Derivatives and Risk Management (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010	Aug. 31, 2009
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) before taxes	$ (18,439)	$ (28,252)	$ (43,180)
Foreign Exchange [Member] | Net Sales [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) before taxes	91	39	32
Foreign Exchange [Member] | SG&A expenses [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) before taxes	14,955	4,147	(43,212)
Interest Rate [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) before taxes	$ (33,485)	$ (32,438)