Form990-PF
Click to see list of attachments

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Return of Private Foundation
or Section 4947(a)(1) Trust Treated as Private Foundation
bulletDo not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.
bulletInformation about Form 990-PF and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990pf.
OMB No. 1545-0052
2015
Open to Public Inspection
For calendar year 2015, or tax year beginning 01-01-2015 , and ending 12-31-2015
Name of foundation
The Ross Foundation
 
Number and street (or P.O. box number if mail is not delivered to street address)PO Box 335
  Room/suite
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
Arkadelphia, AR71923
A Employer identification number

71-6060574
B Telephone number (see instructions)

(870) 246-9881
C bullet
G Check all that apply:

D 1. bullet
2. bullet
E bullet
H Check type of organization:
F bullet
I Fair market value of all assets at end
of year (from Part II, col. (c),
line 16)bullet$95,138,203J Accounting method:
 
(Part I, column (d) must be on cash basis.)
Part I Analysis of Revenue and Expenses (The total of amounts in columns (b), (c), and (d) may not necessarily equal the amounts in column (a) (see instructions).) (a) Revenue and
expenses per
books 		(b) Net investment
income 		(c) Adjusted net
income 		(d) Disbursements
for charitable
purposes
(cash basis only)
Revenue 1 Contributions, gifts, grants, etc., received (attach schedule)  
2 Check bullet Sch. B .............
3 Interest on savings and temporary cash investments 2,138 2,138  
4 Dividends and interest from securities...      
5a Gross rents............ 91,953 91,953  
b Net rental income or (loss) 91,953
6a Net gain or (loss) from sale of assets not on line 10 1,757,606
b Gross sales price for all assets on line 6a 2,363,232
7 Capital gain net income (from Part IV, line 2)... 1,757,606
8 Net short-term capital gain.........  
9 Income modifications...........  
10a Gross sales less returns and allowances  
b Less: Cost of goods sold....  
c Gross profit or (loss) (attach schedule).....    
11 Other income (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 78,934 78,934  
12 Total. Add lines 1 through 11........ 1,930,631 1,930,631  
Operating and Administrative Expenses 13 Compensation of officers, directors, trustees, etc. 248,023     248,023
14 Other employee salaries and wages...... 307,456     307,456
15 Pension plans, employee benefits....... 120,300     117,005
16a Legal fees (attach schedule)......... Click to see attachment 1,118     781
b Accounting fees (attach schedule)....... Click to see attachment 23,500     23,500
c Other professional fees (attach schedule)....        
17 Interest............... 225,337     209,567
18 Taxes (attach schedule) (see instructions)... Click to see attachment 186,658     146,747
19 Depreciation (attach schedule) and depletion... Click to see attachment 26,449    
20 Occupancy.............. 19,437     19,437
21 Travel, conferences, and meetings....... 11,661     11,661
22 Printing and publications..........        
23 Other expenses (attach schedule)....... Click to see list of attachments 172,476     164,726
24 Total operating and administrative expenses.
Add lines 13 through 23.......... 1,342,415 0   1,248,903
25 Contributions, gifts, grants paid....... 276,268 617,852
26 Total expenses and disbursements. Add lines 24 and 25 1,618,683 0   1,866,755
27 Subtract line 26 from line 12:
a Excess of revenue over expenses and disbursements 311,948
b Net investment income (if negative, enter -0-) 1,930,631
c Adjusted net income (if negative, enter -0-)...  
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see instructions.
Cat. No. 11289X Form 990-PF (2015)
Form 990-PF (2015)
Page 2
Part II Balance Sheets Attached schedules and amounts in the description column
should be for end-of-year amounts only. (See instructions.)		 Beginning of year End of year
(a) Book Value (b) Book Value (c) Fair Market Value
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing............. 313,257 195,014 195,014
2 Savings and temporary cash investments......... 807,698 769,528 769,528
3 Accounts receivable bullet59,691
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet   300 59,691 59,691
4 Pledges receivable bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
5 Grants receivable.................      
6 Receivables due from officers, directors, trustees, and other
disqualified persons (attach schedule) (see instructions).....      
7 Other notes and loans receivable (attach schedule) bullet  
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts bullet        
8 Inventories for sale or use..............      
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges.......... 15,059 12,058 12,058
10a Investments—U.S. and state government obligations (attach schedule)      
b Investments—corporate stock (attach schedule).......      
c Investments—corporate bonds (attach schedule).......      
11 Investments—land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet  
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet        
12 Investments—mortgage loans.............      
13 Investments—other (attach schedule)..........      
14 Land, buildings, and equipment: basis bullet1,180,391
Less: accumulated depreciation (attach schedule) bullet514,154 617,366 Click to see attachment666,237 666,237
15 Other assets (describe bullet) Click to see attachment31,257,633 Click to see attachment93,435,675 Click to see attachment93,435,675
16 Total assets (to be completed by all filers—see the
instructions. Also, see page 1, item I) 33,011,313 95,138,203 95,138,203
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses.......... 148,004 176,670
18 Grants payable.................. 420,184 78,600
19 Deferred revenue.................   67,043
20 Loans from officers, directors, trustees, and other disqualified persons    
21 Mortgages and other notes payable (attach schedule)...... 5,485,000 Click to see attachment4,800,000
22 Other liabilities (describe bullet) Click to see attachment18,521  
23 Total liabilities (add lines 17 through 22)......... 6,071,709 5,122,313
Net Assets or Fund Balances bullet
