we require by other means. If we do succeed in raising additional capital, future financings may be dilutive to our shareholders, as we could issue additional shares of Common Stock or other equity to investors. In addition, debt and other mezzanine financing may involve a pledge of assets and may be senior to interests of equity holders. We may incur substantial costs in pursuing future capital financing, including investment banking fees, legal fees, accounting fees, securities law compliance fees, printing and distribution expenses and other costs. We may also be required to recognize non-cash expenses in connection with certain securities we may issue, such as convertibles and warrants, which will adversely impact our financial results.

Our ability to obtain needed financing may be impaired by factors such as the capital markets (both generally and in the oil and gas industry in particular), the location of our oil and natural gas properties in South America, prices of oil and natural gas on the commodities markets (which will impact the amount of asset-based financing available to us), and the loss of key management. Further, if oil and/or natural gas prices on the commodities markets decrease, then our revenues will likely decrease, and such decreased revenues may increase our requirements for capital. Some of the contractual arrangements governing our exploration activity may require us to commit to certain capital expenditures, and we may lose our contract rights if we do not have the required capital to fulfill these commitments. If the amount of capital we are able to raise from financing activities, together with our cash flow from operations, is not sufficient to satisfy our capital needs (even to the extent that we reduce our activities), we may be required to curtail our operations.

We May Not Be Able To Effectively Manage Our Growth, Which May Harm Our Profitability.

Our strategy envisions continually expanding our business, both organically and through acquisition of other properties and companies. If we fail to effectively manage our growth or integrate successfully our acquisitions, our financial results could be adversely affected. Growth may place a strain on our management systems and resources. Integration efforts place a significant burden on our management and internal resources. The diversion of management attention and any difficulties encountered in the integration process could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we must continue to refine and expand our business development capabilities, our systems and processes and our access to financing sources. As we grow, we must continue to hire, train, supervise and manage new or acquired employees. We may not be able to:


•	expand our systems effectively or efficiently or in a timely manner;


•	allocate our human resources optimally;


•	identify and hire qualified employees or retain valued employees; or


•	incorporate effectively the components of any business that we may acquire in our effort to achieve growth.

If we are unable to manage our growth and our operations our financial results could be adversely affected by inefficiencies, which could diminish our profitability.

Guerrilla Activity in Peru Could Disrupt or Delay Our Operations and We Are Concerned About Safeguarding Our Operations and Personnel in Peru.

The Shining Path Guerilla group has been active in Peru since the early 1980’s and, at one point, was active throughout the country. Recently, the group’s activity has been confined to small areas of Peru and operations have been hampered by the capture of many high profile leaders and membership has fallen dramatically. During April 2012, 30 people working on the Camisea natural gas project in central Peru were kidnapped. Most of the workers were released after a short period of time, and the remainder were freed within a few days. The kidnapping was attributed to the Shining Path Guerilla group. Camisea is a very large, high profile project in an area where the group continues to be active. Our operations in Peru are in a different region, with no known activity by the group. Other groups may be active in other areas of the country and possibly our operational areas. We are monitoring the situation and increasing security measures as required. Nevertheless, we are concerned about the security of our operations in Peru and mitigate our risks through good relationships with local communities and stakeholders as well as strong security procedures.

Risks Related to Our Industry

Unless We are Able to Replace Our Reserves, and Develop and Manage Oil and Gas Reserves and Production on an Economically Viable Basis, Our Reserves, Production and Cash Flows May Decline as a Result.

Our future success depends on our ability to find, develop and acquire additional oil and gas reserves that are economically recoverable. Without successful exploration, development or acquisition activities, our reserves and production will decline. We may not be able to find, develop or acquire additional reserves at acceptable costs.

To the extent that we succeed in discovering oil and/or natural gas, reserves may not be capable of production levels we project or in sufficient quantities to be commercially viable. On a long-term basis, our viability depends on our ability to find or acquire, develop and commercially produce additional oil and gas reserves. Without the addition of reserves through exploration, acquisition or development activities, our reserves and production will decline over time as reserves are produced. Our future reserves will depend not only on our ability to develop and effectively manage then-existing properties, but also on our ability to identify and acquire additional suitable producing properties or prospects, to find markets for the oil and natural gas we develop and to effectively distribute our production into our markets. Future oil and gas exploration may involve unprofitable efforts, not only from dry wells, but from wells that are productive but do not produce sufficient net revenues to return a profit after drilling, operating and other costs. Completion of a well does not assure a profit on the investment or recovery of drilling, completion and operating costs. In addition, drilling hazards or environmental damage could greatly increase the cost of operations, and various field operating conditions may adversely affect the production from successful wells. These conditions include delays in obtaining governmental approvals or consents, shut-downs of connected wells resulting from extreme weather conditions, problems in storage and distribution and adverse geological and technical conditions. While we will endeavor to effectively manage these conditions, we may not be able to do so optimally, and we will not be able to eliminate them completely in any case. Therefore, these conditions could diminish our revenue and cash flow levels and result in the impairment of our oil and natural gas interests.

We are Required to Obtain Licenses and Permits to Conduct Our Business and Failure to Obtain These Licenses Could Cause Significant Delays and Expenses That Could Materially Impact Our Business.

