form10-q.htm


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q


þ
Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended January 26, 2008
   
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 1-9065


ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

New York
 
16-0971022
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
     
368 Pleasant View Drive
   
Lancaster, New York
 
14086
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)


(716)  684-8060
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)


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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2). (Check one):

Large accelerated filer   o
Accelerated filer   o
Non-accelerated filer  þ

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

At March 1, 2008, 2,597,917 shares of Registrant's Class A Common Stock (par value $.01) and 1,667,426 shares of Class B Common Stock (par value $.01) were outstanding.


 
PART 1
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Financial Statements
 
 
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
Unaudited
 
             
             
   
January 26,
   
July 31,
 
Assets
 
2008
   
2007
 
             
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 13,892,856     $ 15,724,139  
Investment securities available for sale
    200,035       101,009  
Contract receivables, net            
    34,131,949       36,742,288  
Deferred income taxes
    5,367,794       5,196,728  
Income tax receivable
    1,357,213       1,357,213  
Other current assets
    1,917,489       1,516,972  
                 
Total current assets
    56,867,336       60,638,349  
                 
Property, building and equipment, net
    7,536,397       7,725,535  
Deferred income taxes
    2,521,574       1,404,232  
Other assets
    1,693,950       1,438,329  
                 
Total assets
  $ 68,619,257     $ 71,206,445  
                 
                 
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
               
                 
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 6,431,886     $ 10,178,873  
Accrued payroll costs
    5,463,452       6,191,434  
Income taxes payable
    1,602,657       664,085  
Deferred revenue
    80,430       90,791  
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
    322,693       333,229  
Other accrued liabilities
    7,796,067       8,866,707  
                 
Total current liabilities
    21,697,185       26,325,119  
                 
Income Taxes Payable
    2,502,108       -  
Accrued interest and penalties
    1,701,430       -  
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
    536,348       385,270  
Minority interest
    3,745,595       3,582,968  
Commitments and contingencies (see note #10)
    -       -  
                 
Shareholders' equity:
               
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share;
               
authorized - 2,000,000 shares; no shares
               
issued
    -       -  
Class A common stock, par value $.01 per
               
share; authorized - 6,000,000 shares;
               
issued - 2,661,498 and 2,661,498 shares
    26,615       26,615  
Class B common stock, par value $.01 per
               
share; authorized - 10,000,000 shares;
               
issued - 1,732,227 and 1,732,227 shares
    17,323       17,323  
Capital in excess of par value
    19,839,490       20,051,446  
Retained earnings
    19,227,011       22,211,098  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    606,475       299,102  
Treasury stock - Class A common, 62,926 and 104,020
               
shares; Class B common, 64,801 and 64,801 shares, at cost
    (1,280,323 )     (1,692,496 )
                 
Total shareholders' equity
    38,436,591       40,913,088  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
  $ 68,619,257     $ 71,206,445  
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
               

 


 

 
Consolidated Statement of Income
 
Unaudited
 
                         
   
Three months ended
   
Six months ended
 
   
January 26,
   
January 27,
   
January 26,
   
January 27,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Revenue
  $ 24,141,853     $ 24,131,179     $ 49,848,419     $ 48,324,846  
                                 
Cost of professional services and
                               
other direct operating expenses
    9,283,460       9,109,744       20,085,177       18,742,959  
Subcontract costs
    3,739,337       4,348,066       6,384,008       7,632,648  
                                 
Gross profit
    11,119,056       10,673,369       23,379,234       21,949,239  
Administrative and indirect operating
                               
expenses
    7,358,000       6,513,150       14,788,290       13,244,540  
Marketing and related costs
    2,742,199       2,425,491       5,705,412       4,904,050  
Depreciation
    370,177       332,444       726,519       646,381  
                                 
Income from operations
    648,680       1,402,284       2,159,013       3,154,268  
Interest expense
    (110,120 )     (12,095 )     (231,301 )     (67,255 )
Interest income
    124,857       118,272       266,681       246,245  
Other expense
    (12,686 )     (51,726 )     (32,943 )     (68,180 )
Net foreign currency exchange gain
      1,086       29,372             342       27,019  
                                 
Income from continuing operations before income
                               
taxes and minority interest
    651,817       1,486,107       2,161,792       3,292,097  
Income tax provision
    176,030       502,372       584,244       996,285  
                                 
Net income from continuing operations
                               
before minority interest
    475,787       983,735       1,577,548       2,295,812  
Minority interest
    (345,232 )     (365,124 )     (946,419 )     (921,674 )
                                 
Net income from continuing operations
    130,555       618,611       631,129       1,374,138  
Gain from discontinued operations
    -       1,040,586       -       985,797  
Income tax expense on gain from discontinued operations
    -       (437,186 )     -       (417,243 )
                                 
Net income
  $ 130,555     $ 1,222,011     $ 631,129     $ 1,942,692  
                                 
Net income per common share: basic
                               
Continuing operations
  $ 0.03     $ 0.15     $ 0.15     $ 0.33  
Discontinued operations
    -       0.14       -       0.13  
Net income per common share: basic
  $ 0.03     $ 0.29     $ 0.15     $ 0.46  
                                 
Net income per common share: diluted
                               
Continuing operations
  $ 0.03     $ 0.15     $ 0.15     $ 0.32  
Discontinued operations
    -       0.14       -       0.13  
Net income per common share: diluted
  $ 0.03     $ 0.29     $ 0.15     $ 0.45  
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding: basic
    4,164,570       4,216,466       4,164,570       4,217,672  
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding: diluted
    4,201,362       4,256,365       4,221,298       4,256,974  
                                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
                               

 
 


 
Ecology and Environment, Inc
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
 
Unaudited
 
             
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
January 26,
   
January 27,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income
  $ 631,129     $ 1,942,692  
Net income from discontinued operations, net of tax
    -       568,554  
Income from continuing operations
    631,129       1,374,138  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
               
provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
Depreciation
    726,519       646,381  
    Deferred income taxes                                                 (241,563 )     1,584,573  
Share-based compensation expense
    169,812       65,920  
Gain on disposition of property and equipment
    (19 )     (1,039 )
Minority interest
    946,419       921,674  
Provision (benefit) for contract adjustments
    (53,838 )     334,205  
(Increase) decrease in:
               
- contracts receivable, net
    2,664,177       2,431,430  
- other current assets
    (400,517 )     (718,516 )
- income tax receivable
    -       (575,192 )
- other non-current assets
    36,860       151,701  
Increase (decrease) in:
               
- accounts payable
    (3,746,987 )     (1,711,699 )
- accrued payroll costs
    (727,982 )     (1,927,745 )
- income taxes payable
    972,029       (1,502,892 )
- deferred revenue
    (10,361 )     (6,372 )
- other accrued liabilities
    (1,070,640 )     (872,123 )
           - accrued interest and penalties
    253,475       -  
                 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    148,513       194,444  
                 
Cash flows used in investing activities:
               
Purchase of property, building and equipment
    (537,362 )     (580,594 )
Payment for the purchase of bond
    (95,614 )     (1,695 )
                 
Net cash used in investing activities
    (632,976 )     (582,289 )
                 
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:
               
Dividends paid
    (769,371 )     (740,592 )
Proceeds from debt
    15,502       109,517  
Repayment of debt and capital lease obligations
    (224,991 )     (269,353 )
Distributions to minority partners
    (570,593 )     (424,940 )
Purchase of treasury stock
    -       (49,465 )
                 
Net cash used in financing activities
    (1,549,453 )     (1,374,833 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
    202,633       62,577  
                 
Discontinued Operations
               
     Net cash used in discontinued operating activities
    -       (237,439 )
     Net cash provided by discontinued investing activities - sale of assets
    -       2,500,000  
                 
