TY 2010 Form 990

- TIN:

Form990

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax

Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2010

Open to Public Inspection

A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2010 and ending 12-31-2010

BCheck if applicable: Address change Name change Initial return Terminated Amended return Application pending

CName of organization
NORTHWESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE INC

Doing Business As

Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
PO BOX 2707

Room/suite

City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
WOODWARD, OK73802

D Employer identification number

73-0375825

E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 28,447,638

F Name and address of principal officer:
TYSON LITTAU
PO BOX 2707
WOODWARD,OK73802

Tax-exempt status: 501(c)(3) 501(c) ( 12 ) LeftBullet

(insert no.) 4947(a)(1) or 527

Website:

WWW.NWECOK.COOP

H(a)

Is this a group return for
affiliates? Yes No

H(b)

Are all affiliates included?

Yes No

If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)

H(c)

Group exemption number MediumBullet

K Form of organization: Corporation Trust Association Other MediumBullet

L Year of formation: 1940

M State of legal domicile: OK

Part I

Summary

1	Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: TO PROVIDE ELECTRIC POWER TO RURAL AREAS AT COST ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS.
2	Check this box
3	Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ....	3	9
4	Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) ....	4	8
5	Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2010 (Part V, line 2a) ...	5	60
6	Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) ....	6	0
7a	Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ..	7a	78,150
b	Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 ..	7b	-2,569

		Prior Year	Current Year
8	Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) .........	0	0
9	Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) .........	25,459,695	28,096,566
10	Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) ....	130,407	133,704
11	Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e)	14,575	105,051
12	Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)...................	25,604,677	28,335,321
13	Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...	0	0
14	Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4) ....	0	0
15	Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10)	3,225,742	3,622,331
16a	Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e)....	0	0
b	Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) 0
17	Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f)....	21,100,275	22,479,749
18	Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25)	24,326,017	26,102,080
19	Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12......	1,278,660	2,233,241
		Beginning of Current Year	End of Year
20	Total assets (Part X, line 16)............	56,841,762	60,676,419
21	Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............	35,849,256	38,238,359
22	Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20 .....	20,992,506	22,438,060

Part II

Signature Block

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.

Sign Here

	Signature of officer	Date

	Type or print name and title.

Paid Preparer's Use Only	Preparer's signature	Date	Check if self- employed	Preparer’s taxpayer identification number (see instructions)
	Firm’s name (or yours if self-employed), address, and ZIP + 4			EIN
				Phone no.

May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) ......... Yes No

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.

Cat. No. 11282Y

Form 990 (2010)

Page 2

Part III

Statement of Program Service Accomplishments

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III . . . . . . . . . .

Briefly describe the organization’s mission: THE COOPERATIVE'S RESPONSIBILITY AND AIM IS TO PROVIDE EXCELLENT AND INNOVATIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE AS REFLECTED IN TOP QUALITY ELECTRIC SERVICE RELIABILITY, AFFORDABLE RATES, EMPLOYEE TEAMWORK AND THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF INTEGRITY IN ALL COOPERATIVE ENDEAVORS.

Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? .................... Yes No

If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.

Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? .......................... Yes No

If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.

Describe the exempt purpose achievements for each of the organization’s three largest program services by expenses.
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.


4a	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )
	PROVIDING ELECTRIC ENERGY TO OUR MEMBERS - 11,287 ACTIVE SERVICES AT YEAR END WERE PROVIDED ELECTRICITY ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS THROUGH THE ALLOCATION OF PATRONAGE CAPITAL.

4b	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )












4c	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )












4d	Other program services. (Describe in Schedule O.)
	(Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )
4e	Total program service expenses$

Form 990 (2010)

Page 3

Part IV

Checklist of Required Schedules

Yes

Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule A.....................

Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? ........

Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part I..........

Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part II.........................

Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part III........................

Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts where donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete
Schedule D, Part I Click to see attachment

.......................

Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part II Click to see attachment

...

Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment

....................

Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IV Click to see attachment

...................

Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in term, permanent,or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part V Click to see attachment

If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:

Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI. Click to see attachment

11a

Yes

Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII. Click to see attachment

11b

Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII. Click to see attachment

11c

Yes

Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX. Click to see attachment

11d

Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X. Click to see attachment

11e

Yes

Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X. Click to see attachment

11f

Yes

12a

Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII Click to see attachment

12a

Yes

Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional Click to see attachment

12b

Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E

14a

Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....

14a

Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, and program service activities outside the United States? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........

14b

Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..

Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..

Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part I

Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........

Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................

Form 990 (2010)

Page 4

Part IV

Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)

20a

Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....

20a

Did the organization attach its audited financial statement to this return? Note: All Form 990 filers that operate one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements. .....

20b

Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..

Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....

Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................

24a

Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................

24a

Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...

24b

Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................

24c

Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...

