U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION


Washington, D.C. 20549
  Form 10-Q




Mark One




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




For the quarterly period ended September 30 2010





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





For the transition period from ______ to _______





Commission File No. 333-141060




American Exploration Corporation
 (Name of small business issuer in its charter)




Nevada

98-0518266(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation

or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)2600 – 520 5thAvenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2P 3R7

(Address of principal executive offices)407 2ndStreet SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 2Y3

(Prior Address if Changed Since Last Filing(403) 233-8484

(Issuer’s telephone number)Securities registered pursuant to Section12(b) of the Act:

Name of each exchange on whichregistered:NoneSecurities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:Common Stock, $0.001(Title of Class)





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





Yes x   No o




Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files.




Yes o  No o




Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filed, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.




Large accelerated filer
o
Accelerated filer
oNon-accelerated filer
o
Smaller reporting company
x




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





Yes o  No x




Applicable Only to Issuer Involved in Bankruptcy Proceedings During the Preceding Five Years.




N/A




Indicate by checkmark whether the issuer has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Section 12, 13 and 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 after the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.





Yes o  No o




Applicable Only to Corporate Registrants




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




Class
Outstanding as of November 8, 2010Common Stock, $0.001
60,273,333













AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION




Form 10-Q







Part 1. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

PageItem 1.
Financial StatementsBalance Sheets (Unaudited)

4Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

5Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Unaudited)

6Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

8Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

9Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

16Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

24Item 4.
Controls and Procedures

24Part II. OTHER INFORMATIONItem 1.
Legal Proceedings

25Item 1A.
Risk Factors

25Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

25Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities

26Item 4.
Removed and Reserved

26Item 5.
Other Information

26Item 6.
Exhibits

27




2





FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS




Statements made in this Form 10-Q that are not historical or current facts are "forward-looking statements" made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements often can be identified by the use of terms such as "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "approximate" or "continue," or the negative thereof. We intend that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors for such statements. We wish to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Any forward-looking statements represent management's best judgment as to what may occur in the future. However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and important factors beyond our control that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from historical results of operations and events and those presently anticipated or projected. We disclaim any obligation subsequently to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statement or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.




3




AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION


(f.k.a. Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc.)


(An Exploration Stage Company)


BALANCE SHEETS


(Unaudited)








September 30,

2010


December 31,

2009ASSETSCurrent AssetsCash and cash equivalents

$
5,764


$
9,560Total Current Assets


5,764



9,560Oil and gas properties – unevaluated, not subject to amortization


3,771,001



3,771,001Website, net of amortization


3,866



6,392Total Assets

$
3,780,631


$
3,786,953LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITYCurrent LiabilitiesAccounts payable and accrued liabilities

$
21,440


$
32,500Accounts payable – related parties


15,490



5,422Short-term note payable


49,979



-Short-term notes payable – related parties


88,200



87,809Convertible notes – related party


100,000



95,227Total Current Liabilities


275,109



220,958Commitments and contingencies


-



-Stockholders’ EquityCommon stock, $0.001 par value, 2,100,000,000 shares authorized:60,273,333 and  59,773,333 shares issued and outstanding, respectively


60,273



59,773Additional paid-in capital


5,909,762



5,577,683Accumulated deficit during exploration stage


(2,464,513
)


(2,071,461
)Total Stockholders’ Equity


3,505,522



3,565,995Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

$
3,780,631


$
3,786,953





The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements.




4





AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION


(f.k.a. Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc.)


(An Exploration Stage Company)


STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


For the Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, and for the


Period from Inception (May 11, 2006) to September 30, 2010


(Unaudited)





Three Months


Three Months


Nine Months


Nine Months


InceptionEnded


Ended


Ended


Ended


(May 11, 2006)September 30, 2010


September 30, 2009


September 30, 2010


September 30, 2009


to September 30, 2010Revenue

$
-


$
-


$
-


$
-


$
-Operating  ExpensesGeneral and administrative


155,514



1,423,284



554,330



1,652,791



2,558,093Amortization


842



833



2,526



2,493



7,411Total Operating Expenses


156,356



1,424,117



556,856



1,655,284



2,565,504Loss from Operations


(156,356
)


(1,424,284
)


(556,856
)


(1,655,284
)


(2,565,504
)Other income (expense)Loss on sale of assets


-



-



-



-



(1,161
)Other income


23,800



-



173,800



-



173,800Interest expense


(2,899
)


(2,191
)


(9,996
)


(2,191
)


(71,648
)Total other income (expense)


20,901



(2,191
)


163,804



(2,191
)


100,991Net loss

$
(135,455
)

$
(1,426,308
)

$
(393,052
)

$
(1,657,475
)

$
(2,464,513
)Net loss per common share – basic and diluted

$
(0.00
)

$
(0.03
)

$
(0.01
)

$
(0.02
)Weighted average shares -  basic and diluted


60,273,333



56,705,707



60,147,326



82,803,114




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements




5




AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION


(f.k.a. Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc.)


(An Exploration Stage Company)


STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY


For the Period from Inception (May 11, 2006) to September 30, 2010


(Unaudited)





DeficitAccumulatedAdditional


During the


TotalCommon Stock


Paid-in


Exploration


Stockholders’Shares


Amount


Capital


Stage


EquityBalance at inception on May 11, 2006


-


$
-


$
-


$
-


$
-Initial capitalization, sale ofof common stock to directors onMay 11,2006 $0.00005/share


94,500,000



94,500



(90,000
)


-



4,500Private Placement - September 30,at 0.0024/share


41,475,000



41,475



57,275



-



98,750Net loss


-



-



-



(9,055
)


(9,055
)Balance, December 31, 2006


135,975,000



135,975



(32,725
)


(9,055
)


94,195Net loss


-



-



-



(60,078
)


(60,078
)Balance, December 31, 2007


135,975,000



135,975



(32,725
)


(69,133
)


34,117Private Placement- November 19,2008 at $0.692/share


1,350,000



1,350



898,650



-



900,000Private Placement - November 24,2008 at $0.689/share


150,000



150



99,850



-



100,000Net loss


-



-



-



(106,170
)


(106,170
)Balance December 31, 2008


137,475,000



137,475



965,775



(175,303
)


927,947Private Placement - February 2009at $0.667/share


487,500



488



324,512



-



325,000Forgiven loan from director


-



-



5,000



-



5,000Cancellation of shares


(83,100,000
)


(83,100
)


83,100



-



-Shares issued for oil and  gas lease -August 2009 at $0.66/share


4,037,500



4,037



2,660,713



-



2,664,750Private Placements – August 2009at $0.50/share


660,000



660



329,340







330,000Private Placements – September 2009at $0.75 and $1.00/share


158,333



158



124,842



-



125,000Private Placement - October 2009at $1.00/share


55,000



55



54,945



-



55,000Amortization of share-based compensation


-



-



968,511



-



968,511Discount on convertible debt


-



-



60,945



-



60,945Net  Loss


-



-



-



(1,896,158
)


(1,896,158
)Balance, December 31, 2009


59,773,333


$
59,773


$
5,577,683


$
(2,071,461
)

$
3,565,995




6





DeficitAccumulatedAdditional


During the


TotalCommon Stock


Paid-in


Exploration


Shareholders’Shares


Amount


Capital


Stage


EquityBalance, December 31, 2009


59,773,333


$
59,773


$
5,577,683


$
(2,071,461
)

$
3,565,995Private Placement – Feb 22, 2010at $0.25 per share


300,000



300



74,700



-



75,000Private Placement – April 5, 2010at $0.25 per share


200,000



200



49,800



-



50,000Amortization of share-based compensation


-



-



207,579



-



207,579Net Loss


-



-



-



(393,052
)


(393,052
)Balance September 30, 2010


60,273,333


$
60,273


$
5,909,762


$
(2,464,513
)

$
3,505,522





The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements.