and complete lines 24 through 26 and lines 30 and 31.
24 Unrestricted.................. 26,939,604 90,015,890
25 Temporarily restricted...............    
26 Permanently restricted...............    
bullet
and complete lines 27 through 31.
27 Capital stock, trust principal, or current funds........    
28 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, bldg., and equipment fund    
29 Retained earnings, accumulated income, endowment, or other funds    
30 Total net assets or fund balances (see instructions)..... 26,939,604 90,015,890
31 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances (see instructions). 33,011,313 95,138,203
Part III
Analysis of Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances
1
Total net assets or fund balances at beginning of year—Part II, column (a), line 30 (must agree with end-of-year figure reported on prior year’s return) ...............
1
26,939,604
2
Enter amount from Part I, line 27a .....................
2
311,948
3
Other increases not included in line 2 (itemize) bulletClick to see attachment
3
63,373,357
4
Add lines 1, 2, and 3 ..........................
4
90,624,909
5
Decreases not included in line 2 (itemize) bulletClick to see attachment
5
609,019
6
Total net assets or fund balances at end of year (line 4 minus line 5)—Part II, column (b), line 30 .
6
90,015,890
Form 990-PF (2015)
Form 990-PF (2015)
Page 3
Part IV
Capital Gains and Losses for Tax on Investment Income
(a) List and describe the kind(s) of property sold (e.g., real estate,
2-story brick warehouse; or common stock, 200 shs. MLC Co.) 		(b) How acquired
P—Purchase
D—Donation 		(c) Date acquired
(mo., day, yr.) 		(d) Date sold
(mo., day, yr.)
1 a Timber P 2010-01-01 2015-01-01
b
c
d
e
(e) Gross sales price (f) Depreciation allowed
(or allowable) 		(g) Cost or other basis
plus expense of sale 		(h) Gain or (loss)
(e) plus (f) minus (g)
a 2,363,232   605,626 1,757,606
b
c
d
e
Complete only for assets showing gain in column (h) and owned by the foundation on 12/31/69 (l) Gains (Col. (h) gain minus
col. (k), but not less than -0-) or
Losses (from col.(h))
(i) F.M.V. as of 12/31/69 (j) Adjusted basis
as of 12/31/69 		(k) Excess of col. (i)
over col. (j), if any
a       1,757,606
b
c
d
e
2 Capital gain net income or (net capital loss) Bracket If gain, also enter in Part I, line 7
If (loss), enter -0- in Part I, line 7		 Bracket 2 1,757,606
3 Net short-term capital gain or (loss) as defined in sections 1222(5) and (6):
If gain, also enter in Part I, line 8, column (c) (see instructions). If (loss), enter -0-
in Part I, line 8 ................... 		Bracket 3  
Part V
Qualification Under Section 4940(e) for Reduced Tax on Net Investment Income
(For optional use by domestic private foundations subject to the section 4940(a) tax on net investment income.)
If section 4940(d)(2) applies, leave this part blank.
Was the foundation liable for the section 4942 tax on the distributable amount of any year in the base period?
If "Yes," the foundation does not qualify under section 4940(e). Do not complete this part.
1 Enter the appropriate amount in each column for each year; see instructions before making any entries.
(a)
Base period years Calendar
year (or tax year beginning in) 		(b)
Adjusted qualifying distributions 		(c)
Net value of noncharitable-use assets 		(d)
Distribution ratio
(col. (b) divided by col. (c))
2014 1,389,477 1,017,275 1.36588
2013 1,386,722 1,296,949 1.06922
2012 1,378,422 1,115,712 1.23546
2011 1,270,441 820,813 1.54778
2010 1,274,874 621,889 2.05000
2
Total of line 1, column (d) .....................
27.268350
3
Average distribution ratio for the 5-year base period—divide the total on line 2 by 5, or by
the number of years the foundation has been in existence if less than 5 years . . .
3
1.453670
4
Enter the net value of noncharitable-use assets for 2015 from Part X, line 5.....
4
1,121,974
5
Multiply line 4 by line 3......................
5
1,630,980
6
Enter 1% of net investment income (1% of Part I, line 27b)...........
6
19,306
7
Add lines 5 and 6........................
7
1,650,286
8
Enter qualifying distributions from Part XII, line 4.............
8
1,866,755
If line 8 is equal to or greater than line 7, check the box in Part VI, line 1b, and complete that part using a 1% tax rate. See the Part VI instructions.
Form 990-PF (2015)
Form 990-PF (2015)
Page 4
Part VI
Excise Tax Based on Investment Income (Section 4940(a), 4940(b), 4940(e), or 4948—see page 18 of the instructions)
1a Bullet and enter “N/A" on line 1. Bracket
Date of ruling or determination letter:   (attach copy of letter if necessary–see instructions)
b 1 19,306
hereBulletand enter 1% of Part I, line 27b...................
c All other domestic foundations enter 2% of line 27b. Exempt foreign organizations enter 4% of Part I, line 12, col. (b)
2 Tax under section 511 (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-) 2  
3 Add lines 1 and 2........................... 3 19,306
4 Subtitle A (income) tax (domestic section 4947(a)(1) trusts and taxable foundations only. Others enter -0-) 4  
5 Tax based on investment income. Subtract line 4 from line 3. If zero or less, enter -0- ..... 5 19,306
6 Credits/Payments:
a 2015 estimated tax payments and 2014 overpayment credited to 2015 6a 30,406
b Exempt foreign organizations—tax withheld at source...... 6b
c Tax paid with application for extension of time to file (Form 8868)... 6c  
d Backup withholding erroneously withheld ........... 6d  
7 Total credits and payments. Add lines 6a through 6d.............. 7 30,406
8 Enter any penalty for underpayment of estimated tax. if Form 2220 is attached. Click to see attachment 8  
9 Tax due. If the total of lines 5 and 8 is more than line 7, enter amount owed.......Bullet 9  
10 Overpayment. If line 7 is more than the total of lines 5 and 8, enter the amount overpaid...Bullet 10 11,100
11 Enter the amount of line 10 to be: Credited to 2015 estimated taxBullet11,100 RefundedBullet 11  
Part VII-A
Statements Regarding Activities
1a
During the tax year, did the foundation attempt to influence any national, state, or local legislation or did
Yes
No
it participate or intervene in any political campaign? ....................
1a
 
