Members' Investments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Feb. 28, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Feb. 29, 2012
Preferred Stock:
Par Value (in dollars per share)	$ 76.77	$ 76.77	$ 76.77
Shares Authorized	600,000	600,000	600,000
Shares Issued	498,570	498,570	498,570
Shares Outstanding	498,570	498,570	498,570
Common Stock:
Par Value (in dollars per share)	$ 10.00	$ 10.00	$ 10.00
Shares Authorized	4,000	4,000	4,000
Shares Issued	2,747	2,764	2,772
Shares Outstanding	2,747	2,764	2,772
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) as reflected in Member's Investments
Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefits	$ (89,431)	$ (94,379)	$ (60,564)
Interest Rate Contract	(2,501)	(2,826)	(2,489)
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts	(11)	(20)	15
OCI of Equity Method Investees	(11,308)	(11,745)	(5,630)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$ (103,251)	$ (108,970)	$ (68,668)