The Cheat Mountain Coal Field of Randolph County, West Virginia, is a small coal field located on the eastern edge of the Appalachian coal region. It is situated on the Cheat Mountain ridge, which is part of the Allegheny Mountains. The coal field is about 10 miles long and 5 miles wide, and its highest point is at Thorny Flat, which has an elevation of 4,848 feet.
The coal in the Cheat Mountain Coal Field is bituminous coal, which is a medium- to high-quality coal that is used for a variety of purposes, including electric power generation, steelmaking, and home heating. The coal in this field is also relatively low in sulfur content, which makes it a desirable fuel for environmental reasons.
Commercial mining of coal in the Cheat Mountain Coal Field began in the early 1900s, and the field reached its peak production in the 1950s. However, production has declined significantly in recent decades due to a number of factors, including the depletion of reserves, the rise of natural gas as a competing fuel source, and environmental regulations.
Today, there are only a few active coal mines in the Cheat Mountain Coal Field. However, the field is still considered to be a potential source of coal in the future. The coal in this field is relatively high in energy content, and it is located in a relatively remote area, which makes it potentially attractive to coal companies that are looking to develop new mines.
The Cheat Mountain Coal Field is also home to a number of important natural resources, including forests, streams, and wildlife. The coal field is located within the Monongahela National Forest, which is a popular destination for recreation and tourism. The coal field is also home to a number of endangered plant and animal species.
The conservation of the Cheat Mountain Coal Field is a complex issue. On the one hand, the coal in this field is a valuable natural resource that could be used to generate electricity and create jobs. On the other hand, the coal field is also home to important natural resources and endangered species.
The future of the Cheat Mountain Coal Field is uncertain. It is possible that the field will continue to be mined in the future, but it is also possible that the field will be protected for its natural resources and wildlife. The decision of whether or not to mine the Cheat Mountain Coal Field will have a significant impact on the environment, economy, and culture of Randolph County, West Virginia.
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