7





AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION


(f.k.a. Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc.)


(An Exploration Stage Company)


STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW


For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, and for the


Period from Inception (May 11, 2006) to September 30, 2010


(Unaudited)





Period fromNine Months


Nine Months


InceptionEnded


Ended


(May 11, 2006)September 30,

2010


September 30,

2009


to September 30, 2010CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIESNet loss

$
(393,052
)

$
(1,657,475
)

$
(2,464,513
)Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used by operating activitiesAmortization expense


2,526



2,493



7,411Amortization of debt discount


-



-



60,945Share-based compensation


207,579



853,318



1,176,090Loss on sale of assets


-



-



1,161Changes in operating assets and liabilities:Accounts payable and accrued liabilities


(5,918
)


111,998



26,445Accounts payable - related parties


10,069



-



15,490Net cash used in operating activities


(178,796
)


(689,666
)


(1,176,971
)CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIESWebsite


-



-



(10,000
)Acquisition of unproved oil and gas properties


-



(325,001
)


(1,108,551
)Net cash used in investing activities


-



(325,001
)


(1,118,551
)CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIESProceeds from issuance of common stock


125,000



780,000



2,063,250Proceeds from note payable


50,000



-



50,000Proceeds from notes payable – related parties


-



87,548



92,809Proceeds from issuance of convertible debt – related party


-



-



95,227Net cash provided by financing activities


175,000



867,548



2,301,286(Decrease) increase in cash during period


(3,796
)


(147,119
)


5,764Cash, beginning of period


9,560



160,832



-Cash, end of period

$
5,764


$
13,713


$
5,764Supplemental cash flow information:Taxes paid

$
-


$
-


$
-Interest paid

$
-


$
-


$
-Non-cash investing transactions:Common stock issued for oil and gas properties

$
-


$
-


$
2,664,750Cancellation of loan from director – contributed capital

$
-


$
-


$
5,000Cancellation of shares

$
-


$
-


$
83,100




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements.




8





AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION


(f.k.a. Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc.)


(An Exploration Stage Company)


NOTES TO UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS




NOTE 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES





The accompanying unaudited interim financial statements of American Exploration Corporation (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q.  They do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for a complete financial presentation. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation, have been included in the accompanying unaudited financial statements.  Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.





These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and footnotes that are included as part of the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.





The Company was originally incorporated under the laws of the state of Nevada on May 11, 2006. The Company has limited operations, is considered an exploration stage company, and has had no revenues from operations to date.





Initial operations have included capital formation, organization, target market identification and marketing plans. On August 6, 2008, the Company merged with its wholly-owned subsidiary and changed its name to American Exploration Corporation.  Concurrent with the name change, management changed the focus of operations from the provision of consulting engineering services to oil and gas exploration and development.





On August 18, 2008, the Company affected a 14 for 1 forward stock split of its issued and outstanding par value $0.001 common shares.  On April 13, 2009, a 1.5 for 1 forward stock split took effect.  All share and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the effect of these forward stock splits.





Use of Estimates





The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.





Reclassification





Certain amounts for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.





Earnings per Share





Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Common share equivalents included in the diluted computation represent shares issuable upon assumed exercise of stock options and warrants using the treasury stock method and convertible instruments using the “if converted” method. For periods in which net losses are incurred, weighted average shares outstanding is the same for basic and diluted loss per share calculations, as the inclusion of common share equivalents would have an anti-dilutive effect.





For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010, options and warrants to purchase 2,700,000 and 250,000 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.




9





Cash and Cash Equivalents





The Company considers all highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.





Concentrations of Risks - Cash Balances





The Company maintains its cash in institutions insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).  Both the FDIC and CDIC had insured limits of up to $250,000 per depositor as of September 30, 2010.





Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method





The Company has elected to use the full cost method of accounting for oil and gas producing activities. Costs to acquire mineral interests in oil and gas properties, to drill and equip exploratory wells used to find proved reserves, and to drill and equip development wells, including directly related overhead costs and related asset retirement costs, are capitalized.





Under this method, all costs, including internal costs directly related to acquisition, exploration and development activities are capitalized as oil and gas property costs on a county by county basis. Properties not subject to amortization consist of exploration and development costs which are evaluated on a property-by-property basis. Amortization of these unproved property costs begins when the properties become proved or their values become impaired. The Company assesses the realizability of unproved properties, if any, on at least an annual basis or when there has been an indication that impairment in value may have occurred. Impairment of unproved properties is assessed based on management's intention with regard to future exploration and development of individually significant properties and the ability of the Company to obtain funds to finance such exploration and development. If the results of an assessment indicate that the properties are impaired, the amount of the impairment is added to the capitalized costs to be amortized.





In applying the full cost method, the Company performs an impairment test (ceiling test) at each reporting date, whereby the carrying value of property and equipment is compared to the “estimated present value” of its proved reserves.  The estimated present value of proved reserves is based upon future net revenues (after consideration of current economic and operating conditions at the end of the period) discounted at a 10 percent interest rate, plus the cost of properties not being amortized, plus the lower of cost or fair market value of unproved properties included in costs being amortized, less the income tax effects related to book and tax basis differences of the properties. If capitalized costs exceed this limit, the excess is charged as an impairment expense.





As of September 30, 2010 the Company had no proved properties and no impairment of unevaluated oil and gas properties was indicated.





Foreign exchange and currency translation





For the periods presented, the Company maintained cash accounts in Canadian and U.S. dollars, and incurred certain expenses denominated in Canadian dollars.  The Company's functional and reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates in effect on the date of the transactions. Assets and liabilities are translated using exchange rates at the end of each period. Exchange gains or losses on transactions are included in earnings. Adjustments resulting from the translation process are reported in a separate component of other comprehensive income and are not included in the determination of the results of operations.  For all periods presented, any exchange gains or losses or translation adjustments resulting from foreign currency transactions were immaterial.




10





Recent Accounting Pronouncements





There were various accounting standards and interpretations issued recently, none of which are expected to have a material effect on the Company’s operations, financial position or cash flows.




NOTE 2. GOING CONCERN





The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates, among other things, the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company has incurred net losses for the period from inception to September 30, 2010 of $2,464,513. The Company intends to fund initial operations through equity financing arrangements and current efforts are further described in Note 6.





The ability of the Company to emerge from the exploration stage is dependent upon the Company’s successful efforts to raise sufficient capital and then attain profitable operations.  In response to these problems, management has planned or completed the following actions:





•
The Company has completed a Registration Statement and obtained a trading symbol for its common shares on the OTCBB.





•
Management intends to raise additional funds through public or private equity or debt offerings.





•
Management has changed the focus of the Company’s operations to oil and gas exploration and development from the provision of engineering services.





There can be no assurances, however, that management’s expectations of future revenues will be realized.





