A new 54-page report is out that concludes that the Crandal Canyon tragedy was caused by mine-induced seismicity not earthquake-induced seismicity.  The paper is dry and very technical.  At the Wired Blog Network is a lively review of the report and a link to the full report if you seek it.

I have written about innovation in the mining industry in the past.  But was most surprised when I remarked to a young man around the office that quality was no substitute for innovation and reminded him of the maker of the last buggy whip.  He knew not what I was talking about.  So if you too have not heard the story here it is. 

Once upon a time, about a hundred years ago, just outside Detroit there was a small but profitable factory.  This factory took in good wood and leather and turn them into high quality buggy whips.  All who owned a buggy desired one of these whips with which to control the horses that pulled the buggy that was in those days the only mode of proper transport for people of means.

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On the topic of monuments to miners, I came across this proposed mining-related monument; and the following description of its provenance:

The model of the spectacular new landmark artwork chosen by a group of local ex-miners will be unveiled for the first time today (Wednesday 7 May 2008). It is commissioned by St.Helens Council as part of The Big Art Project, an ambitious public art initiative from Channel 4 supported by Arts Council England and The Art Fund. Titled Dream, the 20 metres high sculpture by internationally renowned artist Jaume Plensa is to be sited on top of the former Sutton Manor Colliery, overlooking the M62. The work is intended to become a gateway feature for both Merseyside and Greater Manchester at the heart of the Northwest, and to symbolise the remarkable regeneration of the whole region.

Maybe; but a 20-m (60-ft) high head?  At least I will never have to see it live.