We are subject to licensing and permitting requirements relating to exploring and drilling for and development of oil and natural gas, including seismic, environmental and many other operating permits. We may not be able to obtain, sustain or renew such licenses and permits on a timely basis or at all. For example, the permitting process in Peru takes significant time, meaning that exploration and development projects have a longer cycle time to completion than they might elsewhere. Other drilling projects are being delayed because the Ministry of the Environment has not increased staffing levels to meet increased activity in the oil and gas industry in Colombia and so permit processing takes longer than usual. These delays are also significantly impacting other industry participants. Regulations and policies relating to these licenses and permits may change, be implemented in a way that we do not currently anticipate or take significantly greater time to obtain. These licenses and permits are subject to numerous requirements, including compliance with the environmental regulations of the local governments. As we are not the operator of all the joint ventures we are currently involved in, we may rely on the operator to obtain all necessary permits and licenses. If we fail to comply with these requirements, we could be prevented from drilling for oil and natural gas, and we could be subject to civil or criminal liability or fines. Revocation or suspension of our environmental and operating permits could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, currently in Brazil, we are subject to restrictions on flaring natural gas, which have the impact of limiting our production capacity.

Our Exploration for Oil and Natural Gas Is Risky and May Not Be Commercially Successful, Impairing Our Ability to Generate Revenues from Our Operations.

Oil and natural gas exploration involves a high degree of risk. These risks are more acute in the early stages of exploration. Our exploration expenditures may not result in new discoveries of oil or natural gas in commercially viable quantities. It is difficult to project the costs of implementing an exploratory drilling program due to the inherent uncertainties of drilling in unknown formations, the costs associated with encountering various drilling conditions, such as over pressured zones and tools lost in the hole, and changes in drilling plans and locations as a result of prior exploratory wells or additional seismic data and interpretations thereof. If exploration costs exceed our estimates, or if our exploration efforts do not produce results which meet our expectations, our exploration efforts may not be commercially successful, which could adversely impact our ability to generate revenues from our operations.

Estimates of Oil and Natural Gas Reserves that We Make May Be Inaccurate and Our Actual Revenues May Be Lower and Our Operating Expenses may be Higher than Our Financial Projections.

We make estimates of oil and natural gas reserves, upon which we will base our financial projections. We make these reserve estimates using various assumptions, including assumptions as to oil and natural gas prices, drilling and operating expenses, capital expenditures, taxes and availability of funds. Some of these assumptions are inherently subjective, and the accuracy of our reserve estimates relies in part on the ability of our management team, engineers and other advisors to make accurate assumptions. Economic factors beyond our control, such as interest rates and exchange rates, will also impact the value of our reserves. The process of estimating oil and gas reserves is complex, and will require us to use significant decisions and assumptions in the evaluation of available geological, geophysical, engineering and economic data for each property. As a result, our reserve estimates will be inherently imprecise. Actual future production, oil and natural gas prices, revenues, taxes, development expenditures, operating expenses and quantities of recoverable oil and gas reserves may vary substantially from those we estimate. If actual production results vary substantially from our reserve estimates, this could materially reduce our revenues and result in the impairment of our oil and natural gas interests.

Exploration, development, production (including transportation and workover costs), marketing (including distribution costs) and regulatory compliance costs (including taxes) will substantially impact the net revenues we derive from the oil and gas that we produce. These costs are subject to fluctuations and variation in different locales in which we operate, and we may not be able to predict or control these costs. If these costs exceed our expectations, this may adversely affect our results of operations. In addition, we may not be able to earn net revenue at our predicted levels, which may impact our ability to satisfy our obligations.

If Oil and Natural Gas Prices Decrease, We May be Required to Take Write-Downs of the Carrying Value of Our Oil and Natural Gas Properties.

We follow the full cost method of accounting for our oil and gas properties. A separate cost center is maintained for expenditures applicable to each country in which we conduct exploration and/or production activities. Under this method, the net book value of properties on a country-by-country basis, less related deferred income taxes, may not exceed a calculated “ceiling”. The ceiling is the estimated after tax future net revenues from proved oil and gas properties, discounted at 10% per year. In calculating discounted future net revenues, oil and natural gas prices are determined using the average price during the 12 months period prior to the ending date of the period covered by the balance sheet, calculated as an unweighted arithmetic average of the first-day-of-the month price for each month within such period for that oil and natural gas. That average price is then held constant, except for changes which are fixed and determinable by existing contracts. The net book value is compared with the ceiling on a quarterly basis. The excess, if any, of the net book value above the ceiling is required to be written off as an expense. Under full cost accounting rules, any write-off recorded may not be reversed even if higher oil and natural gas prices increase the ceiling applicable to future periods. Future price decreases could result in reductions in the carrying value of such assets and an equivalent charge to earnings. In countries where we do not have proved reserves, dry wells drilled in a period would directly result in ceiling test impairment for that period.

In 2011, we recorded a ceiling test impairment loss of $42.0 million in our Peru cost center related to seismic and drilling costs on two blocks which were relinquished and a ceiling test impairment loss of $25.7 million in our Argentina cost center related to an increase in estimated future operating and capital costs to produce our remaining Argentina proved reserves and a decrease in reserve volumes. In 2012, we recorded a ceiling test impairment loss of $20.2 million in our Brazil cost center related to seismic and drilling costs on Block BM-CAL-10. The farm-out agreement for that block terminated during the first quarter of 2012 when we provided notice that we would not enter into the second exploration period.

Our Inability to Obtain Necessary Facilities and/or Equipment Could Hamper Our Operations.

