Changes in Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
May 31, 2012	May 31, 2011
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 25,523	$ 67,658
Net cash provided by operating activities	415,775	748,552
Collateralization of letter of credit	0	126,615
Net cash provided by investing activities	(157,847)	195,519
As Reported [Member]
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		0
Net cash provided by operating activities		680,894
Collateralization of letter of credit		194,273
Net cash provided by investing activities		263,177
As Changed [Member]
Changes in Presentation [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		67,658
Net cash provided by operating activities		748,552
Collateralization of letter of credit		126,615
Net cash provided by investing activities		$ 195,519

The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities.

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The net cash from (used in) all of the entity's operating activities, including those of discontinued operations, of the reporting entity. Operating activities generally involve producing and delivering goods and providing services. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value that are not defined as investing or financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label.

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