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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
xQuarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
For the quarterly period ended MarchDecember 31, 2020
OR
oTransition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
For the transition period from               to               .
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER000-52033
 
RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
North Dakota76-0742311
(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
3682 Highway 8 South, P.O. Box 11, Richardton, ND 58652
(Address of principal executive offices)
(701) 974-3308
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
3682 Highway 8 South, P.O. Box 11, Richardton, ND 58652
(Address of principal executive offices)

(701) 974-3308
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered

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.
YesNo
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.
x Yes     o No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files).
YesNo

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files).
x Yes     o No


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:
Large Accelerated Filer oAccelerated Filero
Non-Accelerated FilerxSmaller Reporting Company
Large Accelerated Filer o
Accelerated Filer  o
Non-Accelerated Filer x
Smaller Reporting Company o
Emerging Growth Companyo
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o


If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

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


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


As of May 15, 2020,February 12, 2021, there were 40,148,160 Class A Membership Units outstanding.

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INDEX


Page Number



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PART I.        FINANCIAL INFORMATION


Item 1. Financial Statements


RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Condensed Balance Sheets


 ASSETSDecember 31, 2020September 30, 2020
 (Unaudited)
Current Assets
Cash and equivalents$7,438,170 $9,304,638 
Restricted cash - margin account2,131,720 1,807,851 
Accounts receivable, net, primarily related party1,858,747 1,963,236 
Commodities derivative instruments, at fair value (see note 3)270,125 42,005 
Inventory9,556,854 10,137,872 
Prepaid expenses968,094 371,283 
Total current assets22,223,710 23,626,885 
Property, Plant and Equipment
Land1,333,681 1,333,681 
Land improvements4,465,311 4,465,311 
Buildings8,135,994 8,135,994 
Plant and equipment88,497,833 88,442,644 
Construction in progress14,962,665 9,805,770 
117,395,484 112,183,400 
Less accumulated depreciation69,059,927 67,855,740 
Net property, plant and equipment48,335,557 44,327,660 
Other Assets
Right of use operating lease assets, net983,528 1,008,677 
Investment in RPMG605,000 605,000 
Patronage equity4,540,963 4,540,963 
Deposits40,000 40,000 
Total other assets6,169,491 6,194,640 
Total Assets$76,728,758 $74,149,185 
 ASSETS March 31, 2020 September 30, 2019

  (Unaudited) 
Current Assets 
 
Cash and equivalents $8,011,855
 $8,565,038
Restricted cash - margin account 2,172,675
 1,957,031
Accounts receivable, net, primarily related party 2,021,967
 3,910,384
Inventory 7,819,719
 6,962,825
Prepaid expenses 551,807
 109,500
Total current assets 20,578,023
 21,504,778

 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment 
 
Land 1,333,681
 1,333,681
Land improvements 4,465,311
 4,465,311
Buildings 8,111,074
 8,111,074
Plant and equipment 88,116,764
 88,038,476
Construction in progress 1,559,340
 455,825

 103,586,170
 102,404,367
Less accumulated depreciation 65,490,742
 63,092,175
Net property, plant and equipment 38,095,428
 39,312,192

 
 
Other Assets 
 
Right of use operating lease assets, net 1,195,535
 
Investment in RPMG 605,000
 605,000
Patronage equity 4,119,151
 4,119,151
Deposits 40,000
 40,000
Total other assets 5,959,686
 4,764,151

 
 
Total Assets $64,633,137
 $65,581,121


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of this Statement.

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Condensed Balance Sheets


LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITYDecember 31, 2020September 30, 2020
 (Unaudited)
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable$5,120,272 $4,299,764 
Accrued expenses1,558,770 1,937,555 
Accrued loss on firm purchase commitments (see notes 4 and 8)130,000 130,000 
Customer deposits69,208 
Current maturities of notes payable1,282,923 1,276,256 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities372,997 364,862 
Total current liabilities8,534,170 8,008,437 
Long-Term Liabilities
Notes payable4,737,511 4,916,081 
Long-term operating lease liabilities610,531 643,815 
Total long-term liabilities5,348,042 5,559,896 
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 4, 5, 7 and 8)
Members’ Equity 40,148,160 Class A Membership Units issued and outstanding62,846,546 60,580,852 
Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity$76,728,758 $74,149,185 
LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY March 31, 2020 September 30, 2019

  (Unaudited) 
Current Liabilities 
 
Accounts payable $1,584,975
 $4,331,521
Accrued expenses 5,084,023
 598,209
Commodities derivative instruments, at fair value (see note 3) 493,088
 8,875
Accrued loss on firm purchase commitments (see notes 4 and 8) 168,000
 68,000
Current maturities of notes payable 4,491
 252
Current portion of operating leases 376,511
 
Total current liabilities 7,711,088
 5,006,857

 
 
Long-Term Liabilities 
 
Notes payable 16,668
 
Long-term operating lease liabilities 819,024
 
Total long-term liabilities 835,692
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 4, 5, 7 and 8) 
 
     
Members’ Equity 40,148,160 Class A Membership Units issued and outstanding 56,086,357
 60,574,264
     
Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity $64,633,137
 $65,581,121


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of this Statement.

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Condensed Statements of Operations (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Six Months Ended Six Months EndedThree Months EndedThree Months Ended

March 31, 2020 March 31, 2019 March 31, 2020 March 31, 2019December 31, 2020December 31, 2019

(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Unaudited)
Revenues, primarily related party$23,638,144
 $26,231,799
 $49,979,057
 $52,140,936
Revenues, primarily related party$27,557,555 $26,340,913 


 
    
Cost of Goods Sold
 
    Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of goods sold25,765,259
 27,253,765
 52,506,038
 52,110,107
Cost of goods sold23,640,426 26,740,778 
Lower of cost or net realizable value adjustment218,589
 
 241,294
 
Lower of cost or net realizable value adjustment263,777 22,705 
Loss on firm purchase commitments24,000
 
 100,000
 5,000
Loss on firm purchase commitments76,000 
Total Cost of Goods Sold26,007,848
 27,253,765
 52,847,332
 52,115,107
Total Cost of Goods Sold23,904,203 26,839,483 


 
    
Gross Profit (Loss)(2,369,704) (1,021,966) (2,868,275) 25,829
Gross Profit (Loss)3,653,352 (498,570)


 
    
General and Administrative Expenses1,024,464
 655,880
 1,823,968
 1,330,765
General and Administrative Expenses1,409,536 799,505 


 
    
Operating Income (Loss)(3,394,168) (1,677,846) (4,692,243) (1,304,936)Operating Income (Loss)2,243,816 (1,298,075)


 
    
Other Income (Expense)
 
    Other Income (Expense)
Interest income29,112
 7,318
 68,389
 34,761
Interest income23,266 39,277 
Other income, net129,103
 247,224
 136,079
 249,720
Other income, net11,896 6,976 
Interest expense(41) (4) (132) (9)Interest expense(13,284)(91)
Total other income, net158,174
 254,538
 204,336
 284,472
Total other income, net21,878 46,162 


 
    
Net Income (Loss)$(3,235,994) $(1,423,308) $(4,487,907) $(1,020,464)Net Income (Loss)$2,265,694 $(1,251,913)


 
    
Weighted Average Units Outstanding       Weighted Average Units Outstanding
Basic40,148,160
 40,148,160
 40,148,160
 40,148,160
Basic40,148,160 40,148,160 


 
    
Diluted40,148,160
 40,148,160
 40,148,160
 40,148,160
Diluted40,148,160 40,148,160 
       
Net Income (Loss) Per Unit
      Net Income (Loss) Per Unit
Basic$(0.08) $(0.04) $(0.11) $(0.03) Basic$0.06 $(0.03)


 
    
Diluted$(0.08) $(0.04) $(0.11) $(0.03) Diluted$0.06 $(0.03)
       
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of this Statement.





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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows(Unaudited)
Three Months EndedThree Months Ended
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income (loss)$2,265,694 $(1,251,913)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization1,204,187 1,198,122 
Change in fair value of derivative instruments(228,120)31,990 
Lower of cost of net realizable value adjustment263,777 22,705 
Loss on firm purchase commitments76,000 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net, primarily related party104,489 (246,755)
Inventory317,242 (1,356,492)
Prepaid expenses(596,811)(484,314)
Accounts payable718,110 (657,051)
Accrued expenses(378,785)1,900,093 
Accrued loss on firm purchase commitments76,000 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities3,669,783 (691,615)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Capital expenditures(5,109,687)(707,802)
   Net cash used in investing activities(5,109,687)(707,802)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Customer deposits69,208 
Debt repayments(171,903)(1,149)
Net cash (used in) financing activities(102,695)(1,149)
Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash(1,542,599)(1,400,566)
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash - Beginning of Period11,112,489 10,522,069 
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash - End of Period$9,569,890 $9,121,503 
Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash and cash equivalents$7,438,170 $6,999,650 
Restricted cash2,131,720 2,121,853 
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash$9,569,890 $9,121,503 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information
Interest paid$13,284 $91 
Noncash Investing and Financing Activities
Finance lease asset acquired23,173 
Operating lease asset acquired$71,192 $
Capital expenditures in accounts payable$102,398 $

Six Months Ended Six Months Ended

March 31, 2020 March 31, 2019
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
 
Net income (loss)$(4,487,907) $(1,020,464)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
Depreciation and amortization2,398,567
 2,381,386
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
 7,094
Change in fair value of derivative instruments484,213
 37,550
Lower of cost of net realizable value adjustment241,294
 
Loss on firm purchase commitments100,000
 5,000
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
Accounts receivable, net, primarily related party1,888,417
 (627,932)
Inventory(1,198,188) 3,692,011
Prepaid expenses(442,306) (172,860)
Accounts payable(2,768,920) (2,449,478)
Accrued expenses4,485,814
 2,649,394
Accrued loss on firm purchase commitments100,000
 (193,000)
Net cash provided by operating activities800,984
 4,308,701
    
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
 
Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets
 6,160
Capital expenditures(1,136,257) (352,482)
   Net cash used in investing activities(1,136,257) (346,322)
    
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
 
Dividends paid
 (1,782)
Debt repayments(2,266) (1,316)
Net cash used in financing activities(2,266) (3,098)


 
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash(337,539) 3,959,281
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash - Beginning of Period10,522,069
 10,873,339
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash - End of Period$10,184,530
 $14,832,620
    
Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash   
Cash and cash equivalents$8,011,855
 $3,959,281
Restricted cash2,172,675
 10,873,339
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash$10,184,530
 $14,832,620


 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information
 
Interest paid$132
 $9
Noncash Investing and Financing Activities   
Finance lease asset acquired23,173
 
Capital expenditures in accounts payable$22,373
 $


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of this Statement.