Oil and natural gas exploration and development activities are dependent on the availability of drilling and related equipment, transportation, power and technical support in the particular areas where these activities will be conducted, and our access to these facilities may be limited. To the extent that we conduct our activities in remote areas, needed facilities or equipment may not be proximate to our operations, which will increase our expenses. Demand for such limited equipment and other facilities or access restrictions may affect the availability of such equipment to us and may delay exploration and development activities. The quality and reliability of necessary facilities or equipment may also be unpredictable and we may be required to make efforts to standardize our facilities, which may entail unanticipated costs and delays. Shortages and/or the unavailability of necessary equipment or other facilities will impair our activities, either by delaying our activities, increasing our costs or otherwise.

Drilling New Wells and Producing Oil and Natural Gas from Existing Facilities Could Result in New Liabilities, Which Could Endanger Our Interests in Our Properties and Assets.

There are risks associated with the drilling of oil and natural gas wells, including encountering unexpected formations or pressures, premature declines of reservoirs, blow-outs, craterings, sour gas releases, fires and spills. Earthquakes or weather related phenomena such as heavy rain, landslides, storms and hurricanes can also cause problems in drilling new wells. There are also risks in producing oil and natural gas from existing facilities. For example, the Valle Morado GTE.St.VMor-2001 re-entry operations started in the third quarter of 2010, with integrity testing and remediation operations required for the sidetrack operations. Due to operational difficulties, the initial side-track attempt was not successful. The operation was placed on standby pending the arrival of additional side-track equipment and operations recommenced in the fourth quarter of 2010. In February 2011, these operations were suspended and the wellbore has been abandoned due to a number of operational challenges encountered. We continue to review alternatives associated with the field development. Also for example, on February 7, 2009, we experienced an incident at our Juanambu-1 well, involving a fire in a generator, resulting in total damage to equipment estimated at $500,000, and production in the amount of approximately $125,000 being deferred due to shutting down production facilities while dealing with the incident. The occurrence of any of these events could significantly reduce our revenues or cause substantial losses, impairing our future operating results. We may become subject to liability for pollution, blow-outs or other hazards. Incidents such as these can lead to serious injury, property damage and even loss of life. We generally obtain insurance with respect to these hazards, but such insurance has limitations on liability that may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of such liabilities. The payment of such liabilities could reduce the funds available to us or could, in an extreme case, result in a total loss of our properties and assets. Moreover, we may not be able to maintain adequate insurance in the future at rates that are considered reasonable. Oil and natural gas production operations are also subject to all the risks typically associated with such operations, including premature decline of reservoirs and the invasion of water into producing formations.

Prices and Markets for Oil and Natural Gas Are Unpredictable and Tend to Fluctuate Significantly, Which Could Reduce Our Profitability, Growth and Value.

Oil and natural gas are commodities whose prices are determined based on world demand, supply and other factors, all of which are beyond our control. World prices for oil and natural gas have fluctuated widely in recent years. The average price for WTI per barrel was $66 in 2006, $72 in 2007, $100 in 2008, $62 in 2009, $79 in 2010, $95 in 2011 and $94 in 2012, demonstrating the inherent volatility in the market. Average Brent oil prices for the year ended December 31, 2012, were $111.67 per bbl. Given the current economic environment and unstable conditions in the Middle East, North Africa, the United States and Europe, the oil price environment is increasingly unpredictable and unstable. We expect that prices will fluctuate in the future. Price fluctuations will have a significant impact upon our revenue, the return from our oil and gas reserves and on our financial condition generally. Price fluctuations for oil and natural gas commodities may also impact the investment market for companies engaged in the oil and gas industry. Furthermore, prices which we receive for our oil sales, while based on international oil prices, are established by contract with purchasers with prescribed deductions for transportation and quality differentials. These differentials can change over time and have a detrimental impact on realized prices. Future decreases in the prices of oil and natural gas may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, the future results of our operations and quantities of reserves recoverable on an economic basis.

In addition, oil and natural gas prices in Argentina are effectively regulated and during 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, were substantially lower than those received in North America. Oil prices in Colombia are related to international market prices, but adjustments that are defined by contract with Ecopetrol, the purchaser of most of the oil that we produce in Colombia, may cause realized prices to be lower or higher than those received in North America. Oil prices in Brazil are defined by contract with the refinery and may be lower or higher than those received in North America.

Decommissioning Costs Are Unknown and May be Substantial; Unplanned Costs Could Divert Resources from Other Projects.

We are responsible for costs associated with abandoning and reclaiming some of the wells, facilities and pipelines which we use for production of oil and gas reserves. Abandonment and reclamation of these facilities and the costs associated therewith is often referred to as “decommissioning.” We have determined that we require a reserve account for these potential costs in respect of our current properties and facilities at this time, and have booked such reserve on our financial statements. If decommissioning is required before economic depletion of our properties or if our estimates of the costs of decommissioning exceed the value of the reserves remaining at any particular time to cover such decommissioning costs, we may have to draw on funds from other sources to satisfy such costs. The use of other funds to satisfy decommissioning costs could impair our ability to focus capital investment in other areas of our business.

Penalties We May Incur Could Impair Our Business.