Net cash used in discontinued operations
    -       2,262,561  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (1,831,283 )     562,460  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    15,724,139       13,094,499  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 13,892,856     $ 13,656,959  
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
               
                 

 

 

 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Equity
 
Unaudited
 
                                                             
                                                             
                     
Accumulated
                   
   
Common Stock
   
Capital in
         
Other
                   
   
Class A
   
Class B
   
Excess of
   
Retained
   
Comprehensive
   
Treasury Stock
   
Comprehensive
 
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Par Value
   
earnings
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Income
 
                                                             
Balance at July 31, 2006
    2,534,566     $ 25,346       1,650,173     $ 16,502     $ 17,684,373     $ 23,163,716     $ (2,208,830 )     128,463     $ (1,053,648 )   $ 2,609,808  
                                                                                 
    Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       3,074,471       -       -       -       3,074,471  
    Reclassification adjustment for realized foreign
    currency translation loss in net income
    -       -       -       -       -       -       2,110,431       -       -       2,110,431  
    Foreign currency translation reserve
    -       -       -       -       -       -       397,476       -       -       397,476  
    Cash dividends paid ($.34 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       (1,464,921 )     -       -       -       -  
    5% Stock Dividend
    126,522.00       1,265       82,464.00       825       2,560,078       (2,562,168 )     -       8,040       -       -  
    Unrealized investment gain, net
    -       -       -       -       -       -       25       -       -       25  
    Conversion of common stock - B to A
    410       4       (410 )     (4 )     -       -       -       -       -       -  
    Repurchase of Class A common stock
    -       -       -       -       -       -       -       86,806       (1,085,901 )     -  
    Issuance of stock under stock award plan
    -       -       -       -       (325,985 )     -       -       (57,620 )     472,484       -  
    Share-based compensation expense
    -       -       -       -       121,396       -       -       -       -       -  
    Tax impact of share based compensation
    -       -       -       -       5,860       -       -       -       -       -  
    Other
    -       -       -       -       5,724       -       -       3,132       (25,431 )     -  
                                                                                 
Balance at July 31, 2007
    2,661,498       26,615       1,732,227       17,323       20,051,446       22,211,098       299,102       168,821       (1,692,496 )     5,582,403  
    Cumulative effect of adopting FIN 48
    -       -       -       -       -       (2,845,845 )     -       -       -       -  
                                                                                 
Adjusted Balance at July 31, 2007
    2,661,498     $ 26,615       1,732,227     $ 17,323     $ 20,051,446     $ 19,365,253     $ 299,102       168,821     $ (1,692,496 )   $ 5,582,403  
                                                                                 
    Net income
    -       -       -       -       -       631,129       -       -       -       631,129  
    Foreign currency translation reserve
    -       -       -       -       -       -       305,326       -       -       305,326  
    Cash dividends paid ($.18 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       (769,371 )     -       -       -       -  
    Unrealized investment gain, net
    -       -       -       -       -       -       2,047       -       -       2,047  
    Issuance of stock under stock award plan
    -       -       -       -       (412,173 )     -       -       (41,094 )     412,173       -   
    Share-based compensation expense
    -       -       -       -       169,812       -       -       -       -       -  
    Tax impact of share based compensation
    -       -       -       -       33,457       -       -       -       -       -  
    Other
    -       -       -       -       (3,052 )     -       -       -       -       -  
                                                                                 
Balance at January 26, 2008
    2,661,498     $ 26,615       1,732,227     $ 17,323     $ 19,839,490     $ 19,227,011     $ 606,475       127,727     $ (1,280,323 )   $ 938,502  
                                                                                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
                                                   

 


 
Ecology and Environment, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


Summary of Operations and Basis of Presentation
 
The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by Ecology and Environment, Inc., ("E & E" or the "Company"), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of such information. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Although E & E believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading, certain information and footnote disclosures, including a description of significant accounting policies normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. Therefore, these financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto included in E & E's 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the six months ended January 26, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results for any subsequent period or the entire fiscal year ending July 31, 2008.

1.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 

 
a.
Consolidation

 
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned and majority owned subsidiaries. Also reflected in the financial statements is the 50% ownership in the Chinese operating joint venture, The Tianjin Green Engineering Company. This joint venture is accounted for under the equity method. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

    b.
Use of Estimates

 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

 
c.
Revenue Recognition

 
The majority of the Company's revenue is derived from environmental consulting work, with the balance derived from aquaculture. The consulting revenue is principally derived from the sale of labor hours. The consulting work is performed under a mix of fixed price, cost-type, and time and material contracts. Contracts are required from all customers. Revenue is recognized as follows:

Contract Type
 
Work Type
 
Revenue Recognition Policy
         
Fixed Price
 
Consulting
 
Percentage of completion, approximating the ratio of total costs incurred to date to total estimated costs.
         
Cost-type
 
Consulting
 
Costs as incurred. Fixed fee portion is recognized using percentage of completion determined by the percentage of level of effort (LOE) hours incurred to total LOE hours in the respective contracts.
         
Time and Materials
 
Consulting
 
As incurred at contract rates.
         
Unit Price
 
Aquaculture
 
Upon delivery and payment from customers.

Substantially all of the Company's cost-type work is with federal governmental agencies and, as such, is subject to audits after contract completion. Provisions for adjustments to the revenue accrued under these cost-type contracts are provide for on an annual basis based on past settlement history. Government audits have been completed and final rates have been negotiated through fiscal year 2001. The balance in the allowance for contract adjustments accounts principally represents a reserve for contract adjustments for the fiscal years 1996-2008.
 
We reduce our accounts receivable and costs and accrued earnings in excess of billings on contracts in process by establishing an allowance for amounts that, in the future, may become uncollectible or unrealizable, respectively. We determine our estimated allowance for uncollectible amounts based on management’s judgments regarding our operating performance related to the adequacy of the services performed, the status of change orders and claims, our experience settling change orders and claims and the financial condition of our clients, which may be dependent on the type of client and current economic conditions that the client may be subject to.

Change orders can occur when changes in scope are made after project work has begun, and can be initiated by either the Company or its clients. Claims are amounts in excess of the agreed contract price which the Company seeks to recover from a client for customer delays and / or errors or unapproved change orders that are in dispute. Costs related to change orders and claims are recognized as incurred. Revenues are recognized on change orders (including profit) when it is probable that the change order will be approved and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Revenue on claims is not recognized until the claim is approved by the customer.

All bid and proposal and other pre-contract costs are expensed as incurred. Out of pocket expenses such as travel, meals, field supplies, and other costs billed direct to contracts are included in both revenues and cost of professional services.

    d.
Translation of Foreign Currencies

The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries where the local currency is the functional currency are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at period end for assets and liabilities and average exchange rates during each reporting period for results of operations. Translation adjustments are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income.

The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries located in highly inflationary economies are remeasured as if the functional currency were the U.S. dollar. The remeasurement of local currencies into U.S. dollars creates translation adjustments which are included in net income. There were no highly inflationary economy translation adjustments for fiscal years 2007-2008.

 
e.
Income Taxes

The Company follows the asset and liability approach to account for income taxes.  This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities.  Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the recorded net deferred tax assets will be realized.  Since in some cases management has utilized estimates, the amount of the net deferred tax asset considered realizable could be reduced in the near term.  No provision has been made for United States income taxes applicable to undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries as it is the intention of the Company to indefinitely reinvest those earnings in the operations of those entities.

Income tax expense includes U.S. and international income taxes, determined using an estimate of the Company’s annual effective tax rate.  A deferred tax liability is recognized for all taxable temporary differences, and a deferred tax asset is recognized for all deductible temporary differences and net operating loss carryforwards.

