Note 5 - Accounts Receivable, Concentrations of Credit Risk and Inventories (Detail) - Inventories (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Nov. 30, 2011
Aug. 31, 2011
Weighted Average Cost $ 101,008 $ 101,045
FIFO 162,763 143,999
Total 263,771 245,044
Raw materials [Member]
   
Weighted Average Cost 19,583 16,040
FIFO 129,244 118,516
Total 148,827 134,556
Work in Process [Member]
   
Weighted Average Cost 2,920 2,878
FIFO 33,519 25,483
Total 36,439 28,361
Finished Goods [Member]
   
Weighted Average Cost 78,505 82,127
FIFO 0 0
Total $ 78,505 $ 82,127