NORTHWEST PIPE CO
10-K405, 1999-03-30
STEEL PIPE & TUBES
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<PAGE>

                                  UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
                                    FORM 10-K

            [X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                  For the Fiscal Year Ended: December 31, 1998
                                       OR
          [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
           For the transition period from ____________ to ____________
                         COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 0-27140

                             NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
         OREGON                                         93-0557988
  (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION                       (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
OF INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)                  IDENTIFICATION NO.)

                                12005 N. BURGARD
                             PORTLAND, OREGON 97203
              (Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
                                  503-285-1400
               (Registrant's telephone number including area code)
           SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:
        NONE SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:
                     COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE $.01 PER SHARE
                                (Title of Class)

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

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K, or any amendment to
this Form 10-K. [X]

The aggregate market value of the common equity held by non-affiliates of the
Registrant was $58,690,354 as of March 12, 1999 based upon the last sales price
as reported by Nasdaq.

The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant's Common Stock as of March
12, 1999 was 6,449,232 shares.


                              --------------------
                       DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The Registrant has incorporated into Part III of Form 10-K by reference portions
of its Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May
11, 1999.


<PAGE>

                             NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY
                          1998 FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT
                                TABLE OF CONTENTS

                                     PART I

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         Page
                                                                         ----
<S>                                                                      <C>
Item 1   -        Business                                                  1
Item 2   -        Properties                                                5
Item 3   -        Legal Proceedings                                         6
Item 4   -        Submission of Matters to a Vote
                  of Security Holders                                       6

                                     PART II

Item 5   -        Market for the Registrant's Common
                  Equity and Related Stockholder Matters                    7
Item 6   -        Selected Financial Data                                   7
Item 7   -        Management's Discussion and Analysis
                  of Financial Condition and Results of
                  Operations                                                8
Item 7A -         Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About
                  Market Risk                                              14
Item 8   -        Financial Statements and Supplementary
                  Data                                                     14
Item 9   -        Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants
                  on Accounting and Financial Disclosure                   14


                                    PART III

Item 10  -        Directors and Executive Officers of the
                  Registrant                                               15
Item 11  -        Executive Compensation                                   15
Item 12  -        Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
                  Owners and Management                                    15
Item 13  -        Certain Relationships and Related
                  Transactions                                             15


                                     PART IV

Item 14  -        Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedule
                  and Reports on Form 8-K                                  16
</TABLE>


<PAGE>

                                     PART I

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

GENERAL

Northwest Pipe Company ("the Company") manufactures welded steel pipe in two
groups. In its Water Transmission business (the "Water Transmission" business),
the Company is a leading supplier in the United States and Canada of large
diameter, high-pressure steel pipe used primarily for water transmission. In its
Tubular Products business (the "Tubular Products" business), the Company
manufactures smaller diameter, electric resistance welded ("ERW") steel pipe for
use in a wide range of construction, agricultural and industrial applications.
In 1998, Water Transmission and Tubular Products revenues represented
approximately 60% and 40% of the Company's net sales, respectively.
Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the Company operates eight manufacturing
facilities. Water transmission products are manufactured in Portland, Oregon;
Denver, Colorado; Adelanto and Riverside, California (both are near Los
Angeles); and Parkersburg, West Virginia. Tubular Products are manufactured in
Portland, Oregon; Atchison, Kansas; Houston, Texas; and Bossier City, Louisiana.

In May 1996, the Company acquired Thompson Pipe and Steel Company, a
manufacturer of steel water transmission pipe headquartered in Denver, Colorado.
The principal asset acquired was a steel pipe manufacturing facility located in
Denver, Colorado.

In December 1996, the Company acquired, from California Steel Pressure Pipe
Company, certain assets of its Riverside, California plant, which included two
spiral mills and one ERW mill. The Riverside, California plant had been closed
in December 1996 by California Steel Pressure Pipe Company. In January 1997, the
Company began producing water transmission pipe at the Riverside plant and
managing this facility from its Adelanto, California facility.

In March 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding capital stock of
Southwestern Pipe, Inc. ("Southwestern") and P&H Tube Corporation ("P&H"), both
Texas corporations. The principal business of both Southwestern and P&H was the
manufacture and sale of structural and mechanical tubing products. Southwestern
owned and operated a manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas. P&H owned and
operated a manufacturing facility in Bossier City, Louisiana. The Company
continues to operate the acquired plants, equipment and other property for the
same purpose.

In June 1998, the Company acquired from L.B. Foster Company, the plant,
equipment, leasehold and contract rights and miscellaneous assets of its
Fosterweld Division manufacturing facility located in Parkersburg, West Virginia
(the "Parkersburg Facility"). The Company also acquired the Parkersburg
Facility's inventory net of assumed accounts payable. The Parkersburg Facility
was used in the manufacture of large diameter, high pressure steel pipe
products. The Company continues to operate the Parkersburg Facility for the same
purpose.

PRODUCTS

WATER TRANSMISSION PRODUCTS. Water transmission pipe is used for (i) 
high-pressure applications, typically requiring pipe able to withstand 
pressures in excess of 150 pounds per square inch, and (ii) other industrial 
and structural applications. All of the Company's Water Transmission products 
are made to custom specifications. Most of these products are for fully 
engineered, large diameter, high-pressure water transmission lines. Other 
uses include pipe for piling and hydroelectric projects, wastewater 
transmission and treatment plant piping. The Company has the capability to 
manufacture water transmission pipe in diameters ranging from 4" to 156" with 
wall thicknesses of 0.135" to 3.00". The Company has the capability to coat 
and line these products with cement mortar, polyethylene tapes, paints and 
coal tar enamel according to the customers' specifications. The Company 
maintains fabrication facilities and provides installation contractors with 
custom fabricated sections as well as straight pipe sections.


                                      1

<PAGE>

TUBULAR PRODUCTS. The Company's Tubular Products range in size from 0.50" to 16"
in diameter with wall thicknesses from 0.035" to 0.315", square tubing from
0.75" to 3", and rectangular tubing from 0.50" x 1" to 3" x 4". These products
are typically sold to pipe distributors or original equipment manufacturers and
are used for a wide variety of applications. The tubular products industry,
however, serves very large markets with products that generally have wall
thicknesses greater than those that the Company has traditionally manufactured.

The Company has added new product lines in its Tubular Products business as
management identified opportunities for sustainable growth. For example, in 1989
the Company entered the fire protection sprinkler system market with its branded
product FLAME-OUT, and in 1993 the Company began marketing WELL-LIFE, a water
well casing product. These new products represented an expansion of the
Company's focus from the light-wall, large diameter niche markets to include
higher volume, more competitive markets. The Company acquired and installed a
new tubular products mill in its Portland, Oregon facility, which was
operational in 1998. This new mill gives the Company the ability to manufacture
products with smaller diameters and heavier wall thicknesses for uses in
industrial piping, oil and gas transmission, fire protection systems and other
applications. The Company intends to continue to pursue future opportunities to
broaden its product lines by adding products that will take advantage of the
Company's available manufacturing capacity, existing marketing channels and
manufacturing expertise.

MARKETING

WATER TRANSMISSION. The primary customers for Water Transmission products are
installation contractors for projects funded by public water agencies, including
states, municipalities and water districts. Water Transmission products are
marketed primarily in the United States and Canada. High freight costs reduce
the Company's competitiveness as the distances from its manufacturing facilities
increase.

The Company's Water Transmission marketing strategy emphasizes early 
identification of potential water projects, promotion of specifications 
consistent with the Company's capabilities and close contact with the project 
designers and owners throughout the design phase. The Company's in-house 
sales force is composed of sales representatives, engineers and support 
personnel who work with public water agencies, contractors and engineering 
firms, often more than a year in advance of the project being bid, in order 
to identify and evaluate planned projects. As a public water agency develops 
a pipeline project, the Company's professional engineers provide information 
to the agency or its design engineers promoting the advantages of coated and 
lined steel pipe, and in certain cases may be successful in influencing the 
specifications to favor the Company's products. After an agency completes a 
design, they publicize the upcoming bidding for a water transmission project. 
The Company then obtains detailed plans and develops its estimate for the 
pipe portion of the project. The Company typically bids to installation 
contractors who include the Company's bid in their proposal to the public 
water agency. A public water agency generally awards the entire project to 
the contractor with the lowest responsible bid.

Because a substantial portion of the Company's Water Transmission revenue is 
derived from sales related to public water transmission projects, the 
Company's sales could be adversely impacted by a change in the number of 
projects planned by public water agencies, adjustments in governmental 
spending, general budgetary constraints or the inability of governmental 
entities to issue debt. A decline in the number of such projects or in the 
funding available for such projects could have a material adverse effect on 
the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.

TUBULAR PRODUCTS. The Company's Tubular Products are marketed through a network
of direct sales force personnel and independent distributors in the United
States and Canada. The Company's marketing strategy focuses on customer service
and customer relationships. For example, the Company is willing to sell in small
lot sizes and is able to provide mixed truckloads of finished products to its
customers. In 1998, approximately 75% of the Company's Tubular Products sales
were to pipe distributors, and approximately 25% were to original equipment
manufacturers. The Company's sales effort emphasizes regular personal contact
with current and potential customers. The Company supplements this effort with
targeted advertising, participation in trade 


                                      2

<PAGE>

shows and brochures. The Company's plant locations in Oregon, Kansas, Texas 
and Louisiana allow the Company to efficiently serve customers throughout the 
United States and in Canada.

MANUFACTURING

WATER TRANSMISSION. Water Transmission manufacturing begins with the 
preparation of engineered drawings of each unique piece of pipe in a project. 
These drawings are prepared on the Company's proprietary computer-aided 
design system and are used as blueprints for the manufacture of the pipe. 
After the drawings are completed and approved, manufacturing begins by 
feeding steel coil continuously at a specified angle into a spiral weld mill 
which cold forms the band into a tubular configuration with a spiral seam. 
Automated arc welders, positioned on both the inside and the outside of the 
tube, are used to weld the seam. The welded tube is then cut at the specified 
length. After completion of the forming and welding phases, the finished 
cylinder is tested and inspected in accordance with project specifications, 
which may include 100% radiographic analysis of the weld seam. The cylinders 
are then coated and lined as specified. Possible coatings include coal tar 
enamel, polyethylene tape, paint, epoxies and cement mortar. Linings may be 
coal tar enamel, cement mortar or epoxies. Following coating and lining, 
certain pieces may be custom fabricated as required for the project. This 
process is performed in the Company's fabrication facilities. The pipe is 
final inspected and prepared for shipment. The Company ships its products to 
project sites principally by truck and rail.

TUBULAR PRODUCTS. Tubular products are manufactured by the ERW process in
diameters ranging from 0.50" to 16". This process begins by unrolling and
slitting steel coils into narrower bands sized to the circumference of the
finished product. Each band is re-coiled and fed into the material handling
equipment at the front end of the ERW mill and fed through a series of rolls
that cold-form it into a tubular configuration. The resultant tube is welded by
high-frequency electric resistance welders and cut into the appropriate lengths.
After exiting the mill, the products are straightened, inspected, tested and
end-finished. Certain products are coated.

TECHNOLOGY. Advances in technology help the Company produce high quality
products at competitive prices. Recent investments in technological improvements
include in-house impact testing capabilities with state of the art metallurgical
optics, laser seam tracking systems and an ultraviolet light coating system. To
stay abreast of technological developments in the United States and abroad, the
Company participates in trade shows, industry associations, research projects
and vendor trials of new products.

QUALITY ASSURANCE. The Company has implemented quality assurance policies and
procedures, which govern every aspect of its operations to ensure specification
compliance. During and after the manufacturing process, the Company performs
many tests, including tensile, impact, hydrostatic, ultrasonic and radiographic
tests. The Quality Assurance department reports directly to the chief executive
officer. As a reflection of its commitment to quality, the Company has been
certified for specific products or operations by Factory Mutual, Underwriters
Laboratory, Steel Plate Fabricators Association, American Society for Mechanical
Engineers, National Sanitary Foundation and the American Petroleum Institute.
The Company's Oregon facility is ISO 9002 certified and the Company is in the
process of registering all of its facilities to meet the requirements of the ISO
9002 standard.

PRODUCT LIABILITY. The manufacturing and use of steel pipe involves a variety of
risks. Certain losses may result or be alleged to result from defects in the
Company's products, thereby subjecting the Company to claims for damages,
including consequential damages. The Company warrants its products to be free of
certain defects. The Company maintains insurance coverage against potential
product liability claims in the amount of $52 million, which it believes to be
adequate. However, there can be no assurance that product liability claims
exceeding the Company's insurance coverage will not be experienced in the future
or that the Company will be able to maintain such insurance with adequate
coverage.