The Company has significant deferred tax assets, resulting principally from contract reserves, fixed assets and domestic net operating loss carryforwards (“NOLs”).  As required by FAS 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” the Company periodically evaluates the likelihood of realization of deferred tax assets, and has determined that no valuation allowance is presently necessary.

In July of 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48 (FIN 48), an interpretation of FAS 109.  FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes and reduces the diversity in current practice associated with the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by defining a “more-likely-than-not” threshold regarding the sustainability of the position.  The Company adopted FIN 48 beginning August 1, 2007.  See Footnote No. 12.

 
 
f.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)

Basic EPS is computed by dividing continuing and discontinued operating income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that would occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Company. See Footnote No. 8.
 
    g.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company accounts for impairment of long-lived assets in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 144 "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." SFAS No. 144 requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the book value of the asset may not be recoverable. The Company assesses recoverability of the carrying value of the asset by estimating the future net cash flows (undiscounted) expected to result from the asset, including eventual disposition. If the future net cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, an impairment loss is recorded equal to the difference between the asset's carrying value and fair value. 
 
    h.
Cash and Cash Equivalents

For purposes of the consolidated statement of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash paid for interest was approximately $85,000 and $67,000 for the first six months of fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively. Cash paid for income taxes was approximately $924,000 and $1.3 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Additionally in the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, Gustavson Associates LLC purchased from minority unit holder, Prospect Resources, their remaining 50 ownership units.  Prospect was paid $466,708 for its units with 25% of the amount paid in cash, and the assumption of a $350,000 three year note with a six percent annualized interest rate. 
 
    i.
Goodwill

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, additional goodwill of $256,000 was recorded as a result of the purchase of additional shares of Gustavson Associates LLC.  The total goodwill of approximately $1.1 million is subject to an annual assessment for impairment.  
 
 
2.
Contract Receivables, net
 
   
January 26,
2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
             
United States government -
           
Billed
 
$
2,866,026
   
$
2,905,030
 
Unbilled
   
2,270,355
     
4,195,989
 
     
5,136,381
     
7,101,019
 
                 
Industrial customers and state and municipal governments -
               
Billed
   
22,415,115
     
24,496,429
 
Unbilled
   
8,267,138
     
6,885,363
 
     
30,682,253
     
31,381,792
 
                 
Less allowance for doubtful accounts and contract adjustments
   
(1,686,685
)
   
(1,740,523
)
                 
   
$
34,131,949
   
$
36,742,288
 

United States government receivables arise from long-term U.S. government prime contracts and subcontracts. Unbilled receivables result from revenues which have been earned, but are not billed as of period-end. The above unbilled balances are comprised of incurred costs plus fees not yet processed and billed; and differences between year-to-date provisional billings and year-to-date actual contract costs incurred and fees earned of approximately $30,000 at January 26, 2008 and $202,000 at July 31, 2007.  Management anticipates that the January 26, 2008 unbilled receivables will be substantially billed and collected within one year.   Within the above billed balances are contractual retainages in the amount of approximately $279,000 at January 26, 2008 and $409,000 at July 31, 2007. Management anticipates that the January 26, 2008 retainage balance will be substantially collected within one year. Included in the balance of receivables for industrial customers and state and municipal customers are receivables, net of subcontract costs, due under the contracts in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait of $6.2 million at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007.

Included in other accrued liabilities is an additional allowance for contract adjustments relating to potential cost disallowances on amounts billed and collected in current and prior years' projects of approximately $4.0 million and $3.9 million at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007, respectively. Also included in other accrued liabilities is a reclassification of billings in excess of recognized revenues of approximately $3.0 million at January 26, 2008 and $4.0 million at July 31, 2007. An allowance for contract adjustments is recorded for contract disputes and government audits when the amounts are estimatable.

3.
Line of Credit

The Company maintains an unsecured line of credit available for working capital and letters of credit of $20 million with a bank at 1/2% below the prevailing prime rate. A second line of credit is available at another bank for up to $13.5 million exclusively for letters of credit and is renewed annually. There were two additional lines of credit established during fiscal year 2007. The Company established one for up to $5.0 million exclusively for letters of credit. An additional line of credit was established at Walsh Environmental for up to $750,000 exclusively for working capital and letters of credit. At January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007, the Company had letters of credit outstanding totaling approximately $1.2 million and $1.3 million, respectively.  After letters of credit, there are no outstanding borrowings under the lines of credit and there is $38.0 million of line still available at January 26, 2008. The Company had no outstanding borrowings for working capital at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007.

The Company is in compliance with all bank loan covenants at January 26, 2008.

4.
Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

Debt inclusive of capital lease obligations at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007 consists of the following:

   
January 26, 2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
             
Various bank loans and advances at interest rates ranging from 5% to 14%
 
$
680,354
   
$
477,466
 
Capital lease obligations at varying interest rates averaging 11%
   
178,687
     
241,033
 
     
859,041
     
718,499
 
                 
Less: current portion of debt and capital lease obligations
   
(322,693
)
   
(333,229
)
                 
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
 
$
536,348
   
$
385,270
 

 
The aggregate maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations at January 26, 2008 are as follows:

   
Amount
 
       
Feb 2008 – Jan 2009
 
$
322,694
 
Feb 2009 – Jan 2010
   
248,836
 
Feb 2010 – Jan 2011
   
174,282
 
Feb 2011 – Jan 2012
   
36,191
 
Feb 2012 – Jan 2013
   
31,704
 
Thereafter
   
45,334
 
   
$
859,041
 
 
5.
Stock Award Plan

Effective March 16, 1998, the Company adopted the Ecology and Environment, Inc. 1998 Stock Award Plan (the "1998 Plan"). To supplement the 1998 Plan, the 2003 Stock Award Plan (the "2003 Plan") was approved by the shareholders at the annual meeting held in January 2004 (the 1998 Plan and the 2003 Plan collectively referred to as the "Award Plan"). The 2003 Plan was approved retroactive to October 16, 2003 and will terminate on October 15, 2008. Under the Award Plan key employees (including officers) of the Company or any of its present or future subsidiaries may be designated to received awards of Class A Common stock of the Company as a bonus for services rendered to the Company or its subsidiaries, without payment therefore, based upon the fair market value of the Company stock at the time of the award. The Award Plan authorizes the Company's board of directors to determine for what period of time and under what circumstances awards can be forfeited.

The Company issued 41,094 shares valued at $495,183 in October 2007 pursuant to the Award Plan. These awards issued have a three year vesting period. The "pool" of excess tax benefits accumulated in Capital in Excess of Par Value at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007 was approximately $122,000 and $88,000, respectively.   Total gross compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period. Unrecognized compensation expense recorded against capital in excess of par value was approximately $674,000 and $349,000 at January 26, 2008 and July 31, 2007, respectively.
 
6.
Shareholders' Equity 

Class A and Class B common stock

The relative rights, preferences and limitations of the Company's Class A and Class B common stock can be summarized as follows: Holders of Class A shares are entitled to elect 25% of the Board of Directors so long as the number of outstanding Class A shares is at least 10% of the combined total number of outstanding Class A and Class B common shares. Holders of Class A common shares have one-tenth the voting power of Class B common shares with respect to most other matters.

In addition, Class A shares are eligible to receive dividends in excess of (and not less than) those paid to holders of Class B shares. Holders of Class B shares have the option to convert at any time, each share of Class B common stock into one share of Class A common stock. Upon sale or transfer, shares of Class B common stock will automatically convert into an equal number of shares of Class A common stock, except that sales or transfers of Class B common stock to an existing holder of Class B common stock or to an immediate family member will not cause such shares to automatically convert into Class A common stock.
 
