FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Table 1 (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$ 9,007	$ 6,224
Total	9,007	6,224
Level 1 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	9,007	6,224
Total	9,007	6,224
Level 2 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	0	0
Total	0	0
Level 3 [Member]
Accrued compensation expense:
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	0	0
Total	$ 0	$ 0