BACKLOG

The Company's backlog includes confirmed orders, including the balance of
projects in process, and projects for which the Company has been notified it is
the successful bidder even though a binding agreement has not been 


                                      3

<PAGE>

executed. Projects for which a binding contract has not been executed could 
be canceled. Binding orders received by the Company may also be subject to 
cancellation or postponement, however, cancellation would generally obligate 
the customer to pay the costs incurred by the Company. As of December 31, 
1998 and 1997, the Company's backlog of orders was approximately $82.0 
million and $54.5 million, respectively. Backlog as of December 31, 1998 
includes projects having a value of approximately $4.6 million for which 
binding contracts had not yet been executed. Backlog orders as of any 
particular date may not be indicative of actual operating results for any 
fiscal period. There can be no assurance that any amount of backlog 
ultimately will be realized.

COMPETITION

WATER TRANSMISSION. The Company has several competitors in the Water
Transmission business. Most Water Transmission projects are competitively bid
and price competition is vigorous. Price competition may reduce the gross margin
on sales, which may adversely affect overall profitability. Other competitive
factors include timely delivery, ability to meet customized specifications and
high freight costs which may limit the ability of manufacturers located in other
market areas to compete with the Company. The Company's primary competitors in
the water transmission business in the western United States and southwestern
Canada are Ameron International, Inc. and Continental Pipe. East of the Rocky
Mountains, the Company's primary competition includes American Cast Iron Pipe
Company, McWane Cast Iron Company and US Pipe & Foundry Company, all of which
manufacture ductile iron pipe; Price Bros. and Hanson Concrete Products, Inc.,
which manufacture concrete cylinder pipe.

The Company is not aware of any competitors that are currently planning to enter
the water transmission business within the Company's markets. The Company
believes the cost of constructing a facility, the long lead time before a
manufacturing plant could compete effectively, product acceptance and the high
standards for product quality and manufacturing experience required by project
specifications all serve as barriers to entry. However, no assurance can be
given that a new or existing competitor will not establish new facilities or
expand its capacity within the Company's market areas. New or expanded
facilities or competitors could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
business, financial condition and results of operations.

TUBULAR PRODUCTS. The market for tubular products is highly fragmented and
diversified with over 100 manufacturers in the United States and a number of
foreign-based manufacturers that export such pipe into the United States. During
the latter half of 1998, the Company experienced pricing pressures primarily in
its West Coast Tubular Products market, which it believes was the result of
increased foreign price competition. The Company expects pricing pressures from
foreign competitors to continue into 1999. SEE MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Manufacturers compete with one another primarily on the basis of price,
established business relationships, customer service and delivery. In a number
of sectors within the tubular products industry, competition may be less
vigorous due to the existence of a relatively small number of companies with the
capabilities to manufacture certain products. In particular, the Company
operates in a variety of different markets that require pipe with lighter wall
thicknesses in relation to diameters than many of the Company's competitors can
manufacture. However, the Company is increasingly introducing products into
higher volume markets with more competition than it experiences with its niche
products.

RAW MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES

The Company purchases hot rolled steel coil from a number of primary domestic
and import steel producers including National Steel Corporation, California
Steel Industries, Inc., Tuscaloosa Steel Corporation, Thyssen Trading and Nucor.
Additionally, Oregon Steel Mills is in the process of adding steel coil
manufacturing capabilities to its facility located approximately one mile from
the Company's Portland manufacturing facility. The Company orders steel
according to its business forecasts for its Tubular Products business. Steel for
the Water Transmission business is normally purchased only after a project has
been awarded to the Company, however, the steel price is generally negotiated in
advance of the bidding process. From time to time, the 


                                      4

<PAGE>

Company may purchase additional steel when it is available at favorable 
prices. Purchased steel represents a substantial portion of the Company's 
cost of sales. The steel industry is highly cyclical in nature and steel 
prices are influenced by numerous factors beyond the control of the Company, 
including general economic conditions, import duties, other trade 
restrictions and currency exchange rates. Historically, the Company has 
sought to recover increases in steel prices through price increases of its 
products. There can be no assurance that steel prices will not increase or 
that the Company will be successful in implementing related price increases 
on its products.

The Company also relies on certain suppliers of coating materials, lining
materials and certain custom fabricated items. The Company has at least two
suppliers for most of its raw materials. The Company believes its relationships
with its suppliers are positive and has no indication that it will experience
shortages of raw materials or components essential to its production processes
or that it will be forced to seek alternative sources of supply. Any shortages
of raw materials may result in production delays and costs, which could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and
results of operations.

EMPLOYEES

As of December 31, 1998, the Company had approximately 1,000 full-time
employees. Approximately 23% were salaried and approximately 77% were employed
on an hourly basis. A union represents all of the hourly employees at the
Company's Denver, Colorado facility. The Company considers its relations with
its employees to be good.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

PORTLAND, OREGON The Portland, Oregon facility consists of 300,000 square feet
of covered manufacturing space located on approximately 25 acres. The Company
operates six pipe mills at its Portland, Oregon facility.

ATCHISON, KANSAS The Atchison, Kansas facility consists of 60,000 square feet of
covered manufacturing space located on 40 acres. The Company operates two pipe
mills at its Atchison, Kansas facility.

ADELANTO AND RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA The Adelanto, California facility consists of
85,000 square feet of covered manufacturing space located on 70 acres. The
Company operates two pipe mills at its Adelanto, California facility. The
Riverside, California facility consists of 72 acres with approximately 46,100
square feet of covered manufacturing space, and the Company operates two spiral
mills and one ERW mill at this facility.

DENVER, COLORADO The Denver, Colorado facility consists of approximately 157,000
square feet of covered manufacturing space located on approximately 40 acres,
and the Company operates two pipe mills from this facility.

BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA The Bossier City facility has two pipe mills with
approximately 111,000 square feet of covered manufacturing space, located on 24
acres.

HOUSTON, TEXAS The Houston, Texas facility has three mills with approximately
185,000 square feet of covered manufacturing space, located on 15 acres.

PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA The Parkersburg, West Virginia facility has two
mills, with approximately 110,000 square feet of covered manufacturing space,
located on 92 acres.

As of December 31, 1998, the Company owned all of its facilities, except for the
Riverside, California facility, which was leased to the Company with an option
to purchase. The Company exercised its option to purchase the Riverside,
California facility in January 1999.

The Company has available manufacturing capacity at each of its facilities and
believes most of its facilities are adequate for its immediate and near-term
requirements. To take advantage of market opportunities at existing 


                                      5

<PAGE>

and the newly acquired facilities, the Company has identified capital 
projects that will allow it to expand those facilities to meet the expected 
growth opportunities. SEE MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL 
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND NOTE 14 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation relating to claims
arising out of its operations in the normal course of its business. The Company
maintains insurance coverage against potential claims in amounts which it
believes to be adequate. Management believes that it is not presently a party to
any litigation, the outcome of which would have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

No matters were submitted to a vote of the Company's shareholders during the
quarter ended December 31, 1998.


                                      6

<PAGE>

                                     PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS

The Company's common stock is quoted on the Nasdaq National Market System under
the symbol "NWPX." The high and low sales prices as reported on the Nasdaq
National Market System for each quarter in the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1998 were as follows.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                LOW                  HIGH
<S>                                                         <C>                <C> 
   1997
   First Quarter                                            $  15 7/8           $   20 1/4
   Second Quarter                                              14 3/4               18 1/2
   Third Quarter                                               17                   27
   Fourth Quarter                                              21                   27

   1998
   First Quarter                                            $  17 3/4           $   24 1/2
   Second Quarter                                              20 3/8               24 1/8
   Third Quarter                                               16                   23 3/4
   Fourth Quarter                                              14 7/8               18 1/2
</TABLE>

There were 83 shareholders of record and approximately 2,100 beneficial
shareholders at March 12, 1999. There were no cash dividends declared or paid in
fiscal years 1998 or 1997. The Company does not anticipate paying cash dividends
in the foreseeable future.

During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company sold securities without
registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act")
upon the exercise of certain stock options granted under the Company's stock
option plans. An aggregate of 1,616 shares of Common Stock were issued at an
exercise price of $1.00. These transactions were effected in reliance upon the
exemption from registration under the Securities Act provided by Rule 701
promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to authority
granted under Section 3(b) of the Securities Act.


ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                -----------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    1998          1997          1996         1995        1994
                                                    ----          ----          ----         ----        ----
                                                            In thousands, except per share amounts
<S>                                            <C>           <C>             <C>        <C>          <C>
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME DATA:

Net sales                                      $    209,516  $    150,833    $ 135,182  $    97,715  $   73,641
Gross profit                                         41,664        31,117       30,942       19,576      11,980
Net income                                           12,581        11,100       10,404        5,107       2,161
Basic earnings per share                               1.96          1.73         1.92         6.11        3.10
Diluted earnings per share                             1.90          1.68         1.85         1.44        0.65

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA:

Working capital                                $     54,237  $     51,051    $  35,737  $    22,438  $    9,944
Total assets                                        234,151       132,051      101,424       64,454      56,808
Long-term debt, less current portion                 76,321        39,944       14,356       12,040      20,998
Stockholders' equity                                 83,715        70,779       59,694       33,729      11,519
</TABLE>


                                      7

<PAGE>

                                     PART II

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations and other sections of this Report contain forward-looking statements
within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are
based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company's
business and management's beliefs and assumptions. Words such as "expects,"
"anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and
variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such
forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future
performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are
difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ
materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking
statements due to numerous factors, including, but not limited to those
discussed in this discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of
operations, as well as those discussed elsewhere in this Report and from time to
time in the Company's other Securities and Exchange Commission filings and
reports. In addition, such statements could be affected by general industry and
market conditions and growth rates, and general domestic and international
economic conditions. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date
on which they are made and the Company does not undertake any obligation to
update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after
the date of this Report. If the Company does update or correct one or more
forward-looking statements, investors and others should not conclude that the
Company will make additional updates or corrections with respect thereto or with
respect to other forward-looking statements.

The Company's net sales and net income may fluctuate significantly from quarter
to quarter due to the size of certain Water Transmission orders, the schedule
for deliveries of those orders and the inventory management policies of certain
of the Company's Tubular Products customers. The Company has experienced such
fluctuations in the past and may experience such fluctuations in the future.
Results of operations in any period should not be considered indicative of the
results to be expected for any future period, and fluctuations in operating
results may also result in fluctuations in the price of the Company's common
stock. The Company's business is subject to cyclical fluctuations based on
general economic conditions and the economic conditions of the specific
industries served. Future economic downturns could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations.

OVERVIEW

The Company manufactures Water Transmission products in facilities located in
Portland, Oregon; Denver, Colorado; Adelanto and Riverside, California; and
Parkersburg, West Virginia. Tubular Products are manufactured in the Company's
Portland, Oregon; Atchison, Kansas; Houston, Texas; and Bossier City, Louisiana
facilities.

The Company believes that the Tubular Products business, in conjunction with the
Water Transmission business, provides a significant degree of market
diversification, because the principal factors affecting demand for Water
Transmission products are different from those affecting demand for tubular
products. Demand for Water Transmission products is generally based on
population growth and movement, changing water sources and replacement of aging
infrastructure. Demand can vary dramatically within the Company's market area
since each population center determines its own waterworks requirements. Demand
for Tubular Products is influenced by construction, the energy market, the
agricultural economy and general economic conditions.


                                      8

<PAGE>

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain financial
information regarding costs and expenses expressed as a percentage of total net
sales and net sales of the Company's business segments.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Year Ended December 31,
                                              -------------------------------------
                                                 1998         1997           1996
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
<S>                                            <C>         <C>            <C>
     Net sales:
       Water transmission                         59.5 %       65.8 %        66.5 %
       Tubular products                           40.5         34.2          33.5
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
     Total net sales                             100.0        100.0         100.0
     Cost of sales                                80.1         79.4          77.1
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
          Gross profit                            19.9         20.6          22.9
     Selling, general and administrative
         expenses                                  7.6          7.5           8.5
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
     Operating income                             12.3         13.1          14.4
     Interest expense, net                         2.3          1.2           1.7
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
     Income before income taxes                   10.0         11.9          12.7
     Provision for income taxes                    4.0          4.5           5.0
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
          Net income                               6.0 %        7.4 %         7.7 %
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
                                              ---------    ---------      ---------
     Gross profit as a percentage of 
          segment net sales:
       Water transmission                         23.0%        22.9%         26.0%
       Tubular products                           15.3         16.3          16.8
</TABLE>


YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997

NET SALES. Net sales increased 38.9% to $209.5 million in 1998 from $150.8
million in 1997. No single customer accounted for 10% or more of total net sales
in 1998 or 1997.

