Conference Celebrates Mining, Geoscience

The Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources is hosting the Mining Matters Conference in Halifax, Nov. 8-9. The focus of the annual conference is to raise awareness of the mining industry and geoscience research.

For 25 years, the department's Minerals and Energy Branch has hosted a fall conference to promote mineral development opportunities. The conference also exhibits geoscience research being conducted in Nova Scotia by the department, the Geological Survey of Canada and local universities.

"This conference celebrates a proud tradition of providing information and technical assistance to the mining industry and to the public of Nova Scotia," said Natural Resources Minister Ernest Fage. "Mining Matters provides a venue for the mineral producers and exploration companies to interact and learn about development opportunities. We at Natural Resources also use the conference to raise the awareness and understanding of the mining industry in Nova Scotia."

The conference will feature a wide range of technical sessions highlighting the many facets of Nova Scotia's mining industry. Specific topics will include prospecting and advanced mineral exploration for industrial minerals such as kaolin, silica and titanium as well as base metals and gold.

Dr. Tony Andrews, Executive Director of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada will deliver the keynote address focusing on public perception and myths and realities of the mining industry in Canada.

Members of the public are invited to attend the two-day conference and can access information on the department Web site www.gov.ns.ca/natr/meb .