McDonnell Asks State to Join in WV Miners' Remembrance

By WYDaily Staff Monday, April 12, 2010

RICHMOND- Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell called on Virginians to join their neighbors in West Virginia in holding a moment of silence today in memory of the miners lost in last week’s tragic explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal. West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin will lead the moment of silence at 3:30 p.m.

Speaking about Virginia’s participation in this important memorial, Governor McDonnell noted, “Last week’s tragedy cost 29 West Virginians their lives. It shattered families and communities and our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have lost loved ones. In the aftermath of this devastating event, West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin has led his state with courage and empathy. Now, he has called for a moment of silence tomorrow to honor the fallen miners. I ask all Virginians to join in this observance and to continue to look for ways by which we can help our neighbors as they go through this tragic time.”

Coal is Virginia’s most valuable mineral resource. Just over 1500 square miles in southwestern Virginia account for the state's active coalfield. While seven counties produce coal, 85 percent of the state's coal comes from three counties: Wise, Dickenson and Buchanan.

The tens of millions of tons produced annually is worth more than one billion dollars. Over the past 20 years, Virginia has ranked among the top 10 coal-producing states in the nation.