Water Transmission sales increased 25.5% to $124.6 million in 1998 from $99.3
million in 1997. The increase resulted primarily from higher production brought
about by improved market conditions in 1998 and increased sales attributable to
the Parkersburg Facility, which was acquired in June 1998.

Tubular Products sales increased 64.8% to $84.9 million in 1998 from $51.5
million in 1997. The increase was primarily the result of sales attributable to
P&H Tube Corporation ("P&H") and Southwestern Pipe, Inc. ("Southwestern"), which
were acquired in March 1998, and increased demand in certain product lines.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased 33.9% to $41.7 million (19.9% of total net
sales) in 1998 from $31.1 million (20.6% of total net sales) in 1997.

Water Transmission gross profit increased 26.3% to $28.7 million (23.0% of
segment net sales) in 1998 from $22.7 million (22.9% of segment net sales) in
1997. Water Transmission gross profit as a percentage of segment net sales
increased slightly in 1998 compared to 1997. In the first six months of 1998,
the Company experienced lower bidding activity, unfavorable pricing pressures
and shipping delays. In the latter half of 1998, demand and production increased
as market conditions and bidding activity improved.

Gross profit from Tubular Products increased 54.4% to $12.9 million (15.3% of
segment net sales) in 1998 from $8.4 million (16.3% of segment net sales) in
1997. During 1998, the Company experienced pricing pressures in its Tubular
Products markets, which it believes was the result of increased foreign price
competition. This increased foreign price competition and to a lesser degree, an
unfavorable product mix, partially offset by a decrease in raw material prices
in the fourth quarter of 1998, resulted in a decrease in 


                                      9

<PAGE>

Tubular Products gross profit as a percentage of net sales in 1998. The 
Company expects pricing pressures resulting from imported products to 
continue to effect Tubular Products gross profit into 1999.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses increased 39.3% to $15.9 million (7.6% of total net
sales) in 1998 from $11.4 million (7.5% of total net sales) in 1997. The
increase was primarily the result of additional operating costs related to the
acquisitions completed in March and June 1998.

INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased to $4.8 million in 1998 from $1.8
million in 1997. The increase in interest expense resulted from increased
borrowings used to finance the acquisitions made in March and June 1998, and to
support higher production and sales levels.

INCOME TAXES. The Company's effective tax rate was approximately 40% in 1998,
compared to approximately 38.1% in 1997. The increase in the effective tax rate
was due primarily to acquisitions which resulted in non-deductible goodwill. In
connection with the acquisition of Thompson Pipe and Steel Company in May 1996,
the Company acquired net operating loss carryforwards which, due to an
"ownership change" as defined under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended, are subject to an annual limitation of approximately $338,000
during the 15 year carryforward period. The Company had approximately $5.1
million of net carryforwards remaining at December 31, 1998.

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996

Net sales increased 11.6% from $135.2 million in 1996 to $150.8 million in 1997.
Sales increased in both business segments. Water Transmission net sales
increased 10.4% from $89.9 million in 1996 to $99.3 million in 1997. The
increase was primarily due to acquisitions made in 1996. Tubular Products net
sales increased 13.9% from $45.2 million in 1996 to $51.5 million in 1997. The
increase was primarily the result of increased demand in certain product lines.
No single customer accounted for 10% or more of total net sales in 1997 or 1996.

Gross profit increased slightly from $30.9 million (22.9% of total net sales) in
1996 to $31.1 million (20.6% of total net sales) in 1997. Water Transmission
gross profit decreased 2.7% from $23.4 million (26.0% of segment net sales) in
1996 to $22.7 million (22.9% of segment net sales) in 1997. Water Transmission
gross profit was impacted by lower bidding activity, which resulted in
unfavorable pricing pressures, weather related delays and delays in receipt of
steel shipments. Gross profit from Tubular Products increased 10.5 % to $8.4
million (16.3% of segment net sales) in 1997 from $7.6 million (16.8% of segment
net sales) in 1996.

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased slightly from $11.5
million (8.5% of total net sales) in 1996 to $11.4 million (7.5% of total net
sales) in 1997.

Interest expense decreased 17.0% to $1.8 million in 1997 from $2.2 million in
1996, due to lower interest rates and a reduction of average borrowings in 1997.

The Company's effective tax rate was approximately 38.1% in 1997 compared to
approximately 39.6% in 1996. The decrease in the effective tax rate was due
primarily to a state tax credit in 1997. In connection with the acquisition of
Thompson Pipe and Steel Company in May 1996, the Company acquired net operating
loss carryforwards which, due to an "ownership change" as defined under Section
382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, are subject to an annual
limitation of approximately $338,000 during the 15 year carryforward period. The
Company had approximately $4.5 million of net carryforwards remaining at
December 31, 1997.


                                      10

<PAGE>

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

In November 1996, the Company completed a public offering of 2.3 million shares
of its common stock, 1.1 million shares by the Company and 1.2 million shares by
certain shareholders of the Company, which resulted in net proceeds to the
Company of approximately $15.3 million. The Company finances operations with
internally generated funds and available borrowings. At December 31, 1998, the
Company had cash and cash equivalents of $524,000.

Net cash used in operating activities in 1998 was $3.1 million. This was
primarily a net result of $12.6 million of net income, non-cash adjustments for
depreciation and amortization of $3.7 million, an increase in accounts payable
of $11.0 million, and an increase in deferred income taxes of $2.2 million;
offset by increases in costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on
uncompleted contracts, net trade receivables and inventories of $3.4 million,
$12.3 million and $18.2 million, respectively. The increase in deferred income
taxes resulted primarily from differences in the book and tax basis of assets
acquired in the acquisitions made in 1998. The increases in accounts payable and
inventories were attributable to the timing and volume of steel purchases and
payments, and an increase in raw materials inventory resulting from purchases of
imported steel which necessitate a greater amount of time between the order date
and the anticipated date of receipt. The increases in trade receivables and in
costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts
primarily resulted from increased production levels related to the acquisitions
made in 1998 as well as improved market conditions.

Net cash used in investing activities in 1998 was $62.1 million, which primarily
resulted from expenditures for the acquisitions of Southwestern and P&H in March
1998, the Parkersburg Facility in June 1998, the new tubular products mill in
Portland, Oregon, and the construction of a propane tank manufacturing facility
which is underway in Monterrey, Mexico. The Company has no other material
commitments for capital expenditures, but expects that capital expenditures in
1999 will approximate $10 million.

Net cash provided by financing activities in 1998 was $64.9 million, which
primarily resulted from $27.2 million in borrowings under the Company's line of
credit agreement and $40.0 million of proceeds received from the sale of the
Company's Series A and Series B Senior Notes in April 1998.

The Company had the following significant components of debt at December 31,
1998: a $45 million credit agreement under which $34.2 million was outstanding;
$10.0 million of Series A Senior Notes, without collateral, which bear interest
at 6.63%; $30.0 million of Series B Senior Notes, without collateral, which bear
interest at 6.91%; $35.0 million of Senior Notes, without collateral, which bear
interest at 6.87%; Industrial Development Bond of $3.0 million with variable
interest rate of 3.27%; and a capital lease obligation of $2.0 million which
bears interest at 7.0%.

The credit agreement expires on September 30, 2001 and is without collateral. It
bears interest at rates related to IBOR or LIBOR plus 0.65% to 1.75% (6.56% at
December 31, 1998), or at prime less 0.5% (7.75% at December 31, 1998). At
December 31, 1998, the Company had $34.2 million outstanding under the line of
credit with $32.0 million bearing interest at a weighted average IBOR interest
rate of 6.80%, $2.2 million bearing interest at 7.75% and additional borrowing
capacity under the line of credit of $10.8 million. In June 1998, the Company
amended its line of credit agreement to increase the amount available under the
line of credit to $40.0 million from $30.0 million and adjusted the restriction
associated with the ratio of maximum funded debt to earnings before interest,
taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") from 3.25:1.0 to 3.75:1.0 until
December 31, 1998. In December 1998, the Company amended its line of credit
agreement to increase the amount available under the line of credit to $45.0
million from $40.0 million and adjusted the restriction associated with the
ratio of maximum funded debt to EBITDA from 3.75:1.0 to 4.00:1.0 until March 31,
1999. The restriction associated with this ratio will be reduced to 3.75:1.0 on
June 30, 1999, to 3.50:1.0 on September 30, 1999, 3.25:1.0 on December 31, 1999,
and 3.00:1.0 until September 30, 2001. SEE NOTE 6 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.


                                      11

<PAGE>

In April 1998, the Company issued $40.0 million of Senior Notes, without
collateral. The notes were issued in two series: Series A Senior Notes for $10.0
million bearing interest at 6.63%, which mature on April 1, 2005, with
semi-annual interest payments due in April and October, and equal principal
payments commencing on April 1, 1999; and Series B Senior Notes for $30.0
million bearing interest at 6.91%, which mature on April 1, 2008, with
semi-annual interest payments due in April and October, and equal principal
payments commencing on April 1, 2002. SEE NOTE 7 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

The Company also has $35.0 million of 6.87% Senior Notes outstanding, without
collateral, which mature on November 15, 2007, and require semi-annual interest
payments in May and November, and equal annual principal payments commencing on
November 15, 2001. SEE NOTE 7 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

The Company's working capital requirements have increased due to an increase in
the Company's Water Transmission business, which is characterized by lengthy
production periods and extended payment cycles, an increase in Tubular Products
sales, and an increase in the purchase of imported steel, which has a longer
lead time between the order date and anticipated date of usage. The Company
anticipates that its existing cash and cash equivalents, cash flows expected to
be generated by operations and amounts available under its line of credit will
be adequate to fund its working capital and capital requirements for at least
the next twelve months.

To the extent necessary, the Company may also satisfy capital requirements
through additional bank borrowings, senior notes and capital leases if such
resources are available on satisfactory terms. The Company has from time to time
evaluated and continues to evaluate opportunities for acquisitions and
expansion. Any such transactions, if consummated, may use a portion of the
Company's working capital or necessitate additional bank borrowings.

ACQUISITIONS AND GOODWILL. In March 1998, the Company acquired all of the
outstanding capital stock of Southwestern and P&H, both Texas corporations. The
Company paid a purchase price of $40.1 million in cash. The excess of the
acquisition cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired, of $23.7
million, is being amortized over 40 years, using the straight-line method. SEE
NOTE 2 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

On June 9, 1998, the Company acquired from L.B. Foster Company, the plant,
equipment, leasehold and contract rights and miscellaneous assets of its
Fosterweld Division manufacturing facility located in Parkersburg, West Virginia
(the "Parkersburg Facility"). The Company paid $5.3 million for the Parkersburg
Facility. The Company also acquired the Parkersburg Facility's inventory net of
assumed accounts payable. SEE NOTE 2 OF NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS.

YEAR 2000 ISSUE. Like most other companies, the Year 2000 computer issue creates
risks for the Company. The Year 2000 issue exists because many computer programs
use two digit rather than four digit date fields to define the applicable year.
As a result, computer equipment and software and devices with imbedded
technology that are time-sensitive may recognize a date using "00" as the year
1900 rather than the year 2000. This could result in a system failure or
miscalculations causing disruptions of operations, including, among other
things, production delays, a temporary inability to process transactions, send
invoices, or engage in similar normal business activities. Incomplete or
untimely resolution of the Year 2000 issue by the Company or critically
important suppliers or customers of the Company could have a materially adverse
effect on the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations.

The Company has undertaken various initiatives intended to ensure that its
computer systems and software will function properly with respect to dates in
the Year 2000 and thereafter. For this purpose, the term "computer systems and
software" includes systems that are commonly thought of as information
technology ("IT") systems, including enterprise software, operating systems,
networking components, application and data servers, PC hardware, accounting,
data processing and other information systems, as well as systems that are not
commonly thought of as IT systems, such as telephone systems, fax machines,
manufacturing equipment and other miscellaneous systems and equipment. Both IT
and non-IT systems may contain 


                                      12

<PAGE>

imbedded technology, which complicates the Company's Year 2000 assessment, 
remediation and testing efforts.

