FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Table 1 (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units	$ 6,224	$ 10,376
Total	6,224	10,376
Level 1 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units	6,224	10,376
Total	6,224	10,376
Level 2 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units	0	0
Total	0	0
Level 3 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units	0	0
Total	$ 0	$ 0