Bringing the Benefits of Mining to Ontario

Ontario is recognized as the best place for mineral exploration in Canada. In North America, our province is second only to Nevada. While much of this is due to our rich mineral wealth, our provincial government also plays a strong role in ensuring the success of Ontario's mining sector.

As guardian of Ontario's mining lands, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) governs the staking of mining claims, advanced exploration, mine development and mine closure (rehabilitation of and upon completion of advanced exploration or mining).

MNDM's Ontario Geological Survey (OGS) provides invaluable support to the mining sector by mapping Ontario's geology and mineral resources. MNDM geologists conduct state-of-the-art geophysical and geochemical testing to identify targets for mineral exploration. This helps attract investment dollars and speeds the discovery of new ore deposits. Every dollar spent by the government in geological surveys attracts $3 from the private sector. MNDM is also developing more effective exploration techniques to cover Ontario 's vast territory and to detect minerals buried deep in bedrock.

MNDM Staff staff across the province are available to answer your questions about exploration and mining in your community. Resident geologists can explain local geology, mineral exploration opportunities and public access to geological data. Mining lands consultants can provide information about who owns the mineral rights to and and what and is open to claimstaking. Northern development advisors can inform you about major exploration and mining projects that are planned or under way in your area. For contacts in your community, please call the Mines and Minerals Division of MNDM at 1-800-665-4480.

The Ontario government recognizes the vital role of mining to the economic health of the province and to the future prosperity of all people of Ontario.