FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements, Measured on Recurring Basis

The following table categorizes the assets and liabilities in the Balance Sheets that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis in periods subsequent to initial recognition.

(Thousands)		Quoted Prices in Active Markets (Level 1)		Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Effects of Netting and Cash Margin Receivables /Payables			Total
As of June 30, 2012
Assets
U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds	$	17,535	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	17,535
NYMEX natural gas contracts		2,377		—		—		(2,377	)		—
NYMEX gasoline and heating
oil contracts		107		—		—		(107	)		—
Total	$	20,019	$	—	$	—	$	(2,484	)	$	17,535
Liabilities
NYMEX natural gas contracts	$	20,681	$	—	$	—	$	(20,681	)	$	—
As of September 30, 2011
Assets
U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds	$	14,833	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	14,833
NYMEX natural gas contracts		457		—		—		5,064			5,521
NYMEX gasoline and heating
oil contracts		19		—		—		162			181
Total	$	15,309	$	—	$	—	$	5,226		$	20,535
Liabilities
NYMEX natural gas contracts	$	16,738	$	—	$	—	$	(16,738	)	$	—
NYMEX gasoline and heating
oil contracts		124		—		—		(124	)		—
Total	$	16,862	$	—	$	—	$	(16,862	)	$	—
As of June 30, 2011
Assets
U. S. Stock/Bond Mutual Funds	$	16,096	$	—	$	—	$	—		$	16,096
NYMEX natural gas contracts		1,925		—		—		4,681			6,606
NYMEX gasoline and heating
oil contracts		143		—		—		164			307
Total	$	18,164	$	—	$	—	$	4,845		$	23,009
Liabilities
NYMEX natural gas contracts	$	12,379	$	—	$	—	$	(12,379	)	$	—
NYMEX gasoline and heating
oil contracts		4		—		—		(4	)		—
Total	$	12,383	$	—	$	—	$	(12,383	)	$	—