No
b
Did it spend more than $100 during the year (either directly or indirectly) for political purposes (see Instructions
for definition)?.................................
1b
 
No
If the answer is "Yes" to 1a or 1b, attach a detailed description of the activities and copies of any materials
published or distributed by the foundation in connection with the activities.
c
Did the foundation file Form 1120-POL for this year?.....................
1c
 
No
d
Enter the amount (if any) of tax on political expenditures (section 4955) imposed during the year:
(1) On the foundation. bullet$   (2) On foundation managers.bullet$  
e
Enter the reimbursement (if any) paid by the foundation during the year for political expenditure tax imposed
on foundation managers.bullet$  
2
Has the foundation engaged in any activities that have not previously been reported to the IRS?.......
2
 
No
If "Yes," attach a detailed description of the activities.
3
Has the foundation made any changes, not previously reported to the IRS, in its governing instrument, articles
of incorporation, or bylaws, or other similar instruments? If "Yes," attach a conformed copy of the changes....
3
 
No
4a
Did the foundation have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?........
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a tax return on Form 990-T for this year?...................
4b
 
No
5
Was there a liquidation, termination, dissolution, or substantial contraction during the year?.........
5
 
No
If "Yes," attach the statement required by General Instruction T.
6
Are the requirements of section 508(e) (relating to sections 4941 through 4945) satisfied either:
  • By language in the governing instrument, or
  • By state legislation that effectively amends the governing instrument so that no mandatory directions
    • that conflict with the state law remain in the governing instrument?................
    6
    Yes
     
    7
    Did the foundation have at least $5,000 in assets at any time during the year? If "Yes," complete Part II, col. (c),
    and Part XV..................................
    7
    Yes
     
    8a
    Enter the states to which the foundation reports or with which it is registered (see instructions)
    bulletAR
    b
    If the answer is "Yes" to line 7, has the foundation furnished a copy of Form 990-PF to the Attorney
    General (or designate) of each state as required by General Instruction G? If "No," attach explanation .
    8b
    Yes
     
    9
    Is the foundation claiming status as a private operating foundation within the meaning of section 4942(j)(3)
    or 4942(j)(5) for calendar year 2015 or the taxable year beginning in 2015 (see instructions for Part XIV)?
    If "Yes," complete Part XIV.............................
    9
     
    No
    10
    Did any persons become substantial contributors during the tax year? If "Yes," attach a schedule listing their names
    and addresses. ...............................
    10
     
    No
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 5
    Part VII-A
    Statements Regarding Activities (continued)
    11
    At any time during the year, did the foundation, directly or indirectly, own a controlled entity within the
    meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," attach schedule. (see instructions) .............
    11
     
    No
    12
    Did the foundation make a distribution to a donor advised fund over which the foundation or a disqualified person had
    advisory privileges? If "Yes," attach statement (see instructions).................
    12
     
    No
    13
    Did the foundation comply with the public inspection requirements for its annual returns and exemption application?
    13
    Yes
     
    Website addressbulletwww.rossfoundation.us
    14
    The books are in care ofbulletAmanda Fenocchi Telephone no.bullet (870) 246-9881

    Located atbulletPO Box 335ArkadelphiaAR ZIP+4bullet71923
    15
    Section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trusts filing Form 990-PF in lieu of Form 1041.......bullet
    and enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year ......bullet
    15  
    16 At any time during calendar year 2015, did the foundation have an interest in or a signature or other authority over YesNo
    a bank, securities, or other financial account in a foreign country?
    16   No
    See instructions for exceptions and filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR). If "Yes", enter the name of the foreign country bullet  
    Part VII-B
    Statements Regarding Activities for Which Form 4720 May Be Required
    File Form 4720 if any item is checked in the "Yes" column, unless an exception applies.
    Yes
    No
    1a
    During the year did the foundation (either directly or indirectly):
    (1) Engage in the sale or exchange, or leasing of property with a disqualified person?
    (2) Borrow money from, lend money to, or otherwise extend credit to (or accept it from)
    a disqualified person?......................
    (3) Furnish goods, services, or facilities to (or accept them from) a disqualified person?
    (4) Pay compensation to, or pay or reimburse the expenses of, a disqualified person?
    (5) Transfer any income or assets to a disqualified person (or make any of either available
    for the benefit or use of a disqualified person)?...............
    (6) Agree to pay money or property to a government official? (Exception. Check "No"
    if the foundation agreed to make a grant to or to employ the official for a period
    after termination of government service, if terminating within 90 days.).......
    b
    If any answer is "Yes" to 1a(1)–(6), did any of the acts fail to qualify under the exceptions described in Regulations
    section 53.4941(d)-3 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see instructions)? ........
    1b
     
    No
    ........bullet
    c
    Did the foundation engage in a prior year in any of the acts described in 1a, other than excepted acts,
    that were not corrected before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2015?.............
    1c
     