Mainland Resources, Inc. Merger Agreement





Earlier this year our Board of Directors authorized and approved the execution of a definitive merger agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”) dated March 22, 2010 (the “Execution Date”) with Mainland Resources, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Mainland Resources”). The Merger Agreement provides for a stock-for-stock merger to be effected under the laws of the State of Nevada whereby it is contemplated that our shareholders will receive one share of common stock of Mainland Resources for every four shares of our common stock held of record. The share exchange ratio is subject to adjustment.  The Merger Agreement is subject to various conditions precedent including, but not limited to, approval by our shareholders and the shareholders of Mainland Resources of the Merger Agreement, and the number of Mainland Resources’ shareholders exercising dissenter rights available to them under Nevada law cannot exceed 5% of the total issued and outstanding shares of Mainland Resources common stock. The Merger Agreement is subject to termination by either us or Mainland Resources if certain conditions specified in the Merger Agreement are not satisfied at or before September 30, 2010 or such later date as may be mutually agreed upon (the “Termination Date”). Effective on September 7, 2010, we entered into an amending agreement (the “Amending Agreement”) with Mainland Resources in regards to the Merger Agreement. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Amending Agreement, the Termination Date has been extended to December 31, 2010.


If the merger is completed, Mainland Resources will be the surviving corporation, and will acquire all of the Company’s assets and property.





NOTE 3. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY





Common Stock - Issued and Outstanding





On May 11, 2006 (inception), the Company issued 94,500,000 shares of its common stock to its Directors for cash of $4,500.  On September 30, 2006, the Company closed a private placement for 41,475,000 common shares for an aggregate of $98,750.




On November 19th and 24th of 2008, the Company closed two private placements for 1,350,000 and 150,000 shares respectively, at a price of $0.67 per share, for a total of $1,000,000. Included with each share in these private placements was one-half non-transferable share purchase warrant, for a total of 750,000 warrants with a fair value on the date of grant of $26,012.  Each warrant had a term of 12 months and entitled the subscriber to purchase one additional share of the company at an exercise price of $1.33 per share.  These warrants expired without exercise during 2009.




11





In February 2009, the Company completed two private placements for 487,500 shares for a total of $325,000, or $0.67 per share.  Included with each share in these private placements was one-half non-transferable share purchase warrant, for a total of 243,750 warrants with a fair value on the date of grant of $48,716.  Each warrant had a term of 12 months and entitled the subscriber to purchase one additional share of the Company’s stock at an exercise price of $1.33 per share.  These warrants expired without exercise during 2010.





On March 21, 2009 our prior executive officers and founders agreed to return an aggregate 83,100,000 shares of our common stock to the Company.  They did not receive any compensation for the return to and cancellation of these shares by the Company.





On August 19, 2009, 4,037,500 shares were issued to Westrock to acquire the balance of an oil and gas lease (see Note 5).  These shares were valued at $0.66 per share for a total of $2,664,750, based upon the Company’s share price on the date of agreement.





On August 17, 2009, a private placement closed for 400,000 shares at $0.50 per share or $200,000.  On August 31, 2009, a private placement closed, for 260,000 shares at $0.50 per share or $130,000.  On September 21, 2009, a private placement closed for 133,333 shares at $0.75 per share, or $100,000.  On September 25, 2009, a private placement closed for 25,000 shares at $1.00 per share.  Included with each share in these private placements was one-half non-transferable share purchase warrant for a total of 409,166 warrants with an exercise term of 12 months and a fair value on the grant date of $356,761.  The warrants had exercise prices ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 and expired without exercise during 2010.





On October 8, 2009 a private placement closed for 55,000 shares at $1.00 per share, or a total of $55,000, with no warrants attached.





On February 24, 2010 a private placement closed for 300,000 shares at $0.25 per share or $75,000. The investor also received 150,000 warrants with an exercise price of $0.50 per share with a one year term.  These warrants had a grant date fair value of $20,495.





On April 5, 2010 a private placement closed for 200,000 shares at $0.25 per share or $50,000. The investor also received 100,000 warrants with an exercise price of $0.50 per share with a one year term. These warrants had a grant date fair value of $17,403.





Stock Options





In September 2009, the Company adopted the 2009 Stock Option Plan (“2009 Plan”).  The 2009 Plan allows the Company to issue options to officers, directors and employees, as well as consultants, to purchase up to 7,000,000 shares of common stock.





No options were issued during the nine months ended September 30, 2010.




12





A summary of stock option activity and related information for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 is presented below:





Options


Weighted-Average Exercise Price


Aggregate Intrinsic ValueOutstanding at January 1, 2010


2,700,000


$
0.80


$
-Granted


-



-



-Exercised


-



-



-Forfeited


-



-



-Outstanding at September 30, 2010


2,700,000


$
0.80


$
-Exercisable at September 30, 2010


1,240,430


$
0.80


$
-





Outstanding options had an aggregate fair value of $2,559,954, or $0.95 per share, at the date of grant, which was calculated in accordance with the Black-Sholes valuation model. The Company recognized stock based compensation expense of $207,759 related to these options during the nine months ended September 30, 2010.  As of September 30, 2010, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options was $1,383,864.  The unrecognized stock-based compensation is expected to be ratably amortized to expense over a period of 5 years. The weighted average remaining contractual term of the outstanding options and exercisable options at September 30, 2010 is approximately 9 years.  Options outstanding had no intrinsic value at September 30, 2010.





Warrants





A summary of warrant activity and related information for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 is presented below:





Warrants


Weighted-Average Exercise Price


Aggregate Intrinsic ValueOutstanding at January 1, 2010


652,916


$
1.01


$
-Granted


250,000



0.50



-Exercised






-



-Forfeited or expired


(652,916
)

$
1.01


$
-Outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2010


250,000


$
0.50


$
-





As of September 30, 2010, the Company had 250,000 warrants outstanding with a remaining weighted average contractual life of approximately 5.4 months.  The weighted average exercise price for all remaining outstanding warrants was $0.50 per share.  Outstanding warrants had an aggregate fair market value of $37,898 at the date of grant, which was calculated in accordance with the Black-Sholes valuation model based on the following assumptions:  (a) risk free interest rate 3.5%, (b) expected volatility of 192.35% (c) expected life of 1 year, and (d) zero expected future dividends.





Other Capital Transactions





On January 1, 2009, a $5,000 advance payable to a director of the Company and outstanding as of December 31, 2008, was forgiven and recorded as a contribution to capital.





On July 16th, 2010 our Board of Directors, pursuant to unanimous written consent, authorized the filing of a Statement of Change with the Nevada Secretary of State increasing our authorized capital to 2,100,000,000 shares of common stock.




13





NOTE 4. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS





During the second quarter of 2009, directors of the Company loaned approximately $88,000 to cover operating expenses of the Company.  Interest of 10% per annum will be paid to the lenders beginning July 1, 2009 and the loans are due upon demand.  All of these loans are unsecured and, as of September 30, 2010, the Company had not received a demand from any of the lenders for payment on this short term notes payable.  No interest has been paid to date.





A 5% unsecured convertible debenture, due January 13, 2010, was also issued by the Company to a related party on October 13, 2009 for CDN$100,000 (USD $95,227).  The unpaid principal amount can be converted into common stock at the price of $0.50 per share.  Management assessed the convertible note pursuant to ASC 470 - Debt and determined that the convertible note had a beneficial conversion feature that resulted in a debt discount of $60,945.  The terms of convertible note allow for the holder to convert principal and interest at any time into common shares.  Therefore, pursuant to ASC 470, the Company immediately expensed as interest expense the debt discount of $60,945 related to the convertible note.  The convertible note was not redeemed or converted at the maturity date, is currently in default and is still accruing interest.





NOTE 5.  NOTES PAYABLE





In June 2010, the Company borrowed $50,000 pursuant to a note payable agreement with an unrelated third party.  The note bears interest at 5% per annum, is unsecured and matures on June 2, 2011.   Interest together with principal is due at the maturity date.





