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Inventories
 3 Months Ended
Nov. 30, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]  
Inventories Inventories        
November 30,
2020		August 31,
2020
(Dollars in thousands)
Grain and oilseed$1,975,810 $1,064,079 
Energy715,199 696,858 
Agronomy851,127 822,535 
Processed grain and oilseed130,511 126,022 
Other45,186 32,644 
Total inventories
$3,717,833 $2,742,138 
    As of November 30, 2020, and August 31, 2020, we valued approximately 12% and 16%, respectively, of inventories, primarily crude oil and refined fuels within our Energy segment, using the lower of cost, determined on the LIFO method, or net realizable value. If the FIFO method of accounting had been used, inventories would have been higher than the reported amount by $87.3 million and $93.5 million as of November 30, 2020, and August 31, 2020, respectively. Actual valuation of inventory under the LIFO method can be made only at the end of each year based on inventory levels and costs at that time. Interim LIFO calculations are based on management's estimates of expected year-end inventory levels and values and are subject to final year-end LIFO inventory valuation.