Gold mining in Ontario has a long history, way back to before Confederation. However, the industry is currently experiencing unprecedented change. Shifts from large-scale underground gold mines to smaller open-pit or near-surface operations have been occurring worldwide. In addition, new mineral discoveries and rising metal prices are leading to increased exploration for gold across the province. These changes bring both opportunity and uncertainty to this important sector of Ontario’s economy.
A recent study conducted by the Ontario Mining Association (OMA) provides an outlook on gold mining in Ontario, Canada. The report analyzes all active and future mines by location, size, project development status, ownership structure, employment statistics, and economic benefits.
As of December 2021, there were forty active gold mines in Ontario owned by eight different companies. Ownership includes:
- Foreign-based multinationals
- A junior exploration company
- Mid-tier producers
- Seniors with non-operating mines
- Trillium Gold Mines
The study found that the gold mining industry currently employs over 26,000 direct and 46,000 indirect employees in Ontario and provides over $10.7 billion in economic benefits to the province in 2019. The industry is also a key contributor to the provincial government’s coffers, contributing over $220 million in taxes and royalties in 2014.
Looking ahead, several active and advanced-stage gold projects are working. These include the Detour Lake mine, which is currently under construction and began production in early 2016; the Borden Lake project, which is currently undergoing feasibility studies; and the St Andrew Goldfields Ltd. project in Val d’Or, which commenced production in late 2016.
Gold mining is an important economic driver in northeastern Ontario. The area has a long history of gold production, with over 190 million ounces of gold extracted from the ground since the 1860s. Gold remains an important mineral commodity, and discoveries continue to be made.
The mineral industry is a key sector of Ontario’s economy, contributing billions of dollars to provincial GDP each year and supporting thousands of jobs. The province is home to various minerals, including nickel, copper, zinc, chromite, gold, and silver. Northeastern Ontario accounts for more than 50% of the region’s GDP, mainly due to mineral production at many operating mines within a 200 km radius around Timmins. This city has been called the “Gold Capital of Canada.”
Ontario gold mining offers many opportunities for qualified employees. Salaries for skilled workers in the industry can be quite high, with some positions commanding six-figure salaries. Positions in gold mining generally require a high level of training and experience, so those interested in pursuing a career in this field should consider completing a relevant post-secondary program.
Conclusion
Overall, the study paints a positive picture of the gold mining industry in Ontario. The sector is a major employer and contributor to the provincial economy and is expected to generate significant growth in the coming years. This makes Ontario an attractive destination for those looking for job opportunities in the mining sector. So if you’re interested in working in gold mining, Ontario should be on your radar.