    No
    2
    Taxes on failure to distribute income (section 4942) (does not apply for years the foundation was a private
    operating foundation defined in section 4942(j)(3) or 4942(j)(5)):
    a
    At the end of tax year 2015, did the foundation have any undistributed income (lines 6d
    and 6e, Part XIII) for tax year(s) beginning before 2015?.............
    If "Yes," list the years bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    b
    Are there any years listed in 2a for which the foundation is not applying the provisions of section 4942(a)(2)
    (relating to incorrect valuation of assets) to the year’s undistributed income? (If applying section 4942(a)(2)
    to all years listed, answer "No" and attach statement—see instructions.) ..............
    2b
     
    No
    c
    If the provisions of section 4942(a)(2) are being applied to any of the years listed in 2a, list the years here.
    bullet20, 20, 20, 20
    3a
    Did the foundation hold more than a 2% direct or indirect interest in any business enterprise at
    any time during the year?......................
    b
    If "Yes," did it have excess business holdings in 2015 as a result of (1) any purchase by the foundation
    or disqualified persons after May 26, 1969; (2) the lapse of the 5-year period (or longer period approved
    by the Commissioner under section 4943(c)(7)) to dispose of holdings acquired by gift or bequest; or (3)
    the lapse of the 10-, 15-, or 20-year first phase holding period? (Use Schedule C, Form 4720, to determine
    if the foundation had excess business holdings in 2015.)..................
    3b
     
    No
    4a
    Did the foundation invest during the year any amount in a manner that would jeopardize its charitable purposes?
    4a
     
    No
    b
    Did the foundation make any investment in a prior year (but after December 31, 1969) that could jeopardize its
    charitable purpose that had not been removed from jeopardy before the first day of the tax year beginning in 2015?
    4b
     
    No
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 6
    Part VII-B
    Statements Regarding Activities for Which Form 4720 May Be Required (Continued)
    5a
    During the year did the foundation pay or incur any amount to:
    (1) Carry on propaganda, or otherwise attempt to influence legislation (section 4945(e))?
    (2) Influence the outcome of any specific public election (see section 4955); or to carry
    on, directly or indirectly, any voter registration drive?.............
    (3) Provide a grant to an individual for travel, study, or other similar purposes?
    (4) Provide a grant to an organization other than a charitable, etc., organization described
    in section 4945(d)(4)(A)? (see instructions)................
    (5) Provide for any purpose other than religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or
    educational purposes, or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals?.....
    b
    If any answer is "Yes" to 5a(1)–(5), did any of the transactions fail to qualify under the exceptions described in
    Regulations section 53.4945 or in a current notice regarding disaster assistance (see instructions)? ......
    5b
     
    No
    .........bullet
    c
    If the answer is "Yes" to question 5a(4), does the foundation claim exemption from the
    tax because it maintained expenditure responsibility for the grant?..........
    If "Yes," attach the statement required by Regulations section 53.4945–5(d).
    6a
    Did the foundation, during the year, receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on
    a personal benefit contract?.....................
    b
    Did the foundation, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?....
    6b
     
    No
    If "Yes" to 6b, file Form 8870.
    7a
    At any time during the tax year, was the foundation a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
    b
    If yes, did the foundation receive any proceeds or have any net income attributable to the transaction? ....
    7b
     
    No
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 7
    Part VIII
    Information About Officers, Directors, Trustees, Foundation Managers, Highly Paid Employees,
    and Contractors
    1 List all officers, directors, trustees, foundation managers and their compensation (see instructions).
    (a) Name and address (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation
     (If not paid, enter
    -0-)     		(d) Contributions to employee benefit plans and deferred compensation (e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    Ross Whipple Chairman/Trust.
    7.00     		47,000 14,809  
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Mary Elizabeth Eldridge Dir./Trustee
    15.00     		51,360 4,745  
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Mark Karnes Dir./Trustee
    40.00     		113,663 16,576 10,200
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Clark Tennyson Trustee
    2.00     		12,000    
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Peggy Clark Trustee
    2.00     		12,000    
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Mary Whipple Trustee
    2.00     		12,000    
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    2 Compensation of five highest-paid employees (other than those included on line 1—see instructions). If none, enter “NONE."
    (a) Name and address of each employee paid more than $50,000 (b) Title, and average
    hours per week
    devoted to position     		(c) Compensation (d) Contributions to
    employee benefit
    plans and deferred
    compensation     		(e) Expense account,
    other allowances
    David Hunt Sr. Forester
    40.00     		88,331 11,032 7,800
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Eric Rhodes Forester
    40.00     		59,249 11,352 7,800
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Amanda Fenocchi Office Mgr
    40.00     		50,912 2,123  
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    Total number of other employees paid over $50,000...................bullet  
    3 Five highest-paid independent contractors for professional services (see instructions). If none, enter "NONE".
    (a) Name and address of each person paid more than $50,000 (b) Type of service (c) Compensation
    NONE
    Total number of others receiving over $50,000 for professional services.............bullet  
    Part IX-A
    Summary of Direct Charitable Activities
    List the foundation’s four largest direct charitable activities during the tax year. Include relevant statistical information such as the number of organizations and other beneficiaries served, conferences convened, research papers produced, etc. Expenses
    1 Conservation Forestry Management: The Ross Foundation continued its conservation forestry management program in 2015 by incorporating diverse management techniques which included natural stand management, plantation stand management, hardwood management systems, and unique plant and habitat area management. Conservation forestry objectives are centered on the incorporation of these various management components resulting in stand diversity, plant diversity, and habitat diversity throughout all lands owned and managed by The Ross Foundation as charitable assets. To accomplish its mission, The Ross Foundation employs a full time staff of professional foresters, biologists, and technicians to design, implement, and monitor a comprehensive conservation forestry management program.In 2015, The Ross Foundation incurred $405,718 in expenses related to salaries and benefits for professional staff directly related to the continuation of its conservation forestry program. Additionally, expenses 561,726
    2 Public Recreation: The Ross Foundations land is available to the public for recreational opportunities. During 2015, recreational users enjoyed various pursuits including hunting, fishing, day hiking, camping, horseback riding, picnicking, mountain bike riding, swimming, backpacking, bird watching, nature study, photography, and walking for aerobic activity. During 2015, The Ross Foundation spent $6,680 on material and $40,283 in salary and benefits for allocated staff time related to public recreation administration and management activities on The Ross Foundations property. 46,963
    3 Environmental Education and Research: The Ross Foundations lands are available for educational and research activities. In 2015, The Ross Foundation conducted environmental education field trips for Henderson State University ecology students and Ouachita Baptist University biology students to expose them, in an outdoor classroom setting, to the principles of the areas local ecology and how those ecological interactions are incorporated into The Ross Foundations conservation forestry management activities. Also in 2015, The Ross Foundation provided sites for outdoor laboratory study, native fauna inventory and assessment, and extension outreach with various natural resource agencies and user groups. The Ross Foundation contributed $6,680 in staff time related to coordinating and leading these environmental education and research activities. 6,680
    4  
    Part IX-B
    Summary of Program-Related Investments (see instructions)
    Describe the two largest program-related investments made by the foundation during the tax year on lines 1 and 2. Amount
    1  
    2  
    All other program-related investments. See instructions.
    3  
    Total. Add lines 1 through 3.........................bullet  
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 8
    Part X
    Minimum Investment Return (All domestic foundations must complete this part. Foreign foundations,see instructions.)
    1
    Fair market value of assets not used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes:
    a
    Average monthly fair market value of securities...................
    1a
    0
    b
    Average of monthly cash balances.......................
    1b
    1,139,060
    c
    Fair market value of all other assets (see instructions)................
    1c
    0
    d
    Total (add lines 1a, b, and c).........................
    1d
    1,139,060
    e
    Reduction claimed for blockage or other factors reported on lines 1a and
    1c (attach detailed explanation) .............
    1e
    0
    2
    Acquisition indebtedness applicable to line 1 assets..................
    2
     
