Coal is booming as world oil prices soar. Out-of-state corporations that use West Virginia like a colony are reaping giant profits and boosting production. Massey Energy plans to open a new Appalachian underground mine every 17 days this year in an attempt to increase output 25 percent by 2010.

This upsurge raises a much-debated question: How long will U.S. coal reserves last? The National Research Council, a wing of the National Academy of Sciences, is seeking better estimates. In a report to Congress last year, the council sought more funds to study the question.

"It is clear that there is enough coal at current rates of production to meet anticipated needs through 2030, and probably enough for 100 years," the council said. "However, it is not possible to confirm the often-quoted assertion that there is a sufficient supply for the next 250 years."

The research agency noted that much of America's easily accessible coal has been depleted, and new extraction will more difficult, dangerous and expensive. It said:

"Many factors will increase risks to mine workers in the future - the mining of deeper seams, for example, and of seams that lie over or under previously mined-out areas. Research is needed to improve escape and rescue procedures, communications systems and emergency preparedness."

West Virginia has a large stake in these questions. Sen. Robert C. Byrd and other state members of Congress have supported the National Research Council's coal studies. We hope the work brings clear answers.

This upsurge raises a much-debated question: How long will U.S. coal reserves last? The National Research Council, a wing of the National Academy of Sciences, is seeking better estimates. In a report to Congress last year, the council sought more funds to study the question.

"It is clear that there is enough coal at current rates of production to meet anticipated needs through 2030, and probably enough for 100 years," the council said. "However, it is not possible to confirm the often-quoted assertion that there is a sufficient supply for the next 250 years."

The research agency noted that much of America's easily accessible coal has been depleted, and new extraction will more difficult, dangerous and expensive. It said:

"Many factors will increase risks to mine workers in the future - the mining of deeper seams, for example, and of seams that lie over or under previously mined-out areas. Research is needed to improve escape and rescue procedures, communications systems and emergency preparedness."

West Virginia has a large stake in these questions. Sen. Robert C. Byrd and other state members of Congress have supported the National Research Council's coal studies. We hope the work brings clear answers.