Massey Energy announced it would expand operations in Pike County, Ky., and Buchanan County, Va. According to the company, these metallurgical quality coal operations contain approximately 750,000 tons of coal and are expected to employ approximately 110 workers. The surface and highwall miner operations are projected to produce approximately 300,000 tons of metallurgical quality coal through the remainder of 2010, according to the company.

Natural Resource Partners L.P. (NRP) and International Paper announced they have signed a definitive agreement to form a joint venture in which NRP will be the managing and controlling partner with a 51% interest, including a cumulative preferred distribution from the joint venture before profit sharing commences. The new joint venture will own and manage the current leases as well as the further development of the more than 7 million mineral acres currently held by International Paper. NRP will pay International Paper $42.5 million at closing.