Fifty-seven discrete coalbeds occur within an 800 to 5150-foot stratigraphic interval across the Southwest Virginia Coalfield.  Coal is mined from nearly 40 coalbeds, which are from 4-5' thick.  The four principal commercial coalbeds are the Pocahontas No. 3, Jawbone, Splash Dam, and Dorchester.  The Pocahontas No. 3 is an important source of metallurgical grade coal and ranks as one of the major economic coalbeds in the United States.  Other important Virginia commercial coalbeds are the Low Splint, Taggart, Imboden, Clintwood, Upper Banner, Lower Banner, Kennedy, Raven and Tiller.

        This is  sample section of coal seams found in different counties of Southwest Virginia.  Coal seams vary in elevation from one area to another as can be seen below.