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCHDECEMBER 31, 2020



The accompanying condensed unaudited financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted as permitted by such rules and regulations. These financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019,2020, contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K.


In the opinion of management, the interim condensed unaudited financial statements reflect all adjustments considered necessary for fair presentation. The adjustments made to these statements consist only of normal recurring adjustments. Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020.2021.


1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Nature of Business


Red Trail Energy, LLC, a North Dakota limited liability company (the “Company”), owns and operates a 50 million gallon annual name-plate production ethanol plant near Richardton, North Dakota (the “Plant”).


Accounting Estimates


Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing these financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Those estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported revenues and expenses. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the useful lives of property, plant and equipment, inventory and allowance for doubtful accounts. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Net Income Per Unit


Net income per unit is calculated on a basic and fully diluted basis using the weighted average units outstanding during the period.


Recently IssuedAdopted Accounting Pronouncements


Revenue from Contracts with CustomersMeasurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments


In May 2014,June 2016, the FASB issued ASC 606, “Revenue from ContractsASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” ASU 2016-13 adds a current expected credit loss (“CECL”) impairment model to U.S. GAAP that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Modified retrospective adoption is required with Customers” which supersedesany cumulative-effect adjustment recorded to retained earnings as of the guidance in “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605)” and requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depictsbeginning of the transferperiod of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. ASC 606adoption. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual reporting periodsfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017,2019, including interim periods within that reporting period andthe year of adoption. Early adoption is to be applied retrospectively, with early application not permitted.permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Effective October 1, 2018,2020, the Company adopted ASC 606 for all of its contractsASU 2016-13 using the modified retrospective approach. See note 2.There was no impact of adoption for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021. The Company expects the impact of adopting the new standard to be immaterial on an ongoing basis.


Statement of Cash Flows; Restricted Cash

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, "Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash" which requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU No. 2016-18 is effective for annal periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods. Effective October 1, 2018 the Company retrospectively adopted ASU No. 2016-18.

Lease Accounting Standards


In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases (topic 842)" which requires a lessee to recognize a right to use asset and a lease liability on its balance sheet for all leases with terms of twelve months or greater. This guidance is effective for

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2020


fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, included interim periods within those years with early adoption permitted. Effective October 1, 2019 the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-02 using the modified retrospective approach. See note 7 for current operating and financing lease commitments.


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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

2. REVENUE

Adoption of ASC 606

Effective October 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective approach for all of its contracts. Following the adoption of ASC 606, the Company continues to recognize revenue at a point-in-time when control of goods transfers to the customer. This is consistent with the Company's previous revenue recognition accounting policy under which the Company recognized revenue when title and risk of loss pass to the customer and collectability was reasonably assured. ASC 606 did not impact the Company's presentation of revenue on a gross or net basis. The Company recognizes revenue primarily from sales of ethanol and its related co-products.


Revenue Recognition


The Company recognizes revenue from sales of ethanol and co-products at the point in time when the performance obligations in the contract are met, which is when the customer obtains control of such products and typically occurs upon shipment depending on the terms of the underlying contracts. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for transferring goods or providing services. In some instances, the Company enters into contracts with customers that contain multiple performance obligations to deliver volumes of co-products over a contractual period of less than 12 months. The Company allocates the transaction price to each performance obligation identified in the contract based on relative standalone selling prices and recognizes the related revenue as control of each individual product is transferred to the customer in satisfaction of the corresponding performance obligation.


Revenue by Source


The following table disaggregates revenue by major source for the three and six months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019.
RevenuesFor the three months ended December 31, 2020 (unaudited)For the three months ended December 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Ethanol, E85 and Industrial Ethanol$21,133,349 $20,420,028 
Distillers Grains5,168,959 4,814,637 
Syrup123,273 92,359 
Corn Oil1,081,783 965,372 
Other50,191 48,517 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$27,557,555 $26,340,913 
Revenues For the three months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Ethanol and E85 $17,681,007
 $20,115,563
 $38,101,035
 $39,654,732
Distillers Grains 4,915,655
 5,291,939
 9,730,292
 10,908,715
Syrup 101,711
 102,001
 194,070
 194,010
Corn Oil 892,664
 688,004
 1,858,036
 1,293,145
Other 47,107
 34,292
 95,624
 90,334
Total revenue from contracts with customers $23,638,144
 $26,231,799
 $49,979,057
 $52,140,936


Shipping and Handling Costs


We account for shipping and handling activities related to contracts with customers as costs to fulfill our promise to transfer the associated products. Accordingly, we record customer payments associated with shipping and handling costs as a component of revenue, and classify such costs as a component of cost of goods sold.


3. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS


Commodity Contracts


As part of its hedging strategy, the Company may enter into ethanol, soybean, soybean oil, natural gas and corn commodity-based derivatives in order to protect cash flows from fluctuations caused by volatility in commodity prices in order to protect gross profit margins from potentially adverse effects of market and price volatility on ethanol sales, corn oil sales, and corn purchase commitments where the prices are set at a future date. These derivatives are not designated as effective hedges for accounting

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2020


purposes. For derivative instruments that are not accounted for as hedges, or for the ineffective portions of qualifying hedges, the change in fair value is recorded through earnings in the period of change. Ethanol derivative fair market value gains or losses are included in the results of operations and are classified as revenue and corn derivative changes in fair market value are included in cost of goods sold.
As of: March 31, 2020 (unaudited) September 30, 2019
Contract Type # of ContractsNotional Amount (Qty)Fair Value # of ContractsNotional Amount (Qty)Fair Value
Corn futures 70
350,000
bushels$(45,875) 

bushels$
Corn options 360
1,800,000
bushels$(456,937) 30
150,000
bushels$(8,875)
Soybean oil options 8
4,800
gal$(24) 

gal$
Ethanol futures 29
1,218,000
gal$9,748
 

gal$
Total fair value    $(493,088)    $(8,875)
Amounts are combined on the balance sheet - negative numbers represent liabilities

The following tables provide details regarding the Company's derivative financial instruments at March 31, 2020 and September 30, 2019:
As of:December 31, 2020 (unaudited)September 30, 2020
Contract Type# of ContractsNotional Amount (Qty)Fair Value# of ContractsNotional Amount (Qty)Fair Value
Corn futuresbushels$30 1,260,000 bushels$104,068 
Corn options400 2,000,000 bushels$270,125 83 415,000 bushels$(62,063)
Total fair value$270,125 $42,005 
Amounts are combined on the balance sheet - negative numbers represent liabilities
8
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:    
     
Balance Sheet - as of March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Asset Liability
Commodity derivative instruments, at fair value 

 $493,088
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes $
 $493,088
     
Balance Sheet - as of September 30, 2019 Asset Liability
Commodity derivative instruments, at fair value $
 $8,875
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes $
 $8,875

Statement of Operations Income/(Expense) Location of gain (loss) in fair value recognized in income Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the three months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the three months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited) Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the six months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the six months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Corn derivative instruments Cost of Goods Sold $(372,856) $(1,186,069) $(268,174) $(882,433)
Ethanol derivative instruments Revenue 25,464
 
 25,464
 
Natural gas derivative instruments Cost of Goods Sold (4,010) 
 (31,860) 
Total   $(351,402) $(1,186,069) $(274,570) $(882,433)


9



RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCHDECEMBER 31, 2020




The following tables provide details regarding the Company's derivative financial instruments at December 31, 2020 and September 30, 2020:
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Balance Sheet - as of December 31, 2020 (unaudited)AssetLiability
Commodity derivative instruments, at fair value$270,125 $
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes$270,125 $
Balance Sheet - as of September 30, 2020AssetLiability
Commodity derivative instruments, at fair value$42,005 $
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes$42,005 $

Statement of Operations Income/(Expense)Location of gain (loss) in fair value recognized in incomeAmount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the three months ended December 31, 2020 (unaudited)Amount of gain (loss) recognized in income during the three months ended December 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Corn derivative instrumentsCost of Goods Sold$249,473 $104,683 
Ethanol derivative instrumentsRevenue301,106 
Natural gas derivative instrumentsCost of Goods Sold1,410 (27,850)
Total$551,989 $76,833 

