JULIAN, W.Va. — College teams will compete in mine rescue scenarios during the Eastern Collegiate Mine Rescue Contest 2021. The regional competition takes place Saturday, Nov. 6, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the West Virginia Training and Conference Center (WVTCC), 431 Running Right Way, Julian, in Boone County.

This will mark the first time that the Eastern Collegiate Mine Rescue Contest will be held at the WVTCC.

The mine rescue competitions were created by the nonprofit Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration. The purpose is to enhance the skills, knowledge and abilities of engineering students in the basic principles of mine rescue, teamwork, and leadership. The contest includes a timed written exam as well as simulated team rescue exercise. During the exercise, teams must locate and mark on their maps elements that may include the locations of persons; smoke; gases; caved areas; unsafe roof; deep water; ignition sources; fans; fires; ventilation structures; and refuge alternatives.

Visitors to the Eastern Collegiate Mine Rescue Contest will be escorted in the simulated mine lab to watch their team compete. Admission is free.