Lindsay (LNN) 10-Q 7 Jan 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	30-Nov-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	lnn
Entity Registrant Name	LINDSAY CORP
Entity Central Index Key	836157
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-23
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		12,015,919

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations [Abstract]
Operating revenues	$134,845	$147,671
Cost of operating revenues	97,931	107,520
Gross profit	36,914	40,151
Operating expenses:
Selling expense	9,417	9,756
General and administrative expense	12,871	11,743
Engineering and research expense	2,724	2,660
Total operating expenses	25,012	24,159
Operating income	11,902	15,992
Other income (expense):
Interest expense	-71	-39
Interest income	172	135
Other expense, net	-342	-271
Earnings before income taxes	11,661	15,817
Income tax expense	4,093	5,583
Net earnings	$7,568	$10,234
Earnings per share:
Basic	$0.62	$0.79
Diluted	$0.62	$0.79
Shares used in computing earnings per share:
Basic	12,224	12,889
Diluted	12,274	12,951
Cash dividends declared per share	$0.27	$0.13

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$7,568	$10,234
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Defined benefit pension plan adjustment, net of tax	32	28
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of hedging activities and tax	-3,973	877
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax expense (benefit) of $556, ($357)	-3,941	905
Total comprehensive income	$3,627	$11,139

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income, tax expense (benefit)	$556	($357)

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$139,287	$171,842	$151,803
Receivables, net of allowance of $2,530, $3,349, and $2,857, respectively	89,165	94,135	122,093
Inventories, net	77,010	71,696	75,614
Deferred income taxes	17,107	17,714	13,469
Other current assets	18,853	18,671	15,989
Total current assets	341,422	374,058	378,968
Property, Plant And Equipment:
Cost	170,051	169,696	156,299
Less accumulated depreciation	-99,150	-97,239	-91,047
Property, plant and equipment, net	70,901	72,457	65,252
Intangibles, net	30,821	31,980	35,029
Goodwill	36,634	37,021	37,193
Other noncurrent assets, net of allowance of $2,017, $0, and $2,000, respectively	10,299	11,035	5,261
Total assets	490,077	526,551	521,703
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	48,648	42,424	45,902
Other current liabilities	60,972	73,943	57,132
Total current liabilities	109,620	116,367	103,034
Pension benefits liabilities	6,530	6,600	6,263
Deferred income taxes	11,903	12,992	14,715
Other noncurrent liabilities	9,190	7,945	8,022
Total liabilities	137,243	143,904	132,034
Shareholders' Equity:
Preferred stock of $1 par value - Authorized 2,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding
Common stock of $1 par value - authorized 25,000 shares; 18,674, 18,620, and 18,636 shares issued at November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, respectively	18,674	18,636	18,620
Capital in excess of stated value	52,650	52,866	49,288
Retained earnings	449,658	445,366	414,133
Less treasury stock - at cost, 6,578, 5,698, and 6,196 shares at November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, respectively	-162,006	-132,020	-90,961
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	-6,142	-2,201	-1,411
Total shareholders' equity	352,834	382,647	389,669
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$490,077	$526,551	$521,703

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Receivables, allowance, current	$2,530	$2,857	$3,349
Receivables, allowance, noncurrent	$2,017	$2,000	$0
Preferred stock, par value	$1	$1	$1
Preferred stock, authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000	2,000,000
Preferred stock, outstanding	0	0	0
Preferred stock, issued	0	0	0
Common stock, par value	$1	$1	$1
Common stock, authorized	25,000,000	25,000,000	25,000,000
Common stock, issued	18,674,000	18,636,000	18,620,000
Treasury stock, shares	6,578,000	6,196,000	5,698,000

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme3

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net earnings	$7,568	$10,234
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	3,748	3,707
Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable	169	442
Deferred income taxes	-774	-1,365
Share-based compensation expense	1,099	1,180
Other, net	1,368	-244
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables	1,792	-1,608
Inventories	-5,347	-6,608
Other current assets	-1,513	-431
Accounts payable	7,300	3,356
Other current liabilities	-8,131	-5,986
Current income taxes payable	-3,441	3,140
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities	1,857	111
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,695	5,928
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	-3,649	-2,387
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment		34
Proceeds from settlement of net investment hedges	1,889	101
Payments for settlement of net investment hedges	-329	-1,035
Net cash used in investing activities	-2,089	-3,287
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Common stock withheld for payroll tax withholdings	-1,699	-2,027
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	501	465
Repurchase of common shares	-29,986
Dividends paid	-3,276	-1,681
Net cash used in financing activities	-34,460	-3,243
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-1,701	478
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-32,555	-124
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	171,842	151,927
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$139,287	$151,803