Based upon its assessment efforts to date, the Company believes that certain of
the computer systems and software it currently uses will require replacement or
modification. Specifically, the Company has determined that certain components
of its telephone systems will require replacement. The Company currently
anticipates that its internal Year 2000 assessment initiatives will be completed
by the end of the first quarter of 1999. The Company estimates that as of
December 31, 1998, it had completed approximately 40% of the assessment,
remediation and testing initiatives that it believes will be necessary to fully
address potential Year 2000 issues relating to its computer systems and
software. The projects comprising the remaining 60% of the initiatives are
expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 1999.

The Company is working with critical suppliers of products and services to 
determine that the suppliers' operations and the products and services they 
provide are Year 2000 compliant or to monitor their progress toward Year 2000 
compliance. The Company has received verbal responses from approximately 80% 
of the suppliers contacted to date, most of which have indicated that their 
products and operations are Year 2000 compliant. The Company intends to 
pursue the receipt of written certification of Year 2000 compliance from all 
critical suppliers. In the event that suppliers are not Year 2000 compliant, 
the Company may seek alternative sources of supply. It is expected that the 
Company's assessment of critical suppliers' Year 2000 compliance will be 
completed by the end of the second quarter of 1999.

The Company currently estimates that the cost of its Year 2000 assessment, 
remediation and testing efforts, as well as current anticipated costs to be 
incurred by the Company with respect to Year 2000 issues of third parties, 
will not exceed $200,000, which expenditures will be funded from operating 
cash flows. This estimate is subject to change as additional information is 
obtained in connection with the Company's assessment of the Year 2000 issue. 
As of December 31, 1998, the Company had incurred costs of approximately 
$30,000 related to its Year 2000 assessment, remediation and testing efforts. 
In addition, the Company has determined that it must replace certain 
telephone system components with an estimated replacement cost of $150,000 as 
a result of the Year 2000 issue. No other material capital equipment 
replacements related to the Year 2000 issue have been identified to date.

The Company presently believes that Year 2000 issues will not pose 
significant problems for the Company. However, if all Year 2000 issues are 
not properly identified, or assessment, remediation and testing are not 
effected timely with respect to Year 2000 problems that are identified, there 
can be no assurance that the Year 2000 issue will not have a material adverse 
impact on the Company's business, financial condition or results of 
operations, or adversely affect the Company's relationships with customers, 
vendors or others. Additionally, there can be no assurance that the Year 2000 
issues of other entities, such as one or more of the Company's critical 
customers or suppliers, will not have a material adverse impact on the 
Company's systems or its business, financial condition or results of 
operations. Finally, if there are infrastructure failures, such as 
disruptions in the supply of electricity, water or communications services, 
or major institutions, such as the government, foreign or domestic banking 
systems are unable to continue to provide their services or support resulting 
in a disruption in services or support to the Company, the Company may be 
unable to operate for the duration of the disruption.

The Company has begun, but not yet completed, a comprehensive analysis of the
operational problems and costs (including loss of revenues) that would be
reasonably likely to result from the failure by the Company and certain third
parties to complete efforts necessary to achieve Year 2000 compliance on a
timely basis. A contingency plan has not been developed for dealing with the
most reasonably likely worst case scenario, and such scenario has not yet been
clearly identified. The Company currently plans to complete such analysis and
contingency planning by June 30, 1999.

The costs of the Company's Year 2000 assessment, remediation and testing efforts
and the dates on which the Company believes it will complete such efforts are
forward-looking statements that are based upon management's best estimates,
which were derived using numerous assumptions regarding future events, 


                                      13

<PAGE>

including the continued availability of certain resources, third party 
remediation plans and certifications, and other factors. There can be no 
assurance that these estimates will prove to be accurate, and actual results 
could differ materially from those currently anticipated. Specific factors 
that could cause such material differences include, but are not limited to, 
the availability and cost of personnel trained in Year 2000 issues, the 
ability to identify, assess, remediate and test all relevant computer codes 
and embedded technology, the reliability of third party assessments and 
certifications, and similar uncertainties.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS. In June 1998, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities" ("SFAS 133"). SFAS 133 establishes accounting and reporting
standards requiring that every derivative instrument be recorded in the balance
sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value. SFAS 133 also
requires that changes in the derivative instrument's fair value be recognized
currently in results of operations unless specific hedge accounting criteria are
met. SFAS 133 is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. The
Company's management has studied the implications of SFAS 133 and based on the
initial evaluation, expects the adoption to have no impact on the Company's
financial condition or results of operations.


ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company does not currently use derivative financial instruments for 
speculative purposes which expose the Company to market risk. The Company is 
exposed to cash flow and fair value risk due to changes in interest rates 
with respect to its long-term debt. Information required by this item is set 
forth in Notes 1, 6 and 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL DATA

The information required by this item is included under the caption QUARTERLY 
DATA, in Note 15 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as listed in 
Item 14 of Part IV of this Report.

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.


                                      14

<PAGE>

                                    PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The information required by this item is included under the captions INFORMATION
AS TO NOMINEES AND CONTINUING DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS and SECTION 16(a)
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE in the Company's Proxy Statement for
its 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is included under the caption EXECUTIVE
COMPENSATION in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 1999 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The information required by this item is included under the caption STOCK OWNED
BY MANAGEMENT AND PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS in the Company's Proxy Statement for
its 1999 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

No disclosures required.


                                      15

<PAGE>

                                     PART IV


ITEM 14.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) (1)    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Financial Statements, together with the report thereon of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP are included on the pages indicated below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                       Page
                                                                                       ----  
      <S>                                                                              <C>
       Report of  Independent Accountants                                               F-1

       Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended
       December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996                                                 F-2

       Consolidated Balance Sheets as of
       December 31, 1998 and 1997                                                       F-3

       Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
       for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996                             F-4

       Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended
       December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996                                                 F-5

       Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                                       F-6
</TABLE>

 (a) (2)    FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

The following schedule and report of independent public accountants are filed
herewith:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      Page
                                                                                      ----
    <S>                                                                               <C>

    Schedule II               Valuation and Qualifying Accounts                        S-1

    Report of Independent Accountants on Financial Statement Schedule                  S-2
</TABLE>

Schedules not listed above have been omitted because the information required to
be set forth therein is not applicable or is included in the Consolidated
Financial Statements or notes thereto.


                                      16

<PAGE>

    (a) (3)       EXHIBITS INCLUDED HEREIN: 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
       Exhibit No.
       ----------- 
<S>               <C>
 (1)    3.1       Second Restated Articles of Incorporation
 (1)    3.2       Second Amended and Restated Bylaws
 (1)   10.2       1986 Incentive Stock Option Plan*
 (1)   10.3       1995 Stock Option Plan for Nonemployee Directors *
 (1)   10.4       Registration Rights Agreement
 (1)   10.5       Loan Agreement dated May 1, 1990 between the Company and
                   California Statewide Communities Development Authority
 (2)   10.6       Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of May 8, 1996 among
                   Northwest Pipe Company, Thompson Pipe and Steel Company, CHL
                   Holdings, Inc. and Inter-City Products Corporation
 (3)   10.7       Amended 1995 Stock Incentive Plan*
 (4)   10.8       Note Purchase Agreement dated November 1, 1997
 (4)   10.9       Stock Purchase Agreement dated March 6, 1998 by and among
                  Northwest Pipe Company, Southwestern Pipe, Inc., P&H Tube
                  Corporation, Lewis Family Investments Partnership, Ltd., Philip
                  C. Lewis, Hosea E. Henderson, Don S. Brzowski, William H.
                  Cottle,  Barry J. Debroeck, Horace M. Jordan and William B.
                  Stuessy (the "Stock Purchase Agreement")
 (5)   10.10      Note Purchase Agreement dated April 1, 1998 (certain schedules
                  to the Agreement have been omitted)
 (6)   10.11      Amended and Restated Loan Agreement with Bank of America
                  National Trust and Savings Association and US National Bank
                  Association, dated June 30, 1998
 (7)   10.12      First Amendment to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated
                  December 23, 1998
 (7)   21         Subsidiaries of the Registrant
 (7)   23         Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 (7)   27         Financial Data Schedule
</TABLE>

*This exhibit constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or 
arrangement.

(1)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Registrant's Registration
     Statement on Form S-1, as amended, effective November 30, 1995, Commission
     Registration No. 33-97308.
(2)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Company's Report on Form 8-K
     (as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 14, 1996).
(3)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Company's Proxy Statement for
     the 1997 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
(4)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Company's Report on Form 8-K
     (as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 20, 1998).
(5)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Company's Quarterly Report on
     Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1998 (as filed with the
     Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 1998).
(6)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibits to the Company's Quarterly Report on
     Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1998 (as filed with the Securities
     and Exchange Commission on August 14, 1998).
(7)  Filed herewith.

(b)  REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
     No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended December 31,
     1998.


                                      17

<PAGE>

   SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on the 26th day of March
1999.


                                      NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY

                                      By /s/ WILLIAM R. TAGMYER
                                         ----------------------
                                      William R. Tagmyer
                                      Chairman of the Board
                                      and Chief Executive Officer


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in
the capacities indicated, on the 26th day of March 1999.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Signature                           Title
- ---------                           -----
<S>                                 <C>

/s/ WILLIAM R. TAGMYER     Chairman of the Board
- ----------------------     and Chief Executive Officer
William R. Tagmyer         (Principal Executive Officer)


/s/ BRIAN W. DUNHAM        Director, President, Chief Operating Officer,
- ----------------------     Treasurer and Secretary
Brian W. Dunham            


/s/ JOHN D. MURAKAMI       Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
- ----------------------     (Principal Financial Officer)
John D. Murakami      


/s/ WAYNE B. KINGSLEY      Director
- ----------------------
Wayne B. Kingsley


/s/ NEIL R. THORNTON       Director
- ----------------------
Neil R. Thornton


/s/ VERN B. RYLES, JR.     Director
- ----------------------
Vern B. Ryles, Jr.


/s/ WARREN K KEARNS        Director
- ----------------------
Warren K. Kearns
</TABLE>

                                      18

<PAGE>

                                                                    SCHEDULE II



                             NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY
                        VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
                             (Dollars in thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         BALANCE AT    CHARGED TO    DEDUCTION     BALANCE AT
                                                        BEGINNING OF   PROFIT AND       FROM        CLOSE OF
                                                           PERIOD         LOSS        RESERVES       PERIOD
                                                        ------------   ----------    ---------     ----------
<S>                                                     <C>            <C>           <C>           <C>
Year ended December 31, 1998:
      Allowance for doubtful trade receivables             $1,825         $416         $1,195        $1,046

Year ended December 31, 1997:
      Allowance for doubtful trade receivables             $1,680         $266          $121         $1,825

Year ended December 31, 1996:
      Allowance for doubtful trade receivables              $867          $921          $108         $1,680
</TABLE>


                                       S-1

<PAGE>


        REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS ON FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

To the Board of Directors of Northwest Pipe Company

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements referred to in our report
dated February 9, 1999 appearing on page F-1 of this Form 10-K also included an
audit of the financial statement schedule listed in Item 14(a)(2) of this Form
10-K. In our opinion, this financial statement schedule presents fairly, in all
material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction
with the related consolidated financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Portland, Oregon
February 9, 1999



                                       S-2

<PAGE>

                        REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors and
Shareholders of Northwest Pipe Company

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity and of cash
flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
Northwest Pipe Company and its subsidiaries at December 31, 1998 and 1997, and
the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit
includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Portland, Oregon
February 9, 1999


                                       F-1

<PAGE>

                     NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
                        CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                    (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           Year Ended December 31,
                                               ------------------------------------------------
                                                    1998              1997              1996
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
<S>                                            <C>               <C>              <C>
     Net sales                                 $    209,516      $    150,833     $     135,182
     Cost of sales                                  167,852           119,716           104,240
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
       Gross profit                                  41,664            31,117            30,942

     Selling, general and administrative
        expenses                                     15,859            11,382            11,530
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
        Operating income                             25,805            19,735            19,412

     Interest expense, net                            4,835             1,616             1,961
     Interest expense to related parties                 --               201               228
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
        Income before income taxes                   20,970            17,918            17,223

     Provision for income taxes                       8,389             6,818             6,819
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
        Net income                             $     12,581      $     11,100     $      10,404
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------

     Basic earnings per share                  $       1.96      $       1.73     $        1.92
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
     Diluted earnings per share                $       1.90      $       1.68     $        1.85
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------

     Shares used in per share calculations:

            Basic                                     6,435             6,405             5,408
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
            Diluted                                   6,628             6,622             5,631
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
                                               ------------      ------------     -------------
</TABLE>