Our exploration, development, production and marketing operations are regulated extensively under foreign, federal, state and local laws and regulations. Under these laws and regulations, we could be held liable for personal injuries, property damage, site clean-up and restoration obligations or costs and other damages and liabilities. We may also be required to take corrective actions, such as installing additional safety or environmental equipment, which could require us to make significant capital expenditures. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may also result in the suspension or termination of our operations and subject us to administrative, civil and criminal penalties, including the assessment of natural resource damages. We could be required to indemnify our employees in connection with any expenses or liabilities that they may incur individually in connection with regulatory action against them. As a result of these laws and regulations, our future business prospects could deteriorate and our profitability could be impaired by costs of compliance, remedy or indemnification of our employees, reducing our profitability.

Policies, Procedures and Systems to Safeguard Employee Health, Safety and Security May Not be Adequate.

Oil and natural gas exploration and production is dangerous. Detailed and specialized policies, procedures and systems are required to safeguard employee health, safety and security. We have undertaken to implement best practices for employee health, safety and security; however, if these policies, procedures and systems are not adequate, or employees do not receive adequate training, the consequences can be severe including serious injury or loss of life, which could impair our operations and cause us to incur significant legal liability.

Environmental Risks May Adversely Affect Our Business.

All phases of the oil and natural gas business present environmental risks and hazards and are subject to environmental regulation pursuant to a variety of international conventions and federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations. Environmental legislation provides for, among other things, restrictions and prohibitions on spills, releases or emissions of various substances produced in association with oil and gas operations. The legislation also requires that wells and facility sites be operated, maintained, abandoned and reclaimed to the satisfaction of applicable regulatory authorities. Compliance with such legislation can require significant expenditures and a breach may result in the imposition of fines and penalties, some of which may be material. Environmental legislation is evolving in a manner we expect may result in stricter standards and enforcement, larger fines and liability and potentially increased capital expenditures and operating costs. The discharge of oil, natural gas or other pollutants into the air, soil or water may give rise to liabilities to foreign governments and third parties and may require us to incur costs to remedy such discharge. The application of environmental laws to our business may cause us to curtail our production or increase the costs of our production, development or exploration activities.

Our Insurance May Be Inadequate to Cover Liabilities We May Incur.

Our involvement in the exploration for and development of oil and natural gas properties may result in our becoming subject to liability for pollution, blowouts, property damage, personal injury or other hazards. Although we have insurance in accordance with industry standards to address such risks, such insurance has limitations on liability that may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of such liabilities. In addition, such risks may not in all circumstances be insurable or, in certain circumstances, we may choose not to obtain insurance to protect against specific risks due to the high premiums associated with such insurance or for other reasons. The payment of such uninsured liabilities would reduce the funds available to us. If we suffer a significant event or occurrence that is not fully insured, or if the insurer of such event is not solvent, we could be required to divert funds from capital investment or other uses towards covering our liability for such events.

Challenges to Our Properties May Impact Our Financial Condition.

Title to oil and natural gas interests is often not capable of conclusive determination without incurring substantial expense. While we intend to make appropriate inquiries into the title of properties and other development rights we acquire, title defects may exist. In addition, we may be unable to obtain adequate insurance for title defects, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all. If title defects do exist, it is possible that we may lose all or a portion of our right, title and interest in and to the properties to which the title defects relate.

Furthermore, applicable governments may revoke or unfavorably alter the conditions of exploration and development authorizations that we procure, or third parties may challenge any exploration and development authorizations we procure. Such rights or additional rights we apply for may not be granted or renewed on terms satisfactory to us.

If our property rights are reduced, whether by governmental action or third party challenges, our ability to conduct our exploration, development and production may be impaired.

We Will Rely on Technology to Conduct Our Business and Our Technology Could Become Ineffective Or Obsolete.

We rely on technology, including geographic and seismic analysis techniques and economic models, to develop our reserve estimates and to guide our exploration and development and production activities. We will be required to continually enhance and update our technology to maintain its efficacy and to avoid obsolescence. The costs of doing so may be substantial, and may be higher than the costs that we anticipate for technology maintenance and development. If we are unable to maintain the efficacy of our technology, our ability to manage our business and to compete may be impaired. Further, even if we are able to maintain technical effectiveness, our technology may not be the most efficient means of reaching our objectives, in which case we may incur higher operating costs than we would were our technology more efficient.

Risks Related to Our Common Stock

The Market Price of Our Common Stock May Be Highly Volatile and Subject to Wide Fluctuations.

The market price of shares of our Common Stock may be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to a number of factors that are beyond our control, including but not limited to:


•	dilution caused by our issuance of additional shares of Common Stock and other forms of equity securities, which we expect to make in connection with acquisitions of other companies or assets;


•	announcements of new acquisitions, reserve discoveries or other business initiatives by our competitors;


•	fluctuations in revenue from our oil and natural gas business;


•	changes in the market and/or WTI or Brent price for oil and natural gas commodities and/or in the capital markets generally, or under our credit agreement;


•	changes in the demand for oil and natural gas, including changes resulting from the introduction or expansion of alternative fuels;


•	changes in the social, political and/or legal climate in the regions in which we will operate;


•	changes in the valuation of similarly situated companies, both in our industry and in other industries;


•	changes in analysts’ estimates affecting us, our competitors and/or our industry;


•	changes in the accounting methods used in or otherwise affecting our industry;


•	announcements of technological innovations or new products available to the oil and natural gas industry;


•	announcements by relevant governments pertaining to incentives for alternative energy development programs;


•	fluctuations in interest rates, exchange rates and the availability of capital in the capital markets; and


•	significant sales of shares of our Common Stock, including sales by future investors in future offerings we expect to make to raise additional capital.

