v3.5.0.2
PARTNERS' EQUITY Table 1 (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2016
Sep. 30, 2015
Sep. 30, 2016
Sep. 30, 2015
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]        
Balance as of January 1, 2016     $ 1,609,844  
Net income $ 51,141 $ 65,016 161,059 $ 247,240
Unit-based compensation expense     5,564  
Other comprehensive loss     (40,606)  
Cash distributions to partners     (294,153)  
Issuance of common units, including contribution from general partner     28,285  
Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 1,469,993   $ 1,469,993