Segment Information Segment Assets Reconciliation to Consolidated (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Feb. 28, 2015		Aug. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 1,070,606		$ 1,355,210
Investments in joint venture partnerships	15,409		14,624
Metals Recycling Business
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Investments in joint venture partnerships	15,000		15,000
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,841,042		2,055,526
Operating Segments | Metals Recycling Business
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	1,132,825	[1]	1,343,771	[1]
Operating Segments | Auto Parts Business
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	346,985		361,411
Operating Segments | Steel Manufacturing Business
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	361,232		350,344
Corporate and eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ (770,436)		$ (700,316)

[1] MRB total assets include $15 million as of February 28, 2015 and August 31, 2014, for investments in joint venture partnerships.