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FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS [Abstract]  
Fair value of long-term debt
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value.

Current Assets and Liabilities

For those current assets and liabilities that are considered financial instruments, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments.

Long-term Financial Liabilities

The fair value of Artesian Resources' long-term debt as of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, determined by discounting their future cash flows using current market interest rates on similar instruments with comparable maturities as guided under FASB ASC 825 are shown below:

In thousands
  
 
September 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
Carrying amount
 $106,839  $108,257 
Estimated fair value
  133,796   127,912