FROM CRADLE TO DISTRIBUTION - A LOOK AT A COMPREHENSIVE DIGITAL MODEL OF THE SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA COALFIELD

Digitally compiled underground coal mine maps, core logs, geophysical logs from coal bed methane wells, and geologic maps are critical components of the three-dimensional model of the Southwest Virginia Coalfield. Using a geologic, topographic, and cultural framework, mine maps are assigned to the appropriate coal bed and georeferenced. Closely-spaced thickness and elevation data points collected from these mine maps provide very detailed three-dimensional information about coal beds. Core logs and geophysical logs from coal bed methane wells provide essential thickness and elevation information for unmined areas of the coal beds. The resulting platform of spatial geologic data, combined with the mine and mine map relational databases, enables a fully searchable, web-based geographic information system (GIS) which can provide on-demand isopachs, structure contour maps, and local stratigraphic information. This GIS is available to a variety of interest groups including but not limited to mine inspectors, engineers, geologists, and mining companies. The information can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each group. Integration of this data with cultural and environmental sensitivities, as well as technical restrictions to mining will enable better definition of the future availability of coal in Virginia's portion of the Central Appalachian Basin.