NOTE 6.  UNEVALUATED OIL AND GAS PROPERTIES





In  November 2008,  the Company executed an option  agreement  (the "Option  Agreement") to purchase a 75% net  revenue  interest  (100% working interest) in approximately  5,000 net acres in oil and gas  leases  located in Mississippi in the onshore region of the Gulf Coast of the United States.  The purchase price was $625 per net acre or a total of $3,125,000.  The Option Agreement required that a well be spud no later than May 31, 2009 and provided the Company until November 17, 2008 to complete its due diligence (the "Option Period").  The Company made a payment of $781,250 upon execution of the Option Agreement.





The Option Agreement was amended a number of times to extend the Option Period and through August 2009, the Company made additional cash payments totaling $325,000 to the counterparty.





On August 19, 2009, the Company entered into a final amendment to the Option Agreement whereby the Company (i) agreed to issue 4,037,500 shares of its restricted common stock as satisfaction for the remaining balance due under the Option Agreement, and (ii) agreed to drill and complete a minimum of at least one well on the properties in the Haynesville geological zone no later than December 31, 2010. On November 2, 2010 an agreement was signed between Westrock and American which extends the deadline for drilling and completing a well in the Haynesville Formation one year, to December 31, 2011.




The 4,037,500 shares issued to satisfy the remaining purchase price were valued at $2,664,750, based upon the Company’s share price on the date of agreement, bringing the total acquisition price to $3,771,001.  The properties acquired have no proved reserves and therefore, have been classified as unevaluated in the accompanying financial statements.





Mainland Resources, Inc. Joint Development Project





On September 17, 2009, we executed a letter agreement (the “Letter Agreement”) with Mainland Resources to jointly develop contiguous acreage known as the Buena Vista Area located in Mississippi (the “Joint Development Project”). In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Letter Agreement: (i) we agreed to commit approximately 5,000 net acres and Mainland Resources agreed to commit approximately 8,225 net acres to the Joint Development Project; (ii) Mainland Resources would be the operator pursuant to the Joint Operating Agreement; (iii) Mainland Resources agreed to pay 80% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 51% working interest in the well and the total Joint Operating Area; and (iv) we agreed to pay 20% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 49% working interest in the well and the total Joint Operating Area.  Future costs, including drilling and completions, for oil and gas activities of the net acreage in the Joint Operating Area would have been split of a 51%/49% basis between Mainland Resources and us, respectively.




14





On March 25, 2010, Mainland Resources issued an authorization for expenditure (“AFE”) for the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 Well which contemplated drilling to a depth of 22,000 feet, or a depth sufficient to evaluate the Haynesville Shale formation. The total completed well cost was estimated at $13,550,000. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Letter Agreement, we had thirty days to contribute our 20% share of the total completed well cost, or $2,710,000.





On April 27, 2010, we failed to fund our 20% of the estimated total well costs of the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 well on the Buena Vista prospect. As a result, we forfeited our right to a 29% working interest in the well and in the Buena Vista prospect in favor of Mainland Resources. We will continue to be entitled to receive a 20% working interest in the well and the prospect after completion (subject to compliance by us with all other terms and conditions of the Letter Agreement and the related Joint Operating Agreement).




In July 2010, the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 well commenced drilling on the Buena Vista prospect in Mississippi. As of October 26, 2010 the well continues to be successfully drilled towards the targeted depth.




Avere Energy  Inc. Farm-In Agreement





Effective on January 15, 2010, we executed a letter of intent with Avere Energy Inc., a Canadian corporation (“Avere Energy”), regarding our Mississippi project. On March 1, 2010, the letter of intent with Avere Energy was amended (the “Amended Letter of Intent”).





Pursuant to the Amended Letter of Intent, Avere Energy was to enter into a definitive farm-in agreement with us whereby Avere would farm-in on our interest in the Mississippi Project by paying 20% of the total well costs (which is 100% of our capital commitment under the Mainland Letter Agreement) to earn a 20% net interest in the Mississippi Project, which is 40.81% of our working interest (the “Earned Interest’). On January 27, 2010, pursuant to the Amended Letter of Intent, Avere Energy paid to us a $75,000 non-refundable deposit.




Effective on April 20, 2010, we received notice from Avere Energy they were terminating the Amended Letter of Intent. Avere Energy was unable to raise the required funds and obtain the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange to the definitive farm-in agreement. Therefore, in accordance with the notice of termination from Avere Energy to us, we did not enter into a definitive farm-in agreement with Avere Energy. A negotiated break fee of $75,000 was paid to us by Avere Energy on June 9, 2010, which has been recorded as other income in the accompanying income statement.




NOTE 7.  INCOME TAXES





Deferred income taxes are provided on a liability method whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are established for the difference between the financial reporting and income tax basis of assets and liabilities as well as operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.





Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon sufficient future taxable income during the period that deductible temporary differences and carry-forwards are expected to be available to reduce taxable income. At September 30, 2010 the Company has recorded a 100% valuation allowance as management believes it is likely that any deferred tax assets will not be realized.





As of September 30, 2010, the Company has a net operating loss carry forward of approximately $1.7 million, which will expire between years 2026 and 2029.





NOTE 8. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS





In September 2010, the Company executed a promissory note to borrow $60,000 from Mainland Resources. The note bears interest at 12% per annum, is unsecured and matures on December 31, 2010.  The note was funded in October of 2010 and was recorded as a liability at that time.





American Exploration acquired 5,000 acres of mineral leases in Jefferson County Mississippi that was concluded on August 19, 2009. Within this agreement, American Exploration agreed to drill and complete at least one well on the property before December 31, 2010 that would evaluate the Haynesville geological zone. On November 2, 2010 an agreement was signed between Westrock and American which extends the deadline for drilling and completing a well in the Haynesville Formation one year to December 31, 2011.





In accordance with ASC 855-10, the Company’s management reviewed all material events through the issuance date of this report and there are no other material subsequent events to report.




