The event will kick off with a luncheon on Wednesday, followed by an environmental workshop and a health and safety workshop in the afternoon. Some of Wednesday’s speakers include Kevin Stricklin and Jesse Cole from the US Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) on the topic “Accident Trends and Safety Issues” and WV Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training director Doug Conaway, who will discuss the “West Virginia Mine Health and Safety Report.”

 

Following a breakfast on Thursday morning, several keynote addresses will be given by industry and government representatives including West Virginia governor Joe Manchin, NMA president Kraig Naasz, and Kevin Crutchfield from Alpha Natural Resources.

 

Thursday afternoon’s discussion topics will include “Mining Perceptions Changing” by Dave Hurd of Fenner Dunlop as well as a presentation on “National Mine Safety Performance” by MSHA acting assistant secretary David Dye.

 

Wrapping up the symposium on Friday, Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito will speak to guests with her keynote address, “Inside the Beltway”. A mine reclamation awards luncheon will be held just before the event adjourns for another year.

 

Sponsor West Virginia Coal Association reminds attendees that the present itinerary is preliminary and is subject to change and updates. For those wishing to see the full schedule, or for questions, please contact West Virginia Coal Association representative Sandi Davison at (304) 342-4153 or e-mail sdavison@wvcoal.com.

 

For those who cannot attend, International Longwall News will be bringing you coverage from the symposium as well as a post-show report.