7.
Shareholders' Equity - Restrictive Agreement

Messrs. Gerhard J. Neumaier, Frank B. Silvestro, Ronald L. Frank and Gerald A. Strobel entered into a Stockholders' Agreement in 1970 which governs the sale of certain shares of common stock owned by them, the former spouse of one of the individuals and some of their children. The agreement provides that prior to accepting a bona fide offer to purchase all or any part of their shares, each party must first allow the other members to the agreement the opportunity to acquire on a pro rata basis, with right of over-allotment, all of such shares covered by the offer on the same terms and conditions proposed by the offer.
 
8.
Earnings Per Share

The computation of basic earnings per share reconciled to diluted earnings per share follows:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
January 26,
2008
   
January 27,
2007
   
January 26,
2008
   
January 27,
2007
 
                         
Income from continuing operations available to
common stockholders
  $ 130,555     $ 618,611     $ 631,129     $ 1,374,138  
Income from discontinued operations available
to common stockholders
    ---       603,400       ---       568,554  
Total income available to common stockholders
    130,555       1,222,011       631,129       1,942,692  
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (basic)
    4,164,570       4,216,466       4,164,570       4,217,672  
Basic earnings per share:
                               
Continuing operations
  $ .03     $ .15     $ .15     $ .33  
Discontinued operations
    ---       .14       ---       .13  
Total basic earnings per share
  $ .03     $ .29     $ .15     $ .46  
Incremental shares from assumed conversions of
stock options and restricted stock awards
    36,792       39,899       56,728       39,302  
Adjusted weighted-average common shares outstanding
    4,201,362       4,256,365       4,221,298       4,256,974  
Diluted earnings per share:
                               
Continuing operations
  $ .03     $ .15     $ .15     $ .32  
Discontinued operations
    ---       .14       ---       .13  
Total diluted earnings per share
  $ .03     $ .29     $ .15     $ .45  

After consideration of all the rights and privileges of the Class A and Class B stockholders discussed in Note 6, in particular the right of the holders of the Class B common stock to elect no less than 75% of the Board of Directors making it highly unlikely that the Company will pay a dividend on Class A common stock in excess of Class B common stock, the Company allocates undistributed earnings between the classes on a one-to-one basis when computing earnings per share. As a result, basic and fully diluted earnings per Class A and Class B share are equal amounts.

9.
Segment Reporting

Ecology and Environment, Inc. has three reportable segments: consulting services, analytical laboratory services, and aquaculture. The consulting services segment provides broad based environmental services encompassing audits and impact assessments, surveys, air and water quality management, environmental engineering, environmental infrastructure planning, and industrial hygiene and occupational health studies to a world wide base of customers. The analytical laboratory provided analytical testing services to industrial and governmental clients for the analysis of waste, soil and sediment samples. The fish farm located in Jordan produces tilapia fish grown in a controlled environment for markets in the Middle East. The analytical laboratory was closed in fiscal year 2005.

The Company evaluates segment performance and allocates resources based on operating profit before interest income/expense and income taxes. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Intercompany sales from the analytical services segment to the consulting segment were recorded at market selling price, intercompany profits are eliminated. The Company's reportable segments are separate and distinct business units that offer different products. Consulting services are sold on the basis of time charges while analytical services and aquaculture products are sold on the basis of product unit prices.
 

Reportable segments for the six months ended January 26, 2008 are as follows:

               
Aquaculture
             
   
Consulting
   
Analytical
   
Continued
   
Discontinued
   
Elimination
   
Total
 
                                     
Total consolidated revenue
 
$
49,796,940
   
$
---
   
$
51,479
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
49,848,419
 
                                                 
Depreciation expense
 
$
726,519
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
726,519
 
Segment profit (loss) before income taxes
    and minority interest
 
$
2,178,877
   
$
---
   
$
(17,085
)
 
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
2,161,792
 
Segment assets
 
$
66,386,257
   
$
2,100,000
   
$
133,000
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
68,619,257
 
Expenditures for long-lived assets
 
$
537,362
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
537,362
 
                                                 
Geographic Information:
                                               
   
Revenue (1)
   
Long-Lived Assets-Gross
                                 
                                                 
United States
 
$
40,347,419
   
$
23,370,055
                                 
Foreign Countries
   
9,501,000
     
2,361,000
                                 

(1)       Revenue is attributed to countries based on the location of the customers.

Reportable segments for the six months ended January 27, 2007 are as follows:

               
Aquaculture
             
   
Consulting
   
Analytical
   
Continued
   
Discontinued
   
Elimination
   
Total
 
                                     
Total consolidated revenue
 
$
48,234,588
   
$
---
   
$
90,258
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
48,324,846
 
                                                 
Depreciation expense
 
$
639,478
   
$
---
   
$
6,903
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
646,381
 
Segment profit (loss) before income taxes
    and minority interest
 
$
3,311,178
   
$
---
   
$
(19,081
)
 
$
985,797
   
$
---
   
$
4,277,894
 
Segment assets
 
$
63,894,870
   
$
2,100,000
   
$
179,000
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
66,173,870
 
Expenditures for long-lived assets
   
580,594
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
---
   
$
580,594
 
                                                 
Geographic Information:
                                               
   
Revenue (1)
   
Long-Lived Assets-Gross
                                 
                                                 
United States
 
$
39,596,846
   
$
22,666,019
                                 
Foreign Countries
   
8,728,000
     
1,899,000
                                 

(1)       Revenue is attributed to countries based on the location of the customers.


10.
Commitments and Contingencies

From time to time, the Company is named defendant in legal actions arising out of the normal course of business. The Company is not a party to any pending legal proceeding the resolution of which the management of the Company believes will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, or to any other pending legal proceedings other than ordinary, routine litigation incidental to its business. The Company maintains liability insurance against risks arising out of the normal course of business.

Certain contracts contain termination provisions under which the customer may, without penalty, terminate the contracts upon written notice to the Company. In the event of termination, the Company would be paid only termination costs in accordance with the particular contract. Generally, termination costs include unpaid costs incurred to date, earned fees and any additional costs directly allocable to the termination.

The Company is involved in other litigation arising in the normal course of business.  In the opinion of management, any adverse outcome to other litigation arising in the normal course of business would not have a material impact on the financial results of the Company. 

11.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157, “Fair Value Measurement” (FAS 157), which established a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosure about fair value measurements.  FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued with fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007.  The Company is assessing the impact that the adoption of FAS 157 may have on its financial statements.
 
In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (FAS 159). The fair value option established by FAS 159 permits entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. FAS 159 is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007.  The Company is assessing the impact that the adoption of FAS 159 may have on its financial statements.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements - An amendment of ARB No. 51."  This statement amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary, which is sometimes referred to as minority interest, is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements.  Among other requirements, this statement requires consolidated net income to be reported at amounts that include the amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. It also requires disclosure, on the face of the consolidated income statement, of the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest.  This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008 (that is, for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2010 for the Company). Earlier adoption is prohibited. The Company is currently assessing the effect SFAS No. 160 will have on its financial statements.

12.
Adoption of Accounting Principles – Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, the Company adopted the FASB Interpretation No. 48 “Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48).  FIN 48 applies to all tax positions and clarifies the recognition of tax benefits in the financial statements by providing a two-step approach to recognition and measurement.  The first step involves assessing whether the tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits.  The second step involves measurement of the amount to recognize.  Tax positions that meet the more likely than not threshold are measured at the largest amount of tax benefit greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate finalization with tax authorities.