24d

25a

Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......

25a

Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................

25b

Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II........................... Click to see attachment

Yes

Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor, or a grant selection committee member, or to a person related to such an individual? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III............... Click to see attachment

Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):

A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV ......................... Click to see attachment

28a

A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV................... Click to see attachment

28b

An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV.. Click to see attachment

28c

Yes

Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M

Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............

Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................

Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................

Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........

Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1.....................

Is any related organization a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? .....

Did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2... YesNo

Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........

Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI

Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............

Yes

Form 990 (2010)

Page 5

Part V

Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V . . . . . . . . . .

Yes

Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......

Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.

Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................

Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................

If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)

Yes

Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................

Yes

If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....

Yes

At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................

If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet

See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.

Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..

Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?

If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........

Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........

If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................

Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).

Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................

If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....

Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................

If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....

Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................

Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..

If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................

If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............

Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................

Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.

Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........

Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......

Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:

Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...

10a

Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities

10b

Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:

Gross income from members or shareholders .........

11a

27,485,737

Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ........

11b

356,285

12a

Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?

12a

If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.

12b

Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.

Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.

13a

Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.

13b

Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.

13c

14a

Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....

14a

If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..

14b

Form 990 (2010)

Page 6

Part VI

Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI . . . . . . . . . .

Section A. Governing Body and Management

Yes

Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year ..............

Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................

Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................

Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? ..

Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?

Yes

Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .

Does the organization have members or stockholders? ................

Yes

Does the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who may elect one or more members of the governing body? .........................

Yes

Are any decisions of the governing body subject to approval by members, stockholders, or other persons? ..

Yes

Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:

The governing body? .........................

Yes

Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............

Yes

Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....

Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)

Yes

10a

Does the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............

10a

If “Yes,” does the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with those of the organization? ....

10b

11a

Has the organization provided a copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?

11a

Yes

Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....

12a

Does the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......

12a

Yes

Are officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ...........................

12b

Yes

Does the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this is done ....................

12c

Yes

Does the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............

Yes

Does the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........

Yes

Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?

The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........

15a

Yes

Other officers or key employees of the organization ................

15b

Yes

If "Yes" to line a or b, describe the process in Schedule O. (See instructions.)

16a

Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................

16a

If “Yes,” has the organization adopted a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and taken steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............

16b

Section C. Disclosure

List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filed MediumBullet

Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you make these available. Check all that apply.

Own website Another's website Upon request

Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public.

State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet

TYSON LITTAU
2925 WILLIAMS AVENUE
WOODWARD,OK73801
(580) 256-7425

Form 990 (2010)

Page 7

Part VII

Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII . . . . . . . . . .

Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees

1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet

List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."

List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.

Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.

(A) Name and Title	(B) Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O)	(C) Position (check all that apply)		(D) Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC)	(E) Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC)	(F) Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
(A) Name and Title
(1) KENNETH KNOWLES PRESIDENT	5.40	X	X	15,532	0	0
(2) RAY SMITH VICE PRESIDENT	1.60	X	X	14,077	0	0
(3) JOHN BRUCE JR SECRETARY-TREASURER	8.30	X	X	16,775	0	0
(4) GILBERT PERKINS DIRECTOR	5.30	X		15,782	0	0
(5) LEE R HUCKABY DIRECTOR	5.20	X		4,080	0	0
(6) CHARLES HARPER DIRECTOR 1/1 - 3/31	4.20	X		4,442	0	0
(7) DUANE HENDERSON DIRECTOR	3.40	X		14,375	0	0
(8) CLAIR CRAIGHEAD DIRECTOR	5.20	X		15,007	0	0
(9) DEAN STONE DIRECTOR	2.80	X		9,445	0	0
(10) WAYNE HALL DIRECTOR 4/1 - 12/31	5.00	X		3,909	0	0
(11) TYSON LITTAU CEO	40.00		X	102,592	0	41,042

Form 990 (2010)

Page 8

Part VII

Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)

(A) Name and Title	(B) Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O)	(C) Position (check all that apply)						(D) Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC)	(E) Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC)	(F) Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
(A) Name and Title

1b	Sub-Total................
c	Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....
d	Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............	216,016	0	41,042

Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 in reportable compensation from the organization MediumBullet

Yes

Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............

For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................

Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....

Section B. Independent Contractors

Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization.

