Ontario has made significant strides in economic development and environmental protection in the Far North with the passage of the Far North Act, 2010.

A first in Ontario history, First Nations' approval of land use plans is now required by law. First Nations communities will identify and approve the areas in the Far North that require protection as well as those areas suitable for economic development.

These land use plans are key to develop the Far North, including the region known as the 'Ring of Fire' which contains one of the World's largest deposits of chromite - a key ingredient in stainless steel and an economic opportunity for Far North communities.

The act provides a foundation for First Nations and Ontario to work together as partners on land use planning in the Far North as part of the Open Ontario plan to support the region's economy and environment.

• The Far North makes up 42 per cent of the province's land mass. The act support the protection of at least half of the Far North or approximately 225,000 square kilometres of the Far North in a network of protected areas.
• There is also vast natural resource potential in the Far North, including minerals and renewable energy.
• The Far North serves as a globally significant carbon sink by absorbing approximately 12 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the air each year.
• Earlier this month, Ontario committed $10 million in new funding to support First Nations communities in the Far North in their efforts to develop land use plans. In July 2010, Ontario announced $2 million annually over three years for skills training related to community-based land use planning.
• The Ministry of Natural Resources employs over 350 staff who work in five districts that cover portions of the Far North, including 30 conservation officers stationed in these districts.

• Find out about the Far North of Ontario.
• Watch a video about the Far North of Ontario.
• Support For Bill 191, Far North Act

CONTACTS

Ministry of Natural Resources
ontario.ca/natural-resources