Long Term Water Assets - Value of Water Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Components of water assets
Total long-term assets	$ 29,273	$ 29,044
less: Current portion	(708)	(708)
Long-term water assets	28,565	28,336
Banked water and water for future delivery [Member]
Components of water assets
Total long-term assets	4,448	3,546
Transferable water [Member]
Components of water assets
Total long-term assets	8,988	8,988
SWP contracts [Member]
Components of water assets
Total long-term assets	15,837	16,510
Accumulated amortization	$ 2,021	$ 1,317