Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2011

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment

Buildings	7 to 40 years
Land improvements	3 to 25 years
Leasehold improvements	3 to 15 years
Equipment	3 to 25 years

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

(in thousands)	2011			2010
Foreign currency translation adjustment	$	58,937		$	(14,050	)
Unrealized gain on derivatives		4,677			4,872
Defined benefit obligations		(4,141	)		(3,348	)
Total	$	59,473		$	(12,526	)