Sponsor spokeswoman Charlee Bergamo told International Longwall News the event is still in its early planning stages, but said she could confirm it will be held at the Millennium Hotel in St Louis, Missouri on September 25–27.

Typically offered on an annual or biennial basis with an attendance around 100, the sponsors hope to see a larger crowd this year due to a central location and a “broad spectrum of topics relevant to the entire US”.

Bergamo said space has been reserved on the schedule for a keynote presenter, but that the individual could not yet be confirmed. Additionally, the two groups are seeking out some international speakers as the agenda is built.

Plans for a field tour are also coming together, she said, which are scheduled to include a complex of several abandoned mines in Saline County in the southern portion of the state. The area is home to a project where mine methane drainage is being drained and sold to pipelines and for powering equipment such as a nitrogen rejection unit.

There will be plenty of time for interested parties to register, Bergamo said, as a discounted fee will be in effect until September 1. Registration can be handled through the EPA’s website at http://www.epa.gov/cmop

Also, check back with International Longwall News for updated information on the conference as it develops.