DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY Narrative (Details) (NuStar Energy [Member], USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010
NuStar Energy [Member]
Distributions from NuStar Energy (dates and totals)
Quarterly cash distribution, date paid	8/12/2011	5/13/2011
NuStar Energy's total cash distribution	$ 81,339	$ 79,616
Quarterly cash distribution per unit	$ 1.095	$ 1.075	$ 1.065	$ 2.17	$ 2.130
Distributions, date of record	8/9/2011