Ava Quadrangle

Mining in the Ava Quadrangle

The mining in the Ava Quadrangle is characterized by large, multi-seam surface mines in the northern part (Perry County) and small mines in the Murphysboro Coal in the southern portion. The surface mines worked in the Herrin and Springfield Coals, with production in the millions of tons. The mines in the Murphysboro Coal, even when operated over 20 years, generally produced less than 1 million tons. In the southernmost part of the quadrangle, the Murphysboro Coal was split into two beds with as much as 10 feet of shale between. The mines in the Murphysboro Coal are likely concentrated in a small area because geologic conditions were unfavorable in other areas.