Minerals South 2015 Conference & Trade Show

Minerals South 2015 represents the premier regional mining conference for southeastern British Columbia, organized by the East Kootenay Chamber of Mines. This three-day event combines professional development, networking, and industry showcasing in a comprehensive format designed to highlight the diverse mining opportunities in the East Kootenay region. The conference attracts a broad spectrum of mining professionals, from exploration geologists and geophysicists to equipment suppliers and service providers, creating valuable cross-sector dialogue and collaboration opportunities.

The conference program features specialized presentations on cutting-edge topics including industry innovation and mine site reclamation, delivered by recognized experts Mike Hambalek from Caliper Machine & Hydraulics Ltd. and Mike Keefer of Keefer Ecological Services Ltd. These Tuesday evening presentations are strategically made available to the general public at no cost, demonstrating the organization's commitment to community engagement and public education about responsible mining practices. The event also includes hands-on short courses for delegates, providing practical skills development alongside the broader conference programming.

A key component of Minerals South is its emphasis on experiential learning through field trips to active mining operations in the region. These site visits offer delegates direct exposure to operational mining practices and technologies while showcasing the diversity of mineral extraction activities beyond the well-known Teck coal operations. The region's industrial mining sector, including gypsum, magnesium, silica, and aggregate operations, provides attendees with insights into specialized mining applications and niche market opportunities.

The conference occurs during a challenging period for the global mining industry, making its networking and relationship-building aspects particularly valuable. The Wednesday evening banquet serves as both a networking forum and recognition ceremony, where the EKCM honors industry leaders and celebrates achievements within the regional mining community. This combination of professional development, industry recognition, and strategic networking positions Minerals South 2015 as an essential event for anyone involved in or interested in the mining sector in southeastern British Columbia and the broader Canadian mining industry.