Information About the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
MINES AND MINERALS DIVISION
The Mines and Minerals Division works to support responsible land use management and mineral resource development by administration of the Mining Act, providing public geoscience information and client services.
What We Do
- We gather, interpret and publish geological information about mineral deposits.
- We collect, analyze and deliver information about the state of the mining and mineral industries.
- We deliver programs and consultation services relating to land use, exploration and mining in Ontario.
- We promote investment in Ontario's minerals sector.
- We administer Ontario's Mining Act in a fair and consistent fashion.
- We consult with Aboriginal communities to ensure that our activities are consistent with the Crown's obligations concerning Aboriginal and treaty rights.
How We Can Help You
A treasure trove of minerals lies buried beneath Northern Ontario’s stretch of the Canadian Shield and
within the younger sedimentary rocks that cover much of Southern Ontario.
Ontario’s known mineral deposits are rich—nickel, gold, silver, platinum, diamonds—and much of
the Far North has yet to be explored.
Are you interested in exploring for minerals in Ontario? We offer
- Online geoscience data, geoscience reports and maps, prospecting, claimstaking information and forms
- Guidance from staff
Are you interested in developing a mineral deposit in Ontario? We offer
- Information on mining land requirements
- Information and advice on permitting requirements
- Guidance from mineral development professionals
Are you looking for information about the minerals industry as it relates to First Nations? We offer
- Information on our ministry's consultation approaches
- Direction on which First Nations to contact when working in an area and information on the community
- Geoscience information and publications
- Publications and educational videos on the mining cycle as useful tools when engaging First Nations
- Information on claim activity in your area of interest
- Guidance from staff
Do you want geological information for educational, land use or mining purposes? We offer
- Publications, maps, historical photos and videos about geology and mining in Ontario
Do you want to find out how geology influences your life? We offer
- Applications of geology to public health and safety, sustainable community development, land-use planning, groundwater and drinking water
Are you looking to invest in Ontario's mining industry? We offer
- Information to help you make investment decisions relating to both exploration and development in Ontario