15




ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
  GENERAL
  American Exploration Corporation was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on May 11, 2006 under the name of Minhas Energy Consultants, Inc. Previously, we were engaged in the business of providing professional engineering consulting services to the oil and gas industry, including clients such as petroleum and natural gas companies, oilfield service companies, utilities and manufacturing companies with petroleum and/or natural gas interests and government agencies. After the effective date of March 14, 2007 of our registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 5, 2007, we commenced trading on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board.
  On August 6, 2008, with the approval of our Board of Directors, we merged with our subsidiary, American Exploration Corporation, and amended our Articles of Incorporation to change our name to “American Exploration Corporation.” We currently are a natural resource exploration and production company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas properties in the United States and within North America. Effective at the opening for trading on August 19, 2008, our trading symbol for our shares traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board changed to “AEXP.OB”.
  Please note that throughout this Quarterly Report, and unless otherwise noted, the words "we," "our," "us," the "Company," or "American Exploration," refers to American Exploration Corporation.
  CURRENT BUSINESS OPERATIONS
  We are an exploration stage company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas properties in North America, primarily in the United States. Our primary focus has been the acquisition of mineral leases located in Mississippi previously owned by Westrock Land Corp, a private Texas corporation ("Westrock"). We identified a prospect with an over-thickened Haynesville Shale gas reservoir situated below the properties covered by these leases.
  Merger Agreement
  Our Board of Directors has authorized and approved the execution of a definitive merger agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”) dated March 22, 2010 (the “Execution Date”) with Mainland Resources, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“Mainland Resources”). The Merger Agreement provides for a stock-for-stock merger to be effected under the laws of the State of Nevada whereby it is contemplated that our shareholders will receive one share of common stock of Mainland Resources for every four shares of our common stock held of record. The specific share exchange ratio will be negotiated following the completion of “fairness opinions” conducted by independent financial advisors and technical due diligence by both Mainland and American. As of the date of the Merger Agreement, there were 59,973,333 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding with the result that 14,993,333 shares of common stock of Mainland Resources are to be issued to our shareholders upon consummation and completion of the Merger Agreement, which shares may be increased based upon an increase in the number of our shares issued and outstanding subsequent to the Merger Agreement. In further accordance with the terms and provisions of the Merger Agreement, and based upon the closing market price of Mainland Resource’s common stock of $1.25 per share as reported on the OTC Bulletin Board on March 18, 2010, the total share consideration to be issued to our shareholders at the date of the Merger Agreement will be valued at $18,741,666. In the event the Merger Agreement is consummated and the merger is completed: (i) Mainland Resources will be the surviving corporation; (ii) Mainland Resources will be vested with all of our assets and property (as discussed below); and (iii) our shareholders will hold approximately twenty percent (20%) of the total issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Mainland Resources.
  16
  The Merger Agreement is subject to various conditions precedent including, but not limited to, the following: (i) approval by our shareholders and the shareholders of Mainland Resources of the Merger Agreement; (ii) completion of satisfactory due diligence by both us and Mainland Resources within thirty (30) days of the Execution Date of the business and affairs of each respective company to determine the general and economic feasibility of the merger; (iii) the number of Mainland Resources’ shareholders exercising dissenter rights available to them under Nevada law, which shall not exceed 5% of the total issued and outstanding shares of Mainland Resources common stock; (iv) receipt by us and Mainland Resources of a draft fairness opinion (each a “Fairness Opinion”) of its own independent financial advisor to the effect that, as of the Execution Date, the merger is fair from a financial point of view to the shareholders of each respective company (subject to the assumptions, qualifications and limitations relating to such opinion); (v) the acceptance and approval of the Fairness Opinion by our Board of Directors and the board of directors of Mainland Resources, respectively; and (vi) confirmation of the accuracy and material compliance of our representations, warranties and covenants and those representations, warranties and covenants of Mainland Resources.
  On May 5, 2010, we issued a press release announcing that we and Mainland Resources have each completed, to our satisfaction, respective due diligence investigation of the other party's business and affairs within the thirty day due diligence period contemplated by the Merger Agreement.  In addition, each party has received a fairness opinion (each, a "Fairness Opinion") of its own independent financial advisor to the effect that, as of the date of the Merger Agreement, the merger is fair from a financial point of view to holders of such party's stockholders (subject to the assumptions, qualifications and limitations relating to such opinion). Each Fairness Opinion sets forth the procedures followed, the assumptions made, qualifications and limitations on the review undertaken, and various other matters, and will be annexed to the joint proxy statement/ prospectus that will be included in a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that Mainland Resources intends to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission to register the securities of Mainland Resources to be issued in exchange for securities of American Exploration. If the merger is completed, Mainland Resources will be the surviving corporation, and will become vested with all of the Company’s assets and property. Each Fairness Opinion will not constitute a recommendation as to how any stockholder should vote on the merger or any matter relevant to the Merger Agreement.
  Our Board of Directors has adopted a resolution approving the merger on the terms and subject to the conditions of the Merger Agreement, and recommending the merger to the stockholders of the Company. Furthermore, our Special Committee of the Board of Directors has also adopted a resolution approving the merger on the terms and subject to the conditions of the Merger Agreement, and recommending the merger to our stockholders.
 
 Effective on September 7, 2010, we entered into an amending agreement (the “Amending Agreement”) with Mainland Resources in regards to the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement is subject to termination by either us or Mainland Resources if certain conditions specified in the Merger Agreement are not satisfied at or before September 30, 2010 or such later date as may be mutually agreed upon (the “Termination Date”). In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Amending Agreement, the Termination Date has been extended to December 31, 2010
  As of the date of this Quarterly Report, we intend to file an S-4 registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission and associated proxy material to present the Merger Agreement to our shareholders for approval.
 