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


                                       F-2

<PAGE>

                     NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                          (DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            December 31,          December 31,
                                                                                1998                  1997
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
<S>                                                                       <C>                    <C>
ASSETS
  Current assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents                                             $           524        $          904
    Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts
      of $1,046 and $1,825                                                         41,719                25,162
    Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on
       uncompleted contracts                                                       23,270                19,914
    Inventories                                                                    49,269                20,530
    Refundable income taxes                                                         2,800                 3,307
    Deferred income taxes                                                           1,794                   447
    Prepaid expenses and other                                                      1,733                 1,402
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
      Total current assets                                                        121,109                71,666
 Property and equipment, net                                                       87,139                57,447
 Goodwill, net                                                                     23,223                    --
 Restricted assets                                                                  2,300                 2,300
 Other assets                                                                         380                   638
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
                                                                          $       234,151        $      132,051
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 
  Current liabilities:
    Note payable to financial institution                                 $        34,200        $        7,000
    Current portion of long-term debt                                               1,679                   250
    Current portion of capital lease obligations                                    2,000                 2,175
    Accounts payable                                                               23,524                 8,116
    Accrued liabilities                                                             5,469                 3,074
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
      Total current liabilities                                                    66,872                20,615
   Long-term debt, less current portion                                            76,321                38,490
   Capital lease obligations, less current portion                                     --                 1,454
   Minimum pension liability                                                           58                   294
   Deferred income taxes                                                            7,185                   419
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
      Total liabilities                                                           150,436                61,272

  Commitments and contingencies (Notes 8 and 12)

  Stockholders' equity:
    Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized,
      none issued or outstanding                                                        -                     -
    Common stock, $.01 par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized,
       6,447,516 and 6,411,402 shares issued and outstanding                           64                    64
    Additional paid-in-capital                                                     38,849                38,725
    Retained earnings                                                              44,858                32,277
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
           minimum pension liability                                                  (56)                 (287)
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
      Total stockholders' equity                                                   83,715                70,779
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
                                                                          $       234,151        $      132,051
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
                                                                          ---------------        --------------
</TABLE>

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


                                       F-3

<PAGE>

                     NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                          (DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                 Accumulated
                                              Common Stock           Additional                      Other            Total
                                       -------------------------      Paid-in        Retained   Comprehensive    Stockholders'
                                          Shares        Amount         Capital       Earnings    Income (Loss)       Equity
                                       ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>             <C>           <C>            <C>          <C>             <C>
Balances, December 31, 1995              5,258,299        $ 53        $ 22,903       $ 10,773                        $ 33,729
Net income                                                                             10,404                          10,404
Issuance of common stock
   under stock option plans                 59,069           1              65                                             66
Repurchase of common stock                    (174)                         (2)                                            (2)
Tax benefit of stock options
   exercised                                                               238                                            238
Proceeds from sale of common
   stock, net of issuance costs
   of $400                               1,071,792          10          15,249                                         15,259
Reclassification                                                            93                        $ (93)
                                       ------------      ------       ---------      ---------      ---------       ---------- 
Balances,  December 31, 1996             6,388,986          64          38,546         21,177           (93)           59,694
Net income                                                                             11,100                          11,100
Issuance of common stock
   under stock option plans                 22,416                          49                                             49
Minimum pension liability
   adjustment                                                                                          (194)             (194)
Tax benefit of stock options
   exercised                                                               130                                            130
                                       ------------      ------       ---------      ---------      ---------       ---------- 
Balances,  December 31, 1997             6,411,402          64          38,725         32,277          (287)           70,779
Net income                                                                             12,581                          12,581
Issuance of common stock
   under stock option plans                 36,334                          45                                             45
Repurchase of common stock                    (220)                         (4)                                            (4)
Minimum pension liability
   adjustment                                                                                           231               231
Tax benefit of stock options
   Exercised                                                                83                                             83
                                       ------------      ------       ---------      ---------      ---------       ---------- 
Balances, December 31, 1998              6,447,516        $ 64        $ 38,849       $ 44,858         $ (56)         $ 83,715
                                       ------------      ------       ---------      ---------      ---------       ---------- 
                                       ------------      ------       ---------      ---------      ---------       ---------- 
</TABLE>


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


                                       F-4

<PAGE>

                     NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                          (DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     Year Ended December 31,
                                                                          --------------------------------------------
                                                                                1998           1997            1996
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
<S>                                                                       <C>            <C>             <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
  Net income                                                              $      12,581  $       11,100  $      10,404
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
  (used in) provided by operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization                                                 3,685           2,242          2,022
    Deferred income tax provision                                                 2,199           3,010              3
    Gain on sale of property and equipment                                         (342)              -              -
  Changes in current assets and liabilities:
    Trade receivables, net                                                      (12,302)         (1,940)         1,919
    Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on
      uncompleted contracts                                                      (3,357)         (9,164)         1,031
    Inventories                                                                 (18,182)            (46)        (6,358)
    Refundable income taxes                                                         507          (3,307)             -
    Prepaid expenses and other                                                     (222)           (113)           405
    Accounts payable                                                             10,978          (1,814)        (2,860)
    Accrued and other liabilities                                                 1,315          (4,301)           389
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
      Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities                        (3,140)         (4,333)         6,955
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
   Additions to property and equipment                                          (16,185)        (20,351)        (6,680)
   Proceeds from sale of property and equipment                                   1,670               -              -
   Acquisitions, net of cash acquired                                           (47,856)              -        (10,587)
   Other assets                                                                     259          (2,081)            96
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
     Net cash used in investing activities                                      (62,112)        (22,432)       (17,171)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
   Proceeds from sale of common stock, net                                           41              49         15,323
   Proceeds from long-term debt                                                   40,000          35,000             -
   Payments on long-term debt                                                      (740)         (8,410)        (3,286)
   Net proceeds (payments) under notes payable                                    27,200           (302)         1,845
   Payments on capital lease obligations                                         (1,629)           (299)          (106)
   Payments on capital lease obligations to related party                             -          (2,671)          (115)
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
     Net cash provided by financing activities                                   64,872          23,367         13,661
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
     Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents                          (380)         (3,398)         3,445
   Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period                                   904           4,302            857
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
   Cash and cash equivalents, end of period                               $         524  $          904  $       4,302
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------
                                                                          -------------  --------------  -------------

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
  Cash paid during the period for interest, net of amounts capitalized    $       3,836  $        1,450  $       1,969
  Cash paid during the period for income taxes                                    5,836           6,741          7,901
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH INFORMATION:
  Tax benefit of nonqualified stock options exercised                     $          83  $          130  $         238
  Capital lease obligations incurred                                                  -           1,869              -
  Acquisitions:
    Cost in excess of fair value of assets acquired                       $      23,717  $            -  $           -
    Fair value of assets acquired                                                32,941               -         27,403
    Fair value of liabilities assumed                                             8,802               -         16,816
</TABLE>

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


                                       F-5

<PAGE>

                     NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
        (DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)


1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Northwest Pipe
Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Company"). All significant
intercompany balances have been eliminated. The Company manufactures steel pipe
in two segments at plants located in Portland, Oregon; Denver, Colorado;
Adelanto, California; Atchison, Kansas; Riverside, California; Houston, Texas;
Bossier City, Louisiana; and Parkersburg, West Virginia.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short term highly liquid
investments with remaining maturities of three months or less when purchased.

INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Finished goods are stated
at standard cost which approximates the first-in, first-out method of
accounting. Raw material inventories of steel coil are stated at cost on a
specific identification basis. Raw material inventories of coating and lining
materials, as well as materials and supplies, are stated on an average cost
basis.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment, including land, buildings and equipment under capital
leases, are stated at cost. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred and
costs of improvements and renewals, including interest, are capitalized.
Depreciation and amortization are determined by the straight-line method based
on the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Upon disposal, costs and
related accumulated depreciation of the assets are removed from the accounts and
resulting gains or losses are reflected in operations. The Company leases land,
buildings and equipment under long-term capital leases, which are being
amortized on a straight-line basis over estimated useful lives.

Estimated useful lives by major classes of property and equipment are as
follows:

<TABLE>

   <S>                                   <C>
   Land improvements                     20 years
   Buildings                             30 years
   Equipment                             5-18 years
</TABLE>

GOODWILL

The Company has classified as goodwill the cost in excess of fair value of the
net assets of companies acquired in purchase transactions. Net goodwill at
December 31, 1998 was $23.2 million. Goodwill is being amortized on the
straight-line method over 40 years. Amortization charged to operations was $494
for 1998. At each balance sheet date, the Company evaluates the realizability of
goodwill based on expectations of non-discounted cash flows and operating income
for each subsidiary having a material goodwill balance. Based on its most recent
analysis, the Company believes that no material impairment of goodwill exists at
December 31, 1998.


                                       F-6

<PAGE>

REVENUE RECOGNITION

Revenue from construction contracts in the Company's Water Transmission segment
is recognized on the percentage-of-completion method, measured by the percentage
of total costs incurred to date to the estimated total costs of each contract.
Contract costs include all direct material and labor costs and those indirect
costs related to contract performance, such as indirect labor, supplies, tools,
repairs and depreciation. Selling, general and administrative costs are charged
to expense as incurred. Provisions for losses on uncompleted contracts are made
in the period such losses are known. Changes in job performance, job conditions
and estimated profitability, including those arising from contract penalty
provisions, and final contract settlements may result in revisions to costs and
income and are recognized in the period in which the revisions are determined.
Revenue from the Company's Tubular Products segment is recognized when products
are shipped.

INCOME TAXES

The Company records deferred income tax assets and liabilities based upon the
difference between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and
liabilities using enacted income tax rates. Valuation allowances are established
when necessary to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amount expected to be
realized. Income tax expense is the tax payable for the period and the change
during the period in net deferred income tax assets and liabilities.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

In December 1997, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board
("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings per
Share" ("SFAS 128"), which supersedes APB Opinion No. 15 and specifies the
computation, presentation and disclosure requirements for earnings per share for
entities with publicly held common stock or potential common stock.

Under SFAS 128, basic earnings per share is computed using the weighted average
number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings
per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common
stock and dilutive common equivalent shares outstanding during the period.
Incremental shares of 192,590, 216,989 and 223,225 for the years ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively, were used in the calculations of diluted
earnings per share. Options to purchase 108,074 shares of common stock at prices
of $21.00 to $22.875 per share were outstanding during 1998, but were not
included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise
price of the options was greater than the average market price of the underlying
common stock. The options, which expire in 2008, were outstanding at December
31, 1998.

CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of
credit risk consist principally of trade receivables. Trade receivables are with
a large number of customers, including municipalities, manufacturers,
distributors and contractors, dispersed across a wide geographic base.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The fair value of financial instruments are the amounts at which the instrument
could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than
in a forced or liquidation sale. The carrying amounts reflected in the
consolidated balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables,
other current assets and current liabilities approximate fair value because of
the short maturity for these instruments. The fair value approximates the
carrying value of the Company's borrowings under its long-term arrangements
based upon interest rates available for the same or similar loans.


                                       F-7

<PAGE>

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

The Company's long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when circumstances
indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the sum of the
expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset, a loss
is recognized.

USE OF ESTIMATES

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

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

On January 1, 1998, the Company adopted FASB Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income" which establishes
requirements for disclosure of comprehensive income. Comprehensive income is the
total of net income and all other non-owner changes in equity.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            Year Ended December 31,
                                              ----------------------------------------------------
                                                    1998              1997               1996
                                              -------------     --------------     ---------------
<S>                                           <C>               <C>                <C>
Net income                                    $      12,581     $       11,100     $       10,404
Minimum pension liability adjustment                    231               (194)               (93)
                                              -------------     --------------     ---------------
Comprehensive income                          $      12,812     $       10,906     $       10,311
                                              -------------     --------------     ---------------
                                              -------------     --------------     ---------------
</TABLE>

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS 133, "Accounting for Derivative 
Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS 133"). SFAS 133 establishes 
accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument 
be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at 
its fair value. SFAS 133 also requires that changes in the derivative 
instrument's fair value be recognized currently in results of operations 
unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. SFAS 133 is effective for 
fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. The Company's management has 
studied the implications of SFAS 133 and based on the initial evaluation, 
expects the adoption to have no impact on the Company's financial condition 
or results of operations.

2.  ACQUISITIONS:

On June 9, 1998, the Company acquired from L.B. Foster Company, the plant, 
equipment, leasehold and contract rights and miscellaneous assets of its 
Fosterweld Division manufacturing facility located in Parkersburg, West 
Virginia (the "Parkersburg Facility"). The Company paid $5.3 million for the 
Parkersburg Facility. The Company also acquired the Parkersburg Facility's 
inventory net of assumed accounts payable.