(A) Name and business address	(B) Description of services	(C) Compensation
RIGGS TREE SERVICE PO BOX 453225 GROVE,OK74345	TREE SERVICE	502,825
CHAPEL MAPPING 315 SECOND AVENUE WARREN,PA16365	GPS MAPPING PROJECT	237,644
HAMLIN ELECTRICAL CONST LLC 1406 NEPTUNE DRIVE CLINTON,OK73601	CONSTRUCTION	103,194


2 Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 in compensation from the organization 3

Form 990 (2010)

Page 9

Part VIII

Statement of Revenue

				(A) Total revenue	(B) Related or exempt function revenue	(C) Unrelated business revenue	(D) Revenue excluded from tax under sections 512, 513, or 514
1a	Federated campaigns..1a
b	Membership dues....1b
c	Fundraising events....1c
d	Related organizations...1d
e	Government grants (contributions)1e

f	All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above1f
g	Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$
h	Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......
			Business Code
2a	ELECTRIC ENERGY		221,000	26,895,503	26,895,503
b	PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS		221,000	1,073,250	1,073,250
c	CONNECT AND OTHER FEES		221,000	68,245	68,245
d	DISTRIBUTION LINE LEAS		221,000	59,568	59,568
e
f	All other program service revenue .
g	Total. Add lines 2a–2f........			28,096,566
3	Investment income (including dividends, interest
	and other similar amounts).....			122,794			122,794
4	Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..
5	Royalties............			3,210			3,210
		(i) Real	(ii) Personal
6a	Gross Rents		8,694
b	Less: rental expenses
c	Rental income or (loss)		8,694
d	Net rental income or (loss).......			8,694	3,426		5,268
		(i) Securities	(ii) Other
7a	Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory		82,692
b	Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses		71,782
c	Gain or (loss)		10,910
d	Net gain or (loss)..........			10,910			10,910
8a	Gross income from fundraising events (not including $ of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
	a
b	Less: direct expenses ...b
c	Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..
9a	Gross income from gaming activities. See Part IV, line 19 ...
	a
b	Less: direct expenses ...b
c	Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...
10a	Gross sales of inventory, less returns and allowances .
	a		45,323
b	Less: cost of goods sold ..b		40,535
c	Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..			4,788	4,788
Miscellaneous Revenue			Business Code
11a	BILLING REVENUE		221,000	78,150		78,150
b	MISCELLANEOUS		561,499	10,209	10,209
c
d	All other revenue ....
e	Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......			88,359
12	Total revenue. See Instructions....			28,335,321	28,114,989	78,150	142,182

Form 990 (2010)

Page 10

Part IX

Statement of Functional Expenses

Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).

Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b, 7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII.		(A) Total expenses
1	Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the U.S. See Part IV, line 21
2	Grants and other assistance to individuals in the U.S. See Part IV, line 22
3	Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the U.S. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16
4	Benefits paid to or for members
5	Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees ....	257,058
6	Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....
7	Other salaries and wages	2,013,064
8	Pension plan contributions (include section 401(k) and section 403(b) employer contributions) ....	467,552
9	Other employee benefits .......	730,322
10	Payroll taxes ...........	154,335
11	Fees for services (non-employees):
a	Management ......
b	Legal .........
c	Accounting ...........
d	Lobbying ...........
e	Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17..
f	Investment management fees ......
g	Other ..........
12	Advertising and promotion ....
13	Office expenses .......
14	Information technology ......
15	Royalties ..
16	Occupancy ...........
17	Travel ............
18	Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ......
19	Conferences, conventions, and meetings ....
20	Interest ...........	1,497,115
21	Payments to affiliates .......
22	Depreciation, depletion, and amortization .....	1,818,364
23	Insurance ..............
24	Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above. (Expenses grouped together and labeled miscellaneous may not exceed 5% of total expenses shown on line 25 below.)
a	PURCHASED POWER	16,166,734
b	DISTRIBUTION EXPENSE	1,273,994
c	ADMIN AND GENERAL	634,691
d	TAXES	535,945
e	CUSTOMER ACCOUNTS	475,840
f	All other expenses	77,066
25	Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f	26,102,080
26	Joint costs. Check here if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720). Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation

Form 990 (2010)

Page 11


				(A) Beginning of year		(B) End of year
1	Cashnon-interest-bearing ..........			1,701,384	1	3,104,905
2	Savings and temporary cash investments .......				2
3	Pledges and grants receivable, net .........				3
4	Accounts receivable, net .........			2,935,039	4	3,051,218
5	Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
	Schedule L ..........			678	5	528
6	Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
	Schedule L ..........				6
7	Notes and loans receivable, net .............			523,454	7	417,763
8	Inventories for sale or use ..............			563,507	8	580,850
9	Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............			620,364	9	701,379
10a	Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D	10a	66,410,114
b	Less: accumulated depreciation. .....	10b	21,988,730	43,140,862	10c	44,421,384
11	Investments—publicly traded securities ..........				11
12	Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ......				12
13	Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..			7,348,164	13	8,390,082
14	Intangible assets .........				14
15	Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ...........			8,310	15	8,310
16	Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)...			56,841,762	16	60,676,419
17	Accounts payable and accrued expenses .			1,623,202	17	1,742,056
18	Grants payable ..........				18
19	Deferred revenue ..........				19
20	Tax-exempt bond liabilities ..........				20
21	Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D..				21
22	Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
	persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..........				22
23	Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..			33,543,571	23	35,769,248
24	Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ....				24
25	Other liabilities. Complete Part X of Schedule D.....			682,483	25	727,055
26	Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25.....			35,849,256	26	38,238,359
	Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27	Unrestricted net assets .....				27
28	Temporarily restricted net assets .....				28
29	Permanently restricted net assets .....				29
	Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here and complete lines 30 through 34.
30	Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....			72,980	30	73,190
31	Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....			1,592,564	31	1,958,845
32	Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds			19,326,962	32	20,406,025
33	Total net assets or fund balances .....			20,992,506	33	22,438,060
34	Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances .....			56,841,762	34	60,676,419