The Company recorded a decrease to retained earnings as of August 1, 2007 of $2,845,845 as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the adoption of FIN 48 with corresponding increases to the liability for uncertain tax positions of $2,744,396, the non-current deferred tax asset of $1,116,079, and the liability for interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions of $1,205,667. The Company also decreased the current deferred tax assets of $67,869 and minority interest liability of $56,008.  At August 1, 2007, E & E had approximately $2,523,443 of gross unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in future periods.  At January 26, 2008, the liability for uncertain tax positions and associated interest and penalties are classified as noncurrent liabilities.

During the three and six months ended January 26, 2008, the Company did not recognize an additional liability with respect to the reassessment of uncertain tax positions.  However, the Company reclassified $242,000 that was originally classified in error as income taxes payable to accrued interest and penalties.  For the three months ended January 26, 2008, the Company recorded an additional liability for interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions of $146,000.  
 
The Company’s majority owned subsidiary, the Consortium of International Contracts LLC (CIC) entered into three Environmental Services Agreements (ESA’s) with a public authority of the State of Kuwait which were funded by the United Nations Compensation Commission (UNCC).  CIC’s work connected with the ESA’s began in fiscal 2002 and extended into fiscal year 2007.  The ESA’s between the client, the Public Authority for Assessment of Compensation for Damages Resulting from Iraqi Aggression (PAAC), and CIC were signed in January of 2002.  These ESAs contemplated the receipt of a tax exemption order from Kuwait’s Ministry of Finance declaring that the income generated by CIC, and in turn the Company, to the extent that the Company performed work for CIC under the ESA’s would be exempt from Kuwait income tax.  The ESAs also provide that CIC would be entitled to be reimbursed by PAAC for Kuwait income tax costs, if any, as finally determined.  CIC was given written notice in May 2002 by PAAC that the tax exemption order contemplated in the ESAs had officially been granted by the Ministry of Finance and that CIC would not be required to obtain a tax clearance certificate.  In fiscal year 2007, CIC received notification from PAAC that it should file Kuwait income tax returns, notwithstanding the earlier May 2002 notification letter to the contrary, with the Ministry of Finance in order to facilitate the closure and final payments under the ESAs.  Upon notification from PAAC in fiscal year 2007, the Company evaluated their position under the related guidance of FAS 5 “Accounting for Contingencies” and concluded a reasonable estimate could not be identified.  While the Company evaluated the likelihood of the probability of success of its tax exempt status, a reasonable estimate of the tax liability of the contracts could not be made due to the subjective nature of the Kuwait tax system on foreign companies.  In addition, the Company considered, and still maintains that any additional tax liability would be offset by an obligation for reimbursement from its client PAAC for any income taxes, penalties and interest.

Under the new guidance for uncertain tax positions, the Company does not believe that the tax exempt order claimed by PAAC to have been received, will meet the more likely than not threshold to obtain benefit, and has therefore accrued a cumulative impact of adoption related to the Kuwait income taxes.  The Company has continued its assertion of a contractual obligation for reimbursement from PAAC should any tax liability be agreed to with the Kuwait Ministry of Finance, however the assessment of this reimbursement is not permitted under FIN 48.  E & E’s management believes that, given the ESA’s provisions, providing for reimbursement of any Kuwait income taxes, this liability recorded for estimated income taxes in Kuwait, may lead to volatility in the Company’s future reported earnings when the Company’s actual exposure is settled.

The Company files numerous consolidated and separate income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in many state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years through fiscal 2006. The Company’s tax matters for the fiscal years 2007 and 2008 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company’s New York State tax matters have been concluded for years through fiscal 2005. The Company’s tax matters in other material jurisdictions remain subject to examination by the respective state, local, and foreign tax jurisdiction authorities. No waivers have been executed that would extend the period subject to examination beyond the period prescribed by statute.

The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in administrative and indirect operating expenses.  For the three and six months ended January 26, 2008, E & E incurred interest and penalties of approximately $146,000 and $253,000, respectively.

It is reasonably possible that the liability associated with our unrecognized tax benefits will increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes will most likely be the result of the Kuwait tax matter described above. At this time, an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible outcomes cannot be made.

The estimated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2008 is 28.8%, up from the 2.3% reported for fiscal year 2007.  This is due mainly to tax benefits recognized on the write-off of the investment in Venezuela and a reduction in the Company’s estimated tax liabilities as a result of the completion of audits in fiscal year 2007.


13.
Other Accrued Liabilities

   
January 26,
2008
   
July 31,
2007
 
             
Allowance for contract adjustments
 
$
3,970,662
   
$
3,925,525
 
Billings in excess of revenue
   
3,047,435
     
3,995,645
 
Other
   
777,970
     
945,537
 
                 
   
$
7,796,067
   
$
8,866,707
 
 

 
Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources

Operating activities provided $149,000 of cash during the first six months of fiscal year 2008.  Accounts payable decreased $3.7 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008 attributable to the payment of outstanding payables due to the strong cash position of the Company and a decrease in subcontract costs within the parent company.  Accrued payroll costs decreased $728,000 during fiscal year 2008 mainly due to the payment of corporate bonuses to eligible employees and the timing of the issuance of paychecks to parent company employees.  Other accrued liabilities decreased $1.2 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008 mainly due to a decrease in billings in excess over revenue.  Offsetting these were sources of cash from contracts receivables, income taxes payable and minority interest.  Contracts receivable decreased $2.7 million and income taxes payable increased $1.0 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008.  The Company purchased $537,000 of new capital equipment compared to depreciation charges of $727,000 during the first six months of fiscal year 2008.

Financing activities consumed $1.5 million of cash during the first six months of fiscal year 2008.  The Company paid dividends in the amount of $769,000 or $.18 per share and $571,000 in distributions to minority partners during the first six month of fiscal year 2008. Long-term debt and capital lease obligations decreased $209,000 mainly due to repayment of loans and capital leases held by the Walsh Environmental subsidiary, Walsh Peru.

The Company maintains an unsecured line of credit of $20.0 million with a bank at ½% below the prevailing prime rate.  A second line of credit is available at another bank for up to $13.5 million, exclusively for letters of credit.  There were two additional lines of credit established during fiscal year 2007, The Company established one for up to $5.0 million exclusively for letters of credit. Another line of credit was established at Walsh Environmental for up to $750,000 exclusively for working capital and letters of credit.  The Company has outstanding letters of credit (LOC’s) at January 26, 2008 in the amount of $1.2 million.  These LOC’s were obtained to secure advance payments and performance guarantees, primarily for contracts in the Middle East.  After LOC’s, there are no outstanding borrowings under the lines of credit and there is $38.0 million of line still available at January 26, 2008.  There are no significant additional working capital requirements pending at January 26, 2008.  The Company believes that cash flows from operations and borrowings against the line of credit will be sufficient to cover all working capital requirements for at least the next twelve months and the foreseeable future.

Results of Operations

Revenue

Fiscal Year 2008 vs 2007

Revenues for the second quarter of fiscal year 2008 were consistent with the revenues reported for the prior year.  Revenues from the Company’s majority owned subsidiary Walsh Environmental were $6.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, an increase of $1.0 million from the $5.5 million reported in the second quarter of fiscal year 2007.  The increase in Walsh Environmental revenues was mainly attributable to increased activity in the environmental remediation and asbestos markets.  Revenues from state clients of the parent company were $6.2 million, up $800,000 from the $5.4 million reported in the prior year.  The increase in state revenue was mainly attributable to an increase in work levels on contracts in Florida and Washington.  Offsetting these increases were decreases in work at the parent company in the commercial and federal government sectors.  Revenue from commercial clients of the parent company was $3.6 million during the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, a decrease $1.0 million from the $4.6 million reported in the prior year.  Revenue from federal government clients was $3.9 million during the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, a decrease $700,000 from the $4.6 million reported in the prior year.  The decrease in federal government revenue was mainly due to decreased activity on United States Department of Defense contracts.