The Parkersburg Facility was employed in the manufacture of large diameter, 
high pressure steel pipe products. The Company will continue to operate the 
Parkersburg Facility for the same purpose. The accompanying consolidated 
financial statements include the results of operations of the Parkersburg 
Facility from the date of acquisition.


                                       F-8

<PAGE>

On March 6, 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding capital stock of
Southwestern Pipe, Inc. ("Southwestern") and P&H Tube Corporation ("P&H"), both
Texas corporations. The Company paid a purchase price of $40.1 million. The
excess of the acquisition cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired of
approximately $23.7 million, is being amortized over 40 years using the
straight-line method.

The principal business of both Southwestern and P&H is the manufacture and sale
of structural and mechanical tubing products. Southwestern owns and operates a
manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas. P&H owns and operates a manufacturing
facility in Bossier City, Louisiana. The Company will continue to operate the
acquired plants, equipment and other property for the same purpose.

The following unaudited pro forma information represents the results of
operations of the Company as if the Southwestern and P&H acquisitions had
occurred at the beginning the period presented. Pro forma data for the preceding
period is not available as Southwestern and P&H became separate operating
companies on May 1, 1997.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                (Unaudited)
                                                            For the Year Ended
                                                             December 31, 1998
                                                            -------------------
    <S>                                                     <C>
    Net sales                                                $    214,625
    Net income                                                     12,809
    Diluted earnings per share                                       1.93
</TABLE>

The unaudited pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of the
results which would actually have been obtained had the acquisitions occurred at
the beginning of the period indicated or which may be obtained in the future.

In December 1996, the Company acquired, from California Steel Pressure Pipe
Company, certain assets of its Riverside, California plant for approximately
$6.4 million in cash. The Riverside, California plant was closed in December
1996 by California Steel Pressure Pipe Company. In January 1997, the Company
began producing smaller diameter water transmission pipe at the Riverside plant,
and managing this facility from its Adelanto, California facility. The principal
assets acquired by the Company in the acquisition were trade receivables,
inventory, and machinery and equipment.

In May 1996, the Company acquired Thompson Pipe and Steel Company ("Thompson
Pipe and Steel"), a manufacturer of water transmission pipe headquartered in
Denver, Colorado. The Company purchased all of the issued and outstanding
capital stock of Thompson Pipe and Steel from Inter-City Products Corporation, a
corporation based in Toronto, Canada, and its affiliates ("ICP") for
approximately $6.1 million in cash. The principal asset acquired by the Company
was a steel pipe manufacturing facility located in Denver, Colorado, which the
Company continues to operate.

All of the above acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting, which requires that the purchase price be allocated to the net
assets acquired based upon the relative fair value of assets acquired. The
accompanying consolidated financial statements include the results of operations
from the dates of acquisition.


                                       F-9

<PAGE>

3.   COSTS AND ESTIMATED EARNINGS IN EXCESS OF BILLINGS ON UNCOMPLETED
     CONTRACTS:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            December 31,
                                                                       1998               1997
                                                                 -------------      ------------
       <S>                                                       <C>                <C>
       Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts                   $      69,214      $     54,572
       Estimated earnings                                               22,264            11,804
                                                                 -------------      ------------
                                                                        91,478            66,376
       Less billings to date                                           (68,208)          (46,462)
                                                                 -------------      ------------
                                                                 $      23,270      $     19,914
                                                                 -------------      ------------
                                                                 -------------      ------------
</TABLE>

Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts 
represents revenue earned under the percentage of completion method but not 
billable based on the terms of the contracts. These amounts are billed based 
on the terms of the contracts which include achievement of milestones, 
partial shipments or completion of the contracts.

4.  INVENTORIES:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            December 31,
                                                                        1998               1997
                                                                   -----------        ------------
         <S>                                                       <C>                <C>
         Finished goods                                            $    12,404        $      5,854
         Raw materials                                                  34,769              12,809
         Materials and supplies                                          2,096               1,867
                                                                   -----------        ------------
                                                                   $    49,269        $     20,530
                                                                   -----------        ------------
                                                                   -----------        ------------
</TABLE>

5.       PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              December 31,
                                                                        1998                1997
                                                                   ------------       -------------
         <S>                                                       <C>                <C>
         Land and improvements                                     $     10,387       $       6,461
         Buildings                                                       19,655              12,762
         Equipment                                                       71,893              34,063
         Property and equipment under capital leases                      2,733               3,232
         Construction in progress                                         7,964              24,608
                                                                   ------------       -------------
                                                                        112,632              81,126
         Less accumulated depreciation and amortization                 (25,493)            (23,679)
                                                                   ------------       -------------
                                                                   $     87,139       $      57,447
                                                                   ------------       -------------
                                                                   ------------       -------------
</TABLE>

Accumulated amortization associated with property and equipment under capital
leases was $129 and $106 at December 31, 1998, and 1997, respectively.

6.  NOTE PAYABLE TO FINANCIAL INSTITUTION:

At December 31, 1998, the Company had a $45.0 million line of credit agreement,
under which $34.2 million was outstanding, with $32.0 million bearing interest
at a weighted average IBOR interest rate of 6.80%, $2.2 million bearing interest
at 7.75% and additional borrowing capacity under the line of credit of $10.8
million. The credit agreement expires on September 30, 2001 and is without
collateral. It bears interest at rates related to IBOR or LIBOR plus 0.65% to
1.75% (6.56% at December 31, 1998), or at prime less 0.5% (7.75% at December 31,
1998).

The line of credit agreement contains the following covenants; minimum debt
service ratio, maximum funded debt to earnings before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"), and minimum tangible net worth. In
June 1998, the Company amended the line of credit agreement to increase the
amount 


                                       F-10

<PAGE>

available under the line of credit to $40.0 million from $30.0 million and 
adjusted the covenant associated with the ratio of maximum funded debt to 
EBITDA from 3.25:1.0 to 3.75:1.0 until December 31, 1998. In December 1998, 
the Company amended its line of credit agreement to increase the amount 
available under the line of credit to $45.0 million from $40.0 million and 
adjusted the covenant associated with the ratio of maximum funded debt to 
EBITDA from 3.75:1.0 to 4.00:1.0 until March 31, 1999. The covenant 
associated with this ratio will be reduced to 3.75:1.0 on June 30, 1999, to 
3.50:1.0 on September 30, 1999, 3.25:1.0 on December 31, 1999, and 3.00:1.0 
until September 30, 2001. At December 31, 1998 the Company was in compliance 
with all covenants specified in the line of credit agreement.

At December 31, 1997, the Company had $7.0 million outstanding under the 
credit agreement at a weighted average IBOR interest rate of 6.534%.

7. LONG-TERM DEBT:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                          December 31,
                                                                                    ----------------------
                                                                                      1998          1997
                                                                                    ---------     --------
        <S>                                                                         <C>           <C>
        Industrial Development Bond, issued in accordance with Internal Revenue
        Code Section 144(a), variable interest (3.27% at December 31, 1998 and
        3.85% at December 31, 1997) payable monthly; annual principal payments
        of $250, collateralized by property and equipment and guaranteed
        by an irrevocable letter of credit from a bank                               $  3,000     $  3,740

        Senior Notes, due in annual payments of $5.0 million beginning November
        15, 2001, plus interest at 6.87% paid semi-annually, on May 15 and
        November 15, without collateral                                                35,000       35,000

        Series A Senior Notes, due in annual payments of $1.4 million beginning
        April 1, 1999, plus interest at 6.63% paid semi-annually, on April 1 and
        October 1, without collateral                                                  10,000            -

        Series B Senior Notes, due in annual payments of $4.3 million beginning
        April 1, 2002, plus interest at 6.91% paid semi-annually, on April 1 and
        October 1, without collateral                                                  30,000            -
                                                                                    ---------     --------
        Total long-term debt                                                         $ 78,000     $ 38,740
                                                                                    ---------     --------
                                                                                    ---------     --------

        Amounts are displayed on the consolidated balance sheet as follows:
           Current portion of long-term debt                                         $  1,679     $    250
           Long-term debt, less current portion                                        76,321       38,490
                                                                                    ---------     --------
                                                                                     $ 78,000     $ 38,740
                                                                                    ---------     --------
                                                                                    ---------     --------
</TABLE>

The Company is required to maintain certain financial ratios under its long-term
debt agreements. As of December 31, 1998, the most restrictive of these was a
requirement to maintain maximum funded debt, as defined, to earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of 4.00 to 1.0 and a requirement
to maintain a debt service coverage ratio of 2.0 to 1.0. At December 31, 1998,
the Company was in compliance with all financial ratios specified in its
long-term debt agreements.


                                       F-11

<PAGE>

Future principal payments are as follows:

<TABLE>

      <S>                                     <C>
      1999                                    $   1,679
      2000                                        1,679
      2001                                        6,678
      2002                                       10,964
      2003                                       10,964
      Thereafter                                 46,036
                                              ---------
                                              $  78,000
                                              ---------
                                              ---------
</TABLE>

Interest expense was $4,835, net of amounts capitalized of $1,554, in 1998.
Interest expense was $1,817, net of amounts capitalized of $707, in 1997. All
interest costs incurred in 1996 were expensed.

8.  LEASES:

CAPITAL LEASES

At December 31, 1998, the Company leased land, buildings and improvements at its
Riverside, California facility. In January 1999, the Company exercised the
option to purchase the Riverside facility. The future minimum lease payments
under the Company's capital lease, due through the date the property was
purchased, were $2,000.

OPERATING LEASES

The Company has entered into various equipment leases with terms of five years
or less. Total rental expense for 1998, 1997 and 1996 was $967, $1,323, and
$1,060, respectively. Future minimum payments for operating leases with initial
or remaining terms in excess of one year are:

<TABLE>

      <S>                                           <C>
      1999                                          $   397
      2000                                              238
      2001                                              218
      2002                                              139
      2003                                               19
                                                    -------
                                                    $ 1,011
                                                    -------
                                                    -------
</TABLE>

9.  RETIREMENT PLANS:

The Company has a defined contribution retirement plan that covers substantially
all of its employees and provides for Company matches of up to 50% of employee
contributions to the plan, subject to certain limitations. The Company also has
two noncontributory defined benefit plans which cover substantially all
employees at its Denver, Colorado facility. Benefits under the union pension
plan are based upon a flat benefit formula, while benefits under the salaried
benefit plan are based upon a final pay formula. The funding policy for each
noncontributory defined benefit plan is based on current plan costs plus
amortization of the unfunded plan liability. Total expense for all retirement
plans in 1998, 1997 and 1996 amounted to $533, $412 and $422, respectively.

10. CAPITAL STOCK:

On July 28, 1995, the Board of Directors amended and restated the Company's
Articles of Incorporation subject to approval by the stockholders of the
Company. The revised articles, among other things, redesignated the Class A and
Class B common stock of the Company as Common Stock, authorized a 0.858-for-1
reverse stock split of each outstanding share of Common Stock, increased the
authorized capital 


                                       F-12

<PAGE>

stock of the Company to 15,000,000 shares of Common Stock and 10,000,000 
shares of Preferred Stock, authorized the Board of Directors to issue blank 
check Preferred Stock, and provided for the classification of the Board of 
Directors into three classes with staggered terms. The Board of Directors, 
with stockholder approval, also authorized and approved the 1995 Stock 
Incentive Plan and the reservation of 429,000 shares of Common Stock after 
the stock split noted above for issuance thereunder, and the 1995 Stock 
Option Plan for Nonemployee Directors and the reservation of 100,000 shares 
of Common Stock (after the stock split) for issuance thereunder. On April 10, 
1997, the stockholders authorized the reservation of an additional 200,000 
shares of Common Stock for issuance under the 1995 Stock Incentive Plan. All 
share and per share amounts have been restated to retroactively reflect the 
aforementioned reverse stock split.

On November 30, 1995, the Company completed an initial public offering (IPO) 
of 1,932,000 shares of common stock, including over allotments. In 
conjunction with the IPO, all of the Company's outstanding Series B and 
Series C Convertible Subordinated Debentures were converted into a total of 
2,629,296 shares of the Company's Common Stock. On November 14, 1996, the 
Company completed a public offering of 2,300,000 shares of common stock, 
including over allotments; 1,071,792 shares were sold by the Company and 
1,228,208 were sold by certain of the selling shareholders of the Company.