    3
    Subtract line 2 from line 1d.........................
    3
    1,139,060
    4
    Cash deemed held for charitable activities. Enter 1 1/2% of line 3 (for greater amount, see
    instructions) .............................
    4
    17,086
    5
    Net value of noncharitable-use assets. Subtract line 4 from line 3. Enter here and on Part V, line 4
    5
    1,121,974
    6
    Minimum investment return. Enter 5% of line 5..................
    6
    56,099
    Part XI
    Distributable Amount bullet
    1
    Minimum investment return from Part X, line 6....................
    1
    56,099
    2a
    Tax on investment income for 2015 from Part VI, line 5......
    2a
    19,306
    b
    Income tax for 2015. (This does not include the tax from Part VI.)...
    2b
     
    c
    Add lines 2a and 2b............................
    2c
    19,306
    3
    Distributable amount before adjustments. Subtract line 2c from line 1............
    3
    36,793
    4
    Recoveries of amounts treated as qualifying distributions................
    4
     
    5
    Add lines 3 and 4............................
    5
    36,793
    6
    Deduction from distributable amount (see instructions).................
    6
     
    7
    Distributable amount as adjusted. Subtract line 6 from line 5. Enter here and on Part XIII, line 1 ...
    7
    36,793
    Part XII
    Qualifying Distributions (see instructions)
    1
    Amounts paid (including administrative expenses) to accomplish charitable, etc., purposes:
    a
    Expenses, contributions, gifts, etc.—total from Part I, column (d), line 26 ..........
    1a
    1,866,755
    b
    Program-related investments—total from Part IX-B..................
    1b
     
    2
    Amounts paid to acquire assets used (or held for use) directly in carrying out charitable, etc.,
    purposes...............................
    2
     
    3
    Amounts set aside for specific charitable projects that satisfy the:
    a
    Suitability test (prior IRS approval required)....................
    3a
     
    b
    Cash distribution test (attach the required schedule) .................
    3b
     
