v2.4.0.6
NET INCOME PER UNIT Table (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012
Mar. 31, 2011
Schedule Of Net Income Per Unit [Line Items]    
Net income attributable to NuStar Energy L.P. $ 26,351 $ 28,502
Less general partner distribution (including IDR) 11,598 10,160
Less limited partner distribution 77,478 69,456
Distributions greater than earnings (62,725) (51,114)
General partner earnings:    
Distributions 11,598 10,160
Allocation of distributions greater than earnings (2%) (1,255) (1,023)
Total 10,343 9,137
Limited partner earnings:    
Limited partners' distribution 77,478 69,456
Allocation of distributions greater than earnings (98%) (61,470) (50,091)
Total $ 16,008 $ 19,365
Weighted-average limited partner units outstanding 70,756,078 64,610,549
Net income per unit applicable to limited partners $ 0.23 $ 0.30