BUSINESS SEGMENTS (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014 segments	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Number of reporting segments	5
Capital expenditures	$ 101,749	$ 89,035	$ 113,853
Total assets	3,688,520	3,494,801
Discontinued operations
Capital expenditures	0	1,200	5,500
Total assets	$ 7,000	$ 50,500	$ 43,400