West Virginia Universitys department of mining engineering in the College of Engineering and Mineral Resources will host the 21st annual International Conference on Ground Control in Mining Aug. 6-8 at Lakeview Scanticon Resort and Conference Center.

This conference series was created to provide a forum to promote closer communication among all ground control professionals. Professionals in related disciplines share findings and experiences to improve upon theories and models used by the mining industry to advance ground control. This year, speakers from all coal-producing states, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom will present papers.

During the conference, representatives of the Pennsylvania Bureau of Deep Mine Safety and the owner of the Quecreek Mine in Somerset, Pa., will present a brief report about the recent rescue of nine miners trapped in the mine.

“The nature of the rescue work is one of the topics addressed by this conference,”said Syd Peng, chairman of both the conference and WVU s mining engineering department.”This is a wonderful educational opportunity for guests of the conference as they will be able to hear first-hand the steps taken during the rescue and have an opportunity to ask questions.”

The conference is sponsored by WVU , the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration and the West Virginia Coal Association.