    4
    Qualifying distributions. Add lines 1a through 3b. Enter here and on Part V, line 8, and Part XIII, line 4
    4
    1,866,755
    5
    Foundations that qualify under section 4940(e) for the reduced rate of tax on net investment
    income. Enter 1% of Part I, line 27b (see instructions).................
    5
    19,306
    6
    Adjusted qualifying distributions. Subtract line 5 from line 4..............
    6
    1,847,449
    Note: The amount on line 6 will be used in Part V, column (b), in subsequent years when calculating whether the foundation qualifies for
    the section 4940(e) reduction of tax in those years.
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 9
    Part XIII
    Undistributed Income (see instructions)
    (a)
    Corpus     		(b)
    Years prior to 2014     		(c)
    2014     		(d)
    2015
    1 Distributable amount for 2015 from Part XI, line 7 36,793
    2 Undistributed income, if any, as of the end of 2015:
    a Enter amount for 2014 only.......  
    b Total for prior years:20, 20, 20  
    3 Excess distributions carryover, if any, to 2015:
    a From 2010...... 1,272,670
    b From 2011...... 1,248,230
    c From 2012...... 1,378,422
    d From 2013...... 1,311,381
    e From 2014...... 1,365,976
    fTotal of lines 3a through e........ 6,576,679
    4Qualifying distributions for 2015 from Part
    XII, line 4: bullet$ 1,866,755
    a Applied to 2014, but not more than line 2a  
    b Applied to undistributed income of prior years
    (Election required—see instructions).....     		 
    c Treated as distributions out of corpus (Election
    required—see instructions)........     		0
    d Applied to 2015 distributable amount..... 36,793
    e Remaining amount distributed out of corpus 1,829,962
    5 Excess distributions carryover applied to 2015.    
    (If an amount appears in column (d), the
    same amount must be shown in column (a).)
    6Enter the net total of each column as
    indicated below:
    a Corpus. Add lines 3f, 4c, and 4e. Subtract line 5 8,406,641
    b Prior years’ undistributed income. Subtract
    line 4b from line 2b ..........     		 
    c Enter the amount of prior years’ undistributed
    income for which a notice of deficiency has
    been issued, or on which the section 4942(a)
    tax has been previously assessed......     		 
    d Subtract line 6c from line 6b. Taxable amount
    —see instructions ...........     		 
    e Undistributed income for 2014. Subtract line
    4a from line 2a. Taxable amount—see
    instructions .............     		 
    f Undistributed income for 2016. Subtract
    lines 4d and 5 from line 1. This amount must
    be distributed in 2015 ..........     		0
    7 Amounts treated as distributions out of
    corpus to satisfy requirements imposed by
    section 170(b)(1)(F) or 4942(g)(3) (Election may
    be required - see instructions) .......     		 
    8Excess distributions carryover from 2010 not
    applied on line 5 or line 7 (see instructions) ...     		1,272,670
    9Excess distributions carryover to 2016.
    Subtract lines 7 and 8 from line 6a ......     		7,133,971
    10 Analysis of line 9:
    a Excess from 2011.... 1,248,230
    b Excess from 2012.... 1,378,422
    c Excess from 2013.... 1,311,381
    d Excess from 2014.... 1,365,976
    e Excess from 2015.... 1,829,962
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 10
    Part XIV
    Private Operating Foundations (see instructions and Part VII-A, question 9)
    1a If the foundation has received a ruling or determination letter that it is a private operating
    foundation, and the ruling is effective for 2015, enter the date of the ruling.......bullet
     
    b Check box to indicate whether the organization is a private operating foundation described in section or
    2a Enter the lesser of the adjusted net
    income from Part I or the minimum
    investment return from Part X for each
    year listed ..........     		Tax year Prior 3 years (e) Total
    (a) 2015 (b) 2014 (c) 2013 (d) 2012
             