4. INVENTORY
Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Inventory values as of MarchDecember 31, 2020 and September 30, 20192020 were as follows:
As ofDecember 31, 2020
(unaudited)
September 30, 2020
Raw materials, including corn, chemicals and supplies$3,476,834 $4,031,086 
Work in process894,920 765,673 
Finished goods, including ethanol and distillers grains3,722,358 3,914,117 
Spare parts1,462,742 1,426,996 
Total inventory$9,556,854 $10,137,872 


9

As of 
March 31, 2020
(unaudited)
 September 30, 2019
Raw materials, including corn, chemicals and supplies $4,620,285
 $2,679,126
Work in process 756,567
 956,509
Finished goods, including ethanol and distillers grains 473,740
 1,459,561
Spare parts 1,969,127
 1,867,629
Total inventory $7,819,719
 $6,962,825
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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

Lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments for the three and six months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
For the three months ended December 31, 2020 (unaudited)For the three months ended December 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Loss on firm purchase commitments$$76,000 
Loss on lower of cost or net realizable value adjustment for inventory on hand$263,777 $22,705 
Total loss on lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments$263,777 $98,705 
  For the three months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Loss on firm purchase commitments $24,000
 $
 $100,000
 $5,000
Loss on lower of cost or net realizable value adjustment for inventory on hand $218,589
 $
 $241,294
 $
Total loss on lower of cost or net realizable value adjustments $242,589
 $
 $341,294
 $5,000


The Company has entered into forward corn purchase contracts under which it is required to take delivery at the contract price. At the time the contracts were created, the price of the contract approximated market price. Subsequent changes in market conditions could cause the contract prices to become higher or lower than market prices. As of MarchDecember 31, 2020, the average price of corn purchased under certain fixed price contracts, that had not yet been delivered, was greater thanequaled approximated market price. Based on this information, the Company has a $100,0000 estimated loss on firm purchase commitments for the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020.2020 and a $76,000 estimated loss on firm purchase commitments for the three months ended December 31, 2019. The loss is recorded in “Loss on firm purchase commitments” on the statement of operations.operations and "Accrued loss on firm purchase commitments" on the balance sheet. The amount of the potential loss was determined by applying a methodology similar to that used in the impairment valuation with respect to inventory. Given the uncertainty of future ethanol prices, further losses on the outstanding purchase commitments could be recorded in future periods.


5. BANK FINANCING


On October 1, 2019,July 13, 2020, we terminated our $7received a $5.41 million Revolving Loan with U.S.loan through the Bank Nationalof North Dakota Ethanol Recovery Program and Cornerstone. The Ethanol Recovery Program was developed by the North Dakota Ethanol Producers Association ("U.S. Bank").and the Bank of North Dakota to use the existing Biofuels Pace program and value-added loan guarantee program to help ethanol production facilities weather the pandemic economic challenges. Ethanol producers could qualify for up to $15 million of a low interest loan of 1% based on the amount of annual corn grind. The maturity date of the Revolving Loanloan is July 13, 2025. The fixed interest rate on December 30, 2020 was May 31, 2020. Our ability3.75% with an interest rate buy down through the Bank of North Dakota to draw funds on the Revolving Loan was subject to a borrowing base calculation as set forth in the Credit Agreement.1%.


On January 22, 2020 we entered into a new $10 million revolving loan (the "Revolving Loan") with Cornerstone Bank ("Cornerstone"). The Revolving Loan replaced a similar revolving loan we had with U.S. Bank National Association. The maturity date of the Revolving Loan is January 21, 2021. The Revolving Loan was renewed on February 1, 2021. The new maturity date of the Revolving Loan is January 31, 2022. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, we had $10 million available on the Revolving Loan. The variable interest rate on MarchDecember 31, 2020 was 3.55%3.00%.


On January 22, 2020, we entered into a new $7 million construction loan (the "Construction Loan") with Cornerstone. The maturity date of the Construction Loan is June 1, 2021. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, we had $7 million available on the Construction Loan. The variable interest rate on MarchDecember 31, 2020 was 3.55%2.05%.

On April 16, 2020, the Company received a Paycheck Protection Program Loan (the "PPP Loan") for $873,400 with Cornerstone. The maturity date of the PPP Loan is April 16, 2022. The fixed interest rate on December 31, 2020 was 1.00%. Under the terms of the loan, the Company may apply for forgiveness under the PPP regulations if the Company uses the proceeds of the loan for its payroll costs and other expenses in accordance with the requirements of the Paycheck Protection Program. The Company used the entire PPP Loan amount for qualifying expenses and applied for forgiveness on October 31, 2020. The Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act was signed into law on June 5, 2020 and allows for the amendment of the maturity date on existing loans from two years to five years. We received notice that the PPP loan was forgiven on January 20, 2021.
The Company's loans are secured by a lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company.



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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCHDECEMBER 31, 2020



Schedule of debt maturities for the twelve months ended September 30Totals
2021$1,282,923 
20221,024,793 
2023758,825 
2024787,250 
20252,166,643 
Total$6,020,434 

6. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS


The following table provides information on those liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of MarchDecember 31, 2020 and September 30, 2019,2020, respectively.
Fair Value Measurement Using
Carrying Amount as of December 31, 2020 (unaudited)Fair Value as of December 31, 2020 (unaudited)Level 1Level 2Level 3
Assets
Commodities derivative instruments$270,125 $270,125 $270,125 $$
Total$270,125 $270,125 $270,125 $$
Fair Value Measurement Using
Carrying Amount as of September 30, 2020Fair Value as of September 30, 2020Level 1Level 2Level 3
Assets
Commodities derivative instruments$42,005 $42,005 $42,005 $$
Total$42,005 $42,005 $42,005 $$
     Fair Value Measurement Using
 Carrying Amount as of March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Fair Value as of March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Liabilities         
Commodities derivative instruments$493,088
 $493,088
 $493,088
 $
 $
Total$493,088
 $493,088
 $493,088
 $
 $
          
     Fair Value Measurement Using
 Carrying Amount as of September 30, 2019 Fair Value as of September 30, 2019 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Liabilities         
Commodities derivative instruments$8,875
 $8,875
 $8,875
 $
 $
Total$8,875
 $8,875
 $8,875
 $
 $


The fair value of the corn, ethanol, soybean oil and natural gas derivative instruments is based on quoted market prices in an active market.


7. LEASES


Effective October 1, 2019, the Company adopted the provisions of ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases (topic 842)" using the modified retrospective approach which applies the provisions of ASU No. 2016-02 upon adoption, with no change to prior periods. This adoption resulted in the Company recognizing initial right of use assets and lease liabilities of $1,418,000. The adoption did not have a significant impact on the Company's statement of operations.


Upon the initial adoption of ASU No. 2016-02, the Company elected the following practical expedients allowable under the guidance: not to reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases; not to reassess the lease classification for any expired or existing leases; not to reassess initial direct costs for any existing leases; not to separately identify lease and nonlease components; and not to evaluate historical land easements. Additionally, the Company elected the short-term lease exemption policy, applying the requirements of ASU No. 2016-02 to only long-term (greater than 1 year) leases.


The Company leases railcar and plant equipment. Operating lease right of use assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The Company uses its estimated incremental borrowing rate, unless an implicit rate is readily determinable, as the discount rate for each lease in determining the present value of lease payments. For the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020, the Company's estimated discount rate was 3.55%3.00%. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020


The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease or contains a lease at inception. The Company's leases have remaining lease terms of approximately 1 year to 4 years, which may include options to extend the lease when it is reasonably certain the Company will exercise those options. At MarchDecember 31, 2020 the weighted average remaining lease term is 3 years. The Company does not have lease arrangements with residual value guarantees, sale leaseback terms or material restrictive covenants. The Company does not have any sublease agreements.


The Company is generally responsible for maintenance, taxes, and utilities for leased equipment. Rent expense for operating leases was approximately $175,000$167,000 and $156,000$205,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $380,500 and $317,000 for the six months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.


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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2020



Equipment under financing leases consists of office equipment and plant equipment. Equipment under financing leases is as follows at:
As ofDecember 31, 2020September 30, 2020
Equipment$493,414 $493,414 
Less accumulated amortization(178,806)(172,944)
Net equipment under financing lease$314,608 $320,470 
As of March 31, 2020 September 30, 2019
Equipment $506,661
 $483,488
Less accumulated amortization (174,472) (162,940)
Net equipment under financing lease $332,189
 $320,548


At MarchDecember 31, 2020, the Company had the following minimum commitments, which at inception had non-cancelablenon-cancellable terms of more than one year. Amounts shown below are for the 12 month periods ending MarchDecember 31:
Operating LeasesFinancing Leases
2021$372,997 $4,517 
2022349,454 4,551 
2023239,075 4,585 
202422,002 4,141 
2025
Thereafter
Total minimum lease commitments$983,528 17,794 
Less amount representing interest
Present value of minimum lease commitments included in notes payable on the balance sheet$17,794 

  Operating Leases Financing Leases
2020 $376,511
 $4,491
2021 335,776
 4,525
2022 321,165
 4,559
2023 162,083
 4,594
2024 
 2,990
Thereafter 
 
Total minimum lease commitments $1,195,535
 21,159
Less amount representing interest   
Present value of minimum lease commitments included in notes payable on the balance sheet   $21,159

8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES


Firm Purchase Commitments for Corn


To ensure an adequate supply of corn to operate the Plant, the Company enters into contracts to purchase corn from local farmers and elevators. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, the Company had various fixed price contracts for the purchase of approximately 0.53.9 million bushels of corn. Using the stated contract price for the fixed price contracts, the Company had commitments of approximately $1.7$15.2 million related to the 0.53.9 million bushels under contract.