 Westrock Option Agreement
 
 Effective on November 3, 2008, our Board of Directors authorized the execution of an option agreement (the “Option Agreement”) with Westrock. Westrock owned all right, title and interest in and to approximately 5,000 net acres in oil and gas leases located in Mississippi (collectively, the ”Leases”). We had an option to acquire 100% of the working interest and 75% of the net revenue interest in the Leases at $625 per net acre for a total purchase price of $3,125,000. The contiguous acreage involves several landowners, with mineral lease expiry ranging from June through September of 2011. Terms of the Option Agreement required spudding a well on or before October 1, 2009. The effective date of the conveyance of the revenue interest in the Leases to us was to be no later than May 15, 2009 upon final payment of the remaining balance of $2,018,750.
  17
  Effective on January 8, 2009, we entered into an amendment to the Option Agreement (the “Amended Option Agreement”) with Westrock. Pursuant to the Amended Option Agreement, Westrock granted to us until February 2, 2009 to complete our due diligence. Effective on March 18, 2009, we entered into a further amendment to the Option Agreement (“the “Second Amended Option Agreement”) with Westrock. Pursuant to the Second Amended Option Agreement: (i) Westrock granted to us until May 15, 2009 to complete our due diligence; (ii) we paid to Westrock an additional non-refundable amount of $325,000 as consideration for the extension; and (iii) the effective date of the conveyance of the revenue interest in the Leases to us would be no later than May 15, 2009.
  During fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, two separate evaluations were undertaken to review the land title status of the Leases. Both evaluations concluded that all was satisfactory and title could be cleanly transferred to us from Westrock. Therefore, effective on August 17, 2009, we entered into a further amendment to the Option Agreement (the “Third Amended Option Agreement”) with Westrock. Pursuant to the Third Amended Option Agreement: (i) we agreed to issue an aggregate of 4,037,500 shares, valued at $2,664,750, of our restricted common stock to Westrock as satisfaction for an aggregate amount of $2,108,750, which remained due and owing from the aggregate purchase price of $3,125,000 (the “Purchase Price”); and (ii) we agreed to drill and complete a minimum of at least one well on the properties in the Haynesville geological zone no later than December 31, 2010.  On November 2, 2010 an agreement was signed between Westrock and American which extends the deadline for drilling and completing a well in the Haynesville Formation for one year, to December 31, 2011.
  The transaction with Westrock is deemed finalized. The 4,037,500 shares of restricted common stock have been issued by us to Westrock and the transfer of title to the Leases has been finalized.
  Mainland Resources Letter Agreement
  Effective on September 17, 2009, our Board of Directors authorized the execution of a letter agreement (the “Letter Agreement”) with Mainland Resources to jointly develop contiguous acreage known as the Buena Vista Area located in Mississippi (the “Joint Development Project”). In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Letter Agreement: (i) we agreed to commit approximately 5,000 net acres and Mainland Resources agreed to commit approximately 8,225 net acres to the Joint Development Project; (ii) Mainland Resources would be the operator pursuant to the Joint Operating Agreement; (iii) Mainland Resources agreed to pay 80% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 51% working interest in the well and the total Joint Operating Area; and (iv) we agreed to pay 20% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 49% working interest in the well and the total Joint Operating Area. In further accordance with the terms and provisions of the Joint Operating Agreement, future costs, including drilling and completions, for oil and gas activities of the net acreage in the Joint Operating Area would have been split of a 51%/49% basis between Mainland Resources and us, respectively.
  On approximately March 25, 2010, Mainland Resources had issued an authorization for expenditure (“AFE”) for the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 Well which contemplated drilling to a depth of 22,000 feet or a depth sufficient to evaluate the Haynesville Shale formation. The total completed well cost was estimated at $13,550,000. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Letter Agreement, we had thirty days to contribute our 20% share of the total completed well cost or $2,710,000.
  On approximately April 27, 2010, we failed to fund our 20% of the estimated total well costs of the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 well on the Buena Vista prospect. As a result, we have forfeited our right to a 29% working interest in the well and in the Buena Vista prospect in favor of Mainland Resources. We will continue to be entitled to receive a 20% working interest in the well and the prospect after completion (subject to compliance by us with all other terms and conditions of the Letter Agreement and the related Joint Operating Agreement).
  Management believes that over-thickened Haynesville Shale units can be isolated which are rich in organic carbon, possess superior rock properties and are gas-charged. A deep well drilled to a depth of 22,000 feet on the leases in 1981 confirmed the presence of highly over-pressured natural gas within an exceptionally thick Haynesville shale section. The well was drilled to a depth of 22,000 feet, reaching total depth while still within the Haynesville shale.
  18
  Extensive geo-technical work has been completed on data from the old well and geophysical data from the area encouraged the drilling of a new well. Two independent geophysical assessments of the property were completed and a gas in place assessment was completed by a leading petrophysical group who has experience with the Haynesville Formation. The results of these extensive studies suggested that the leases of interest contain significant hydrocarbons. In that the Haynesville is so thick in this locale, vertical wells may be used to develop the property, reducing costs and many of the drilling challenges associated with horizontal wellbores. Drilling costs were estimated by an engineering company experienced in the project area, to a depth of 22,000 ft. Based on observed production rates within the Haynesville Formation of NW Louisiana and other Bossier Formation wells in East Texas, the highly over-pressured Haynesville observed within the leases of interest may produce at very high rates. Economic analyses conducted suggest that rates in excess of 8mmcf/day will generally be economic, if gas prices are stable in excess of $4/mcf. As of October 25th, 2010, contract natural gas prices were $3.30/mcf.
  In July 2010, the Burkley-Phillips No. 1 well commenced drilling on the Buena Vista prospect in Mississippi. The new well is being drilled approximately 1,000 ft. away from the original well drilled on the property in 1981 and also has a planned total depth of 22,000 ft. The Haynesville is the primary target, although other secondary targets may be encountered. As of October 26th, 2010 the well continues to successfully drill towards the targeted depth.
  Avere Energy Letter of Intent
  Effective on April 20, 2010, we received notice from Avere Energy, Inc., a Canadian corporation (“Avere Energy”) that Avere is terminating that certain letter of intent (the “Letter of Intent”), which was previously entered into between us and Avere Energy on January 15, 2010, and as amended on March 1, 2010, regarding the Mississippi project area as described below.
  As discussed above, effective September 17, 2009, our Board of Directors authorized the execution of the Letter Agreement with Mainland Resources to jointly develop contiguous acreage located in Mississippi. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Letter Agreement: (i) we had agreed to commit approximately 5,000 net acres and Mainland Resources had agreed to commit approximately 8,225 net acres to the project area; (ii) Mainland Resources would have been the operator of the Mississippi Project in accordance with a joint operating agreement (the “Mainland-Guggenheim-American Joint Operating Agreement, which was signed on October 12, 2009”); (iii) Mainland Resources had agreed to pay 80% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 51% working interest in the well and the total pooled mineral leases; and (iv) we had agreed to pay 20% of the initial well drilling and completion costs to earn a 49% working interest in the well and the total pooled mineral leases. Simultaneously with execution of the Letter of Intent, Avere Energy paid to us a $75,000 non-refundable deposit, which was used by us in our sole discretion.
  The execution of a definitive farm-in agreement and closing of the transactions contemplated thereunder were anticipated to close on March 28, 2010, which closing was subject to the following conditions: (i) execution of a definitive farm-in agreement; (ii) completion of a financing by Avere Energy to raise sufficient funds as described above for the farm-in; and (iii) receipt of the approval of the shareholders of Avere Energy and of the TSX Venture Exchange to the farm-in.
  Avere Energy was unable to raise the required funds and obtain the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange to the definitive farm-in agreement. Therefore, in accordance with the notice of termination from Avere Energy to us, we will not be entering into a definitive farm-in agreement with Avere Energy. A negotiated break fee of $75,000 was paid to us by Avere on June 9, 2010.
  19
  RESULTS OF OPERATION
  STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENSES

Nine Month

Periods Ended

September 30,


For the

Period from

May 11, 2006 (inception) to September 30,2010


2009


2010Revenue

$
-


$
-


$
-Operating ExpensesGeneral and administrative expenses


554,330



1,652,791



2,558,093Amortization


2,526



2,493



7,411Total Operating Expenses


556,856



1,655,284



2,565,504Net Loss From Operations


(556,856
)


(1,655,284
)


(2,565,504
)Other Income (Expense)Loss on sale of assets


-



-



(1,161
)Interest expense


(9,996
)


(2,191
)


(71,648
)Other Income


173,800



-



173,800Total Other Expense


163,804



(2,191
)


100,991Net Loss

$
(393,052
)

$
(1,657,475
)

$
(2,464,513
)BALANCE SHEET DATATotal Assets

$
3,780,631Total Liabilities

$
275,109Total Stockholders’ Equity

$
3,505,522
 
 The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited financial statements and the related notes that appear elsewhere in this Quarterly Report. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to those discussed below and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report. Our reviewed financial statements are stated in United States Dollars and are prepared in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
 
 We are an exploration stage company and have not generated any revenue to date. We have incurred recurring losses to date. Our financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern and, accordingly, do not include adjustments relating to the recoverability and realization of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue in operation.
  We believe we will require additional capital to meet our long-term operating requirements. We expect to raise additional capital through, among other things, the sale of equity or debt securities.
  20
  Nine Month Period Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Nine Month Period Ended September 30, 2009.
 
 Our net loss for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 was $393,052 compared to a net loss of $1,657,475 during the nine month period ended September 30, 2009, a decrease of $1,264,423. We generated no revenue for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 or 2009, respectively.
 
 During the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, we incurred operating expenses of $556,856 compared to $1,655,284  incurred during the nine month period ended September 30, 2009, a decrease of of $1,098,428. The decrease in operating expenses was primarily attributable to the following items: (i) professional fees of $449,924 (2009: $1,001,788); (ii) investor relations of $-0- (2009: $322,500); and (iii) stock option expense of $207,597 (2009: $853,318).
 
 Operating expenses in 2010 decreased primarily due to the lack of the one-time charge of share-based compensation relating to past grants of stock options incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2009. Operating expenses were higher in 2009 due to professional fees and general and administrative expenses associated with investor relations at that time. In 2009 we engaged Media Plan AG (“Media Plan”) to provide us with investor relations and promotional services in order to enhance our visibility and marketability of our shares in the marketplace. General and administrative expenses generally include corporate overhead, financial and administrative contracted services, marketing and consulting costs.
 
 Of the $556,856 incurred as operating expenses during the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, we incurred and paid management fees of $159,750 to our officers and directors.
 
 Interest expense of $9,996 (2009: $2,191) incurred during the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 was recorded. We also recorded $173,800 (2009: $-0-) of other income consisting of (1) a non-refundable deposit of $75,000, as well as a break fee of $75,000, paid to us after Avere Energy cancelled their Farm-In Agreement, and (2) $23,800 associated with a one-time technical services consulting agreement related to the Buena Vista well.
 