Revenue for the six months of fiscal year 2008 was $49.8 million, an increase of $1.5 million from the $48.3 million reported in the first six months of the prior year.  The increase was mainly attributable to increases in work performed by state clients at the parent company and by EEI’s majority owned subsidiaries Walsh Environmental and E&E do Brasil.  Revenues from state clients of the parent company were $12.7 million, up $2.1 million from the $10.6 million reported in the prior year.  The increase in state revenue was mainly attributable to an increase in work levels on contracts in New York and Washington.  Revenues from Walsh Environmental were $13.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2008, an increase of 19% from the $11.1 million reported in the first six months of fiscal year 2007.  The increase in Walsh Environmental revenues was mainly attributable to increased activity in the environmental remediation and asbestos markets.  Revenues from E&E do Brasil were $3.2 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2008, an increase of $1.1 million or 52% over the prior year due mainly to increased work in the public and private power industries.  Offsetting these increases for the first six months of fiscal year 2008 were reduced revenues in the parent company from work performed on contracts with various commercial and federal government clients.  Revenue from commercial clients of the parent company were $7.8 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008, a decrease $2.2 million from the $10.0 million reported in the prior year.  Revenue from federal government clients of the parent company were $7.5 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008, a decrease $1.1 million from the $8.6 million reported in the first six month of fiscal year 2007.

Fiscal Year 2007 vs 2006

The Company had a solid second quarter of fiscal year 2007 as it reported net revenues of $24.1 million, consistent with the $24.0 million reported in the second quarter of fiscal year 2006.  Revenues were held steady despite the strong comparables in the prior year which included $4.1 million of hurricane work in the Gulf Coast, $.9 million of work on the Region 9 START contract which ended in fiscal year 2006 and $.8 million of work on the Company’s contract in Kuwait as it neared completion.  Although the relief efforts on hurricane Katrina and Rita are complete, the Company continues to work in the Gulf Coast Region on projects to restore the wetlands that were damaged by the hurricanes.  Walsh Environmental reported revenues of $5.5 million during the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, up 34% from the $4.1 million reported in the prior year as a result of higher revenues from its energy, mining and transportation sectors.  During the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, revenues from state clients increased $616,000 from the $4.8 million reported during the second quarter of the prior year.  The increase in state revenues was mainly attributable to increased work levels on contracts in New York and Illinois.

The Company reported revenue of $48.3 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2007, an increase of $700,000 from the $47.6 million reported in the prior year.  Work performed on the contracts associated with the relief efforts of hurricanes Katrina and Rita decreased $5.0 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2007.  Work performed on the Company’s contracts in Kuwait decreased $1.5 or 68% from the prior year.  At the end of the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, the contracts in Kuwait are substantially complete.  An additional decrease of $1.1 million in fiscal year 2007 is attributable to the completion of the Region 9 START contract in fiscal year 2006.  Offsetting these decreases, Walsh Environmental reported revenue of $11.1 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2007, up 32% from the $8.4 million reported in the prior year as a result of higher revenues from its energy, mining and transportation sectors.  E&E do Brasil reported revenue of $2.1 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2007, up 62% from the $1.3 million reported in the prior year due to energy related projects.  The Company reported an increase of $3.0 million in other government work, mainly due to increased activity on United States Department of Defense contracts.


Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Minority Interest

Fiscal Year 2008 vs 2007

The Company’s income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest was $652,000 for the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, down 57% from the $1.5 million reported in the second quarter of fiscal year 2007.  Gross profits increased slightly during the second quarter of fiscal year 2008 as a result of the increased revenue reported at Walsh Environmental and a decrease in corporate wide subcontractor costs.  The increased gross profits were offset by higher indirect costs at the Company’s subsidiaries Walsh Environmental and E&E do Brasil as well as increased staffing levels and business development and proposal costs worldwide within the parent company.  Contract bookings for the first six months of fiscal year 2008 have increased 14% over the prior year.  Staff levels companywide have increased as a result of anticipated manpower needs for the remainder of the fiscal year.  The volume of proposals has increased 51% while the value of the proposals submitted increased 83% to $172 million compared to $94 million in the prior year.  Walsh Environmental reported indirect costs of $2.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2008, an increase of $800,000 from the $1.8 million reported in the prior year.  The increase in indirect costs was attributable to increased staffing levels and increased operational expenses related to their overall business growth.  For the three months ended January 26, 2008, E&E accrued additional interest and penalties of approximately $146,000 ($.03 per share) related to the FIN 48 tax accrual.  The majority of this expense is related to the Kuwait taxes.  In the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, the Company sold its interest in the shrimp farm located in Costa Rica.  After deducting costs of the sale, there was an after tax gain recorded on the sale of the farm of approximately $553,000 or $.13 per share and is included in discontinued operations.  
 
The Company’s income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest was $1.9 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2008, down 39% from the $3.1 million reported in the first six months of fiscal year 2007.  Gross profits increased as a result of the increased revenues reported at Walsh Environmental and E & E do Brasil and a decrease in corporate wide subcontractor costs.  The increased gross profits were offset by higher indirect costs during the first six months of fiscal year 2008.  Consolidated indirect costs increased $2.4 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2008 as a result of an increase in marketing and bid and proposal costs and costs associated with increased staffing levels at Walsh Environmental and E&E do Brasil.  Marketing and bid and proposal costs were $5.7 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2008, an increase of $801,000 from the $4.9 million reported in the prior year.  The Company continues to increase business development costs worldwide to capitalize on the global demands for energy and environmental infrastructure improvements.  These expenditures should result in increased contract bookings and revenues in future periods.  For the six months ended January 26, 2008, E&E accrued additional interest and penalties of approximately $253,000 ($.04 per share) related to the FIN 48 tax accrual. The majority of this FIN 48 obligation is related to the Kuwait taxes.  

Fiscal Year 2007 vs 2006

The Company’s income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest was $1.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, up 15% from the $1.3 million reported in the second quarter of fiscal year 2006.  Gross margins increased in fiscal year 2007 due to higher margin work and increased revenues from the Walsh Environmental subsidiary.  The increase in gross margins was offset by an overall increase in indirect, administrative, marketing and proposal costs throughout the Company.  Administrative and indirect operating expenses were $6.5 million during the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, up from the $6.0 million reported during the prior year.  Marketing and proposal costs were $2.4 million during the fiscal year 2007, an increase of 14% from the $2.1 million reported during the second quarter of fiscal year 2006.  The increase in indirect costs was attributable to increased proposal work brought about by significant opportunities in the energy sector relating to alternative energy and clean technologies.  The Company increased business development costs worldwide to capitalize on global energy opportunities.  Interest income increased $63,000 from the $55,000 reported during the second quarter of fiscal year 2006, consistent with the doubling of the Company’s cash balances.  

On January 9, 2007 the Company sold its interest in the shrimp farm in Costa Rica to the Roozen Group for $2,500,000 in cash. The farm had been written down to a carrying value of $1,500,000 as a result of the shutdown of the operation in July 2003.  After deducting costs of the sale, there was a pretax gain recorded on the sale of the farm of approximately $960,000 which was included in discontinued operations.

