Note 4 - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Detail) - Schedule of Goodwill (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Goodwill	$ 274,531	[1]	$ 249,888
Energy And Mining [Member]
Goodwill	78,200		77,400
North American Water and Wastewater [Member]
Goodwill	101,900		101,800
European Water and Wastewater [Member]
Goodwill	21,800		21,800
Asia-Pacific Water and Wastewater [Member]
Goodwill	5,800		5,700
Commercial And Structural [Member]
Goodwill	$ 66,800		$ 43,200

[1] The Company does not have any accumulated impairment charges.