Water


To meet the plant's water requirements, we entered into a ten-yearten-year contract with Southwest Water Authority to purchase raw water. Our contract requires us to purchase a minimum of 160 million gallons of water per year. The minimum estimated liabilityobligation for this contract is $424,000 per year.


Profit and Cost Sharing Agreement


The Company has entered into a Profit and Cost Sharing Agreement with Bismarck Land Company, LLC which became effective on November 1, 2016. The Profit and Cost Sharing Agreement provides that the Company will share 70% of the net
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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

revenue generated by the Company from business activities which are brought to the Company by Bismarck Land Company, LLC and conducted on the real estate purchased from the Bismarck Land Company, LLC. The real estate was initially purchased in exchange for 2 million membership units at $1.66 per unit. This obligation will terminate ten years after the real estate closing date of October 11, 2016 or after Bismarck Land Company, LLC receives $10 million in proceeds from the agreement. In addition, the Company will pay Bismarck Land Company, LLC 70% of any net proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the subject real estate if a sale were to occur in the future, subject to the $10 million cap and the 10 year termination of this obligation. The Company has paid Bismarck Land Company, LLC $28,315 as of MarchDecember 31, 2020.


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Carbon Capture and Storage Project


The Company has entered into a research agreement with the University of North Dakota Energy and Environmental Research Center to explore the feasibility of injecting CO2 from the fermentation process into a saline formation to lower the carbon intensity value of our ethanol. The Company has committed to fund up to $950,000 for this research. The Company has paid $780,522incurred $949,631 as of MarchDecember 31, 2020 which is recorded as consulting services under general and administrative expenses.

The Company has entered into an agreement with Salof LTD, Inc for the design, engineering, fabrication and start up of the CO2 capture and liquefaction facility for the carbon capture and storage project. The price of the system including all equipment and services is $11,845,000. The Company has paid $1,776,750 as of December 31,2020.

Industrial Alcohol Project

The Company has entered into an agreement with Praj Industries Limited to purchase a 25 million gallon per year Eco-Smart Distillation unit to produce USP grade alcohol. The price of the system is $2,659,500. The Company has paid $1,994,625 as of December 31, 2020.


9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS


The Company has balances and transactions in the normal course of business with various related parties for the purchase of corn, sale of distillers grains and sale of ethanol. The related parties include unit holders, members of the board of governors of the Company, and RPMG, Inc. (“RPMG”). Significant related party activity affecting the financial statements is as follows:
December 31, 2020
(unaudited)
September 30, 2020
Balance Sheet
Accounts receivable$1,574,471 $1,777,576 
Accounts payable322,701 188,457 
Accrued expenses343,801 650,833 
For the three months ended December 31, 2020 (unaudited)For the three months ended December 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Statement of Operations
Revenues$25,123,933 $24,561,170 
Cost of goods sold381,644 602,869 
General and administrative30,301 41,304 
Other income2,410 
Inventory Purchases$2,387,648 $2,671,939 


13
  
March 31, 2020
(unaudited)
 September 30, 2019
Balance Sheet    
Accounts receivable $1,403,149
 $3,695,462
Accounts payable 185,542
 298,638
Accrued expenses 3,585,053
 41,643
     

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
  For the three months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) For the six months ended March 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Statement of Operations        
Revenues $21,133,682
 $23,788,432
 $45,694,852
 $47,976,575
Cost of goods sold 688,838
 
 1,291,707
 14,104
General and administrative 33,854
 55,684
 75,158
 86,594
Other income 119,825
 267,111
 119,825
 267,111
         
Inventory Purchases $5,730,635
 $3,245,390
 $8,402,574
 $6,948,455
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

10. UNCERTAINTIES IMPACTING THE ETHANOL INDUSTRY AND OUR FUTURE OPERATIONS


The Company has certain risks and uncertainties that it experiences during volatile market conditions, which can have a severe impact on operations. The Company's revenues are derived from the sale and distribution of ethanol and distillers grains to customers primarily located in the United States. Corn for the production process is supplied to the Plant primarily from local agricultural producers and from purchases on the open market. The Company's operating and financial performance is largely driven by prices at which the Company sells ethanol and distillers grains and by the cost at which it is able to purchase corn for operations. The price of ethanol is influenced by factors such as supply and demand, weather, government policies and programs, and unleaded gasoline and the petroleum markets, although since 2005 the prices of ethanol and gasoline began a divergence with ethanol selling for less than gasoline at the wholesale level. Excess ethanol supply in the market, in particular, puts downward pressure on the price of ethanol. The Company's largest cost of production is corn. The cost of corn is generally impacted by factors such as supply and demand, weather, government policies and programs. The Company's risk management program is used to protect against the price volatility of these commodities.


The Company's financial performance is highly dependent on the Federal Renewable Fuels Standard ("RFS") which requires that a certain amount of renewable fuels must be used each year in the United States. Corn based ethanol, such as the ethanol the Company produces, can be used to meet a portion of the RFS requirement. In November 2013, the EPA issued a proposed rule which would reduce the RFS for 2014, including the RFS requirement related to corn based ethanol. The EPA proposed rule was subject to a comment period which expired in January 2014. On November 30, 2015, the EPA released its final ethanol use requirements for 2014, 2015 and 2016 which were lower than the statutory requirements in the RFS. However, the final RFS for 2017 equaled the statutory requirement which was also the case for the 2018, 2019 and 2020 RFS final rules.


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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2020



The Company anticipates that the results of operations during the remainder of fiscal year 20202021 will continue to be affected by volatility in the commodity markets. The volatility is due to various factors, including uncertainty with respect to the availability and supply of corn, increased demand for grain from global and national markets, speculation in the commodity markets, demand for corn from the ethanol industry and decreased ethanol demand due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.


11. MEMBER'S EQUITY


Changes in member's equity for the sixfiscal year ended September 30, 2020 and the three months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019.2020.


Class A Member UnitsAdditional Paid in CapitalAccumulated Deficit/Retained EarningsTreasury UnitsTotal Member Equity
Balances - September 30, 2019$39,044,595 $75,541 $21,613,668 $(159,540)$60,574,264 
Net income (loss)— — (1,251,913)— (1,251,913)
Balances December 31, 2019$39,044,595 $75,541 $20,361,755 $(159,540)$59,322,351 
Distribution— — — 
Net income (loss)— — (3,235,994)— (3,235,994)
Balances - March 31, 2020$39,044,595 $75,541 $17,125,761 $(159,540)$56,086,357 
Net income (loss)2,204,564 2,204,564 
Balances - June 30, 2020$39,044,595 $75,541 $19,330,325 $(159,540)$58,290,921 
Distribution
Net income (loss)2,289,931 2,289,931 
Balances - September 30, 2020$39,044,595 $75,541 $21,620,256 $(159,540)$60,580,852 

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RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

  Class A Member Units Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated Deficit/Retained Earnings Treasury Units Total Member Equity
Balances - September 30, 2019 $39,044,595
 $75,541
 $21,613,668
 $(159,540) $60,574,264
Net income (loss) 
 
 (1,251,913) 
 (1,251,913)
Balances December 31, 2019 39,044,595
 75,541
 20,361,755
 (159,540) 59,322,351
Distribution 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) 
 
 (3,235,994) 
 (3,235,994)
Balances - March 31, 2020 $39,044,595
 $75,541
 $17,125,761
 $(159,540) $56,086,357
Class A Member UnitsAdditional Paid in CapitalAccumulated Deficit/Retained EarningsTreasury UnitsTotal Member Equity
Balances - September 30, 2020$39,044,595 $75,541 $21,620,256 $(159,540)$60,580,852 
Net income (loss)— — 2,265,694 — 2,265,694 
Balances - December 31, 2020$39,044,595 $75,541 $23,885,950 $(159,540)$62,846,546 


  Class A Member Units Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated Deficit/Retained Earnings Treasury Units Total Member Equity
Balances - September 30, 2018 $39,044,595
 $75,541
 $25,358,139
 $(159,540) $64,318,735
Net income 
 
 402,844
 
 402,844
Balances - December 31, 2018 39,044,595
 75,541
 25,760,983
 (159,540) 64,721,579
Distribution 
 
 (1,782) 
 (1,782)
Net income (loss) 
 
 (1,423,308) 
 (1,423,308)
Balances - March 31, 2019 $39,044,595
 $75,541
 $24,335,893
 $(159,540) $63,296,489

12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS


The COVID-19 outbreak inOn January 20, 2021 we received notice that the United States has resulted in decreased fuel grade ethanol demand and prices due to travel restrictions which resulted in significantly lower fuel demand. WhilePPP loan was forgiven, see note 5.

On February 1, 2021 the disruption is currently expected to be temporary, Management anticipates that fuel grade ethanol demand and prices will remain lowCompany renewed the $10 million Revolving Loan with Cornerstone Bank, see note 5.

