INCOME TAXES (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
INCOME TAXES
Income taxes at federal statutory rate(a)	$ 5,274	$ 7,331	$ 6,920
Change in valuation allowance	(6,537)	(9,675)	(8,267)
Nondeductible expenses	694	574	91
State income taxes net of federal benefit	931	1,294	1,221
Other	(369)	398	6
Total	(7)	(78)	(29)
Federal income tax rate (as a percent)	34.00%	34.00%	34.00%
Deferred tax assets relating to:
Net operating loss carryforward	101,393	99,183
Oil and gas properties and tangible equipment	25,111	34,655
Stock option expense	3,682	2,956
Unrealized loss on derivatives	558	480
Other	324	324
Total gross deferred tax assets	131,068	137,598
Less valuation allowance	130,879	137,416
Total deferred tax asset	189	182
Deferred tax liabilities relating to:
Net unrealized gain on investments	189	182
Total deferred tax liability	$ 189	$ 182