Form 990 (2010)

Page 12

Part XI

Reconcilliation of Net Assets

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI . . . . . . . . . .

Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) . . .

28,335,321

Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) . . . . .

26,102,080

Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 . . . .

2,233,241

Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) . .

20,992,506

Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) . . . .

-787,687

Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) . . . . . .

22,438,060

Part XII

Financial Statements and Reporting

Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII . . . . . . . . . .

Yes

Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990: Cash Accrual Other
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.

Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?..

Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........

Yes

If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O............................

If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:

Separate basis Consolidated basis Both consolidated and separated basis

As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................

If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..

Form 990 (2010)

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

Form 990, Special Condition Description:

Special Condition Description

- TIN:

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Supplemental Financial Statements

Complete if the organization answered "Yes," to Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
SchDMd Bullet

Attach to Form 990. SchDMd Bullet

See separate instructions.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2010

Open to Public Inspection

Name of the organization

NORTHWESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE INC

Employer identification number

73-0375825

Part I

Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 6.

		(a) Donor advised funds	(b) Funds and other accounts
1	Total number at end of year .......
2	Aggregate contributions to (during year) ...
3	Aggregate grants from (during year) ...
4	Aggregate value at end of year .......

Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ............

Yes No

Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds may be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit. ...................................

Yes No

Part II

Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 7.

Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).

Preservation of land for public use (e.g., recreation or pleasure) Preservation of an historically importantly land area

Protection of natural habitat Preservation of a certified historic structure

Preservation of open space

Complete lines 2a–2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.


a	Total number of conservation easements .......................	2a
b	Total acreage restricted by conservation easements ..................	2b
c	Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) .....	2c
d	Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06 ........	2d

Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during
the taxable year SchDMd Bullet

Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet

Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and
enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? .............................

Yes No

Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet

Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet

Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section
170(h)(4)(B)(i) and 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? ....................................

Yes No

In Part XIV, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.

Part III

Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 8.

If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116, not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of
art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education or research in furtherance of public service,
provide, in Part XIV, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.

If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116, to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art,
historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service,
provide the following amounts relating to these items:

(i)

Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ........................ SchDMd Bullet

(ii)

Assets included in Form 990, Part X .............................. SchDMd Bullet

If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 relating to these items:

Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .......................... SchDMd Bullet

Assets included in Form 990, Part X ............................... SchDMd Bullet

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990

Cat. No. 52283D

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Page 2

Part III

Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)

Using the organization’s accession and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection
items (check all that apply):

Public exhibition

Loan or exchange programs

Scholarly research

Other

Preservation for future generations

Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIV.

During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?........

Yes No

Part IV

Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.

Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................

Yes No

If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIV and complete the following table:


c	Beginning balance .................................	1c
d	Additions during the year ..............................	1d
e	Distributions during the year .............................	1e
f	Ending balance ...................................	1f

Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21? .....................

Yes No

If “Yes,” explain the arrangement in Part XIV.

Part V

Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 10.

		(a)Current Year	(b)Prior Year	(c)Two Years Back	(d)Three Years Back	(e)Four Years Back
1a	Beginning of year balance ....
b	Contributions ........
c	Investment earnings or losses ...
d	Grants or scholarships .....
e	Other expenditures for facilities and programs ........
f	Administrative expenses ....
g	End of year balance ......

Provide the estimated percentage of the year end balance held as:

Board designated or quasi-endowment: SchDMd Bullet

Permanent endowment: SchDMd Bullet

Term endowment: SchDMd Bullet

Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes

(i) unrelated organizations ........................

3a(i)

(ii) related organizations ........................

3a(ii)

If "Yes" to 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........

Describe in Part XIV the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.

Part VI

InvestmentsLand, Buildings, and Equipment. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.