    b 85% of line 2a .........          
    c Qualifying distributions from Part XII,
    line 4 for each year listed .....     		         
    d Amounts included in line 2c not used directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities ..........     		         
    e Qualifying distributions made directly
    for active conduct of exempt activities.
    Subtract line 2d from line 2c ....     		         
    3 Complete 3a, b, or c for the
    alternative test relied upon:
    a “Assets" alternative test—enter:
    (1) Value of all assets ......          
    (2) Value of assets qualifying
    under section 4942(j)(3)(B)(i)    		          
    b “Endowment" alternative test— enter 2/3
    of minimum investment return shown in
    Part X, line 6 for each year listed...     		         
    c “Support" alternative test—enter:
    (1) Total support other than gross
    investment income (interest,
    dividends, rents, payments
    on securities loans (section
    512(a)(5)), or royalties) ....     		         
    (2) Support from general public
    and 5 or more exempt
    organizations as provided in
    section 4942(j)(3)(B)(iii)....     		         
    (3) Largest amount of support
    from an exempt organization    		          
    (4) Gross investment income          
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (Complete this part only if the organization had $5,000 or more in
    assets at any time during the year—see instructions.)
    1Information Regarding Foundation Managers:
    aList any managers of the foundation who have contributed more than 2% of the total contributions received by the foundation
    before the close of any tax year (but only if they have contributed more than $5,000). (See section 507(d)(2).)
    bList any managers of the foundation who own 10% or more of the stock of a corporation (or an equally large portion of the
    ownership of a partnership or other entity) of which the foundation has a 10% or greater interest.
    2Information Regarding Contribution, Grant, Gift, Loan, Scholarship, etc., Programs:
    Check here bullet
    aThe name, address, and telephone number or e-mail address of the person to whom applications should be addressed:
    Mary Elizabeth Eldridge
    PO Box 335
    Arkadelphia,AR71923
    (870) 246-9881
    meeldridge@rossfoundation.us
    bThe form in which applications should be submitted and information and materials they should include:
    See attachment
    cAny submission deadlines:
    See attachment
    dAny restrictions or limitations on awards, such as by geographical areas, charitable fields, kinds of institutions, or other
    factors:
    See attachment
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 11
    Part XV
    Supplementary Information (continued)
    3 Grants and Contributions Paid During the Year or Approved for Future Payment
    Recipient If recipient is an individual,
    show any relationship to
    any foundation manager
    or substantial contributor
    		 Foundation
    status of
    recipient     		Purpose of grant or
    contribution     		Amount
    Name and address (home or business)
    aPaid during the year
    American Cancer Society
    901 N University
    Little Rock,AR72207     		N/A PC Relay for Life 1,000
    Arkadelphia Choir Boosters
    1200 Cutler Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    Arkadelphia Community Foundation
    601 Main Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Appreciation Dinner for Clark County Safety and Emergency Personnel 1,000
    Arkadelphia Promise Foundation
    235 N 11th St
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Arkadelphia Promise Scholarship Program 351,684
    Arkadelphia Public Schools
    235 North 11th Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A GOV CONE Foundation, Project Prom, and AHS-Jr ROTC Program 10,000
    Arkansas Arts Center Foundation
    501 East 9th Street
    Little Rock,AR72202     		N/A PC Artmobile 5,000
    Arkansas Children's Hospital Founda
    1 Childrens Way Slot 661
    Little Rock,AR72202     		N/A PC Dental Sealant Program - Gurdon Public Schools 5,500
    Arkansas Forestry Assoc Education F
    1213 W 4th St
    Little Rock,AR72201     		N/A PC Unrestricted 35,723
    Arkansas Game Fish Foundation
    2 Natural Resources Drive
    Little Rock,AR72205     		N/A PC Unrestricted 55,931
    Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches
    100 Saint Vincent Place
    Batesville,AR72501     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship
    614 E Emma Ave Ste 119
    Springdale,AR72764     		N/A PC Clark County Scholarships 6,000
    Baptist Health Foundation
    9601 Interstate 630 Exit 7
    Little Rock,AR72205     		N/A PC OR Drill for Baptist Health Medical Center-Arkadelphia 15,000
    Boys and Girls Club of Clark County
    1305 Caddo Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    CASA of Clark County
    PO Box 987
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    Community Family Enrichment Center
    301 North 23rd Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    Clark County Arts Humanities Counci
    625 Main Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Unrestricted - General Support 500
    Dawson Educational Cooperative
    711 Clinton Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A GOV Mini-Grant Programs 19,830
    Group Living Inc
    708 Main Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    Henderson State University Foundati
    Box 7550 HSU
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A SO III FI Girls Leadership in STEM Conference 500
    Junior Auxiliary of Arkadelphia
    PO Box 565
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Angel Tree - 2015 1,500
    Museum of Discovery
    500 President Clinton Ave Suite 150
    Little Rock,AR72201     		N/A PC Race for Planet "X" - Mobile Museum 2,000
    Natural Areas Association
    PO Box 1504
    Bend,OR97709     		N/A PC Natural Areas Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas November 3-5, 2015 1,000
    Nevada County Depot Museum
    PO Box 599
    Prescott,AR71857     		N/A PC Elkins Ferry Battlefield Acquisition 10,000
    Ouachita Baptist University
    410 Ouachita Street Box 3754
    Arkadelphia,AR71998     		N/A PC Ben Elrod Center for Family and Community 10,000
    Percy and Donna Malone Child Safety
    PO Box 292
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Start-Up Expenses, Initial Operating Costs & Pt Salaries, ArkansasGives Day 20,500
    Pregnancy Resource Ctr for SW Arkan
    911 Clinton Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Arkansas Gives Day, Practical Fatherhood Program 4,661
    Ronald McDonald House Charities of
    1009 Wolfe Street
    Little Rock,AR72202     		N/A PC Family Meals 5,000
    Shine Through Missions
    8582 Hwy 8 West
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC ArkansasGives Day 500
    The Nature Conservancy
    601 N University Ave
    Little Rock,AR72205     		N/A PC Unrestricted 35,723
    University of Arkansas
    2301 South University Avenue Rm 10
    Little Rock,AR72204     		N/A GOV LeadAR Seminar Class 17 300
    University of Arkansas Foundation
    200 Whittington Ave
    Hot Sprngs,AR71901     		N/A PC ASMSA Maker Space 10,000
    Vera Lloyd Presbyterian Home and Fa
    1501 North University Suite 345
    Little Rock,AR72205     		N/A PC Provide Car for Youth in Need from Clark County 6,000
    Total .................................bullet 3a 617,852
    bApproved for future payment
    Arkansas Children's Hospital Founda
    1 Childrens Way Slot 661
    Little Rock,AR72202     		N/A PC Dental Sealants - Arkadelphia Public Schools 20,000
    Arkadelphia Public Schools
    235 North 11th Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A GOV CONE Foundation 9,000
    Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry
    102 Breezehill Road
    Hot Springs,AR71913     		N/A PC Deer Processing Costs for Clark Co and the surrounding area 1,000
    City of Arkadelphia
    700 Clay Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A GOV Director's Salary - Partial 15,000
    Group Living Inc
    708 Main Street
    Arkadelphia,AR71923     		N/A PC Matching Grant from the AR Highway and Transport Dept for a Lowered Floor Minivan w/Ramp 7,600
    Total .................................bullet 3b 52,600
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 12
    Part XVI-A
    Analysis of Income-Producing Activities
    Enter gross amounts unless otherwise indicated. Unrelated business income Excluded by section 512, 513, or 514 (e)
    Related or exempt
    function income
    (See instructions.)
    1Program service revenue: (a)
    Business code     		(b)
    Amount     		(c)
    Exclusion code     		(d)
    Amount
    a
    b
    c
    d
    e
    f
    gFees and contracts from government agencies          
    2 Membership dues and assessments....          
    3
    Interest on savings and temporary cash investments ...........     		    14 2,138  
    4 Dividends and interest from securities....          
    5 Net rental income or (loss) from real estate:
    aDebt-financed property......          
    bNot debt-financed property.....     16 91,953  
    6
    Net rental income or (loss) from personal property     		         
    7 Other investment income.....          
    8
    Gain or (loss) from sales of assets other than inventory ............     		        1,757,606
    9 Net income or (loss) from special events:          
    10 Gross profit or (loss) from sales of inventory..          
    11 Other revenue:
    aHunting License Fees     		    16 71,423  
    bRoyalties     15 7,511  
    c
    d
    e
    12 Subtotal. Add columns (b), (d), and (e)..   173,025 1,757,606
    13Total. Add line 12, columns (b), (d), and (e)..................
    131,930,631
    (See worksheet in line 13 instructions to verify calculations.)
    Part XVI-B
    Relationship of Activities to the Accomplishment of Exempt Purposes
    Line No.
    DownArrow     		Explain below how each activity for which income is reported in column (e) of Part XVI-A contributed importantly to
    the accomplishment of the foundation’s exempt purposes (other than by providing funds for such purposes). (See
    instructions.)
    8 Revenue received from the sale of timber harvested in connection with the Foundation's forestry conservation and management programs.
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Page 13
    Part XVII
    Information Regarding Transfers To and Transactions and Relationships With Noncharitable Exempt Organizations
    1
    Did the organization directly or indirectly engage in any of the following with any other organization described in section 501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3) organizations) or in section 527, relating to political organizations?
    Yes
    No
    a
    Transfers from the reporting foundation to a noncharitable exempt organization of:
    (1) Cash...................................
    1a(1)
     
