Note 3 - Investment in Joint Ventures (Detail) - The Company’s Investment in Joint Ventures (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Interest [Member] | Illinois Corn Processings, LLC [Member]
Investment in joint ventures	$ 7,594	[1]
Interest [Member] | DMI [Member]
Investment in joint ventures	295
Interest [Member]
Investment in joint ventures	7,889
Interest [Member] | Illinois Corn Processings, LLC [Member]
Investment in joint ventures			11,777	[1]
Interest [Member] | DMI [Member]
Investment in joint ventures			370
Interest [Member]
Investment in joint ventures			12,147
Illinois Corn Processings, LLC [Member]
Investment in joint ventures	$ 7,594	[2]	$ 11,777

[1] The Company's ownership percentage of ICP was 50 percent through February 1, 2012, when the Company sold a 20 percent interest of its investment. From February 2, 2012 through June 30, 2012, the Company's ownership percentage in ICP was 30 percent.

[2] The Company's investment balance in ICP at June 30, 2012 reflects its sale of a 20 percent interest effective February 1, 2012.