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When attendees are not visiting the sold-out exhibit floor at the Denver Convention Center, a full and diverse technical session schedule is being offered on topics throughout all mining types.

Some of the coal-related presentations being held Tuesday include coal preparation and future technologies, a discussion regarding mining ergonomics, mine ventilation and water treatment, exploration and reserves, and two topics especially in line with recent events and situations: “Mine Safety Perspectives in Sago’s Aftermath” and “Crisis in Mining Education: Sustaining Mining Academic Programs”.

Wednesday, the event’s final day, will offer a still diverse program with the final speakers taking the stage at 2pm. Some of the coal discussions being offered that day include:

Challenges and Innovations in Mine Health and Safety;

Research and Development;

Energy’s Influence Symposium: Energy Markets and Their Effect on the Mining Industry;

Operations Research: Strategic Mine Planning, Dealing with Uncertainty; and

Where Have the Exploration Geologists Gone? – Panel Discussion.

While exhibit hours at the event will be held on Sunday (5-7pm) and Monday (11am-5.30pm), Tuesday and Wednesday will also provide opportunities for guests to visit vendors in the exhibition hall. Tuesday’s hours are from 11am to 5.30pm and Wednesday’s hours are from 8am to 12pm.

SME has closed online registration for attendance at the event but is accepting onsite sign-ups. For a complete listing of the presentations, keynotes, social events and exhibitors at the 2007 SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit and 109th National Western Mining Conference, visit http://www.smenet.org/meetings/annualMeeting2007/attendees.cfm

Keep checking International Longwall News for coverage from the event.