The gathering will feature West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin giving his annual "State of the State" address.

The remainder of the itinerary has been split into environmental sessions and health/safety sessions as well as other keynote presentations.

Alpha Natural Resources' Kevin Crutchfield will speak about the metallurgical coal market in Appalachia, while US Senator Jay Rockefeller will take the stage Thursday to discuss the nation's energy strategy.

The coal forecast for the United States will be presented by National Mining Association chairman Jim Roberts, followed by WVU Tech provost Dr Charles Bayless who will speak on coal transmission issues.

Mine Safety and Health Administration assistant secretary Richard Stickler, who was tapped to acting head by US President George W Bush on Friday, just days after his temporary appointment expired, will present on the national mine safety perspective.

He will share the stage Thursday afternoon with Federal Mine Health and Safety Review Commission chairman Mike Duffy, who will discuss mine safety appeals and challenges.

As the annual event wraps on Friday with a partial day session, Natural Resource Partners president Nick Carter and Kentucky Coal Association president Bill Caylor will provide input from their respective operator and advocacy group perspective.

WV Department of Environmental Protection mining director Randy Huffman will also take the podium to talk about West Virginia's mining and reclamation program.

Individuals still interested in attending should contact the WVCA.

Keep watching International Longwall News this week for coverage from the event.