Condensed_Consolidated_Financi

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	Note 1 – Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
	The condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and do not include all of the disclosures normally required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) as contained in Lindsay Corporation’s (the “Company”) Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Accordingly, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2014.
	In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly the financial position and the results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.  The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of trends or results expected by the Company for a full year.
	The condensed consolidated financial statements were prepared using U.S. GAAP. These principles require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements	Note 2 – New Accounting Pronouncements
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (the “ASU”). The ASU provides a single model for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance.  The ASU requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of goods or services.  The ASU will replace existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective.  The effective date for the ASU will be the first quarter of fiscal year 2018.  Early adoption is not permitted.  The guidance permits companies to either apply the requirements retrospectively to all prior periods presented, or apply the requirements in the year of adoption, through a cumulative adjustment.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption will have on its condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.  The Company has not yet selected a transition method, nor has it determined the effect of the ASU on its ongoing financial reporting.

Net_Earnings_Per_Share

Net Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Net Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Earnings Per Share
	Note 3 – Net Earnings per Share
	The following table shows the computation of basic and diluted net earnings per share for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		Three months ended
		November 30,			November 30,
	($ and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)	2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Net earnings	$	7,568		$	10,234
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding		12,224			12,889
	Diluted effect of stock awards		50			62
	Weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution		12,274			12,951
	Basic net earnings per share	$	0.62		$	0.79
	Diluted net earnings per share	$	0.62		$	0.79
	Certain stock options and restricted stock units were excluded from the computation of diluted net earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.  Performance stock units are excluded from the calculation of dilutive potential common shares until the threshold performance conditions have been satisfied.  The following table shows the securities excluded from the computation of earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive:
		Three months ended
		November 30,
	Units and options in thousands	2014		2013
	Restricted stock units	10		11
	Stock options	58		33

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 4 – Income Taxes
	It is the Company’s policy to report income tax expense for interim periods using an estimated annual effective income tax rate. However, the tax effects of significant or unusual items are not considered in the estimated annual effective income tax rate. The tax effects of such discrete events are recognized in the interim period in which the events occur. The Company recorded no material discrete items for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.
	The Company recorded income tax expense of $4.1 million and $5.6 million for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The estimated annual effective income tax rate was 35.1 percent and 35.3 percent for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Inventories

Inventories	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]
Inventories
	Note 5 – Inventories
	Inventories consisted of the following as of November 30, 2014,  November 30, 2013 and August 31, 2014:
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Raw materials and supplies	$	21,006	$	20,386	$	19,953
	Work in process		9,343		7,045		9,990
	Finished goods and purchased parts		54,015		54,540		48,300
	Total inventory value before LIFO adjustment		84,364		81,971		78,243
	Less adjustment to LIFO value		-7,354		-6,357		-6,547
	Inventories, net	$	77,010	$	75,614	$	71,696

Credit_Arrangements

Credit Arrangements	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Credit Arrangements [Abstract]
Credit Arrangements	Note 6 – Credit Arrangements
	There have been no changes made to credit arrangements during the three months ended November 30, 2014. The Company had no outstanding long-term debt as of November 30, 2014.  At November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all financial loan covenants contained in its credit agreements.