In addition, the market price of shares of our Common Stock could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, which could include the following, among others:


•	quarterly variations in our revenues and operating expenses; and


•	additions and departures of key personnel.

These and other factors are largely beyond our control, and the impact of these risks, singularly or in the aggregate, may result in material adverse changes to the market price of shares of our Common Stock and/or our results of operations and financial condition.

We Do Not Expect to Pay Dividends In the Foreseeable Future.

We do not intend to declare dividends for the foreseeable future, as we anticipate that we will reinvest any future earnings in the development and growth of our business. Therefore, investors will not receive any funds unless they sell their shares of Common Stock, and shareholders may be unable to sell their shares on favorable terms or at all. Investors cannot be assured of a positive return on investment or that they will not lose the entire amount of their investment in shares of our Common Stock.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

We have described our properties, reserves, acreage, wells, production and drilling activity in Part I, Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which information and descriptions are incorporated by reference here.

Administrative Facilities

Our executive offices are located in Calgary Canada. Our primary executive offices comprise approximately 15,700 square feet, which we lease for approximately $33,000 per month under a lease that expires on October 30, 2015. We also lease additional space in Calgary that we use to supplement our primary executive office space. We lease administrative office space in Colombia, Argentina, Peru and Brazil. We believe that our current executive and administrative offices are sufficient for our purposes or, to the extent that we need additional office space, that additional office space will be readily available to us.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

Gran Tierra’s production from the Costayaco field is subject to an additional royalty that applies when cumulative gross production from a commercial field is greater than five MMbbl. This additional royalty is calculated on the difference between a trigger price defined by the Agencia Nacional de Hidrocarburos (National Hydrocarbons Agency) (“ANH”) and the sales price. The ANH has requested that the additional compensation be paid with respect to production from wells relating to the Moqueta discovery and has initiated a noncompliance procedure under the Chaza Contract. The Moqueta discovery is not located in the Costayaco Exploitation Area. Further, Gran Tierra views the Costayaco field and the Moqueta discovery as two clearly separate and independent hydrocarbon accumulations. Therefore, it is Gran Tierra’s view that it is clear that, pursuant to the Chaza Contract, the additional compensation payments are only to be paid with respect to production from the Moqueta wells when the accumulated oil production from any new Exploitation Area created with respect to the Moqueta discovery exceeds five MMbbl. Discussions with the ANH have not resolved this issue and Gran Tierra has initiated the dispute resolution process and filed an arbitration claim. As at December 31, 2012, total cumulative production from the Moqueta field was 0.9 MMbbl. The estimated compensation which would be payable on cumulative production to date if the ANH’s interpretation is successful is $15.1 million. At this time, no amount has been accrued in the financial statements nor deducted from our reserves for the disputed royalty as Gran Tierra does not consider it probable that a loss will be incurred.

Additionally, the ANH and Gran Tierra Energy Colombia, Ltd are engaged in discussions regarding the interpretation of whether certain transportation and related costs are eligible to be deducted in the calculation of the additional royalty. Discussions with the ANH are ongoing. As at December 31, 2012, the estimated compensation which would be payable if the ANH’s interpretation is successful is $11.6 million. At this time no amount has been accrued in the financial statements as Gran Tierra does not consider it probable that a loss will be incurred.

We have several other lawsuits and claims pending. Although the outcome of these lawsuits and disputes cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe the resolution of these matters would not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. We record costs as they are incurred or become probable and determinable.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

End of Item 4

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Set forth below is information regarding our executive officers as of February 20, 2013.



Name	Age	Position
Dana Coffield	54	President and Chief Executive Officer; Director
James Rozon	49	Chief Financial Officer
Shane O’Leary	56	Chief Operating Officer
David Hardy	58	General Counsel, Vice-President Legal, and Secretary
Rafael Orunesu	57	President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Argentina
Duncan Nightingale	54	President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Colombia
Julio Cesar Moreira	51	President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Brazil
Carlos Monges	56	President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Peru

Dana Coffield, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director. Before joining Gran Tierra as President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director in May, 2005, Mr. Coffield led the Middle East Business Unit for Encana Corporation, at the time North America’s largest independent oil and gas company, from 2003 to 2005. His responsibilities included business development, exploration operations, commercial evaluations, government and partner relations, planning and budgeting, environment/health/safety, security and management of several overseas operating offices. From 1998 through 2003, he was New Ventures Manager for Encana’s predecessor — Alberta Energy Company — where he expanded exploration operations into five new countries on three continents. Mr. Coffield was previously with ARCO International for ten years, where he participated in exploration and production operations in North Africa, Southeast Asia and Alaska. He began his career as a mud-logger in the Texas Gulf Coast and later as a Research Assistant with the Earth Sciences and Resources Institute where he conducted geoscience research in North Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Mr. Coffield graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Masters of Science (MSc) degree and a doctorate (PhD) in Geology, based on research conducted in the Oman Mountains in Arabia and Gulf of Suez in Egypt, respectively. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Geological Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines. Mr. Coffield is a member of the AAPG and the CSPG, and is a Fellow of the Explorers Club.

