Note 3 - Restricted and Escrowed Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Short-term Investments (Detail) - Purposes of Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents, And Short-Term Investments (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Nov. 30, 2012
Aug. 31, 2012
Restricted Assets - purpose $ 32,867 $ 33,348
Contractually required by projects [Member]
   
Restricted Assets - purpose 996 1,628
Voluntarily used to secure letters of credit to avoid bank fees [Member]
   
Restricted Assets - purpose   0
Secure contingent obligations in lieu of letters of credit [Member]
   
Restricted Assets - purpose   0
Assets held in trust and other [Member]
   
Restricted Assets - purpose $ 31,871 $ 31,720