Primary Navigation

About the OGS Branch

OGS Quick Links

Learn about Ontario's Geology
OGS Earth
OGS posters
Technical Talks
OGS Annual Publications
- Summary of Field Work
- Report of Activities
Geophysical Atlas
Download OGS Publications
Summer Employment with the OGS
GeologyOntario – Ontario's Geoscience Data Online

Contact Us

Did You Know?

Ontario's bedrock geology is divided into Precambrian Canadian Shield rocks, which consists of very old rocks that range in age from 570 million to more than 3 billion years in age and younger sedimentary rocks that range in age from 63 to 570 million years old.

Sedimentary Geoscience Section

Map Viewing Notice

A DRAFT, updated bedrock resources map for Melancthon Township and surrounding area, County of Dufferin, will be available for viewing starting Monday, November 24, 2008. The map updates information contained in Aggregate Resource Inventory Paper 163, published in 1998. The updated map is being released for viewing to meet the immediate demands expressed by clients.

This 1:50 000 scale map delineates areas with the potential for the production of bedrock derived mineral aggregates. Areas were identified based upon the thickness of the drift (overburden) cover and the nature of the bedrock formations present in the area. The map information is important for land use planning and aggregate resource development.

These maps may only be viewed at the following Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry office:

Mines Library
Willet Green Miller Centre
3rd Floor, 933 Ramsey Lake Road
Sudbury, Ontario

The map is not for sale, however, the user may copy all or part of the map at the viewing office should copying services be available. {Note: copying charges may apply}

For further information, contact:

Cam Baker, Senior Manager
Sedimentary Geoscience Section
Ontario Geological Survey
Telephone:        (705) 670-5902
Fax:                  (705) 670-5905
E-mail:              cam.baker@ndm.gov.on.ca

What We Do

Aggregate/industrial minerals, groundwater, Quaternary (surficial) geology, Paleozoic geology, surficial geochemistry

The goal of the Sedimentary Geoscience Section (SGS) is to provide data and information on Ontario’s surficial sediments and Paleozoic bedrock to assist in the exploration, development and sustainable management of mineral, groundwater and energy resources. Section programs are delivered either by SGS geoscientists or through collaborative partnerships.

SGS is responsible for providing impartial geologic data by

mapping and sampling Ontario’s surficial geology (the materials overlying the bedrock) to assist in the exploration of earth resources and to understand the near-surface environment
conducting geochemical surveys of surficial sediments and water to establish environmental baseline data and aid mineral exploration
mapping the Paleozoic bedrock (rock overlying the Precambrian Shield) to assess its industrial mineral/energy potential and environmental influence
providing an inventory of potential aggregate surficial and bedrock resources in Ontario to enable suitable protection of the resources through land-use planning
supplying information on groundwater resources to assist in protecting public health, safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable economic development.