James Rozon, Chief Financial Officer. On May 2, 2012, James Rozon was promoted from acting Chief Financial Officer to Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Rozon had been serving as acting Chief Financial Officer since December 9, 2011. Mr. Rozon served as Gran Tierra’s Corporate Controller from October 1, 2007 to December 9, 2011. He has previous experience in accounting, finance and administration in the petroleum and technology industries in Canada. During his career, his responsibilities have included management of finance related activities of Canadian and American oil and gas exploration and production companies operating in Canada and the United States and a software development company operating in Canada, the United States, China and Sweden. He was Controller of Sound Energy Trust, a publicly listed Canadian oil and gas trust from July 2006 to September 2007, at which time it was sold. From October 2002 to June 2006, and previously from July 1995 to February 1998, he was the Corporate Controller of Zi Corporation, a Canadian software development company publicly listed in both Canada and the United States of America. From June 2000 to September 2002, he was the Controller for Energy Exploration Technologies, an American publicly listed oil and gas exploration company operating in Canada and the United States. From April 1998 to May 2000, he was the Manager, Financial Reporting of Summit Resources Limited, a publicly listed Canadian oil and gas exploration and development company with operations in Canada and the United States of America. From June 1990 to June 1995, Mr. Rozon worked in public practice for five years for Deloitte & Touche LLP including one year as an audit manager in the Oil and Gas group in the Calgary, Alberta office. Mr. Rozon holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Saskatchewan.

Shane P. O’Leary, Chief Operating Officer. Mr. O’Leary joined the company as Chief Operating Officer effective March 2, 2009. Mr. O’Leary’s regional experience includes South America, North Africa, the Middle East, the former Soviet Union, and North America. Prior to joining Gran Tierra, Mr. O’Leary was President and Chief Executive Officer of First Calgary Petroleums Ltd., an oil and natural gas company actively engaged in exploration and development activities in Algeria. In this role, he was responsible for all operating and corporate activities involved in a $2 billion development program for the exploitation of a resource base exceeding three trillion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent in the Sahara desert, Algeria. Mr. O'Leary led initiatives to explore strategic options which resulted in the sale of the company to ENI SpA for over $1 billion. From 2002 to 2006, Mr. O’Leary worked for Encana Corporation where his positions included Vice President of Development Planning and Engineering, International New Ventures, as well as Vice President Brazil Business Unit. In these roles Mr. O'Leary was responsible for all engineering and development planning for new discoveries of the International New Ventures Division and later leading the Brazil team involved in appraising an offshore discovery subsequently divested for $360 million.

Mr. O'Leary was also architect of a technology cooperation agreement with Petrobras involving numerous partnerships in offshore acreage in exchange for assistance to Petrobras in applying Canadian Heavy Oil production technology in Brazil. From 1985 to 2002 he worked for the Amoco Production Company/BP Exploration where he occupied numerous senior finance, planning, and business development positions with assignments in Canada, U.S.A., Azerbaijan and Egypt, culminating in his role as Business Development Manager for BP Alaska Gas. Early in his career Mr. O’Leary worked as a Corporate Banking Officer for Bank of Montreal’s Petroleum group in Calgary, a Reservoir Engineer for Dome Petroleum, and as a Senior Field Engineer for Schlumberger Overseas, S.A. in Kuwait. Mr. O’Leary earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario and his Masters in Business Administration from the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario. He is a member of the Canadian National Committee of the World Petroleum Council and The Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists, and Geophysicists of Alberta (P. Eng).

David Hardy, General Counsel, Vice President Legal and Secretary. Mr. Hardy joined Gran Tierra as General Counsel, Vice President Legal and Secretary on March 1, 2010. He has more than 20 years’ experience in the legal profession. Before joining Gran Tierra, he worked for Encana Corporation from 2000 through 2009 where he held various positions, including: Vice President Divisional Legal Services, Integrated Oil and Canadian Plains Divisions; Vice President Regulatory Services, Corporate Relations Division; and Associate General Counsel, Offshore and International Division. For four of his eight years in the Offshore and International Division of Encana, Mr. Hardy led the Legal and Commercial Negotiations Group, where he was responsible for providing strategic legal, commercial and negotiation advice and support to the offshore and international business units. This included dealing with new venture activities and operational, joint venture and host government issues relating to projects in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, Chad, Libya, Oman, Qatar and Yemen. Prior to joining Encana, Mr. Hardy spent over 10 years in private practice and was a partner in a law firm in Calgary, Alberta. He holds a Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Calgary (converted from an LL.B Degree in 2011) and is a member of the Law Society of Alberta and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators.

Rafael Orunesu, President and General Manager Gran Tierra Argentina. Mr. Orunesu joined Gran Tierra in March 2005. He brings a mix of operations management, project evaluation, production geology, reservoir and production engineering skills to Gran Tierra, with a South American focus. Prior to joining Gran Tierra he was Engineering Manager for Pluspetrol Peru, from 1997 through 2004, responsible for planning and development operations in the Peruvian North jungle. He participated in numerous evaluation and asset purchase and sale transactions covering Latin America and North Africa, discovering 200 MMbbl of oil over a five-year period. Mr. Orunesu was previously with Pluspetrol Argentina from 1990 to 1996 where he managed the technical/economic evaluation of several oil fields. He began his career with YPF, initially as a geologist in the Austral Basin of Argentina and eventually as Chief of Exploitation Geology and Engineering for the Catriel Field in the Neuquén Basin, where he was responsible for drilling programs, workovers and secondary recovery projects.

Mr. Orunesu has a postgraduate degree in Reservoir Engineering and Exploitation Geology from Universidad Nacional de Buenos Aires and a degree in Geology from Universidad Nacional de la Plata, Argentina.