    No
    (2) Other assets.................................
    1a(2)
     
    No
    b
    Other transactions:
    (1) Sales of assets to a noncharitable exempt organization....................
    1b(1)
     
    No
    (2) Purchases of assets from a noncharitable exempt organization..................
    1b(2)
     
    No
    (3) Rental of facilities, equipment, or other assets.......................
    1b(3)
     
    No
    (4) Reimbursement arrangements...........................
    1b(4)
     
    No
    (5) Loans or loan guarantees.............................
    1b(5)
     
    No
    (6) Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations................
    1b(6)
     
    No
    c
    Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, other assets, or paid employees..............
    1c
     
    No
    d
    If the answer to any of the above is "Yes," complete the following schedule. Column (b) should always show the fair market value
    of the goods, other assets, or services given by the reporting foundation. If the foundation received less than fair market value
    in any transaction or sharing arrangement, show in column (d) the value of the goods, other assets, or services received.

    (a) Line No. (b) Amount involved (c) Name of noncharitable exempt organization (d) Description of transfers, transactions, and sharing arrangements
    2a
    Is the foundation directly or indirectly affiliated with, or related to, one or more tax-exempt organizations
    described in section 501(c) of the Code (other than section 501(c)(3)) or in section 527?...........
    b
    If "Yes," complete the following schedule.

    (a) Name of organization (b) Type of organization (c) Description of relationship
    Sign Here
    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 taxpayer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
    Bullet Bullet
    May the IRS discuss this return
    with the preparer shown below
    (see instr.)?
    Signature of officer or trustee Date Title
    Paid Preparer Use Only Print/Type preparer's name Preparer's Signature Date PTIN
    Firm's name SmallBullet
    		 Firm's EIN SmallBullet
    Firm's address SmallBullet


    		 Phone no.
    Form 990-PF (2015)
    Additional Data


    Software ID: 15000324
    Software Version: 2015v2.0


    Form 990PF - Special Condition Description:
    Special Condition Description

    TY 2015 AccountingFeesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Financial statement preparation 21,000 0 0 21,000
    Tax compliance 2,500 0 0 2,500

    Note: To capture the full content of this document, please select landscape mode (11" x 8.5") when printing.

    TY 2015 DepreciationSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Description of Property Date Acquired Cost or Other Basis Prior Years' Depreciation Computation Method Rate /
    Life (# of years)    		 Current Year's Depreciation Expense Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Cost of Goods Sold Not Included
    Buildings 2001-01-01 902,233 293,149 SL 39.0000 23,131      
    Equipment 2001-01-01 197,739 189,456 SL 5.0000 3,318      

    TY 2015 LandEtcSchedule2
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Category / Item Cost / Other Basis Accumulated Depreciation Book Value End of Year Fair Market Value
    Machinery and Equipment 202,839 197,874 4,965 4,965
    Buildings 902,233 316,280 585,953 585,953
    Land 75,319   75,319 75,319


    TY 2015 LegalFeesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    General governance & counsel 1,118 0 0 781


    TY 2015 MortgagesAndNotesPayableSch
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Total Mortgage Amount: 4,800,000

    Item No. 1
    Lender's Name Clark County Arkansas
    Lender's Title  
    Relationship to Insider None
    Original Amount of Loan 10,000,000
    Balance Due 4,800,000
    Date of Note 2006-12
    Maturity Date 2021-12
    Repayment Terms Semi-annual payments of P&I
    Interest Rate 4.2500
    Security Provided by Borrower 12,838 acres of timber land
    Purpose of Loan Acquire timber land
    Description of Lender Consideration Cash
    Consideration FMV 10000000


    TY 2015 OtherDecreasesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Description Amount
    Audit adjustment to correct fixed asset balance 609,019


    TY 2015 OtherExpensesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Description Revenue and Expenses per Books Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Bond issuance costs amortization 7,750      
    Computer service and programming 8,400     8,400
    Conservation and wildlife expenses 96,028     96,028
    Dues and subscriptions 4,077     4,077
    Insurance 52,099     52,099
    Office supplies 3,105     3,105
    Other expenses 1,017     1,017


    TY 2015 OtherIncomeSchedule2
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Description Revenue And Expenses Per Books Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income
    Hunting License Fees 71,423 71,423  
    Royalties 7,511 7,511  


    TY 2015 OtherIncreasesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Description Amount
    Adjustment to reflect timber and related land at FMV 62,486,445
    Unrealized increase in value of timber and related land 886,912


    TY 2015 TaxesSchedule
    Name:
    The Ross Foundation
    EIN:
    71-6060574
    Software ID:
    15000324
    Software Version:
    2015v2.0
    Category Amount Net Investment Income Adjusted Net Income Disbursements for Charitable Purposes
    Excise tax 39,911      
    Property tax 145,822     145,822
    State tax 925     925