Note 4 - Environmental and Reclamation Activities (Details) - Accrued Reclamation and Closure Cost Liability Activity (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Accrued Reclamation and Closure Cost Liability Activity [Abstract]
Balance at	$ 113,215	$ 153,811	$ 318,797	$ 105,200	$ 113,200
Accruals for estimated costs	2,250	4,325	7,869
Liability addition due to acquisition of the Casa Berardi unit	7,998
Revision of estimated cash flows due to changes in reclamation plans		(3,738)
Payment of reclamation obligations	(18,272)	(41,183)	(172,855)
Balance at	$ 105,191	$ 113,215	$ 153,811	$ 105,200	$ 113,200