Virginia is fortunate in having large and varied mineral resources. Coal is the major mineral product produced. It is well known that those areas of the State in which the coal mines are located have been undergoing severe economic strains due to changes in the method of producing coal. This, together with a recognition of the fact that expansion of the uses of our mineral resources and the development of new uses will lead to more employment and a better economic climate in Virginia, has caused many individuals to look for ways in which our mineral resources might be further developed and new uses found for them. It has, therefore, been proposed that the State establish a mineral research laboratory with a view to expanding the use of our present mineral resources and thereby generating additional employment and income.

The General Assembly of 1964, therefore, adopted Senate Joint Resolution No. 19 directing the Virginia Advisory Legislative Council to make a study and report upon the need for, and feasibility of, establishing a mineral research laboratory.

The Council selected Charles D. Price, Stanley, Virginia, member of the House of Delegates and of the Council to serve as Chairman of the Committee to make the initial study and report to it. The following were chosen to serve with Mr. Price on this Committee: E. H. Hines, Jr., Clarksville; Harry A. Kiester, Manager, Engineering Services, Norfolk and Western Railway, Roanoke; M; M. Long, member of the Senate, St. Paul; J. Maynard Magruder, Arlington; Dr. Huston St. Clair, President, Jewel Ridge Coal Corporation, Tazewell; William A. Stuart, Attorney, Abingdon; M. M. Sutherland, Director, Department of Conservation and Economic Development and Wesley Wright, Jr., Vice-President, Southern Materials Company, Richmond. Senator Long was elected Vice-Chairman. John B. Boatwright, Jr. and Frank R. Dunham served as Secretary and Recording Secretary, respectively, to the Committee.

A review was made of the advantages and disadvantages of such a laboratory, the need, if any, for same, and how the objectives might be accomplished by other means. Public hearings were held in Roanoke and Richmond after full publicity was given thereto. The views of all interested persons were sought and given in detail. The Committee carefully considered the information and suggestions presented to it, and made its report to the Council.

The Council has reviewed the report of the Committee, and now reports as follows.