Duncan Nightingale, President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Colombia. Mr. Nightingale joined Gran Tierra in September 2009, where he served in our Calgary, Canada office as our Vice President of Exploration from September 2009 to January 2011. He served in our Bogotá, Colombia office as our Senior Manager Project Planning and Exploration from January 2011 until August 2011, and was promoted to President of Gran Tierra Energy Colombia in August 2011. Prior to joining Gran Tierra, Mr. Nightingale was Senior Vice President, Exploration & Production, at Artumas Group Inc., a Canadian oil and gas company focusing on exploration and development of hydrocarbon reserves in Tanzania and Mozambique, where he was responsible for Artumas Group’s exploration and production operations in Mozambique and Tanzania and management of its gas processing plant and power generation facility in Tanzania. Prior to Artumas Group, Mr. Nightingale was General Manager, Exploration & Production, with Dana Gas PJSC, a leading private sector natural gas company in the Middle East, where Mr. Nightingale was responsible for all of Dana Gas’s exploration and production operations, and was responsible for a multi-million dollar exploration and development program in Kurdistan. Prior to Dana Gas, Mr. Nightingale was with Encana Corporation’s International Division from May 2002 until March 2007. From June 2002 until September 2003, he was the Country Manager in Qatar, responsible for managing Encana’s activities in Qatar, including the execution of exploration programs and new venture activity. From October 2003 until June 2006, he had similar responsibilities in the Sultanate of Oman, where he served as Encana’s Country Manager. Mr. Nightingale has a total of 30 years of corporate head office and resident in-country international operating experience, spanning all aspects of managing exploration programs, development and production operations, new business ventures, portfolio management and strategic planning. Mr. Nightingale graduated from the University of Nottingham in the U.K. with a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Geology.

Julio Cesar Moreira, President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Brasil. Mr. Moreira joined our company as President, Gran Tierra Brazil in September 2009. Mr. Moreira has over 25 years of experience working for international companies in Brazil and USA in senior business development and management positions. Most recently, he was Managing Director for IBV Brasil Petroleo Ltda from September 2008 to August 2009 where he managed a portfolio of assets including 10 Exploration Deep Water Blocks located in Sergipe-Alagoas, Espirito Santo, Potiguar and Campos Basins, all in Brazil, and Brazil Country Manager for Encana Corporation from December 2001 to September 2008, where he was instrumental in capturing assets which were later sold for a combined value of over $500 million. Before Encana Corporation, Mr. Moreira was Brazil New Ventures & Business Development Vice President for Unocal Corporation where he successfully completed a $180 million corporate transaction to acquire a Natural Gas / Condensate field in Northeast Brazil and captured Deep Water Exploration assets offshore Brazil. Mr. Moreira holds an Information Technology degree from Universidade Federal Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro, and a post-graduate degree in Marketing from Rio Catholic University. In addition, he attended the Executive MBA Program at UFRJ/Coppead (Brazil), the Executive Management programs in Oil and Gas at Thunderbird (USA) and the Ivey Executive Program at the University of Western Ontario (Canada).

Carlos Monges, President and General Manager Gran Tierra Energy Peru. Mr. Monges has over 30 years of experience in the oil industry. He joined our company upon its acquisition of Petrolifera Petroleum Limited ("Petrolifera") in March 2011. He was Petrolifera’s country manager in Peru since 2005, with responsibility for management and exploratory operations in three onshore blocks. He was the senior geologist on the team that performed for PeruPetro S.A. ("PeruPetro") a geological and geophysical assessment of Peru’s hydrocarbon basins which was sponsored by the Canadian and Peruvian governments. Prior to that, Mr. Monges was the Operations Manager for Energy Development, Anadarko Petroleum and then BPZ Energy with respect to various offshore and onshore blocks in Peru. He began his career in the industry working as a field development geologist and a well-site and production geologist in Talara Basin for Petróleos del Perú S.A. and Occidental Petroleum and also worked as a mud engineer in drilling operations in Venezuela and Argentina. Mr. Monges received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Geological Engineering from Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima in 1978, performed studies on exploration techniques at Robertson Research Center in United Kingdom in 1990, and completed certificate studies on oil industry management at the IHRDC program in Boston, USA in 1997. He is a current member and past director of the Peruvian Geological Society.

PART II

Item 5. Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Shares of our Common Stock trade on the NYSE MKT, and on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") under the symbol “GTE”. In addition, the exchangeable shares in one of our subsidiaries, Gran Tierra Exchangeco, are listed on the TSX and are trading under the symbol “GTX”.

As of February 20, 2013, there were approximately: 38 holders of record of shares of our Common Stock and 268,621,445 shares outstanding with $0.001 par value; and one share of Special A Voting Stock, $0.001 par value representing approximately six holders of record of 6,223,810 exchangeable shares which may be exchanged on a 1-for-1 basis into shares of our Common Stock; and one share of Special B Voting Stock, $0.001 par value, representing nine holders of record of 7,058,678 shares of Gran Tierra Exchangeco Inc., which are exchangeable on a 1-for-1 basis into shares of our Common Stock.

For the quarters indicated from January 1, 2011, through the end of the fourth quarter of 2012, the following table shows the high and low closing sale prices per share of our Common Stock as reported on the NYSE MKT.



