Earth Sciences Sector - Development of the North (2002-2006)

Future economic sustainability and quality of life for northern Canadians, most of whom are First Nations or Inuit, depends on the responsible development of mineral and energy resources. In partnership with the provincial and territorial geological surveys and other federal departments, this program delivers an improved, expanded geoscience knowledge base to stimulate new private-sector investment in mineral and energy development to create additional opportunities for northerners. The program also supports northern capacity building, in terms of increased understanding of geoscience for decision-making and increased employment opportunities provided by exploration companies.

Program delivery has been accelerated and expanded through additional funding from a two-year extension of the Targeted Geoscience Initiative, as announced in the 2003 federal budget.

Committed Outputs

Regional digital geoscience map compilations over 10 percent of the northern territories, integrating geophysical and remotely sensed data
Predictive models for hydrocarbons in prospective northern basins and all known mineral deposit types over 15 percent of the North
Digital mineral potential maps for 25 percent of the North
10 percent of northern communities visited with geoscience resource educational programs

Committed Outcomes

A 50 percent increase in investment in northern resource exploration and development over 2002/2003 levels
A five percent increase in the number of northern communities using geoscience information in planning and decision-making for resource development and land-use plans
Increased number of northern students enrolled in geoscience programs

The Geomatics for Northern Development program provides reliable and consistent geospatial information and well-defined property rights, by providing assistance to develop geospatial data to support capacity in northern governments and communities. This program supports new investment and sustainable development in the North. The outcomes of the program will lead to a broadly adapted suite of geospatial information recognised as critical to decision-making.

Committed Outputs

Developing advanced techniques and methodologies for improved portrayal and integration of a full range of geospatial information datasets, including base geospatial information, accessible in an environment adapted to northern requirements
Working within a GC-coordinated strategy and program plan for northern development based on client and stakeholder consultations

Committed Outcomes

Better quality and efficiency in land-based decision-making regarding natural-resource and environment management by northern communities, leading organisations and governments
Increased and diversified investment by private companies in development of natural resources, tourism and local land-based development
Peaceful and unimpeded local land-based economic development by owners, land managers and developers