COLUMBUS, OH -- Mineral resources professionals from Ohio and surrounding states will discuss current issues and new research and technologies related to mining, oil and gas drilling, conservation, and reclamation next week at a conference hosted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The conference is scheduled for December 10-11 at Ohio University.
"By sharing the newest scientific information in this field, our goal is to find ways that improve the restoration of land productivity and water quality in areas that have been impacted by mining and drilling operations," said Mike Sponsler, chief of the ODNR Division of Mineral Resources Management.
The two-day event, titled "Conservation And Restoration Innovations," will feature speakers from nine states, representing all types of mining and drilling. The keynote speaker will be Jack Katlic, retired senior vice-president of American Electric Power Fuel Supply Group.
The opening day of the conference will feature presentations on Coal Bed Methane (CBM) from a variety of perspectives, including legal issues surrounding CBM ownership. In addition, the conference includes sessions on regulatory issues, acid mine drainage remediation, and abandoned coal mine reclamation.
An awards luncheon, recognizing Ohio's leaders in mineral resources education and reclamation, is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10. A casual evening reception, featuring posters and displays by various organizations and watershed groups, is also scheduled for December 10.
For further conference information contact Beth Wilson, ODNR Division of Mineral Resources Management, 614-265-6633.