	High		Low
Fourth Quarter 2012	$	5.93	$	4.87
Third Quarter 2012	$	5.51	$	4.17
Second Quarter 2012	$	6.64	$	4.44
First Quarter 2012	$	6.29	$	4.73
Fourth Quarter 2011	$	6.47	$	4.42
Third Quarter 2011	$	7.20	$	4.68
Second Quarter 2011	$	8.17	$	6.10
First Quarter 2011	$	9.54	$	7.75

Dividend Policy

We have never declared or paid dividends on the shares of Common Stock and we intend to retain future earnings, if any, to support the development of the business and therefore do not anticipate paying cash dividends for the foreseeable future. Payment of future dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors after taking into account various factors, including current financial condition, operating results and current and anticipated cash needs. Under the terms of our credit facility we cannot pay any dividends to our shareholders if we are in default under the facility, and if we are not in default then are required to obtain bank approval for any dividend payments made by us exceeding $2 million in any fiscal year.

Performance Graph

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

(Thousands of U.S. Dollars, Except Share and Per Share Amounts)



Statement of Operations Data
	Year Ended December 31, 2012			Year Ended December 31, 2011			Year Ended December 31, 2010			Year Ended December 31, 2009			Year Ended December 31, 2008
Oil and natural gas sales	$	583,109		$	596,191		$	373,286		$	262,629		$	112,805
Interest income	2,078			1,216			1,174			1,087			1,224
	585,187			597,407			374,460			263,716			114,029

Operating expenses	124,903			86,497			59,446			40,784			19,218
DD&A expenses	182,037			231,235			163,573			135,863			25,737
G&A expenses	58,882			60,389			40,241			28,787			18,593
Other gain	(9,336		)	—			—			—			—
Equity tax	—			8,271			—			—			—
Financial instruments gain (loss)	—			(1,522		)	(44		)	190			(193		)
Gain on acquisition	—			(21,699		)	—			—			—
Foreign exchange loss (gain)	31,338			(11		)	16,838			19,797			6,235
	387,824			363,160			280,054			225,421			69,590

Income before income taxes	197,363			234,247			94,406			38,295			44,439
Income tax expense	(97,704		)	(107,330		)	(57,234		)	(24,354		)	(20,944		)
Net income	$	99,659		$	126,917		$	37,172		$	13,941		$	23,495

Net income per common share - basic	$	0.35		$	0.46		$	0.15		$	0.06		$	0.19
Net income per common share - diluted	$	0.35		$	0.45		$	0.14		$	0.05		$	0.16

Balance Sheet Data
	As at December 31, 2012			As at December 31, 2011			As at December 31, 2010			As at December 31, 2009			As at December 31, 2008
Cash and cash equivalents	$	212,624		$	351,685		$	355,428		$	270,786		$	176,754
Working capital (including cash)	222,468			213,100			265,835			215,161			132,807
Oil and gas properties	1,196,661			1,036,850			721,157			709,568			765,050
Deferred tax asset - long term	1,401			4,747			—			7,218			10,131
Total assets	1,732,875			1,626,780			1,249,254			1,143,808			1,072,625
Deferred tax liability - long term	225,195			186,799			204,570			216,625			213,093
Total long-term liabilities	250,059			207,633			210,075			221,786			218,461
Shareholders’ equity	$	1,291,431		$	1,174,318		$	886,866		$	816,426		$	791,926

In November 2008, we acquired Solana Resources Limited (“Solana”) for $671.8 million through the issuance to Solana stockholders of either shares of our Common Stock or shares of common stock of a subsidiary of Gran Tierra. On March 18, 2011, we completed the acquisition of all the issued and outstanding common shares and warrants of Petrolifera Petroleum Limited (“Petrolifera”) pursuant to the terms and conditions of an arrangement agreement dated January 17, 2011. Petrolifera is a Calgary-based oil, natural gas and NGL exploration, development and production company active in Argentina, Colombia

and Peru. See “Business Combination” in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for further details.

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

This report, and in particular this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Please see the cautionary language at the very beginning of this Annual Report on Form 10-K regarding the identification of and risks relating to forward-looking statements, as well as Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" as set out in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Overview

We are an independent international energy company incorporated in the United States and engaged in oil and natural gas acquisition, exploration, development and production. Our operations are carried out in South America in Colombia, Argentina, Peru, and Brazil, and we are headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. For the year ended December 31, 2012, 84% (year ended December 31, 2011 - 91%; year ended December 31, 2010 - 96%) of our revenue and other income was generated in Colombia.

As of December 31, 2012, we had estimated proved reserves NAR of 40.6 MMBOE, comprising 95% oil and 5% natural gas, of which 72% were proved developed reserves. Our primary source of liquidity is cash generated from our operations.

The price of oil is a critical factor to our business and the price of oil has historically been volatile. Future volatility could be detrimental to our financial performance. During 2012, the average price realized for our oil was $97.31 per barrel (2011 - $96.60; 2010 - $71.19).

Business Strategy

Highlights



	Year Ended December 31,
	2012		% Change		2011		% Change	2010
Estimated Proved Oil and Gas Reserves, NAR, at December 31 (MMBOE)(1)	40.6		19		34.0		43	23.8

Production (BOEPD) (1)	16,897		(3	)	17,408		20	14,448

Prices Realized - per BOE	$	94.29	—		$	93.83	33	$	70.79

Revenue and Other Income ($000s)	$	585,187	(2	)	$	597,407	60	$	374,460