11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS:

The Company has two stock compensation plans for employees and directors. The 
Amended 1995 Stock Incentive Plan provides for the grant of incentive options 
at an exercise price which is 100 percent of the fair value of the Company's 
stock on the date of grant. The 1995 Stock Option Plan for Nonemployee 
Directors provides for the grant of nonqualified options at an exercise price 
which is not less than 100 percent of the fair value on the grant date. The 
plans provide that options become exercisable according to vesting schedules 
which range from immediate to five years. Options terminate 10 years from the 
date of grant. There were 784,594, 820,928 and 643,344 shares of common stock 
reserved for issuance under the Company's stock compensation plans at 
December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

A summary of status of the Company's stock options as of December 31, 1998, 1997
and 1996 and changes during the year ended on those dates is presented below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   Exercise Price
                                                                          --------------------------------
                                                                                               Weighted
                                                                            Options            Average
                                                                          Outstanding       Exercise Price
                                                                          -----------       --------------
<S>                                                                       <C>               <C>
    Balance, December 31, 1995                                                320,413            $ 2.70
    Options granted                                                            20,000             14.19
    Options exercised                                                         (59,069)             1.12
    Options canceled                                                             (534)             4.78
                                                                          -----------       --------------
    Balance, December 31, 1996                                                280,810              3.85
    Options granted                                                           155,500             18.60
    Options exercised                                                        (22,416)              2.20
    Options canceled                                                           -                      -
                                                                          -----------       --------------
    Balance, December 31, 1997                                                413,894              9.48
    Options granted                                                           109,613             21.15
    Options exercised                                                         (36,334)             1.25
    Options canceled                                                           (3,039)            20.00
                                                                          -----------       --------------
    Balance, December 31, 1998                                                484,134            $12.67
                                                                          -----------       --------------
                                                                          -----------       --------------
</TABLE>

The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during 1998, 1997
and 1996 was $7.69, $6.17 and $4.44, respectively.


                                       F-13

<PAGE>

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at
December 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                        Options Outstanding                                    Options Exercisable
- --------------------------------------------------------------------     -----------------------------
                                           Weighted       Weighted                           Weighted
                                           Average         Average                           Average
     Range of                             Remaining       Exercise                           Exercise
  Exercise Prices        Number of       Contractual        Price          Number of          Price
     Per Share            Options        Life (years)     Per Share         Options         Per Share
     ---------            -------        ------------     ---------         -------         ---------
<S>                      <C>             <C>              <C>            <C>                <C>
$0.87 - $1.00                68,935          3.74          $ 0.96           68,935           $  0.96
$4.78                       133,125          6.47             4.78          96,445              4.78
$11.50 - $18.75             170,000          8.03            18.07          74,628             17.68
$18.88 - $22.88             112,074          9.12            21.07          26,198             21.46
                          ---------                                        -------
Totals                      484,134                                        266,206
                          ---------                                        -------
                          ---------                                        -------
</TABLE>

The following are the options exercisable at the corresponding weighted average
exercise price at December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively: 266,206 at
$9.05, 221,899 at $5.55, and 183,978 at $2.95.

SFAS 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" was issued by the FASB in
1995 and, if fully adopted, changes the methods for the recognition of cost
related to stock option plans. Adoption of the accounting requirements of SFAS
123 is optional. As a result, the Company continues to apply Accounting
Principles Board opinion No. 25 and related interpretations in accounting for
its plans. However, in accordance with SFAS 123, pro forma disclosures as if the
Company adopted the cost recognition requirements under SFAS 123 are presented
below.

The fair value of each option granted in 1998, 1997 and 1996 was estimated on
the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the
following assumptions :

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        Year Ended December 31,
                                         --------------------------------------------------------
                                              1998                 1997                  1996 
                                         -------------         ------------          ------------
<S>                                      <C>                   <C>                   <C>
Risk-free interest rate                  5.55% - 5.64%         6.12% -6.61%          5.23%-6.46%
Expected dividend yield                             0%                   0%                   0%
Expected volatility                             29.31%               24.70%               19.48%
Expected lives                              five years           five years           five years
</TABLE>

Had the Company used the fair value methodology for determining compensation
expense, the Company's net income and earnings per share would approximate the
pro forma amounts below (in thousands except per share data):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 Year Ended December 31,
                                                    ----------------------------------------------
                                                         1998             1997             1996
                                                    ------------     ------------     ------------
   <S>                                              <C>              <C>              <C>
    Net income - as reported                        $     12,581     $     11,100     $     10,404
    Net income - pro forma                                12,244           10,507           10,350
    Diluted earnings per share - as reported                1.90             1.68             1.85
    Diluted earnings per share - pro forma                  1.85             1.59             1.84
</TABLE>

The effect of applying SFAS 123 in this pro forma disclosure is not indicative
of future amounts.


                                       F-14

<PAGE>

12.  COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

LITIGATION

From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation relating to claims
arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. The Company
maintains insurance coverage against potential claims in amounts which it
believes to be adequate. Management believes that it is not presently a party to
any litigation, the outcome of which would have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

COMMITMENTS

As of December 31, 1998, the Company had outstanding raw material purchase
commitments of approximately $7.1 million.

13.  INCOME TAXES:

The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Year Ended December 31,
                                                  -------------------------------------------------------
                                                         1998                1997               1996
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
<S>                                               <C>                  <C>                <C>
Current:
   Federal                                        $        5,076       $       3,189      $       5,394
   State                                                   1,114                 619              1,267
Deferred:
   Federal                                                 1,972               2,624                136
   State                                                     227                 386                 22
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
                                                  $        8,389       $       6,818      $       6,819
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
</TABLE>

The difference between the effective income tax rate and the statutory U.S.
Federal income tax rate is explained as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Year Ended December 31,
                                                  -------------------------------------------------------
                                                         1998                1997               1996
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
<S>                                               <C>                  <C>                <C>
Provision at statutory rate                       $        7,340       $       6,092      $       5,856
State provision, net of federal benefit                      951                 896                836
Other                                                         98                (170)               127
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
                                                  $        8,389       $       6,818      $       6,819
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
                                                  --------------       -------------      ---------------
</TABLE>


                                       F-15

<PAGE>

The tax effect of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions
of deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                December 31,
                                                                      ------------------------------
                                                                           1998              1997
                                                                      ------------      ------------
     <S>                                                              <C>               <C>
     Deferred tax assets:
     Property and equipment                                           $         69      $        730
     Accrued employee benefits                                                 632               537
     Inventories                                                               378               316
     Net operating loss carryforwards                                        1,980             1,763
     Other                                                                      65                57
                                                                      ------------      ------------
     Total deferred tax assets                                        $      3,124      $      3,403
                                                                      ------------      ------------
                                                                      ------------      ------------

     Deferred tax liabilities:
     Trade receivables, net                                           $       (895)     $       (542)
     Property and equipment                                                 (7,620)           (2,815)
     Other                                                                       -               (18)
                                                                      ------------      ------------
     Total deferred tax liabilities                                         (8,515)           (3,375)
                                                                      ------------      ------------

     Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)                            $     (5,391)     $         28
                                                                      ------------      ------------
                                                                      ------------      ------------

     Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the consolidated
      balance sheets as follows:
           Deferred tax assets - current                              $      1,794      $        447
           Deferred tax liabilities - noncurrent                            (7,185)             (419)
                                                                      ------------      ------------
     Net deferred tax assets                                          $     (5,391)     $         28
                                                                      ------------      ------------
                                                                      ------------      ------------
</TABLE>

      As of December 31, 1998, the Company had approximately $5.1 million of 
net operating loss carryforwards as a result of the acquisition of Thompson 
Pipe and Steel which are limited in their use to approximately $338 per year 
during the 15 year carryforward period which expires in 2011.

14.  SEGMENT INFORMATION:

Effective for the year ended December 31, 1998, the Company adopted SFAS No. 
131, "Disclosures about Segments of and Enterprise and Related Information" 
which requires disclosure of financial and descriptive information about the 
Company's reportable operating segments. The operating segments reported 
below are based on the nature of the products sold by the Company and are the 
segments of the Company for which separate financial information is available 
and for which operating results are regularly evaluated by executive 
management to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment 
and assess its performance. Management evaluates segment performance based on 
segment gross profit. There were no material transfers between segments in 
the periods presented.

The Company's Water Transmission segment manufactures and markets large 
diameter, high pressure steel pipe used primarily for water transmission. 
Water Transmission products are custom manufactured in accordance with 
project specifications and are used primarily for high pressure water 
transmission pipelines in the United States and Canada. Water Transmission 
products are manufactured in Portland, Oregon; Denver, Colorado; Adelanto, 
California, and Riverside, California; and Parkersburg, West Virginia, and 
are sold primarily to public water agencies either directly or through an 
installation contractor.

The Company's Tubular Products segment manufactures and markets smaller
diameter, electric resistance welded steel pipe for use in a wide range of
construction, agricultural and industrial applications. Tubular


                                       F-16

<PAGE>

Products are manufactured in the Company's Portland, Oregon; Atchison, Kansas;
Houston, Texas and Bossier City, Louisiana facilities. Tubular Products are
marketed through a network of direct sales force personnel and independent
distributors throughout the United States and Canada.

Based on the location of the customer, the Company sold products only in the
United States and Canada. As of December 31, 1998, all material long-lived
assets are located in the United States.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Year Ended December 31,
                                                   ---------------------------------------------
                                                      1998              1997              1996
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
      <S>                                          <C>               <C>               <C>
        Net Sales:
          Water Transmission                       $ 124,612         $  99,317         $  89,943
          Tubular Products                            84,904            51,516            45,239
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $ 209,516         $ 150,833         $ 135,182
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Gross Profit:
          Water Transmission                       $  28,718         $  22,733         $  23,358
          Tubular Products                            12,946             8,384             7,584
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $  41,664         $  31,117         $  30,942
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Interest Expense, Net:
          Water Transmission                       $   2,220         $   1,681         $   1,888
          Tubular Products                             2,615               136               301
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $   4,835         $   1,817         $   2,189
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Depreciation and Amortization
          of Property and Equipment:
          Water Transmission                       $   1,916         $   1,781         $   1,606
          Tubular Products                             1,150               387               351
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                      3,066             2,168             1,957
          Corporate                                      125                74                65
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $   3,191         $   2,242         $   2,022
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Amortization of Intangible Assets:
          Water Transmission                       $       -         $       -         $       -
          Tubular Products                               494                 -                 -
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $     494         $       -         $       -
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Capital Expenditures:
          Water Transmission                       $   7,302         $   8,235         $   1,898
          Tubular Products                             8,656            12,898             4,619
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                     15,958            21,133             6,517
          Corporate                                      227             1,087               163
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
            Total                                  $  16,185         $  22,220         $   6,680
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------

        Net Sales by Geographic Area:
           United States                           $ 204,904         $ 144,399         $ 130,139
           Canada                                      4,612             6,434             5,043
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
              Total                                $ 209,516         $ 150,833         $ 135,182
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
                                                   ---------         ---------         ---------
</TABLE>


                                       F-17

<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                Year Ended December 31,
                                           ---------------------------------
                                                1998               1997
                                           --------------     --------------
<S>                                        <C>                <C>
Total Assets:
  Water Transmission                        $     117,128     $      86,219
  Tubular Products                                108,853            37,813
                                           --------------     --------------
    Total                                         225,981           124,032
  Corporate                                         8,170             8,019
                                           --------------     --------------
     Total                                  $     234,151     $     132,051
                                           --------------     --------------
                                           --------------     --------------
</TABLE>


No one customer represented more than 10% of total sales in 1998, 1997 or 1996.