Description of investment		(b)Cost or other basis (other)	(c) Accumulated depreciation	(d) Book value
1a	Land .................	241,697		241,697
b	Buildings ................	2,213,174	709,562	1,503,612
c	Leasehold improvements ............
d	Equipment ................	63,790,886	21,279,168	42,511,718
e	Other .................	164,357		164,357
Total. Add lines 1a-1e. (Column (d) should equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)........				44,421,384

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Page 3

Part VII

InvestmentsOther Securities. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.

(a) Description of security or category (including name of security)		(b)Book value	(c) Method of valuation: Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives
(2)Closely-held equity interests
Other








Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 12.)

Part VIII

InvestmentsProgram Related. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.

(a) Description of investment type	(b) Book value	(c) Method of valuation: Cost or end-of-year market value
(1) PATRONAGE CAPITAL - WESTERN FARMERS ELECTRIC COOP	7,407,784	C
(2) PATRONAGE CAPITAL - NRUCFC	35,757	C
(3) PATRONAGE CAPITAL - ARKANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE	54,553	C
(4) PATRONAGE CAPITAL - SEDC	52,145	C
(5) PATRONAGE CAPITAL - COBANK	127,731	C
(6) MEMBERSHIPS	20,442	C
(7) CAPITAL TERM CERTIFICANTS - CFC	691,670	C


Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)	8,390,082

Part IX

Other Assets. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.

(a) Description				(b) Book value









Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........

Part X

Other Liabilities. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.

1.(a) Description of Liability		(b) Amount
Federal Income Taxes
CONSUMER DEPOSITS		123,025
ACCRUED EMPLOYEE COMPENSATED ABSENCES		287,933
OTHER CURRENT ACCRUED LIABILITIES		3,877
PATRONAGE CAPITAL PAYABLE		197,338
ACCRUED INTEREST PAYABLE		114,882




Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)		727,055
2. Fin 48 (ASC 740) Footnote. In Part XIV, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC740).

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Page 4

Part XI Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets from Form 990 to Financial Statements
1	Total revenue (Form 990, Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ....................	1	28,335,321
2	Total expenses (Form 990, Part IX, column (A), line 25) .....................	2	26,102,080
3	Excess or (deficit) for the year. Subtract line 2 from line 1 .............	3	2,233,241
4	Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ..........................	4
5	Donated services and use of facilities .............................	5
6	Investment expenses ...................................	6
7	Prior period adjustments ..................................	7
8	Other (Describe in Part XIV) .................................	8	-787,687
9	Total adjustments (net). Add lines 4 - 8 .............................	9	-787,687
10	Excess or (deficit) for the year per financial statements. Combine lines 3 and 9 .........	10	1,445,554

Part XII Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return
1	Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements .......			1	28,258,255
2	Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a	Net unrealized gains on investments ..........	2a
b	Donated services and use of facilities .........	2b
c	Recoveries of prior year grants ...........	2c
d	Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............	2d
e	Add lines 2a through 2d .....................			2e	0
3	Subtract line 2e from line 1.....................			3	28,258,255
4	Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a	Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .	4a
b	Other (Describe in Part XIV): ...........	4b	77,066
c	Add lines 4a and 4b.......................			4c	77,066
5	Total Revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This should equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ......			5	28,335,321

Part XIII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return
1	Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements .............			1	26,025,014
2	Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a	Donated services and use of facilities ..........	2a
b	Prior year adjustments ..............	2b
c	Other losses ................	2c
d	Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............	2d
e	Add lines 2a through 2d......................			2e	0
3	Subtract line 2e from line 1.....................			3	26,025,014
4	Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a	Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b ..	4a
b	Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............	4b	77,066
c	Add lines 4a and 4b.......................			4c	77,066
5	Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This should equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ......			5	26,102,080

Part XIV

Supplemental Information

Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X; Part XI, line 8; Part XII, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XIII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.

Identifier	Return Reference	Explanation
Description of Uncertain Tax Positions Under FIN 48:	Part X:	ON JANUARY 1, 2009, THE COOPERATIVE ADOPTED THE UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS PROVISIONS OF ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. THE PRIMARY TAX POSITION OF THE COOPERATIVE IS ITS FILING STATUS AS A TAX EXEMPT ENTITY. THE COOPERATIVE DETERMINED THAT IT IS MORE LIKELY THAN NOT THAT THEIR TAX POSITION WILL BE SUSTAINED UPON EXAMINATION BY THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS), OR OTHER STATE TAXING AUTHORITY AND THAT ALL TAX BENEFITS ARE LIKELY TO BE REALIZED UPON SETTLEMENT WITH TAXING AUTHORITIES.
Part XI, Line 8 - Other Adjustments:		PATRONAGE CAPITAL RETIRED -594,626. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME PROVISION FOR PENSION AND BENEFITS -291,363. UNCLAIMED PATRONAGE CAPITAL RETIREMENT CHECKS 98,092. NET INCREASE IN MEMBERSHIPS 210.
Part XII, Line 4b - Other Adjustments:		RECLASSIFIED AIR EVAC EXPENSES 77,066.
Part XIII, Line 4b - Other Adjustments:		RECLASSIFIED AIR EVAC EXPENSES 77,066.
		Part IX: THE AMOUNT OF OTHER ASSETS ON FORM 990, PAGE 11, PART X, LINE 15 DOES NOT EQUAL OR EXCEED 5% OF THE TOTAL ASSETS ON FORM 990, PAGE 11, PART X, LINE 16, COLUMN B. CONSEQUENTLY, IN ACCORDANCE WITH IRS INSTRUCTIONS SCHEDULE D, PART IX HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK.