On February 1, 2021 the Company entered into a $28 million construction loan with Cornerstone for the foreseeable future as we continue to face market disruptions.carbon capture and storage project. The Company expects this matter to negatively impact its operating results however,maturity date of the related financial impact and duration cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.loan is January 31, 2022. The Company has taken steps to mitigate the negative impact of lower fuel grade ethanol demand and price by selling industrial grade ethanol. The Company began selling industrial grade ethanol in April 2020.variable interest rate is 3.00%.

On April 6, 2020 the Company applied for the Paycheck Protection Program through Cornerstone Bank. On April 16, 2020, the Company received a PPP loan for $873,400.



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


We prepared the following discussion and analysis to help you better understand our financial condition, changes in our financial condition, and results of operations for the three and six month periodsperiod ended MarchDecember 31, 2020,, compared to the same periods of the prior fiscal year. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements, notes and information contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019.2020. Unless otherwise stated, references in this report to particular years, quarters, months, or periods refer to our fiscal years ended in September and the associated quarters, months, or periods of those fiscal years.


Forward Looking Statements


This report contains forward-looking statements that involve future events, our future performance and our future operations and actions.  In some cases you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "may," "should," "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "plan," "future," "intend," "could," "estimate," "predict," "hope," "potential," "continue," or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are only our predictions and involve numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Our actual results or actions may differ materially from these forward-looking statements for many reasons, including the following factors:


Reductions in the corn-based ethanol use requirement in the Federal Renewable Fuels Standard;
Small refinery exemptions from the RFS granted by the EPA;
Reduced gasoline demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic;
Lower oil prices which result in lower ethanol prices;
Negative operating margins which result from lower ethanol prices;
Lower distillers grains prices which result from the Chinese anti-dumping and countervailing duty tariffs;
Lower ethanol prices due to the Chinese ethanol tariff and the Brazilian ethanol tariff;
Logistics difficulties preventing us from delivering our products to our customers;
Fluctuations in the price and market for ethanol, distillers grains and corn oil;
Availability and costs of products and raw materials, particularly corn and natural gas;
Changes in the environmental regulations that apply to our plant operations and our ability to comply with such regulations;
Ethanol supply exceeding demand and corresponding ethanol price reductions impacting our ability to operate profitably and maintain a positive spread between the selling price of our products and our raw material costs;
Our ability to generate and maintain sufficient liquidity to fund our operations and meet our necessary capital expenditures;
Our ability to continue to meet our loan covenants;
Limitations and restrictions contained in the instruments and agreements governing our indebtedness;
Results of our hedging transactions and other risk management strategies;
Changes and advances in ethanol production technology; and
Competition from alternative fuels and alternative fuel additives.


Overview
 
Red Trail Energy, LLC, a North Dakota limited liability company (the "Company," "Red Trail," or "we," "our," or "us"), owns and operates a 50 million gallon annual name-plate production ethanol plant near Richardton, North Dakota. Our revenues are derived from the sale and distribution of our ethanol, distillers grains and corn oil primarily in the continental United States. Corn is our largest cost component and our profitability is highly dependent on the spread between the price of corn and the price of ethanol.


On April 16, 2020, the Company received a Paycheck Protection Program Loan (the "PPP Loan") for $873,400 with Cornerstone Bank. On October 31, 2020, we applied for forgiveness of the PPP Loan. We received notice that the PPP loan was forgiven on January 22, 202020, 2021.

On February 1, 2021 we renewed our $10 million Revolving Loan with Cornerstone Bank.

On February 1, 2021 we entered into two loansa $28 million construction loan with Cornerstone Bank ("Cornerstone"). We entered into a $10,000,000 revolving line of credit (the "Revolving Loan") and a $7,000,000 construction line of credit (the "Construction Loan") for ourthe carbon dioxide capture and storage project. The detailsmaturity date of these loans are described in more detail below in the section entitled "Capital Resourcesloan is January 31, 2022. The variable interest rate is 3.00%."


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Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019
 
The following table shows the results of our operations and the percentages of revenues, cost of goods sold, general and administrative expenses and other items to total revenues in our unaudited statements of operations for the three months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019:
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2020 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended
March 31, 2019 (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
December 31, 2020 (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
December 31, 2019 (Unaudited)
Statement of Operations DataAmount % Amount %Statement of Operations DataAmount%Amount%
Revenues$23,638,144
 100.00
 $26,231,799
 100.00
Revenues$27,557,555 100.00 $26,340,913 100.00 
Cost of Goods Sold26,007,848
 110.02
 27,253,765
 103.90
Cost of Goods Sold23,904,203 86.74 26,839,483 101.89 
Gross Profit (Loss)(2,369,704) (10.02) (1,021,966) (3.90)Gross Profit (Loss)3,653,352 13.26 (498,570)(1.89)
General and Administrative Expenses1,024,464
 4.33
 655,880
 2.50
General and Administrative Expenses1,409,536 5.11 799,505 3.04 
Operating Income (Loss)(3,394,168) (14.36) (1,677,846) (6.40)Operating Income (Loss)2,243,816 8.14 (1,298,075)(4.93)
Other Income, net158,174
 0.67
 254,538
 0.97
Other Income, net21,878 0.08 46,162 0.18 
Net Income (Loss)$(3,235,994) (13.69) $(1,423,308) (5.43)Net Income (Loss)$2,265,694 8.22 $(1,251,913)(4.75)
        
The following table shows additional data regarding production and price levels for our primary inputs and products for the three months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019.2020.
Three Months Ended December 31, 2020 (unaudited)Three Months Ended
December 31, 2019
(unaudited)
Production:
  Ethanol sold (gallons)16,456,397 15,014,837 
  Dried distillers grains sold (tons)19,889 22,889 
  Modified distillers grains sold (tons)38,583 30,293 
Corn oil sold (pounds)3,667,740 3,834,090 
Revenues:
  Fuel grade ethanol average price per gallon (net of hedging)$1.29 $1.36 
  Dried distillers grains average price per ton138.16 129.90 
  Modified distillers grains average price per ton62.75 60.79 
Corn oil average price per pound0.29 0.25 
Primary Inputs:
  Corn ground (bushels)5,265,079 5,330,858 
Natural gas (MMBtu)374,822 357,329 
Costs of Primary Inputs:
  Corn average price per bushel (net of hedging)$3.26 $3.53 
Natural gas average price per MMBtu (net of hedging)2.47 2.30 
Other Costs (per gallon of ethanol sold):
  Chemical and additive costs$0.074 $0.091 
  Denaturant cost0.026 0.036 
  Electricity cost0.045 0.050 
  Direct labor cost0.065 0.072 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Three Months Ended
March 31, 2019
(unaudited)
Production:    
  Ethanol sold (gallons) 17,025,053
 15,834,210
  Dried distillers grains sold (tons) 17,211
 19,307
  Modified distillers grains sold (tons) 40,270
 46,660
Corn oil sold (pounds) 3,955,060
 2,853,980
Revenues:    
  Ethanol average price per gallon (net of hedging) $1.04
 $1.27
  Dried distillers grains average price per ton 137.59
 148.84
  Modified distillers grains average price per ton 63.26
 51.83
Corn oil average price per pound 0.23
 0.24
Primary Inputs:    
  Corn ground (bushels) 5,962,768
 5,910,079
Natural gas (MMBtu) 368,997
 421,620
Costs of Primary Inputs:    
  Corn average price per bushel (net of hedging) $3.06
 $3.30
Natural gas average price per MMBtu (net of hedging) 2.20
 2.84
Other Costs (per gallon of ethanol sold):    
  Chemical and additive costs $0.063
 $0.076
  Denaturant cost 0.033
 0.031
  Electricity cost 0.045
 0.048
  Direct labor cost 0.056
 0.060


Revenue


Our revenue was lessgreater in the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the same period of our 20192020 fiscal year primarily due to significantly lowerincreased gallons of ethanol prices,sold, partially offset by increased sales of our products during the 2020 period.lower average ethanol prices per gallon. During the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year, approximately 74.8% of our total revenue was derived from ethanol sales, approximately 20.8% was from distillers grains sales and approximately 3.8% was from corn oil sales. During the second quarter

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quarter of our 20192021 fiscal year, approximately 76.7% of our total revenue was derived from ethanol sales, approximately 20.2%18.8% was from distillers grains sales and approximately 2.6%3.9% was from corn oil sales. During the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year, approximately 77.5% of our total revenue was derived from ethanol sales, approximately 18.3% was from distillers grains sales and approximately 3.7% was from corn oil sales.
    
Ethanol


The average price we received for our ethanol was significantly lower during the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year. Management attributes the decrease in the price we received for our ethanol during the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year to decreasedlower gasoline prices which impacteddemand and increased ethanol prices, along with decreased ethanolsupply in the market. Gasoline demand was lower due to reduced travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic which resulted in significantly lower fuel demand. Many ethanol producers have reduced production or are shutting down production entirely duepandemic. Management anticipates that as the COVID-19 vaccine is distributed, it will lead to the lack ofadditional gasoline demand which directly impactswill positively impact ethanol demand. Estimates indicate thatprices. However, it may take some time for the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic has decreased gasoline demand by more than 50%. Beforeto subside so we anticipate that the recovery will continue throughout our 2021 fiscal year. As a result, we do not expect ethanol production facilities started shutting down, ethanol stocksprices to increase significantly in the market were increasing which further impacted market prices. Despite low prices, export demand has not bolstered ethanol demand in part because manyour second fiscal quarter of our trading partners are facing COVID-19 slow downs like the United States.2021 fiscal year.