The Company’s income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest was $3.3 million for the first six months of fiscal year 2007, up 14 % from the $2.9 million reported in fiscal year 2006.  Gross margins increased during fiscal year 2007 due to higher margin work and increased revenues from the Walsh Environmental subsidiaries and E&E do Brasil.  The increase in gross margins was offset by higher indirect costs incurred by the parent company.  Administrative and indirect operating expenses were $13.3 million during the first six months of fiscal year 2007, up from the $11.9 million reported during the prior year.  Marketing and proposal costs were $4.9 million during fiscal year 2007, up from the $4.5 million reported during the first six months of fiscal year 2006.  The increase in indirect costs was mainly attributable to a decrease in staff utilization for the parent company and increased bid and proposal work brought about by significant opportunities in the energy sector relating to alternative energy and clean technologies.  Interest income was $246,000 for the first six months of fiscal year 2007, up 154% from the $97,000 reported during the prior year.  The increase in interest income is consistent with the increased cash generated by the Company from the completion of major projects and the sale of the shrimp farm.

Income Taxes

During the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, the Company adopted the FASB Interpretation No. 48 “Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48).  FIN 48 applies to all tax positions and clarifies the recognition of tax benefits in the financial statements by providing a two-step approach to recognition and measurement.  The first step involves assessing whether the tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits.  The second step involves measurement of the amount to recognize.  Tax positions that meet the more likely than not threshold are measured at the largest amount of tax benefit greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate finalization with tax authorities.

The Company recorded a decrease to retained earnings as of August 1, 2007 of $2,845,845 as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the adoption of FIN 48 with corresponding increases to the liability for uncertain tax positions of $2,744,396, the non-current deferred tax asset of $1,116,079, and the liability for interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions of $1,205,667. The Company also decreased the current deferred tax assets of $67,869 and minority interest liability of $56,008.  At August 1, 2007, E & E had approximately $2,523,443 of gross unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized, would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in future periods.  At January 26, 2008, the liability for uncertain tax positions and associated interest and penalties are classified as noncurrent liabilities.

During the three and six months ended January 26, 2008, the Company did not recognize an additional liability with respect to the reassessment of uncertain tax positions.  However, the Company reclassified $242,000 that was originally classified in error as income taxes payable to accrued interest and penalties.  For the three months ended January 26, 2008, the Company recorded an additional liability for interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions of $146,000.  
 
The Company’s majority owned subsidiary, the Consortium of International Contracts LLC (CIC) entered into three Environmental Services Agreements (ESA’s) with a public authority of the State of Kuwait which were funded by the United Nations Compensation Commission (UNCC).  CIC’s work connected with the ESA’s began in fiscal 2002 and extended into fiscal year 2007.  The ESA’s between the client, the Public Authority for Assessment of Compensation for Damages Resulting from Iraqi Aggression (PAAC), and CIC were signed in January of 2002.  These ESAs contemplated the receipt of a tax exemption order from Kuwait’s Ministry of Finance declaring that the income generated by CIC, and in turn the Company, to the extent that the Company performed work for CIC under the ESA’s would be exempt from Kuwait income tax.  The ESAs also provide that CIC would be entitled to be reimbursed by PAAC for Kuwait income tax costs, if any, as finally determined.  CIC was given written notice in May 2002 by PAAC that the tax exemption order contemplated in the ESAs had officially been granted by the Ministry of Finance and that CIC would not be required to obtain a tax clearance certificate.  In fiscal year 2007, CIC received notification from PAAC that it should file Kuwait income tax returns, notwithstanding the earlier May 2002 notification letter to the contrary, with the Ministry of Finance in order to facilitate the closure and final payments under the ESAs.  Upon notification from PAAC in fiscal year 2007, the Company evaluated their position under the related guidance of FAS 5 “Accounting for Contingencies” and concluded a reasonable estimate could not be identified.  While the Company evaluated the likelihood of the probability of success of its tax exempt status, a reasonable estimate of the tax liability of the contracts could not be made due to the subjective nature of the Kuwait tax system on foreign companies.  In addition, the Company considered, and still maintains that any additional tax liability would be offset by an obligation for reimbursement from its client PAAC for any income taxes, penalties and interest.

Under the new guidance for uncertain tax positions, the Company does not believe that the tax exempt order claimed by PAAC to have been received, will meet the more likely than not threshold to obtain benefit, and has therefore accrued a cumulative impact of adoption related to the Kuwait income taxes.  The Company has continued its assertion of a contractual obligation for reimbursement from PAAC should any tax liability be agreed to with the Kuwait Ministry of Finance, however the assessment of this reimbursement is not permitted under FIN 48.  E & E’s management believes that, given the ESA’s provisions, providing for reimbursement of any Kuwait income taxes, this liability recorded for estimated income taxes in Kuwait, may lead to volatility in the Company’s future reported earnings when the Company’s actual exposure is settled.
 
The Company files numerous consolidated and separate income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in many state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years through fiscal 2006. The Company’s tax matters for the fiscal years 2007 and 2008 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. The Company’s New York State tax matters have been concluded for years through fiscal 2005. The Company’s tax matters in other material jurisdictions remain subject to examination by the respective state, local, and foreign tax jurisdiction authorities. No waivers have been executed that would extend the period subject to examination beyond the period prescribed by statute.
 
The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in administrative and indirect operating expenses.  For the three and six months ended January 26, 2008, E & E incurred interest and penalties of approximately $146,000 and $253,000, respectively.
 
It is reasonably possible that the liability associated with our unrecognized tax benefits will increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes will most likely be the result of the Kuwait tax matter described above. At this time, an estimate of the range of the reasonably possible outcomes cannot be made.

The estimated effective tax rate for fiscal year 2008 is 28.8%, up from the 2.3% reported for fiscal year 2007.  This is due mainly to tax benefits recognized on the write-off of the investment in Venezuela and a reduction in the Company’s estimated tax liabilities as a result of the completion of audits in fiscal year 2007.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157, “Fair Value Measurement” (FAS 157), which established a framework for measuring fair value under generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosure about fair value measurements.  FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued with fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007.  The Company is assessing the impact that the adoption of FAS 157 may have on its financial statements.

In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (FAS 159). The fair value option established by FAS 159 permits entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. The Company is assessing the impact that the adoption of FAS 159 may have on its financial statements.
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements- An amendment of ARB No. 51."  This Statement amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. It clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary, which is sometimes referred to as minority interest, is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements.  Among other requirements, this statement requires consolidated net income to be reported at amounts that include the amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. It also requires disclosure, on the face of the consolidated income statement, of the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and to the noncontrolling interest.  This Statement is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008 (that is, for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2010 for the Company). Earlier adoption is prohibited. The Company is currently assessing the effect SFAS No. 160 will have on its financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations discuss the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The preparation of these statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  On an ongoing basis, management evaluates its estimates and judgments, including those related to revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, income taxes, impairment of long-lived assets and contingencies.  Management bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.  Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Revenue recognition

The Company’s revenues are derived primarily from the professional and technical services performed by its employees or, in certain cases, by subcontractors engaged to perform on under contracts we enter into with our clients. The revenues recognized, therefore, are derived from our ability to charge clients for those services under the contracts.

The Company employs three major types of contracts: “cost-plus contracts,” “fixed-price contracts” and “time-and-materials contracts.” Within each of the major contract types are variations on the basic contract mechanism. Fixed-price contracts generally present the highest level of financial and performance risk, but often also provide the highest potential financial returns. Cost-plus contracts present a lower risk, but generally provide lower returns and often include more onerous terms and conditions. Time-and-materials contracts generally represent the time spent by our professional staff at stated or negotiated billing rates.

Fixed price contracts are accounted for on the “percentage-of-completion” method, wherein revenue is recognized as project progress occurs. Time and material contracts are accounted for over the period of performance, in proportion to the costs of performance, predominately based on labor hours incurred.  If an estimate of costs at completion on any contract indicates that a loss will be incurred, the entire estimated loss is charged to operations in the period the loss becomes evident.