15.  QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED):

Summarized quarterly financial data for 1998 and 1997 is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                First             Second           Third           Fourth
                                Quarter           Quarter          Quarter         Quarter
                             ------------      ------------     -----------     -------------
<S>                          <C>               <C>              <C>             <C>
1998:
Net sales:
   Water transmission        $     21,904      $     27,866     $    36,214     $      38,628
   Tubular products                16,336            26,144          23,054            19,370
                             ------------      ------------     -----------     -------------
      Total net sales        $     38,240      $     54,010     $    59,268     $      57,998

Gross profit:
   Water transmission        $      3,997      $      6,151     $     9,383     $       9,187
   Tubular products                 2,504             4,850           2,814             2,778
                             ------------      ------------     -----------     -------------
      Total gross profit     $      6,501      $     11,001     $    12,197     $      11,965

Net income                   $      1,723      $      3,241     $     4,226     $       3,391

Earnings per share:
   Basic                     $       0.27      $       0.50     $      0.66     $        0.53
   Diluted                   $       0.26      $       0.49     $      0.64     $        0.51

1997:
Net sales:
   Water transmission        $     25,744      $     22,482     $    26,208     $      24,883
   Tubular products                12,013            14,959          13,531            11,013
                             ------------      ------------     -----------     -------------
      Total net sales        $     37,757      $     37,441     $    39,739     $      35,896

Gross profit:
   Water transmission        $      5,434      $      5,639     $     6,342     $       5,318
   Tubular products                 2,076             2,498           2,161             1,649
                             ------------      ------------     -----------     -------------
      Total gross profit     $      7,510      $      8,137     $     8,503     $       6,967

Net income                   $      2,415      $      2,962     $     3,299     $       2,424

Earnings per share:
   Basic                     $       0.38      $       0.46     $      0.51     $        0.38
   Diluted                   $       0.37      $       0.45     $      0.50     $        0.36
</TABLE>


                                       F-18


<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.12

                        FIRST AMENDMENT TO LOAN AGREEMENT

         This amendment to Loan Agreement ("Amendment") is made as of December
23, 1998 by and among the following parties:

         Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association ("Bank of
America" and a "Lender")

         U.S. Bank National Association ("U.S. Bank" and a "Lender")

         Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association, in its capacity
as Agent ("Agent")

         Each of the several financial institutions which subsequently becomes
party to the Loan Agreement pursuant to Section 11.7 (each individually a
"Lender")

         Northwest Pipe Company, an Oregon corporation (a "Borrower")

         Thompson Pipe and Steel Company, a Colorado corporation (a "Borrower")

         Thompson Steel Pipe Company, a Delaware corporation (a "Borrower")

                                 R E C I T A L S

A.       The Borrowers, the Lenders and the Agent are parties to that certain 
Amended and Restated Loan Agreement dated as of June 30, 1998, as the same 
may be amended, modified or extended from time to time (the "Loan Agreement") 
and the related Loan Documents described therein.

B.       The parties desire to amend the Loan Agreement as set forth below:

         NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

                                A G R E E M E N T

         1. DEFINITIONS. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined
shall have the meaning given in the Loan Agreement.

         2. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 1.1, "APPLICABLE MARGIN". The definition of
"Applicable Margin" contained in Section 1.1 of the Loan Agreement is amended
and restated to provide as follows:

           "'APPLICABLE MARGIN' means, with respect to Offshore Related Rate
           Loans, a margin determined as set forth below depending on the ratio
           of Funded Debt to EBITDA. Adjustments, with respect to borrowings or
           selections of Applicable Interest Rates, will be effective the first
           day of the month after Agent has received financial information
           needed to determine the relevant ratio with respect to future
           selections or borrowings. However, if such information is not given
           to Agent within the time required by Section 5.9, Agent may, at its
           option, adjust the Applicable Margin for Offshore Related Rate
           upwards, if applicable, as of the first day of the month following
           the date by which such information should have been received.


<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   RATIO AT END OF PRIOR                                      APPLICABLE MARGIN FOR
                      FISCAL QUARTER                                       OFFSHORE RELATED RATE LOANS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                  <C>
                      Less than 1.5:1                                                  .65%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Equal to or greater than 1.5:1                                           .75%
                Up to and including 2.25:1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Greater than 2.25:1                                               .875%
                Up to and including 3.00:1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Greater than 3.00:1                                               1.150%
                Up to and including 3.25:1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Greater than 3.25:1                                               1.50%
                Up to and including 3.75:1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Greater than 3.75:1                                               1.75%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

           For purposes of calculating this ratio, the EBITDA for the prior
           fiscal year for the "Acquisitions," as defined in SECTION 6.6 shall
           be included in the calculation. The Acquisitions' EBITDA shall be
           incorporated on a decreasing pro-rata basis, with 100% of the
           Acquisitions' EBITDA included in the calculation for the first
           calendar quarter-end following closing of the Acquisitions, 75%
           included in the second quarter-end, 50% included in the third
           quarter-end, and 25% included in the fourth quarter-end. Beginning
           with the fifth quarter following the closing of the Acquisitions, the
           EBITDA for the Acquisitions' prior fiscal year shall no longer be
           incorporated in this calculation."

         3. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 1.1 "REVOLVING LOAN MATURITY DATE": The
definition of "Revolving Loan Maturity Date" in Section 1.1 of the Loan
Agreement is amended and restated to read as follows:

           "'REVOLVING LOAN MATURITY DATE' means September 30, 2001. Agent and
           Lenders will consider a one year extension to the Revolving Loan
           Maturity Date on each anniversary of this Agreement. However, any
           extension will require the consent of Agent and all Lenders in their
           sole discretion."


         4. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 1.1, "TOTAL COMMITMENT". The definition of
"Total Commitment" in Section 1.1 of the Loan Agreement is amended and restated
to read as follows:

           "Total Commitment means $45,000,000."

         5. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 2.5: Section 2.5 of the Loan Agreement is
Amended and Restated to read:

           "OPTIONAL CONVERSION OF UP TO $10,000,000 OF REVOLVING LOANS. On the
           first day of any month, up to and including October 1, 2000, if at
           that time, the conditions set forth in Section 3.1 are satisfied,
           Borrowers may convert a portion of not less than $500,000 of the
           Revolving Loans in increments of $100,000 to a Term Loan, but
           Borrowers shall not convert more than a total of $10,000,000 of
           Revolving Loans to Term Loans. Each such conversion will be
           accomplished by Borrowers 

<PAGE>

           giving written notice to Agent at least 5 business days prior to 
           the date selected by Borrowers for conversion. Such notice will 
           specify what portions of the Term Loan will bear interest at the 
           available alternative rates described in Section 2.6(b). 
           Principal payments on each Term Loan will be paid in 16 equal
           consecutive quarterly installments with the first principal payment
           being due at the end of the calendar quarter following conversion.
           Interest on each Term Loan will be payable monthly in arrears on the
           last day of the month. All then unpaid principal and interest on each
           Term Loan will be due and payable no later than 48 months following
           such conversion."

         6. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 5.9: Section 5.9 of the Loan Agreement is
amended by adding to such Section Subsection (g) as follows:

           "(g) BACKLOG REPORT. As soon as available, and in any event, within
           60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter, a report showing in detail
           the backlog of orders broken down by location and amount in form
           satisfactory to Agent."

         7. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 5.13. Section 5.13 of the Loan Agreement is
amended and restated to provide as follows:

           "SECTION 5.13 MAXIMUM FUNDED DEBT TO EBITDA. Borrowers and their
           Subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, shall maintain for each period
           of four consecutive fiscal quarters a ratio of Funded Debt to EBITDA
           of no greater than:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                PERIOD                                                RATIO
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                         <C>
For the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending December 31, 1998.                   4.00:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending March 31, 1999.                      4.00:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending June 30, 1999.                       3.75:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending September 30, 1999                   3.50:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending December 31, 1999                    3.25:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For any four consecutive fiscal quarters ending after December 31,                   3.00:1
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
           For purposes of calculating this covenant, the EBITDA for the prior
           fiscal year for the "Acquisitions," as defined in Section 6.6, shall
           be included in the calculation. The Acquisitions' EBITDA shall be
           incorporated on a decreasing pro-rata basis, with 100% of the
           Acquisitions' EBITDA included in the calculation for the first
           calendar quarter-end following closing of the Acquisitions, 75%
           included in the second quarter-end, 50% included in the third
           quarter-end, and 25% included in the fourth quarter-end. Beginning
           with the fifth quarter following the closing of the Acquisitions, the
           EBITDA for the Acquisitions' prior fiscal year shall no longer be
           incorporated in this calculation."

         8. NO FURTHER AMENDMENT, FEES. Except as expressly modified by this
Amendment, the Loan Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall remain
unmodified and in full force and effect and the parties hereby ratify their
respective obligations thereunder. Without limiting the foregoing, the Borrower
expressly reaffirms and ratifies its obligation to pay or reimburse the Agent
and the Lender on request for all 


<PAGE>

reasonable expenses, including legal fees, actually incurred by the Agent or 
such Lender in connection with the preparation of this Amendment, the other 
Amendment Documents, and the closing of the transactions contemplated hereby 
and thereby. Borrowers shall pay Agent for the benefit of Lenders a fee of 
$3,750 for the increase in the Total Commitment provided herein. Such $3,750 
fee shall be paid on execution of this Amendment.

         9.       MISCELLANEOUS.

                  (a) ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Amendment comprises the entire
agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and
supersedes all prior oral or written agreements, representations or commitments.

                  (b) COUNTERPARTS. This Amendment may be executed in any number
of counterparts and by different parties hereto in separate counterparts, each
of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original, and all of which
taken together shall constitute one and the same Amendment.

                  (c) GOVERNING LAW. This Amendment and the other agreements
provided for herein and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto and
thereto shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the
State of Oregon.

                  (d)      CERTAIN AGREEMENTS NOT ENFORCEABLE.

         UNDER OREGON LAW, MOST AGREEMENTS, PROMISES AND COMMITMENTS MADE BY THE
         LENDERS AFTER OCTOBER 3, 1989, CONCERNING LOANS AND OTHER CREDIT
         EXTENSIONS WHICH ARE NOT FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD PURPOSES OR
         SECURED SOLELY BY THE BORROWER'S RESIDENCE MUST BE IN WRITING, EXPRESS
         CONSIDERATION, AND BE SIGNED BY THE LENDERS TO BE ENFORCEABLE.

         EXECUTED AND DELIVERED by the duly authorized officers of the parties
as of the date first above written.

         BORROWERS:          NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY
                             By: /s/ Brian Dunham
                             Its:  President
                                     Address: 12005 N. Burgard
                                              Portland, OR 97203
                                              Fax No. (503) 240-6615

                             THOMPSON PIPE AND STEEL COMPANY
                             By: /s/ Brian Dunham
                             Its:  President
                                     Address: 12005 N. Burgard
                                              Portland, OR 97203
                                              Fax No. (503) 240-6615

                             THOMPSON STEEL PIPE COMPANY
                             By: /s/ Brian Dunham
                             Its:  President
                                     Address: 12005 N. Burgard
                                              Portland, OR  97203
                                              Fax No. (503) 240-6615


<PAGE>

         LENDER:             BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST AND
                             SAVINGS ASSOCIATION

                             By: /s/ R.E. Evans
                             Its: Vice President

                                     Address: Commercial Banking
                                              121 S.W. Morrison Street
                                              Suite 1700
                                              Portland, OR  97204
                                              Fax No. (503) 275-1391
                                              Attn:  Ray Evans

                             U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

                             By: /s/ Gregory Salih
                             Its: Assistant Vice President

                                     Address: Oregon Corporate Banking, T-4
                                              111 S.W. Fifth Avenue
                                              Suite 400
                                              Portland, OR  97208
                                              Fax No. (503) 275-7290
                                              Attn:  Rick S. Williams

         AGENT:              BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL TRUST AND
                             SAVINGS ASSOCIATION


                             By:____________________________________
                             Its:____________________________________

                                     Address: Agency Services
                                              701 Fifth Avenue, Floor 16
                                              Seattle, WA 98104
                                              Fax No. (206) 358-0971
                                              Attn: Dora A. Brown


<PAGE>

                                                                     EXHIBIT 21


                             NORTHWEST PIPE COMPANY
                         SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT


Southwestern Pipe, Inc. (a Texas Corporation)

P&H Tube Corporation (a Texas Corporation)

Thompson Tanks Mexico S.A. de C.V.

<PAGE>

                                                                     EXHIBIT 23


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements of
Northwest Pipe Company on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-20165 and 333-20167) of our
report dated February 9, 1999 on our audits of the consolidated financial
statements and financial statement schedule of Northwest Pipe Company and
Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 1998, which report is included in this Annual
Report on Form 10-K.


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Portland, Oregon
March 4, 1999

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOUND IN THE COMPANY'S REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR
THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE
TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1998
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1998
<CASH>                                             524
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                   42,765
<ALLOWANCES>                                     1,046
<INVENTORY>                                     49,269
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               121,109
<PP&E>                                         112,632
<DEPRECIATION>                                  25,493
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 234,151
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           66,872
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                            64
<OTHER-SE>                                      83,651
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   234,151
<SALES>                                        209,516
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               209,516
<CGS>                                          167,852
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  167,852
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                15,859
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               4,835
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 20,970
<INCOME-TAX>                                     8,389
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             12,581
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    12,581
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     1.96
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     1.90
        

</TABLE>


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