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

- TIN:

Schedule L
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Transactions with Interested Persons

Complete if the organization answered
"Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 25a, 25b, 26, 27, 28a, 28b, or 28c,
or Form 990-EZ, Part V lines 38a or 40b.
MediumBullet

Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. MediumBullet

See separate instructions.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2010

Open to Public Inspection

Name of the organization

NORTHWESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE INC

Employer identification number

73-0375825

Part I

Excess Benefit Transactions (section 501(c)(3) and section 501 (c)(4) organizations only).
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 25a or 25b, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 40b.

1(a) Name of disqualified person	(b) Description of transaction	(c) Corrected?
1(a) Name of disqualified person	(b) Description of transaction	Yes	No

Enter the amount of tax imposed on the organization managers or disqualified persons during the year under section 4958. ......................... Bullet Image

Enter the amount of tax, if any, on line 2, above, reimbursed by the organization ....... Bullet Image

Part II

Loans to and/or From Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 26, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a.

(a) Name of interested person and purpose	(b) Loan to or from the organization?		(c)Original principal amount	(d)Balance due	(e) In default?		(f) Approved by board or committee?		(g)Written agreement?
(a) Name of interested person and purpose	To	From	(c)Original principal amount	(d)Balance due	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	No
(1)		X				No		No		No
(2) TYSON LITTAU LOAN TO PURCHASE COMPUTER; LOAN MADE PURSUANT POLICY COVERING ALL EMPLOYEES		X	1,621	528		No	Yes		Yes




Total ............... $				528

Part III

Grants or Assistance Benefitting Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 27.

(a) Name of interested person	(b)Relationship between interested person and the organization	(c)Amount of grant or type of assistance

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the
Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.

Cat. No. 50056A

Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Page 2

Part IV

Business Transactions Involving Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 28a, 28b, or 28c.

(a) Name of interested person	(b) Relationship between interested person and the organization	(c) Amount of transaction	(d) Description of transaction	(e) Sharing of organization's revenues?
(a) Name of interested person		(c) Amount of transaction	(d) Description of transaction	Yes	No
(1) WESTERN FARMERS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE	A BOARD MEMBER OF THE COOPERATIVE SERVES ON THE BOARD OF WESTERN FARMERS	16,166,734	COOPERATIVE PURCHASES ELECTRICITY FROM WESTERN FARMERS.		No

Part V

Supplemental Information

Complete this part to provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule L (see instructions).

Identifier	Return Reference	Explanation

Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

- TIN:

SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet

Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2010

Open to Public
Inspection

Name of the organization

NORTHWESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE INC

Employer identification number

73-0375825

Identifier	Return Reference	Explanation
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 4		THE MEMBERS AMENDED ARTICLE IV OF THE COOPERATIVE'S BYLAWS TO ADD A NEW ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT FOR MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES. THE NEW ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT OF ARITICLE IV, SECTION 2.16 DISQUALIFIES A PERSON FROM BECOMING OR REMAINING A TRUSTEE IF THAT PERSON "HAS BEEN EMPLOYED BY THE COOPERATIVE WITHIN FIVE YEARS OF HIS/HER EMPLOYMENT TERMINATION DATE AND THE SCHEDULED DISTRICT MEETING FOR WHICH MEMBER DESIRES TO RUN."
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 6		THE COOPERATIVE WAS FORMED BY THE MEMBERS TO PROVIDE ELECTRIC SERVICE AT COST ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS.
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 7a		THE MEMBERS OF THE COOPERATIVE VOTE ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. ELECTIONS ARE DONE ON A ONE MEMBER ONE VOTE BASIS.
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 7b		THE FOLLOWING ACTS REQUIRE APPROVAL OF THE MEMBERS OF THE COOPERATIVE. 1.DISSOLUTION/LIQUIDATION OF THE COOPERATIVE; 2.MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OF THE COOPERATIVE WITH ANOTHER ORGANIZATION; 3.THE DISPOSAL OF A SUBSTANTIAL PORTION OF THE COOPERATIVE'S ASSETS; AND 4.AMENDMENTS TO THE COOPERATIVE'S BYLAWS.
Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 11		MANAGEMENT E-MAILED A COPY OF THE FORM 990 TO THE BOARD PRIOR TO FILING. MANAGEMENT PRESENTS THE FORM 990 TO THE BOARD FOR DISCUSSION AND APPROVAL AT THE MEETING SUBSEQUENT TO FILING.
	Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 12c	THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO REVIEW AND BE FAMILIAR WITH THE POLICIES OUTLINED IN THE COOPERATIVE'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO DISCLOSE ANY ACTION OR SITUATION THAT MIGHT VIOLATE THE POLICY TO THE FULL BOARD OF DIRECTORS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY IS REVIEWED AND REDISTRIBUTED TO EACH EMPLOYEE, OFFICER AND DIRECTOR AT LEAST ONCE EVERY THREE YEARS.
	Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 15	THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS USE A COMPENSATION SURVEY WHEN DETERMINING THE COMPENSATION OF THE CEO. THE SURVEY SHOWS COMPARATIVE SALARIES FOR GENERAL MANAGERS FROM SIMILARLY SITUATED COOPERATIVES LOCATED IN OKLAHOMA AND THE NATION. THE CEO AND AN INDEPENDENT COMPENSATION COMMITTEE USE A COMPENSATION SURVEY WHEN DETERMINING THE COMPENSATION OF THE COOPERATIVE'S OTHER EMPLOYEES MEETING THE DEFINITION OF OFFICER AND KEY EMPLOYEES, IF ANY. THE SURVEY INCLUDES SALARIES FROM SIMILARLY SITUATED COOPERATIVES THROUGHOUT OKLAHOMA AND THE NATION.
	Form 990, Part VI, Section C, line 19	THE COOPERATIVE WILL PROVIDE A COMPLETE COPY OF ITS GOVERNING DOCUMENTS, CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY, AND AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO ANY MEMBER WHO REQUESTS A COPY OF ANY SUCH DOCUMENT. ANNUALLY THE COOPERATIVE PROVIDES THE YEAR END BALANCE SHEET AND INCOME STATEMENT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE COOPERATIVE WITH THE ANNUAL REPORT. THE OPERATING REPORT IS ALSO PROVIDED TO THE MEMBERS VIA MONTHLY NEWSLETTER.
Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances:	Form 990, Part XI, line 5:	PATRONAGE CAPITAL RETIRED -594,626. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME PROVISION FOR PENSION AND BENEFITS -291,363. UNCLAIMED PATRONAGE CAPITAL RETIREMENT CHECKS 98,092. NET INCREASE IN MEMBERSHIPS 210. Total to Form 990, Part XI, Line 5: -787,687.
AUDIT COMMITTEE	Form 990, Part XI, Line 2C	THE BOARD AS A WHOLE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OVERSEEING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT AUDIT AND SELECTING THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL STATEMENT AUDITOR.
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS	Form 990, Part VI, Line 1b	RAY SMITH PER IRS FORM 990 INSTRUCTIONS IS NOT AN INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR BECAUSE HE IS ON THE BOARD OF WESTERN FARMERS COOPERATIVE, INC. THE COOPERATIVE PURCHASES ITS ELECTRIC ENERGY FROM WESTERN FARMERS AND IS ALSO A MEMBER OF WESTERN FARMERS. AS SUCH, MR. SMITH IS THE COOPERATIVE'S REPRESENTATIVE ON WESTERN FARMERS BOARD. MR. SMITH HAS NO OWNERSHIP INTEREST IN WESTERN FARMERS AND RECEIVES NO DIRECT OR INDIRECT BENEFIT FROM THE COOPERATIVE DOING BUSINESS WITH WESTERN FARMERS.