The use of the percentage of completion revenue recognition method requires the use of estimates and judgment regarding the project’s expected revenues, costs and the extent of progress towards completion. The Company has a history of making reasonably dependable estimates of the extent of progress towards completion, contract revenue and contract completion costs. However, due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is possible that completion costs may vary from estimates.

Most of our percentage-of-completion projects follow a method which approximates the “cost-to-cost” method of determining the percentage of completion. Under the cost-to-cost method, we make periodic estimates of our progress towards project completion by analyzing costs incurred to date, plus an estimate of the amount of costs that we expect to incur until the completion of the project. Revenue is then calculated on a cumulative basis (project-to-date) as the total contract value multiplied by the current percentage-of-completion. The revenue for the current period is calculated as cumulative revenues less project revenues already recognized. The recognition of revenues and profit is dependent upon the accuracy of a variety of estimates.  Such estimates are based on various judgments we make with respect to those factors and are difficult to accurately determine until the project is significantly underway.

For some contracts, using the cost-to-cost method in estimating percentage-of-completion may overstate the progress on the project. For projects where the cost-to-cost method does not appropriately reflect the progress on the projects, we use alternative methods such as actual labor hours, for measuring progress on the project and recognize revenue accordingly. For instance, in a project where a large amount of equipment is purchased or an extensive amount of mobilization is involved, including these costs in calculating the percentage-of-completion may overstate the actual progress on the project. For these types of projects, actual labor hours spent on the project may be a more appropriate measure of the progress on the project.
        
The Company’s contracts with the U.S. government contain provisions requiring compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and the Cost Accounting Standards (CAS). These regulations are generally applicable to all of the Company’s federal government contracts and are partially or fully incorporated in many local and state agency contracts. They limit the recovery of certain specified indirect costs on contracts subject to the FAR. Cost-plus contracts covered by the FAR provide for upward or downward adjustments if actual recoverable costs differ from the estimate billed. Most of our federal government contracts are subject to termination at the convenience of the client. Contracts typically provide for reimbursement of costs incurred and payment of fees earned through the date of such termination.

Federal government contracts are subject to the FAR and some state and local governmental agencies require audits, which are performed for the most part by either the EPA Office of Inspector General (EPAOIG) or the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA). The EPAOIG and DCAA audit overhead rates, cost proposals, incurred government contract costs, and internal control systems. During the course of its audits, the EPAOIG or DCAA may question incurred costs if it believes we have accounted for such costs in a manner inconsistent with the requirements of the FAR or CAS and recommend that our U.S. government financial administrative contracting officer disallow such costs. Historically, we have not experienced significant disallowed costs as a result of such audits. However, we can provide no assurance that the EPAOIG audits will not result in material disallowances of incurred costs in the future.

The Company maintains reserves for cost disallowances on its cost based contracts as a result of government audits.  The Company recently settled fiscal years 1996 thru 2001 for amounts within the anticipated range.  Final rates have been negotiated under these audits through 2001.  The Company has estimated its exposure based on completed audits, historical experience and discussions with the government auditors.  If these estimates or their related assumptions change, the Company may be required to record additional charges for disallowed costs on its government contracts.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Contract Adjustments

We reduce our accounts receivable and costs and accrued earnings in excess of billings on contracts in process by establishing an allowance for amounts that, in the future, may become uncollectible or unrealizable, respectively. We determine our estimated allowance for uncollectible amounts based on management’s judgments regarding our operating performance related to the adequacy of the services performed, the status of change orders and claims, our experience settling change orders and claims and the financial condition of our clients, which may be dependent on the type of client and current economic conditions that the client may be subject to.

Deferred Income Taxes

We use the asset and liability approach for financial accounting and reporting for income taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed annually for differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in the future based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances based on our judgments and estimates are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized in future operating results. Management believes that realization of deferred tax assets in excess of the valuation allowance is more likely than not. Our estimates are based on facts and circumstances in existence as well as interpretations of existing tax regulations and laws applied to the facts and circumstances, with the help of professional tax advisors. Therefore, we estimate and provide for amounts of additional income taxes that may be assessed by the various taxing authorities.

Changes in Corporate Entities

On September 1, 2007 Gustavson Associates LLC purchased from minority unit holder, Prospect Resources, their remaining 50 ownership units.  Prospect was paid $466,708 for its units with 25% of the amount paid in cash, and the assumption of a three year note with a six percent annualized interest rate.  The purchase price that was paid was at a premium over the capital value of the units.  This excess created additional goodwill of $255,578 which was recorded in the first quarter.
 
On May 15, 2007 one of the Walsh Peruvian minority shareholders sold 14% of their shares in that subsidiary for $332,000.  Half of the shares were repurchased by the Peruvian company, and the other half was purchased by Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (the majority shareholder).  Both of the transactions were completed for the same terms and conditions.  Half of the purchase price was paid in cash and the remainder was taken as loans to be repaid over a two and a half year period.  The purchase price that was paid was at a premium over the book value of the stock.  This has created additional goodwill of approximately $147,000 that was recorded in the fourth quarter.

On January 9, 2007 the Company sold its interest in the shrimp farm in Costa Rica to the Roozen Group for $2,500,000 in cash. There was a pretax gain on the sale of the farm of approximately $960,000 after deducting costs of the sale. This gain is included in the accompanying financial statements under discontinued operations.

On December 29, 2006 a capital infusion of $500,000 was made to E & E do Brasil, Ltda. order to fund working capital requirements resulting from the subsidiary’s significant growth. On the same date the Company entered into a loan agreement for $120,000 each with its two Brazilian partners.  The loans were granted to allow them to maintain their ownership percentage in E & E do Brasil, Ltda. (a limited partnership). The loans made to the partners are payable to Ecology and Environment, Inc., and are five year loans with annual principal repayments, and twelve per cent interest costs due on the outstanding balance. The loans are secured by the partners' shares.

Inflation

Inflation has not had a material impact on the Company’s business because a significant amount of the Company’s contracts are either cost based or contain commercial rates for services that are adjusted annually.


Item  4.  Controls and Procedures

Company management, with the participation of the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of January 26, 2008. In designing and evaluating the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives.  Based on this evaluation, the Company's chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that, as of January 26, 2008, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were (1) designed to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to its chief executive officer and chief financial officer by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report was being prepared and (2) effective, to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to Company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons providing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. There have been no significant changes in internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report.


 
 

 

PART II
OTHER INFORMATION

  Item 1.
Legal Proceedings

From time to time, the Company is named defendant in legal actions arising out of the normal course of business. The Company is not a party to any pending legal proceeding the resolution of which the management of the Company believes will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition, cash flows or to any other pending legal proceedings other than ordinary, routine litigation incidental to its business. The Company maintains liability insurance against risks arising out of the normal course of business.

The Company is involved in other litigation arising in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, any adverse outcome to other litigation arising in the normal course of business would not have a material impact on the financial results of the Company.

Item 2.
Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

 
(e)
Purchased Equity Securities. The Company did not purchase any common stock during the first six months of its fiscal year ending July 31, 2008.

Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities

The Registrant has no information for Item 3 that is required to be presented.

Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

The Registrant has no information for Item 4 that is required to be presented.

Item 5.
Other Information

The Registrant has no information for Item 5 that is required to be presented.

Item 6.
Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 
(a)
- 31.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
- 31.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
- 32.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
- 32.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
                         
(b)
 Registrant filed a Form 8-K report on January 18, 2008 to report a departure of an officer and an appointment of a new officer. 
   

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Ecology and Environment, Inc.
 
       
Date:    March 11, 2008
By:
/s/  H. John Mye, III
 
   
H. John Mye, III
 
   
Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer - Principal Financial Officer