Management anticipates that ethanol prices will remain low for the foreseeable future as we continue to face market disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is difficult to know when demand might return to prior levels, if at all, and whether we may see further travel restrictions in the future if COVID-19 returns.
    
We sold more gallons of ethanol during the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year due to increased production at the ethanol plant and sales of ethanol inventory during the 20202021 period. Management attributes this increased production to process changes and efficiencies we implementedimproved operations at the ethanol plant which resulted in the plant in 2020 along with a slow down in the plantadditional ethanol production during the secondfirst quarter of 2019 dueour 2021 fiscal year compared to extreme weather conditions. Management anticipates thatthe same period of our ethanol production and sales will be lower2020 fiscal year. Production rates were slower during the restfirst quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to our 2019 fiscal year due to lower new crop corn availability from our producers. Management anticipates ethanol production to remain at its current rate unless profitability in the ethanol industry is negatively impacted by market uncertainty.conditions which may require us to reduce ethanol production levels. We anticipate focusingcontinuing to focus on operating the ethanol plant as efficiently as possible in order to maximize our ethanol production per bushel of corn usedprofitability during our 20202021 fiscal year.


From time to time we enter into forward sales contracts for our products. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, we had openexperienced a gain of approximately $301,000 related to our ethanol derivative instruments which increased our revenue. We held no ethanol futures contracts for approximately 1.2 million gallonsthe first quarter of ethanol with a fair value of less than $10,000. We had no ethanol futures contracts as of March 31, 2019.our 2020 fiscal year.
    
Distillers Grains


Previously,    During the first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year, we sold a majoritylarger percentage of our distillers grains in the driedmodified form compared to the same period of our 2020 fiscal year due to market conditions which favored that product. However, due tomodified distillers grains. In addition, the Chinese anti-dumping and countervailing duty tariffs which have decreased export demand fortotal volume of distillers grains we sold was greater during the first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the same period of our 2020 fiscal year due to increased overall production at the amountethanol plant during the first quarter of modified distillers grains we produced and sold. Modified distillers grains are used in our local market and are less impacted by world distillers grains markets.2021 fiscal year. The average price we received for our modified distillers grains werewas higher during the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year due to demand for modified distillers grains. The average price we received for our dried distillers grains were lowerwas higher during the secondfirst quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared toyear. The price we received for our distillers grains remained strong despite decreases in the second quarterprice of our 2019 fiscal yearcorn during the same periods. Management believes that this was due to lower corn prices and export demand.a decreased supply of distillers grains in the market due to decreased ethanol production along with the fact that distillers grains have become an important part of the feed rations for our customers. Management anticipates distillers grains prices will be lower forremain steady during the rest of our 20202021 fiscal year due to decreased corn prices and general economic downturn.

We produced and sold fewer total tons of distillers grains during the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to increased corn oil production during the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year. When we extract more corn oil from our distillers grains, it decreases the volume of distillers grains we have available to sell. Management anticipates relatively consistent distillers grains production going forward provided we can maintain favorable operating margins.
    
Corn Oil


The total pounds of corn oil we sold was significantly greaterlower during the secondfirst quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to improved corn oil yields which increased the amount of corn oil we have available to sell.lower production from grinding lower quality corn. Management anticipates that our corn oil production will remain at current levels for the remaining quarters of our 20202021 fiscal year provided market conditions allow us to continue to operate the ethanol plant.plant at capacity. The average price we received for our corn oil during the secondfirst quarter of our 2021 fiscal year was higher compared to the average price we received during the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year was approximately 4.2% less compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to decreased energy prices generally, including diesel which impacts the price of biodiesel.year. Recently, the biodiesel blenders' tax credit was renewed retroactively from January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2022. This extension of the

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tax credit has created greater certainty in the biodiesel industry which has resulted in increased demand for corn oil which is frequently used as a feedstock to produce biodiesel.

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Cost of Goods Sold


Our cost of goods sold is primarily made up of corn and natural gas expenses. Our cost of goods sold was less for the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year as compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year due primarily to lower corn costs per bushel and usage, partially offset by increased natural gas costs per MMBtu and use during the 2020 period.2021 fiscal year.


Corn Costs


Our cost of goods sold related to corn was less for the secondfirst quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to lower average corn costs per bushel, without taking derivative instrument positions into account. We also had an adjustmentaccount, along with decreased bushels of corn used to our cost of goods sold based on forward purchase contracts we had in place during the 2020 period and the value of our corn inventory relative to its value during the 2020 period.produce ethanol. For the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year, we used approximately 0.9%1.2% fewer bushels of corn compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year due to improved operating efficiencycorn to ethanol conversion during the 2020 period.first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year. The average price we paid per bushel of corn, without taking into account our derivative instruments, was approximately 7.3%7.4% less for the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 20192020 fiscal year due to lower market corn prices during the 2020 period.first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year. In addition, during the secondfirst quarter of our 2021 fiscal year, we had a realized gain of approximately $249,000 for our corn derivative instruments which decreased our cost of goods sold related to corn. For the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year, we had a realized lossgain of approximately $373,000$105,000 for our corn derivative instruments which increaseddecreased our cost of goods sold related to corn. Forcorn during that period. Management anticipates corn prices will increase during the secondrest of our 2021 fiscal year due to increased exports and less acres seeded in our geographical area based on the amount of prevent plant acres registered in North Dakota.

Natural Gas Costs

    We consumed approximately 4.9% more MMBtu of natural gas during the first quarter of our 20192021 fiscal year we had a realized loss of approximately $1.2 million for our corn derivative instruments which also increased our cost of goods sold relatedcompared to corn. Management anticipates lower corn prices during the restfirst quarter of our 2020 fiscal year, due to reduced ethanol and feed demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Natural Gas Costs

We consumed approximately 12.5% less MMBtu of natural gas during the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year, due to decreasedincreased production of dried distillers grains during the 2020 period along with improved efficiency operatingat the ethanol plant. Our average cost per MMBtu of natural gas was approximately 22.5% less7.4% greater during the secondfirst quarter of our 20202021 fiscal year compared to the secondfirst quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to plentiful natural gas supply and reduced energy demand at the end of the 2020 period.

General and Administrative Expenses

Our general and administrative expenses were greater for the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year primarily due to increased labor and consulting costs related to the carbon capture and storage project during the 2020 period.

Other Income/Expense

We had more interest income during the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to having more cash on hand during our 2020 fiscal year. Our other income was less during the second quarter of our 2020 fiscal year compared to the second quarter of our 2019 fiscal year due to a lower capital account distribution from RPMG.


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Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended March 31, 2020 and 2019
The following table shows the results of our operations and the percentages of revenues, cost of goods sold, general and administrative expenses and other items to total revenues in our unaudited statements of operations for the six months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019:
 Six Months Ended
March 31, 2020 (Unaudited)
 Six Months Ended
March 31, 2019 (Unaudited)
Statement of Operations DataAmount % Amount %
Revenues$49,979,057
 100.00
 $52,140,936
 100.00
Cost of Goods Sold52,847,332
 105.74
 52,115,107
 99.95
Gross Profit (Loss)(2,868,275) (5.74) 25,829
 0.05
General and Administrative Expenses1,823,968
 3.65
 1,330,765
 2.55
Operating Income (Loss)(4,692,243) (9.39) (1,304,936) (2.50)
Other Income, net204,336
 0.41
 284,472
 0.55
Net Income (Loss)$(4,487,907) (8.98) $(1,020,464) (1.96)
The following table shows additional data regarding production and price levels for our primary inputs and products for the six months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019.
  Six Months Ended March 31, 2020 (unaudited) Six Months Ended
March 31, 2019
(unaudited)
Production:    
  Ethanol sold (gallons) 32,039,890
 32,463,812
  Dried distillers grains sold (tons) 40,100
 47,422
  Modified distillers grains sold (tons) 70,563
 80,684
Corn oil sold (pounds) 7,789,150
 5,554,280
Revenues:    
  Ethanol average price per gallon (net of hedging) $1.19
 $1.22
  Dried distillers grains average price per ton 133.20
 141.79
  Modified distillers grains average price per ton 62.20
 51.87
Corn oil average price per pound 0.24
 0.23
Primary Inputs:    
  Corn ground (bushels) 11,293,626
 11,951,038
Natural gas (MMBtu) 726,326
 853,885
Costs of Primary Inputs:    
  Corn average price per bushel (net of hedging) $3.28
 $3.25
Natural gas average price per MMBtu (net of hedging) 2.25
 2.84
Other Costs (per gallon of ethanol sold):    
  Chemical and additive costs $0.076
 $0.092
  Denaturant cost 0.034
 0.034
  Electricity cost 0.047
 0.047
  Direct labor cost 0.064
 0.060

Revenue

Our revenue was less for the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the same period of our 2019 fiscal year due to decreased sales of our ethanol and distillers grains along with lower prices we received for our ethanol during the 2020 period. During the six months ended March 31, 2020, approximately 76.2% of our total revenue was derived from ethanol sales, approximately 19.5% was from distillers grains sales and approximately 3.7% was from corn oil sales. During the six months

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ended March 31, 2019, approximately 76.1% of our total revenue was derived from ethanol sales, approximately 20.9% was from distillers grains sales and approximately 2.5% was from corn oil sales.
Ethanol

The average price we received for our ethanol was less during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to lower gasoline prices and decreased ethanol demand. In addition, we sold fewer gallons of ethanol during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to decreased production during the 2020 period. Management attributes this decreased production to slower production rates during the beginning of our 2020 fiscal year due to lower new crop corn availability fromhaving fewer hedged MMBtus during our producers.