ACCOUNTING SYSTEM	Form 990, Part IX	THE ACCOUNTING RECORDS OF THE COOPERATIVE ARE MAINTAINED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE UNIFORM SYSTEM OF ACCOUNTS AS PRESCRIBED BY THE FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION FOR CLASS A AND B ELECTRIC UTILITIES MODIFIED FOR ELECTRIC BORROWERS OF THE RURAL UTILITIES SERVICE(RUS). THE UNIFORM SYSTEM OF ACCOUNTING DOES NOT RECORD EXPENSES IN THE GENERAL EXPENSE CATEGORIES PROVIDED ON PART IX LINES 1 - 23. THE COOPERATIVE WILL BREAK OUT SALARIES AND WAGES, EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AND PAYROLL TAXES THAT ARE ALLOCATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR ACCOUNTING SYSTEM, BUT OTHER EXPENSES THAT ARE DESCRIBED IN LINES 1 - 23 WILL BE REPORTED ON LINE 24 UNDER THE EXPENSE CATEGORIES REQUIRED BY THE UNIFORM SYSTEM OF ACCOUNTS.
PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS	Form 990, Part VIII, Line 2	PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS RESULT FROM THE PURCHASE OF WHOLESALE POWER FROM A GENERATION & TRANSMISSION COOPERATIVE. PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS ALSO RESULT FROM THE PAYMENT OF INTEREST FROM COOPERATIVE BANKS AND THE PURCHASE OF SUPPLIES AND SERVICES FROM OTHER COOPERATIVE ORGANIZATIONS. THE EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH PURCHASES FROM AND PAYMENTS TO SUCH COOPERATIVE ORGANIZATIONS ARE A DIRECT COMPONENT OF COST OF THE ELECTRIC SERVICE PROVIDED BY THE ORGANIZATION TO ITS MEMBERS.
RECONCILIATION OF WAGES PER RETURN TO FORM W-3	Form 990, Part IX, Lines 5-7	SALARIES AND WAGES ARE ALLOCATED TO ASSET, LIABILITY, AND EXPENSE ACCOUNTS BASED ON THE ACCOUNTING SYSTEM DESCRIBED ABOVE. IN AN EFFORT TO EXPLAIN WHY THE AMOUNTS REPORTED ON LINES 5-7 DO NOT AGREE TO THE W-3 THE FOLLOWING RECONCILIATION IS PROVIDED. TOTAL PER LINES 5-7 $ 2,270,122 LESS DIRECTORS FEES REPORTED ON 1099-MISC (113,423) PLUS SALARIES AND WAGES ALLOCATED TO ASSET ACCOUNTS 846,207 RECONCILIATION TO W-3 $ 3,002,906
CEO RESPONSIBILITIES	Form 990, Part VII, Section A	THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONSIDERS THE CEO TO BE BOTH THE TOP MANAGEMENT OFFICIAL AND THE TOP FINANCIAL OFFICIAL. THEREFORE, ONLY THE CEO IS LISTED AS AN EMPLOYEE OFFICER.
BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES INCLUDED IN ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL	Form 990, Part IX, Line 24	THE FOLLOWING IS A BREAKDOWN OF THE EXPENSES REPORTED AS ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL EXPENSE ON FORM 990, PART IX, LINE 24 OFFICE AND SUPPLIES $ 169,437 OUTSIDE SERVICES EMPLOYED 76,801 EMPLOYEE EXPENSE 43,375 TRUSTEE EXPENSE 59,624 INJURIES & DAMAGES 7,361 PROPERTY & GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE 61,729 DUES TO ASSOCIATED ORGANIZATIONS 91,154 COMMUNITY SUPPORT 15,080 ANNUAL & DISTRICT MEETING EXPENSE 64,033 MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL EXPENSE 31,724 MAINTENANCE OF GENERAL PLANT 14,373 TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL EXPENSE PER 990 $ 634,691
TO PROVIDE DETAIL REGARDING THE OFFICER BENEFITS	Form 990, Part VII, Column F	IN ORDER TO PROVIDE RETIREMENT BENEFITS TO ITS EMPLOYEES, THE COOPERATIVE HAS ESTABLISHED A DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN UNDER SECTION 401(K) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE. ADDITIONALLY, THE COOPERATIVE PARTICIPATES IN A MULTI-EMPLOYER DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN. CONTRIBUTIONS TO THIS PLAN ARE BASED ON THE FULL FUNDING LIMITATION OF SUCH PLAN. EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS FOR BOTH PLANS ARE AVAILABLE TO PARTICIPATING EMPLOYEES, INCLUDING OFFICERS, MEETING THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS OF SUCH PLANS. THE ORGANIZATION ALSO PROVIDES HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE TO ALL EMPLOYEES, INCLUDING OFFICERS, THROUGH A QUALIFIED PLAN. THE AMOUNTS REPORTED ON PART VII, COLUMN (F) FOR THE OFFICER IS COMPRISED OF THE ACTUARIAL INCREASE IN THE DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN FOR THE OFFICER, THE TOTAL AMOUNT CONTRIBUTED TO THE 401(K) PENSION PLAN AND THE INSURANCE PREMIUMS PAID FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE OFFICER. IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE PENSION PLANS, THE ORGANIZATION ALSO PROVIDES POST-RETIREMENT HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS THROUGH AN UNFUNDED WELFARE BENEFIT PLAN. THE VALUE OF THESE BENEFITS HAS NOT BEEN ESTIMATED.

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.

Cat. No. 51056K

Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Additional Data

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Software Version: