Note 9 - Income Taxes (Detail) - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating losses (NOL) carryover	$ 33,444	$ 36,460
Depletion carryover	3,020	3,020
Share based compensation	28
Deferred book liabilities	1
Loan origination fees	41
Book vs. tax basis in investments	19,165	20,180
Capital loss carryover	2,688	2,697
Total gross deferred tax assets	58,387	62,357
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(753)	(781)
Net deferred tax assets	57,634	61,576
Less valuation allowances	(57,634)	(61,576)
Deferred tax liabilities, net of valuation allowance	$ 0	$ 0