Financial_Derivatives

Financial Derivatives	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Financial Derivatives [Abstract]
Financial Derivatives	Note 7 – Financial Derivatives
	The Company uses certain financial derivatives to mitigate its exposure to volatility in foreign currency exchange rates.  The Company uses these derivative instruments to hedge exposures in the ordinary course of business and does not invest in derivative instruments for speculative purposes.  The Company manages market and credit risks associated with its derivative instruments by establishing and monitoring limits as to the types and degree of risk that may be undertaken, and by entering into transactions with high-quality counterparties. As of November 30, 2014, the Company’s derivative counterparty had investment grade credit ratings.  Financial derivatives consist of the following:
		Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
		Asset (Liability)
			November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	Balance Sheet Classification	2014		2013		2014
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current assets	$	1,072	$	18	$	900
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current liabilities		-87		-287		-240
	Total derivatives designated as hedging  instruments		$	985	$	-269	$	660
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current assets	$	181	$	132	$	-
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current liabilities		-		-1		-160
	Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments		$	181	$	131	$	-160
	Accumulated other comprehensive income included realized and unrealized after-tax gains of $3.1 million, $1.4 million and $2.0 million at November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, respectively, related to derivative contracts designated as hedging instruments.
	Net Investment Hedging Relationships
			Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized
			in OCI on Derivatives
			Three months ended
			November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)		2014		2013
	Foreign currency forward contracts, net of tax expense		$	1,145	$	-695
	(benefit) of $733 and ($403)
	For the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company settled foreign currency forward contracts resulting in an after-tax net gain (loss) of $0.9 million and ($0.6 million), which were included in other comprehensive income as part of a currency translation adjustment.  There were no amounts recorded in the condensed consolidated statement of operations related to ineffectiveness of foreign currency forward contracts related to net investment hedges for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.
	At November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding Euro foreign currency forward contracts to sell 29.0 million Euro, 29.1 million Euro and 28.9 million Euro, respectively, at fixed prices to settle during the next fiscal quarter. At November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, the Company had an outstanding South African Rand foreign currency forward contract to sell 43.0 million South African Rand at fixed prices to settle during the next fiscal quarter. The Company’s foreign currency forward contracts qualify as hedges of a net investment in foreign operations.
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	In order to reduce exposures related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, the Company, at times, may enter into forward exchange or option contracts for transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency for certain of the Company’s operations.  This activity primarily relates to economically hedging against foreign currency risk in purchasing inventory, sales of finished goods, and future settlement of foreign denominated assets and liabilities.  The Company may choose whether or not to designate these contracts as hedges.  For those contracts not so designated, changes in fair value are recognized currently in the condensed consolidated statement of operations.  At November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, the Company had $4.3 million, $3.6 million and $4.9 million respectively, of U.S. dollar equivalent of foreign currency forward contracts outstanding.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Note 8 – Fair Value Measurements
	The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value based upon the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall, as of November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014, respectively.
		30-Nov-14
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	139,287	$	-	$	-	$	139,287
	Derivative assets		-		1,253		-		1,253
	Derivative liabilities		-		-87		-		-87
		30-Nov-13
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	151,803	$	-	$	-	$	151,803
	Derivative assets		-		150		-		150
	Derivative liabilities		-		-288		-		-288
		31-Aug-14
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	171,842	$	-	$	-	$	171,842
	Derivative assets		-		900		-		900
	Derivative liabilities		-		-400		-		-400
	The Company has no long-term debt as of November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014.  The Company measures the fair value of certain assets on a non-recurring basis, generally quarterly, annually, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. These assets include fixed assets, goodwill, and other intangible assets. There were no required fair value adjustments for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.

Commitments_And_Contingencies

Commitments And Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies
	In the ordinary course of its business operations, the Company is involved, from time to time, in commercial litigation, employment disputes, administrative proceedings and other legal proceedings.  The Company has established accruals for certain proceedings based on an assessment of probability of loss.  The Company believes that any potential loss in excess of the amounts accrued would not have a material effect on the business or its condensed consolidated financial statements.  Such proceedings are exclusive of environmental remediation matters which are discussed separately below.
	Environmental Remediation
	In 1992, the Company entered into a consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) in which the Company committed to remediate environmental contamination of the groundwater that was discovered in 1982 through 1990 at and adjacent to its Lindsay, Nebraska facility (the “site”).  The site was added to the EPA’s list of priority superfund sites in 1989.  Between 1993 and 1995, remediation plans for the site were approved by the EPA and fully implemented by the Company.  Since 1998, the primary remaining contamination at the site has been the presence of volatile organic compounds in the soil and groundwater.  To date, the remediation process has consisted primarily of drilling wells into the aquifer and pumping water to the surface to allow these contaminants to be removed by aeration.
	In fiscal 2012, the Company undertook an investigation to assess further potential site remediation and containment actions.  In connection with the receipt of preliminary results of this investigation and other evaluations, the Company estimated that it would incur $7.2 million in remediation of source area contamination and operating costs and accrued that undiscounted amount.  The EPA has not approved the Company’s remediation plan.
	In addition to the source area noted above, the Company has determined that volatile organic compounds also exist under one of the manufacturing buildings on the site.  Due to the location, the Company has not yet determined the extent of these compounds or the extent to which they are contributing to groundwater contamination.  Based on the current stage of discussions with the EPA and the uncertainty of the remediation actions that may be required with respect to this affected area, if any, the Company believes that meaningful estimates of costs or range of costs cannot currently be made and accordingly have not been accrued.
	In fiscal 2013, the Company and the EPA conducted a periodic five-year review of the status of the remediation of the contamination of the site.  During a meeting with the EPA in December 2014, the EPA requested that the Company prepare a feasibility study related to the site, which resulted in a revision to the Company’s remediation timeline.  During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company accrued  $1.5 million of incremental operating costs to reflect its updated timeline of when an approved remediation plan could begin.  The Company now intends to complete its current investigation of the soil and groundwater on the site during the first half of calendar 2015. In connection with the development of the feasibility study, the Company will assess revisions to its remediation plan and expects to meet with the EPA in the second half of fiscal 2015 to determine how to proceed.
	The Company accrues the anticipated cost of investigation and remediation when the obligation is probable and can be reasonably estimated.  Although the Company has accrued all reasonably estimable costs associated with the site, it anticipates there could be revisions to the current remediation plan as well as additional testing and environmental monitoring as part of the Company’s ongoing discussions with the EPA regarding the development and implementation of the remedial action plans.  Any revisions could be material to the operating results of any fiscal quarter or fiscal year.  The Company does not expect such additional expenses would have a material adverse effect on its liquidity or financial condition.
	The following table summarizes the undiscounted environmental remediation liability classifications included in the balance sheet as of November 30, 2014 and 2013 and August 31, 2014:
	Environmental Remediation Liabilities
	($ in thousands)	November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	Balance Sheet Classification	2014		2013		2014
	Other current liabilities	$	1,403	$	1,516	$	1,370
	Other noncurrent liabilities		6,475		5,200		5,025
	Total environmental remediation liabilities	$	7,878	$	6,716	$	6,395

Warranties

Warranties	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Warranties [Abstract]
Warranties	Note 10 – Warranties
	The following table provides the changes in the Company’s product warranties:
		Three months ended
		November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013
	Product warranty accrual balance, beginning of period	$	9,331	$	6,695
	Liabilities accrued for warranties during the period		983		3,042
	Warranty claims paid during the period		-1,140		-1,115
	Product warranty accrual balance, end of period	$	9,174	$	8,622

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation
	Note 11 – Share-Based Compensation
	The Company’s current share-based compensation plans, approved by the stockholders of the Company, provides for awards of stock options, restricted shares, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), stock appreciation rights, performance shares and performance stock units (“PSUs”) to employees and non-employee directors of the Company.  The Company measures and recognizes compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors based on estimated fair values. Share-based compensation expense was $1.1 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The following table illustrates the type and fair value of the share-based compensation awards granted during the three month periods ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively:
		Three months ended November 30,
		2014			2013
			Weighted			Weighted Average
			Average			Grant-Date
			Grant-Date			Fair Value
			Fair Value
		# Granted	Per Award		# Granted	Per Award
	Stock options	25,332	$	40.66	25,394	$	40.42
	RSUs	27,621	$	80.33	29,619	$	74.84
	PSUs	12,328	$	80.33	13,434	$	74.84
	The RSUs granted during the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of 2,808 and 2,977, respectively, of awards that will be settled in cash.  The weighted average stock price on the date of grant was $83.53 and $76.39 for 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The following table provides the assumptions used in determining the fair value of the stock options awarded during the three month periods ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively:
					Grant Year
					2014		2013
	Weighted-average dividend yield				1.3%		0.7%
	Weighted-average volatility				53.6%		55.2%
	Range of risk-free interest rates				2.0%		1.9%
	Weighted-average expected lives				7 years		7 years

Industry_Segment_Information

Industry Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Industry Segment Information [Abstract]
Industry Segment Information	Note 12 – Industry Segment Information
	The Company manages its business activities in two reportable segments: Irrigation and Infrastructure.  The Company evaluates the performance of its reportable segments based on segment sales, gross profit, and operating income, with operating income for segment purposes excluding unallocated corporate general and administrative expenses, interest income, interest expense, other income and expenses, and income taxes.  Operating income for segment purposes does include general and administrative expenses, selling expenses, engineering and research expenses and other overhead charges directly attributable to the segment.  There are no inter-segment sales.   The Company had no single major customer who represented 10 percent or more of its total revenues during the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.
	Irrigation - This reporting segment includes the manufacture and marketing of center pivot, lateral move, and hose reel irrigation systems as well as various water pumping stations, controls, and filtration solutions.  The irrigation reporting segment consists of four operating segments that have similar economic characteristics and meet the aggregation criteria, including similar products, production processes, type or class of customer and methods for distribution.
	Infrastructure - This reporting segment includes the manufacture and marketing of moveable barriers, specialty barriers, crash cushions and end terminals, and road marking and road safety equipment; the manufacture and sale of large diameter steel tubing and railroad signals and structures; and the provision of outsourced manufacturing and production services.  The infrastructure reporting segment consists of one operating segment.
	Summarized financial information concerning the Company’s reportable segments is shown in the following tables:
		Three months ended
		November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013
	Operating revenues:
	Irrigation	$	114,716	$	129,183
	Infrastructure		20,129		18,488
	Total operating revenues	$	134,845	$	147,671
	Operating income (loss):
	Irrigation (1)	$	14,669	$	20,311
	Infrastructure (1)		2,244		508
	Segment operating income (1)		16,913		20,819
	Unallocated general and administrative expenses		-5,011		-4,827
	Interest and other income (expense), net		-241		-175
	Earnings before income taxes	$	11,661	$	15,817
	Capital Expenditures:
	Irrigation	$	3,084	$	2,228
	Infrastructure		565		159
		$	3,649	$	2,387
	Depreciation and Amortization:
	Irrigation	$	2,486	$	2,358
	Infrastructure		1,262		1,349
		$	3,748	$	3,707
	(1) Environmental remediation expenses of $1.3 million and $0.2 million were allocated to the irrigation segment and infrastructure segment, respectively, for the three months ended November 30, 2014. There were no environmental remediation expenses for the three months ended November 30, 2013.
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Total Assets:
	Irrigation	$	368,577	$	395,981	$	407,447
	Infrastructure		121,500		125,722		119,104
		$	490,077	$	521,703	$	526,551

Other_Current_Liabilities

Other Current Liabilities	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities
	Note 13 – Other Current Liabilities
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Other current liabilities:
	Compensation and benefits	$	10,769	$	11,962	$	16,622
	Deferred revenues		9,452		5,677		8,979
	Warranties		9,174		8,622		9,331
	Income tax liabilities		6,090		6,367		8,922
	Dealer related liabilities		5,946		6,588		7,103
	Customer deposits		4,072		3,392		7,366
	Other		15,469		14,524		15,620
	Total other current liabilities	$	60,972	$	57,132	$	73,943

Share_Repurchases

Share Repurchases	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Share Repurchases
	Note 14 – Share Repurchases
	On January 3, 2014, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $150.0 million of common stock through January 2, 2016.  On July 25, 2014, the Company adopted a written trading plan in connection with its share repurchase program for repurchasing its common stock in accordance with the guidelines specified under Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.    During the three months ended November 30, 2014, the Company repurchased 381,619 shares of common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $30.0 million. During the three months ended  November 30, 2013, the Company did not repurchase shares of common stock.  The remaining amount available under the repurchase program was $79.0 million as of November 30, 2014.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Note 15 – Acquisitions
	On November 4, 2014,  the Company entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire Elecsys Corporation (NASDAQ: ESYS) (“Elecsys”), a provider of machine-to-machine (M2M) technology solutions and custom electronic systems.  Under the terms of the merger agreement, the Company will acquire Elecsys for $17.50 per share in cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $70.5 million, which includes the cashing out of Elecsys' equity compensation awards.  The merger agreement has been unanimously approved by both the Company and Elecsys boards of directors. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of Elecsys shareholder approval. The Company incurred transactions costs of $0.6 million during the three months ended November 30, 2014.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements_

New Accounting Pronouncements (Policy)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (the “ASU”). The ASU provides a single model for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes current revenue recognition guidance.  The ASU requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of goods or services.  The ASU will replace existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective.  The effective date for the ASU will be the first quarter of fiscal year 2018.  Early adoption is not permitted.  The guidance permits companies to either apply the requirements retrospectively to all prior periods presented, or apply the requirements in the year of adoption, through a cumulative adjustment.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption will have on its condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.  The Company has not yet selected a transition method, nor has it determined the effect of the ASU on its ongoing financial reporting.

Net_Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Net Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Net Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule Of Computation Of Basic And Diluted Net Earnings Per Share
		Three months ended
		November 30,			November 30,
	($ and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)	2014			2013
	Numerator:
	Net earnings	$	7,568		$	10,234
	Denominator:
	Weighted average shares outstanding		12,224			12,889
	Diluted effect of stock awards		50			62
	Weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution		12,274			12,951
	Basic net earnings per share	$	0.62		$	0.79
	Diluted net earnings per share	$	0.62		$	0.79
Schedule Of Anti-Dilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share
		Three months ended
		November 30,
	Units and options in thousands	2014		2013
	Restricted stock units	10		11
	Stock options	58		33

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]
Schedule Of Inventories
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Raw materials and supplies	$	21,006	$	20,386	$	19,953
	Work in process		9,343		7,045		9,990
	Finished goods and purchased parts		54,015		54,540		48,300
	Total inventory value before LIFO adjustment		84,364		81,971		78,243
	Less adjustment to LIFO value		-7,354		-6,357		-6,547
	Inventories, net	$	77,010	$	75,614	$	71,696

Financial_Derivatives_Tables

Financial Derivatives (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Financial Derivatives [Abstract]
Schedule Of Derivative Instruments Statements Of Financial Performance And Financial Position, Location
		Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
		Asset (Liability)
			November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	Balance Sheet Classification	2014		2013		2014
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current assets	$	1,072	$	18	$	900
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current liabilities		-87		-287		-240
	Total derivatives designated as hedging  instruments		$	985	$	-269	$	660
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current assets	$	181	$	132	$	-
	Foreign currency forward contracts	Other current liabilities		-		-1		-160
	Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments		$	181	$	131	$	-160
Schedule Of Derivative Instruments, Effect On Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
			Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized
			in OCI on Derivatives
			Three months ended
			November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)		2014		2013
	Foreign currency forward contracts, net of tax expense		$	1,145	$	-695
	(benefit) of $733 and ($403)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Schedule Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value
		30-Nov-14
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	139,287	$	-	$	-	$	139,287
	Derivative assets		-		1,253		-		1,253
	Derivative liabilities		-		-87		-		-87
		30-Nov-13
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	151,803	$	-	$	-	$	151,803
	Derivative assets		-		150		-		150
	Derivative liabilities		-		-288		-		-288
		31-Aug-14
	($ in thousands)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	171,842	$	-	$	-	$	171,842
	Derivative assets		-		900		-		900
	Derivative liabilities		-		-400		-		-400

Commitments_And_Contingencies_

Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Summary Of Undiscounted Environmental Remediation Liability Classifications
	Environmental Remediation Liabilities
	($ in thousands)	November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	Balance Sheet Classification	2014		2013		2014
	Other current liabilities	$	1,403	$	1,516	$	1,370
	Other noncurrent liabilities		6,475		5,200		5,025
	Total environmental remediation liabilities	$	7,878	$	6,716	$	6,395

Warranties_Tables

Warranties (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Warranties [Abstract]
Schedule Of Product Warranty Liability
		Three months ended
		November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013
	Product warranty accrual balance, beginning of period	$	9,331	$	6,695
	Liabilities accrued for warranties during the period		983		3,042
	Warranty claims paid during the period		-1,140		-1,115
	Product warranty accrual balance, end of period	$	9,174	$	8,622

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Summary Of Type And Fair Value Of Share-Based Compensation Awards
		Three months ended November 30,
		2014			2013
			Weighted			Weighted Average
			Average			Grant-Date
			Grant-Date			Fair Value
			Fair Value
		# Granted	Per Award		# Granted	Per Award
	Stock options	25,332	$	40.66	25,394	$	40.42
	RSUs	27,621	$	80.33	29,619	$	74.84
	PSUs	12,328	$	80.33	13,434	$	74.84
Schedule Of Assumptions Used In Determining The Fair Value Of The Option Awards
					Grant Year
					2014		2013
	Weighted-average dividend yield				1.3%		0.7%
	Weighted-average volatility				53.6%		55.2%
	Range of risk-free interest rates				2.0%		1.9%
	Weighted-average expected lives				7 years		7 years