 Our net loss during the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 was $393,052 or $0.01 per share, compared to a net loss of $1,657,475 or $0.02 per share during the nine month period ended September 30, 2009. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was 60,147,326 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, compared to 82,803,114 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2009.
 
 Three Month Period Ended September 30, 2010 Compared to Three Month Period Ended September 30, 2009.
 
 Our net loss for the three month period ended September 30, 2010 was $135,455 compared to a net loss of $1,426,308 during the three month period ended September 30, 2009, a decrease of $1,290,853. We generated no revenue for the three month period ended September 30, 2010 or 2009, respectively.
  During the three month period ended September 30, 2010 , we generated revenue of $23,800 for technical services towards the Buena Vista well compared to revenue of $-0- during the three month period ended September 30, 2009.
 
 During the three month period ended September 30, 2010, we incurred operating expenses of $156,356 compared to $1,424,117 incurred during the three month period ended September 30, 2009, a decrease of $1,267,761. The decrease in operating expenses was primarily attributable to the following items: (i) professional fees of $148,271 (2009: $898,268); (ii) investor relations of $0 (2009: $322,500); and (iii) stock option expense of $69,193 (2009: $853,268).
 
 During the three month period ended September 30, 2010 , we recorded Other income of $23,800 associated with a one-time technical services consulting agreement related to the Buena Vista well, compared to $-0- during the three month period ended September 30, 2009.  Interest expense of $2,899 (2009: $2,191) incurred during the three month period ended September 30, 2010 was recorded.
  21
 
 Our net loss during the three month period ended September 30, 2010 was $135,455 or $0.00 per share compared to a net loss of $1,426,308 or $0.03 per share during the three month period ended September 30, 2009. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was 60,273,333 for the three month period ended September 30, 2010 compared to 56,705,707 for the three month period ended September 30, 2009.
 
 LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
 Nine Month Period Ended September 30, 2010
 
 As of September 30, 2010, our current assets were $5,764 and our current liabilities were $275,109, which resulted in a working capital deficit of $269,345. As of September 30, 2010, current assets were comprised of $5,764 in cash. As of September 30, 2010, current liabilities were comprised of: (i) $21,440 in accounts payable and accrued liabilities; (ii) $15,490 in accounts payable– related parties; (iii) $49,979 in short-term notes payable; (iv) $88,200 in short term notes payable – related parties; and (v) $100,000 in convertible notes payable – related party.
 
 As of September 30, 2010, our total assets were $3,780,631 comprised of: (i) $5,764 in current assets; (ii) $3,866 in website cost, net of amortization; and (iii) $3,771,001 in unevaluated oil and gas properties. The slight decrease in total assets during the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 from fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 was primarily due to the decrease in cash.
 
 As of September 30, 2010, our total liabilities were $275,109 comprised entirely of current liabilities. The increase in liabilities during the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 from fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 was primarily due to the increase in short-term notes payable.
 
 Stockholders’ equity decreased from $3,565,995 as of December 31, 2009 to $3,505,522 as of September 30, 2010 primarily due to losses incurred from operations during the period, partially offset by the issuance of shares in certain private placements.
 
 Cash Flows from Operating Activities
 
 We have not generated positive cash flows from operating activities. For the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, net cash flows used in operating activities was $178,796 compared to $689,666 used during the nine month period ended September 30, 2009. Net cash flows used in operating activities consisted primarily of a net loss of $393,052 (2009: $1,657,475), which was partially offset by $2,526 (2009: $2,493) in amortization  expense and $207,579 (2009: $853,318) in stock-based compensation. Net cash flows used in operating activities was further changed by ($5,918) (2009: $111,998) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities and $10,069 (2009: $-0-) in accounts payable – related parties.
 
 Cash Flows from Investing Activities
 
 For the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, net cash flows used in investing activities was $-0- compared to net cash flows used in investing activities of $325,001 in acquisition of unproved oil and gas properties.
 
 Cash Flows from Financing Activities
 
 We have financed our operations primarily from debt or the issuance of equity instruments. For the nine month period ended September 30, 2010, net cash flows provided from financing activities was $175,000 compared to $867,548 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2009. Cash flows from financing activities for the nine month period ended September 30, 2010 consisted of $125,000 of proceeds from sale of common stock and $50,000 related to borrowings under a note payable. Cash flows from financing activities for the nine month period ended September 30, 2009 consisted of $780,000 in proceeds from issuance of common stock and $87,548 in proceeds from notes payable – related parties.
  22
 
 PLAN OF OPERATION AND FUNDING
 
 We fully anticipate that the Merger Agreement will be consummated and the merger transaction effected. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, our stockholders will receive one share of Mainland common stock for every four shares of our common stock they own.  Mainland Resources will be the surviving corporation. In the event the Merger Agreement is not consummated, we expect that working capital requirements would continue to be funded through a combination of our existing funds and further issuances of securities. In such an event, our working capital requirements would be expected to increase in line with the growth of our business.
 
 A substantial portion of fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 was dedicated to financing and identification of a potential drilling partner and merger candidate. Financing partners were sought with the intent of conducting a private placement to raise funds to finalize the mineral lease acquisition in Mississippi and for the participation in the drilling of a well on those lands. As of the date of this Quarterly Report, management fully anticipates that the Merger Agreement will be consummated and the merger transaction effected. In the event the Merger Agreement is not consummated, possible further advances from related parties and the sale of securities would be required to fund our operations over the next six months. We have no lines of credit or other bank financing arrangements. Generally, we have financed operations to date through the proceeds of the private placement of equity and debt instruments. In the event the Merger Agreement is not consummated and in connection with our future business plan, management anticipates additional increases in operating expenses and capital expenditures relating to: (i) possible drilling initiatives on current Lease and future properties; and (ii) future property acquisitions. We would finance these expenses with further issuances of securities and debt issuances. We expect we would need to raise additional capital and generate revenues to meet long-term operating requirements. Additional issuances of equity or convertible debt securities could result in dilution to our current shareholders. Further, such securities may have rights, preferences or privileges senior to our common stock. Additional financing may not be available upon acceptable terms, or at all.
 
 In the event the Merger Agreement is not consummated and if adequate funds were not available or were not available on acceptable terms, we may not be able to take advantage of prospective new business endeavors or opportunities or develop our unevaluated oil and gas assets, which could significantly and materially restrict our business operations.
 
 MATERIAL COMMITMENTS
 
 Promissory Notes
 
 A future material commitment during fiscal year 2010 relates to those certain unsecured promissory notes entered into by us as follows (i) May 15, 2009 in the amount of $30,000 with a related party; (ii) May 29, 2009 in the amount of $7,809 with a related party; and (iii) June 5, 2009 in the amount of $50,000 with one of our previous directors; June 2, 2010 in the amount of $50,000 with an unrelated third party.
  Effective on September 30, 2010, we entered into a promissory note in the principal amount of $60,000 (the “Note”) with Mainland Resources. The Note evidences monies advanced by Mainland Resources to us in order to assist us with various costs associated with the completion of the proposed merger between us and Mainland Resources pursuant to the terms and provisions of the Merger Agreement, as amended. The Note matures December 31, 2010, bears interest at the rate of 12% per annum and is unsecured.  As funds were received in October 2010, this transaction has been considered a subsequent event for accounting purposes.
  Debenture
 
 Effective on October 13, 2009, our Board of Directors authorized the execution of a 5% convertible debenture in the principal amount of $95,227 (the “Debenture”) with DMS Ltd. (“DMS”).  In accordance with the terms and provisions of the Debenture: (i) accrues interest at the rate of 5% per annum; (ii) the maturity date for repayment is the earlier of: (a) that date when we are able to meet the insolvency test (i.e., when we have sufficient funds in our cash account to meet our obligations as they arise on a daily basis, which shall be determined by management in good faith); or (b) January 13, 2010; and (iii) DMS has the right at any time to convert the unpaid principal amount of the Debenture into shares of our common stock at the price of $0.50 per share. The conditions above were not met and the note is in default.
  23
 
 PURCHASE OF SIGNIFICANT EQUIPMENT
 
 We do not intend to purchase any significant equipment during the next twelve months.
 
 OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
 
 As of the date of this Quarterly Report, we do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.
 
 GOING CONCERN
 
 The independent auditors' report accompanying our December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 financial statements contains an explanatory paragraph expressing substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates that we will realize our assets and satisfy our liabilities and commitments in the ordinary course of business.
 
 ITEM III. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
 Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows due to adverse change in foreign currency and interest rates.
  Exchange Rate
  Our reporting currency is United States Dollars (“USD”).  In the event we acquire any properties outside of the United States, the fluctuation of exchange rates may have positive or negative impacts on our results of operations. However, since all of our properties are currently located within the United States, any potential revenue and expenses will be denominated in U.S. Dollar, and the net income effect of appreciation and devaluation of the currency against the U.S. Dollar would be limited to our costs of acquisition of property.
  Interest Rate
  Interest rates in the United States are generally stable. Any potential future loans will relate mainly to acquisition of properties and will be mainly short-term. However our debt may be likely to rise in connection with expansion and if interest rates were to rise at the same time, this could become a significant impact on our operating and financing activities. We have not entered into derivative contracts either to hedge existing risks for speculative purposes.
  ITEM IV. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
  DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
  We have performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our CEO and CFO, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of September 30, 2010 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports filed or submitted by us under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.  We identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting primarily attributable to limited accounting and SEC reporting expertise within the Company. Due to our exploration stage, we have limited financial ability to remedy this staffing deficiency at this time; however, we will add additional accounting and SEC reporting expertise in the future as funds permit.
  24
 
 CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROLS
 
 No significant changes were implemented in our internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
 AUDIT COMMITTEE
 
 Our Board of Directors has not established an audit committee. The respective role of an audit committee has been conducted by our Board of Directors. In the event the Merger Agreement is not consummated, we intend to establish an audit committee during fiscal year 2010. When established, the audit committee's primary function will be to provide advice with respect to our financial matters and to assist our Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities regarding finance, accounting, and legal compliance. The audit committee's primary duties and responsibilities will be to: (i) serve as an independent and objective party to monitor our financial reporting process and internal control system; (ii) review and appraise the audit efforts of our independent accountants; (iii) evaluate our quarterly financial performance as well as its compliance with laws and regulations; (iv) oversee management's establishment and enforcement of financial policies and business practices; and (v) provide an open avenue of communication among the independent accountants, management and our Board of Directors.
 
 PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
 ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
 Management is not aware of any legal proceedings contemplated by any governmental authority or any other party involving us or our properties. As of the date of this Quarterly Report, no director, officer or affiliate is (i) a party adverse to us in any legal proceeding, or (ii) has an adverse interest to us in any legal proceedings. Management is not aware of any other legal proceedings pending or that have been threatened against us or our properties.
 
 ITEM IA. RISK FACTORS
 
 No report required.
  ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
 2010 PRIVATE PLACEMENTS
 
 In 2010 we completed two private placement offerings. Effective on February 24, 2010, we completed a certain private placement offering (the “First Private Placement Offering”) with a certain non-United States resident. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the First Private Placement, we issued to certain investors an aggregate of 300,000 units at a per unit price of $0.25 for aggregate proceeds of $75,000. Each Unit was comprised of one share of restricted common stock and one-half non-transferrable Warrant or 150,000 Warrants. Each whole Warrant is exercisable at $0.50 per share for a period of one year.
 
 Effective on April 5, 2010, we completed a certain private placement offering (the “Second Private Placement”) with a certain non-United States resident. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the 2010 Private Placement, we issued to certain investors an aggregate of 200,000 units at a per unit price of $0.25 for aggregate proceeds of $50,000. Each Unit was comprised of one share of restricted common stock and one-half non-transferrable Warrant or 100,000 Warrants. Each whole Warrant is exercisable at $0.50 per share for a period of one year.
  25
 
 The Units under the First Private Placement Offering and the Second Private Placement Offering were sold to non-United States residents in reliance on Regulation S promulgated under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The First Private Placement Offering and the Second Private Placement Offering have not been registered under the Securities Act or under any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold without registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. The investors executed subscription agreements and acknowledged that the securities to be issued have not been registered under the Securities Act, that they understood the economic risk of an investment in the securities, and that they had the opportunity to ask questions of and receive answers from our management concerning any and all matters related to acquisition of the securities.
  ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
  No report required.
 
 ITEM 4. Removed and Reserved
 
 ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
 
 No report required.
  26
  ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
  The following exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report.
  EXHIBIT  NO.

DOCUMENT3.1.1

Articles of Incorporation (1)3.1.2

Articles of Incorporation as amended (1)3.1.3

Certificate of Change of American Exploration Corporation filed with the Nevada Secretary of State (9)3.1.4

Certificate of Change of American Exploration filed with the Nevada Secretary of State (9)3.1.3

Articles of Merger between Minhas Energy Consultants  and American Energy Corporation (2)3.2

Bylaws (1)10.1

Option Agreement between American Energy Corporation  andWestrock Land Corporation dated October 2008. (3)10.2

5% Convertible Debenture dated October 13, 2009 betweenAmerican Exploration Corporation and DMS Ltd. (4)10.3

Stock Option Plan of American Exploration Corporation dated September 14, 2009. (5)10.4

Merger Agreement and Plan of Merger dated March 22, 2010 between American Exploration Corporation and MainlandResources Inc. (8)10.5

Amending Agreement to Merger Agreement and Plan of Merger dated September 2, 2010 between American Exploration Corporation and Mainland Resources Inc. (10)16. 1

Letter from Moore & Associates dated August 11, 2009.  (6)16. 2

Letter from Seale & Beers, CPAs dated November 2, 2009. (7)31.1

Certification  of  Chief  Executive   Officer  Pursuant  to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant  to  Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.32.1

Certification  of Chief  Executive  Officer  and Chief Financial Officer Under Section 1350 as Adopted  Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
 
 27
 
 (1) Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form SB-2 filed with the Commission on March 5, 2006.
 
 (2) Incorporated by reference from our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on August 8, 2008.
 
 (3) Incorporated by reference from our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on November 6, 2008 and our Amendment No. 1 to Current Report filed with the Commission on January 25, 2009.
 
 (4) Incorporated by reference from Form Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on October 19, 2009.
 
 (5)  Incorporated by reference from Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Commission on November 20, 2009.
 
 (6)  Incorporated by reference from Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on August 17, 2009.
 
 (7)  Incorporation by referenced from Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission November 4, 2009.
 
 (8)  Incorporation by reference from Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on March 23, 2010.
 
 (9)  Incorporation by reference from Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on October 14, 2010.
 
 (10) Incorporation by reference from Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on October 19, 2010.
  28
 
 SIGNATURES
 
 In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
  AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATION
 SIGNATURES 
 Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 AMERICAN EXPLORATION CORPORATIONDated: November 9, 2010
By:
/s/ STEVE HARDINGSteve Harding, President/ChiefExecutive OfficerDated: November 9, 2010
By:
/s/ BRIAN MANKOBrian Manko, Chief Financial Officer
 
 29