For the six months ended March 31, 2020 we had a realized gain of approximately $25,000 for our ethanol derivative instruments. We had no gain or loss on ethanol derivative instruments2021 fiscal year. Management anticipates natural gas supplies and prices will remain favorable during the six months ended March 31, 2019.
Distillers Grains

rest of our 2021 fiscal year. We produced fewer tons of distillers grainsanticipate ordinary natural gas price premiums during the sixwinter months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to decreased overall production at the ethanol plant along with increased corn oil production during the 2020 period, which reduces the amount of distillers grains we have to sell. The average price we received for our dried distillers grains was lower during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to weaker export demand and lower corn prices. The average price we received for our modified distillers grains during the six months ended March 31, 2020 was greater compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to stronger local demand for modified distillers grains.
Corn Oil

The total pounds of corn oil we sold was significantly greater during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to improved corn oil yields which increased the amount of corn oil we have available to sell. The average price we received for our corn oil during the six months ended March 31, 2020 was approximately approximately 4.3% greater compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to increased biodiesel demand.
Cost of Goods Sold

Our cost of goods sold is primarily made up of corn and natural gas expenses. Our cost of goods sold was greaterdemand for the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due primarily to increased repairs and maintenance along with an inventory adjustment during the 2020 period.heating purposes.

Corn Costs

Our cost of goods sold related to corn was less for the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to using less corn during the 2020 period, partially offset by greater corn costs per bushel, without taking derivative instrument positions into account. We also had an adjustment to our cost of goods sold based on forward purchase contracts we had in place during the 2020 period and an adjustment of the value of our corn inventory based on current market conditions. For the six months ended March 31, 2020, we used approximately 5.5% fewer bushels of corn compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to decreased production at the plant. The average price we paid per bushel of corn, without taking into account our derivative instruments, was approximately 0.9% greater for the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to higher market corn prices during the 2020 period. In addition, during the six months ended March 31, 2020, we had a realized loss of approximately $268,000 for our corn derivative instruments which increased our cost of goods sold related to corn. For the six months ended March 31, 2019, we had a realized loss of approximately $882,000 for our corn derivative instruments which increased our cost of goods sold related to corn. We had a lower of cost or net realizable value adjustment of approximately $241,000 which increased our cost of goods sold during the 2020 period along with a loss on our firm purchase commitments of $100,000 which also increased our cost of goods sold during the 2020 period.

Natural Gas Costs

We consumed approximately 14.9% less MMBtu of natural gas during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019, due to decreased production during the 2020 period. Our average cost per MMBtu of natural gas was approximately 20.8% less during the six months ended March 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 due to plentiful natural gas supply and lower energy prices during the 2020 period.

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General and Administrative Expenses


Our general and administrative expenses were greatersignificantly higher for the six months ended March 31, 2020first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year primarily due to increased labor and consulting costsservices related to theour carbon capture and storage project during the 2020 period.project.


Other Income/Expense


We had moreless interest income during the six months ended March 31, 2020first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year due to having moreless cash on hand during our 20202021 fiscal year. We also had lessOur other income was greater during the six months ended March 31, 2020first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year due to a lower capital account distribution from RPMG.gain on sale of used equipment no longer needed for operations. We had more interest expense during the first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year compared to the first quarter of our 2020 fiscal year due to increased borrowing on our loans which resulted in more accrued interest.


Changes in Financial Condition for the SixThree Months Ended MarchDecember 31, 2020


Current Assets. We had less cash and equivalents at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 primarily due to decreased profitabilitycash we used for capital expenditures during the 2020 period.first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year. We had more restricted cash at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 because we had more cash in our margin account associated with our hedging transactions. Due to the timing of payments from our marketers, and the decrease in market price, we had less accounts receivable at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 2019.2020. We had moreless inventory on hand at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 due primarily to having more corndecreased raw materials and finished goods inventory at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 2020. Our prepaid expenses were greater at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 due to a deposit to hold our natural gas contracts.contracts and an increase in our insurance premiums paid for the year.


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Property, Plant and Equipment. The value of our property, plant and equipment was lessgreater at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 due to theconstruction of our carbon capture and storage project and industrial alcohol project partially offset by regular depreciation of our assets partially offset by capital projects which were underway during the first quarter of our first six months of 2020.2021 fiscal year.


Other AssetsCurrent Liabilities. Our other assetsaccounts payable were greaterhigher at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 due to an accounting standard change which we implemented which requires us to account for leases differently from past periods.

Current Liabilities.having more deferred corn payments at December 31, 2020. Our accounts payableaccrued expenses were lower at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 20192020 due to having fewerless basis contracts and deferred payments for corn paymentsdeliveries at March 31, 2020. Our accrued expenses were higher at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 2019 due to deferred payments for corn deliveries2020.

Long-Term Liabilities. We had less notes payable at MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to September 30, 2019. We included the current portion of our operating leases as a current liability at March 31, 2020 due to the changed accounting standard regarding treatment of leases.

Long-Term Liabilities.payments we made on our long-term loans. We had a smaller long-term liability for our operating leases at MarchDecember 31, 2020 due to the new lease accounting standard we implemented.amortization of our leases.


Liquidity and Capital Resources


Based on financial forecasts performed by our management, we anticipate that we will have sufficient cash from our current credit facilities and cash from our operations to continue to operate the ethanol plant for the next 12 months. Should we experience unfavorable operating conditions in the future, we may have to secure additional debt or equity sources for working capital or other purposes.
    
The following table shows cash flows for the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019:2019:
December 31, 2020 (unaudited)December 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities$3,669,783 $(691,615)
Net cash (used in) investing activities(5,109,687)(707,802)
Net cash (used in) financing activities(102,695)(1,149)
Net (decrease) in cash$(1,542,599)$(1,400,566)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period$9,569,890 $9,121,503 
  March 31, 2020 (unaudited) March 31, 2019 (unaudited)
Net cash provided by operating activities $800,984
 $4,308,701
Net cash (used in) investing activities (1,136,257) (346,322)
Net cash (used in) financing activities (2,266) (3,098)
Net increase (decrease) in cash $(337,539) $3,959,281
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $10,184,530
 $14,832,620



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Cash Flow from Operations


Our operations provided lessmore cash during the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to the same period of our 20192020 fiscal year due primarily to decreasedincreased net income along with changes in our inventory and accounts payable which reduced cash generated by our operations during the 20202021 period.


Cash Flow From Investing Activities


We used more cash for capital expenditures during the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to the same period of our 20192020 fiscal year. During the 20202021 period, our primary capital expenditures were for our carbon capture and storage project research.project.
    
Cash Flow from Financing Activities


We used less cash forOur financing activities used more cash during the sixthree months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended March 31, 2019 because we did not have any dividendsame period of our 2020 fiscal year due to increased debt payments during the 20202021 period.


Our liquidity, results of operations and financial performance will be impacted by many variables, including the market price for commodities such as, but not limited to, corn, ethanol and other energy commodities, as well as the market price for any co-products generated by the facility and the cost of labor and other operating costs.  Assuming future relative price levels for corn, ethanol and distillers grains remain consistent, we expect operations to generate adequate cash flows to maintain operations.



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Capital Expenditures
 
The Company had approximately $1.6$15 million in construction in progress as of MarchDecember 31, 2020 primarily relating to the carbon capture and storage project research.and industrial alcohol project.


Capital Resources


Revolving Loan


On January 22, 2020, we entered into a new $10 million revolving loan (the "Revolving Loan") with Cornerstone Bank ("Cornerstone"). Interest accrues on any outstanding balance on the Revolving Loan at a rate of 1.2% less than the prime rate as published by the Wall Street Journal, adjusted monthly. The Revolving Loan has a minimum interest rate of 3.0%. The maturity date of the Revolving Loan iswas January 21, 2021. On February 1, 2021, the Revolving Loan was renewed and the new maturity date is January 31, 2022. The Revolving Loan is secured by a lien on all of our assets. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, we had $10 million available on the Revolving Loan. The variable interest rate on MarchDecember 31, 2020 was 3.55%3.00%.


Construction Loan


On January 22, 2020, we entered into a new $7 million construction loan (the "Construction Loan") with Cornerstone to finance our carbon capture and storage project. Interest accrues on any outstanding balance on the Construction Loan at a rate of 1.2% less than the prime rate as published by the Wall Street Journal, adjusted monthly. The maturity date of the Construction Loan is June 1, 2021. The Construction Loan is secured by a lien on all of our assets. At MarchDecember 31, 2020, we had $7 million available on the Construction Loan. The variable interest rate on MarchDecember 31, 2020 was 3.55%2.05%.


Paycheck Protection Program Loan

    On April 16, 2020, we entered into a new $873,400 Paycheck Protection Program Loan (the "PPP Loan') with Cornerstone Bank. Interest accrues on any outstanding balance on the PPP Loan at a rate of 1.0%. The maturity date of the PPP Loan is April 16, 2022. Under the terms of the loan, the Company may apply for forgiveness for all or a portion of the loan as designated under the PPP regulations. On October 31, 2020, we applied for forgiveness of the PPP Loan which forgiveness was received on January 20, 2021.