Industry_Segment_Information_T

Industry Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Industry Segment Information [Abstract]
Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information, By Segment
		Three months ended
		November 30,		November 30,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013
	Operating revenues:
	Irrigation	$	114,716	$	129,183
	Infrastructure		20,129		18,488
	Total operating revenues	$	134,845	$	147,671
	Operating income (loss):
	Irrigation (1)	$	14,669	$	20,311
	Infrastructure (1)		2,244		508
	Segment operating income (1)		16,913		20,819
	Unallocated general and administrative expenses		-5,011		-4,827
	Interest and other income (expense), net		-241		-175
	Earnings before income taxes	$	11,661	$	15,817
	Capital Expenditures:
	Irrigation	$	3,084	$	2,228
	Infrastructure		565		159
		$	3,649	$	2,387
	Depreciation and Amortization:
	Irrigation	$	2,486	$	2,358
	Infrastructure		1,262		1,349
		$	3,748	$	3,707
	(1) Environmental remediation expenses of $1.3 million and $0.2 million were allocated to the irrigation segment and infrastructure segment, respectively, for the three months ended November 30, 2014. There were no environmental remediation expenses for the three months ended November 30, 2013.
Reconciliation Of Assets From Segment To Consolidated
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Total Assets:
	Irrigation	$	368,577	$	395,981	$	407,447
	Infrastructure		121,500		125,722		119,104
		$	490,077	$	521,703	$	526,551

Other_Current_Liabilities_Tabl

Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities
		November 30,		November 30,		August 31,
	($ in thousands)	2014		2013		2014
	Other current liabilities:
	Compensation and benefits	$	10,769	$	11,962	$	16,622
	Deferred revenues		9,452		5,677		8,979
	Warranties		9,174		8,622		9,331
	Income tax liabilities		6,090		6,367		8,922
	Dealer related liabilities		5,946		6,588		7,103
	Customer deposits		4,072		3,392		7,366
	Other		15,469		14,524		15,620
	Total other current liabilities	$	60,972	$	57,132	$	73,943

Net_Earnings_Per_Share_Schedul

Net Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Computation Of Basic And Diluted Net Earnings Per Share)(Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Net Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net earnings	$7,568	$10,234
Weighted average shares outstanding	12,224	12,889
Diluted effect of stock awards	50	62
Weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution	12,274	12,951
Basic net earnings per share	$0.62	$0.79
Diluted net earnings per share	$0.62	$0.79

Net_Earnings_Per_Share_Schedul1

Net Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Anti-Dilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share) (Details)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from the computation of earnings per share	10	11
Stock Options [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from the computation of earnings per share	58	33

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income tax expense	$4,093	$5,583
Estimated effective income tax rate	35.10%	35.30%

Inventories_Schedule_Of_Invent

Inventories (Schedule Of Inventories) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventories [Abstract]
Raw materials and supplies	$21,006	$19,953	$20,386
Work in process	9,343	9,990	7,045
Finished goods and purchased parts	54,015	48,300	54,540
Total inventory value before LIFO adjustment	84,364	78,243	81,971
Less adjustment to LIFO value	-7,354	-6,547	-6,357
Inventories, net	$77,010	$71,696	$75,614

Credit_Arrangements_Narrative_

Credit Arrangements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Credit Arrangements [Abstract]
Long-term debt outstanding	$0	$0	$0

Financial_Derivatives_Narrativ

Financial Derivatives (Narrative) (Details)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Nov. 30, 2014

Nov. 30, 2013

Aug. 31, 2014

Nov. 30, 2014

Aug. 31, 2014

Nov. 30, 2013

Nov. 30, 2014

Aug. 31, 2014

Nov. 30, 2013

Nov. 30, 2014

Nov. 30, 2013

Aug. 31, 2014

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Euro [Member]

Euro [Member]

Euro [Member]

Rand [Member]

Rand [Member]

Rand [Member]

Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]

Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]

Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

ZAR

ZAR

ZAR

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]

Realized and unrealized gains included in AOCI

$3.10

$1.40

$2

Derivative contracts resulting in an after-tax net gain (loss)

0.9

-0.6

Outstanding foreign currency forward contracts to sell

€ 29

€ 28.90

€ 29.10

43

43

43

$4.30

$3.60

$4.90

Financial_Derivatives_Schedule

Financial Derivatives (Schedule Of Derivatives Instruments Statements Of Financial Performance And Financial Position, Location) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivatives	$985	$660	($269)
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Other Current Liabilities [Member] | Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	-87	-240	-287
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member] | Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	1,072	900	18
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivatives	181	-160	131
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Other Current Liabilities [Member] | Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		-160	-1
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member] | Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	$181		$132

Financial_Derivatives_Schedule1

Financial Derivatives (Schedule Of Derivative Instruments, Effect On Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives	$1,145	($695)
Foreign currency forward contracts, tax expense (benefit)	$733	($403)

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Long-term debt outstanding	$0	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Measurements_Schedu

Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$139,287	$171,842	$151,803	$151,927
Derivative assets	1,253	900	150
Derivative liabilities	-87	-400	-288
Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	139,287	171,842	151,803
Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative assets	1,253	900	150
Derivative liabilities	($87)	($400)	($288)

Commitments_And_Contingencies_1

Commitments And Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2014
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Environmental remediation expense		$0	$7,200,000
Environmental remediation, incremental costs	1,500,000
Other current liabilities	1,403,000	1,516,000		1,370,000
Other noncurrent liabilities	6,475,000	5,200,000		5,025,000
Total environmental remediation liabilities	$7,878,000	$6,716,000		$6,395,000

Warranties_Schedule_Of_Product

Warranties (Schedule Of Product Warranty Liability) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Warranties [Abstract]
Product warranty accrual balance, beginning of period	$9,331	$6,695
Liabilities accrued for warranties during the period	983	3,042
Warranty claims paid during the period	-1,140	-1,115
Product warranty accrual balance, end of period	$9,174	$8,622

ShareBased_Compensation_Narrat

Share-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$1.10	$1.20
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total units of restricted stock granted	2,808	2,977
Weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock	$83.53	$76.39

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar

Share-Based Compensation (Summary Of Type And Fair Value Of Share-Based Compensation Awards) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number granted	25,332	25,394
Weighted Average Grant-date fair value per award	$40.66	$40.42
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number granted	27,621	29,619
Weighted Average Grant-date fair value per award	$80.33	$74.84
Performance Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number granted	12,328	13,434
Weighted Average Grant-date fair value per award	$80.33	$74.84

ShareBased_Compensation_Schedu

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Assumptions Used In Determining The Fair Value Of The Option Awards) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Weighted-average dividend yield	1.30%	0.70%
Weighted-average volatility	53.60%	55.20%
Range of risk-free interest rates	2.00%	1.90%
Weighted-average expected lives	7 years	7 years

Industry_Segment_Information_S

Industry Segment Information (Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information, By Segment) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2014		Nov. 30, 2013		Aug. 31, 2012
	segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments	2
Total operating revenues	$134,845		$147,671
Segment operating income	16,913	[1]	20,819	[1]
Unallocated general and administrative expenses	-5,011		-4,827
Interest and other income (expense), net	-241		-175
Earnings before income taxes	11,661		15,817
Capital Expenditures	3,649		2,387
Depreciation and Amortization	3,748		3,707
Environmental remediation expenses			0		7,200
Irrigation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments	4
Total operating revenues	114,716		129,183
Segment operating income	14,669	[1]	20,311	[1]
Capital Expenditures	3,084		2,228
Depreciation and Amortization	2,486		2,358
Environmental remediation expenses	1,300
Infrastructure [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments	1
Total operating revenues	20,129		18,488
Segment operating income	2,244	[1]	508	[1]
Capital Expenditures	565		159
Depreciation and Amortization	1,262		1,349
Environmental remediation expenses	$200
[1]	Environmental remediation expenses of $1.3 million and $0.2 million were allocated to the irrigation segment and infrastructure segment, respectively, for the three months ended November 30, 2014. There were no environmental remediation expenses for the three months ended November 30, 2013.

Industry_Segment_Information_R

Industry Segment Information (Reconciliation Of Assets From Segment To Consolidated) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$490,077	$526,551	$521,703
Irrigation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	368,577	407,447	395,981
Infrastructure [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$121,500	$119,104	$125,722

Other_Current_Liabilities_Deta

Other Current Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Compensation and benefits	$10,769	$16,622	$11,962
Deferred revenues	9,452	8,979	5,677
Warranties	9,174	9,331	8,622
Income tax liabilities	6,090	8,922	6,367
Dealer related liabilities	5,946	7,103	6,588
Customer deposits	4,072	7,366	3,392
Other	15,469	15,620	14,524
Total other current liabilities	$60,972	$73,943	$57,132

Share_Repurchases_Details

Share Repurchases (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 03, 2014	Nov. 30, 2014
Share Repurchases [Abstract]
Repurchase authorization amount	$150
Number of shares of common stock repurchased during the period		381,619
Aggregate purchase price of shares repurchased		30
Remaining amount available under the repurchase program		$79

Acquisitions_Narrative_Details

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) (Elecsys Corporation [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 04, 2014	Nov. 30, 2014	Nov. 04, 2014
Elecsys Corporation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition date		4-Nov-14
Acquisition price per share	$17.50		$17.50
Total purchase price	$70.50
Transaction costs		$0.60