Ethanol Recovery Program

On July 13, 2020, we entered into a loan with the Bank of North Dakota Ethanol Recovery Program and Cornerstone for $5.41 million. The Ethanol Recovery Program was developed by the North Dakota Ethanol Producers Association and the Bank of North Dakota to use the existing Biofuels Pace program and value-added loan guarantee program to help ethanol production facilities weather the pandemic economic challenges. Ethanol producers could qualify for up to $15 million dollars of a low interest loan of 1% based on the amount of annual corn grind. The maturity date of the loan is July 13, 2025. The fixed interest rate as of September 30, 2020 was 3.75% with an interest rate buy down through the Bank of North Dakota to 1%. We make monthly payments of approximately $74,000 per month with the balance outstanding on December 31, 2020 of approximately $5,300,000.

Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates


We describe our significant accounting policies in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the Notes to Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019.2020. We discuss our critical accounting estimates in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019.2020. There has been no significant change in our critical accounting estimates since the end of our 20192020 fiscal year. Effective October 1, 2020 the Company adopted ASU2016-13 using the modified retrospective approach. Effective October 1, 2019 the Company adopted ASU No. 2016-02 using the modified retrospective approach (see note 7). Effective October 1, 2018, the Company has adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective approach for all of its contracts (see note 2). The Company also retrospectively adopted ASU No. 2016-18 on October 1, 2018.


Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

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Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.


We are exposed to the impact of market fluctuations associated with commodity prices as discussed below. We use derivative financial instruments as part of an overall strategy to manage market risk. We use cash, futures and option contracts to hedge changes to the commodity prices of corn and ethanol. We do not enter into these derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes, nor do we designate these contracts as hedges for accounting purposes pursuant to the requirements of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"). 


Commodity Price Risk
 
We expect to be exposed to market risk from changes in commodity prices.  Exposure to commodity price risk results from our dependence on corn and natural gas in the ethanol production process and the sale of ethanol.
 
We enter into fixed price contracts for corn purchases on a regular basis.  It is our intent that, as we enter into these contracts, we will use various hedging instruments (puts, calls and futures) to maintain a near even market position.  For example, if we have 1 million bushels of corn under fixed price contracts we would generally expect to enter into a short hedge position to offset our price risk relative to those bushels we have under fixed price contracts. Because our ethanol marketing company (RPMG) is selling substantially all of the gallons it markets on a spot basis we also include the corn bushel equivalent of the ethanol we have produced that is inventory but not yet priced as bushels that need to be hedged.
 
Although we believe our hedge positions will accomplish an economic hedge against our future purchases, they are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes, which would match the gain or loss on our hedge positions to the specific commodity purchase being hedged.  We use fair value accounting for our hedge positions, which means as the current market price of our hedge positions changes, the gains and losses are immediately recognized in our cost of sales.  The immediate recognition of hedging gains and losses under fair value accounting can cause net income to be volatile from quarter to quarter and year to year due to the timing of the change in value of derivative instruments relative to the cost of the commodity being hedged.  However, it is likely that commodity cash prices will have the greatest impact on the derivatives instruments with delivery dates nearest the current cash price.
 
As of MarchDecember 31, 2020,, we had fixed corn purchase contracts for approximately 350,0003,880,000 bushels of corn and we had corn futures and option contracts for approximately 1.8 million2,000,000 bushels of corn.  As of MarchDecember 31, 2020 we had an unrealized lossgain of approximately $503,000$270,000 related to our corn futures and option contracts.
 
It is the current position of our ethanol marketing company, RPMG, that under current market conditions, selling ethanol in the spot market will yield the best price for our ethanol.  RPMG will, from time to time, contract a portion of the gallons they market with fixed price contracts.  At December 31, 2020, we had no fixed ethanol sales contracts.
 
We estimate that our corn usage will be between 21 million and 23 million bushels per calendar year for the production of approximately 59 million to 64 million gallons of ethanol.  As corn prices move in reaction to market trends and information, our income statement will be affected depending on the impact such market movements have on the value of our derivative instruments.


A sensitivity analysis has been prepared to estimate our exposure to corn, natural gas and ethanol price risk. Market risk related to our corn, natural gas and ethanol prices is estimated as the potential change in income resulting from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in the average cost of our corn and natural gas, and our average ethanol sales price as of MarchDecember 31, 2020, net of the forward and future contracts used to hedge our market risk for corn, natural gas and ethanol. The volumes are based on our expected use and sale of these commodities for a one year period from MarchDecember 31, 2020. The results of this analysis, which may differ from actual results, are as follows:
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 Estimated Volume Requirements for the next 12 months (net of forward and futures contracts) Unit of Measure Hypothetical Adverse Change in Price Approximate Adverse Change to Income
Ethanol63,900,000
 Gallons 10% $(4,473,000)
Corn22,821,000
 Bushels 10% $(7,258,000)
Natural gas1,664,000
 MMBtu 10% $(94,000)


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Estimated Volume Requirements for the next 12 months (net of forward and futures contracts)Unit of MeasureHypothetical Adverse Change in PriceApproximate Adverse Change to Income
Ethanol63,900,000 Gallons10 %$(7,668,000)
Corn22,822,000 Bushels10 %$(6,249,000)
Natural gas1,664,000 MMBtu10 %$(416,000)

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures


We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosures.


Our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer (the principal executive officer), Gerald Bachmeier, along with our Chief Financial Officer, (the principal financial officer), Jodi Johnson, have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of MarchDecember 31, 2020. Based on this review and evaluation, these officers believe that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that material information related to us is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods required by the forms and rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.


In    For the firstfiscal quarter of fiscal yearended December 31, 2020, the Company implemented newthere has been no change in our internal controlscontrol over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to remediate a material weakness identified at the end of the Company's 2019 fiscal year by: (a) performing a review and updating month-end standard operating procedures; (b) assuring operating procedures will include specific instructions for the payment of invoices that crossover into the following month; and (c) providing an additional step for the CFO to review the posting date of all checks issued the first week after month-end prior tomaterially affect, our internal control over financial statement preparation.reporting.


PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION


Item 1. Legal Proceedings


From time to time in the ordinary course of business, we may be named as a defendant in legal proceedings related to various issues, including without limitation, workers' compensation claims, tort claims, or contractual disputes. We are not currently involved in any material legal proceedings.


Item 1A. Risk Factors


The following    There have been no material changes to the risk factors are provided due to material changes from the risk factorswhich were previously disclosed in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019. The risk factors set forth below should be read in conjunction with the risk factors section and the Management's Discussion and Analysis section included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019.2020.

We are subject to global and regional economic downturns and related risks

The level of demand for our products is affected by global and regional demographic and macroeconomic conditions. A significant downturn in global economic growth, or recessionary conditions in major geographic regions for prolonged periods, may lead to reduced demand for our products, which could have a negative effect on the market price of our products in the United States.  For example, in December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus surfaced in Wuhan, China (“COVID-19”). In just a few months, the spread of COVID-19 has resulted in businesses suspending or terminating global operations and travel, self-imposed or government-mandated quarantines, and an overall slowdown of economic activity in some areas.  Cases have been confirmed worldwide.  To the extent that such economic conditions negatively impact consumer and business confidence, travel and consumption patterns or volumes for our products, our business and results of operations could be significantly and adversely affected.

COVID-19 may negatively impact our ability to operate our business which could decrease or eliminate the value of our units.

COVID-19 has resulted in significant uncertainty in many areas of our business.  We do not know how long these conditions will last.  This uncertainty is expected to negatively impact our operations.  We may experience labor shortages if our employees are unable or unwilling to come to work.  In addition, if our suppliers cannot deliver the supplies we need to operate our business, including corn and chemicals for our operations, we may be forced to shutdown operations or reduce production.  In addition, if we are unable to ship our products because of trucking or rail shipping disruptions, it could also result in a forced shutdown or reduction of production.  If we are unable to operate the ethanol plant at capacity, it may result in unfavorable operating results, especially since we will continue to pay our fixed costs of maintaining the facility.  Any shutdown or reduction of production, especially for an extended period of time, could reduce or eliminate the value of our units.  

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


None.


Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities


None.


Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures.


None.


Item 5.Other Information


None.


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Item 6. Exhibits.


(a)The following exhibits are filed as part of this report.
(a)The following exhibits are filed as part of this report.
Exhibit No.Exhibits
Promissory Note - $28 million between Red Trail Energy, LLC and Cornerstone Bank dated February 1, 2021
Promissory Note - $10 million between Red Trail Energy, LLC and Cornerstone Bank dated February 1, 2021

Certificate Pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a)*

Certificate Pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a)*

Certificate Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350*

Certificate Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350*
101
The following financial information from Red Trail Energy, LLC's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended MarchDecember 31, 2020, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Condensed Balance Sheets as of MarchDecember 31, 2020 and September 30, 2019,2020, (ii) Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019, (iii) Statements of Cash Flows for the three and six months ended MarchDecember 31, 2020 and 2019, and (iv) the Notes to Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements.**


(*)    Filed herewith.
(**)    Furnished herewith.


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SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Date:February 12, 2021RED TRAIL ENERGY, LLC
Date:May 15, 2020/s/ Gerald Bachmeier
Gerald Bachmeier
President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Date:May 15, 2020February 12, 2021/s/ Jodi Johnson
Jodi Johnson
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)


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