Minerals

At present there is no exploration for minerals in the Whitefeather Forest and there have never been any operating mines in the Forest. Pikangikum is in dialogue regarding mineral sector opportunities with the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines which is responsible for regulation of mineral exploration in Ontario. At this time Pikangikum does not have an established relationship with the mineral industry.

Vision for Minerals:
Activities in the mineral sector carried out within the Whitefeather Forest Planning Area will be acclaimed for: their protection of the boreal forest; the spirit of collaboration in which they are carried out; the environmental benefits that are realized through partnerships between the Indigenous Knowledge tradition of Pikangikum and the larger society; the respect for the culture of Beekahncheekahmeeng paymahteeseewahch; their contribution to the economic renewal of Pikangikum and the economic health of Ontario.

Determining New Enterprise Opportunities in Minerals:

We believe that mineral sector activities can provide substantial enterprise opportunities for Pikangikum First Nation and job opportunities for our youth. Pikangikum Elders have stated that there are mineral opportunities in the Whitefeather Forest in addition to the neighbouring region, and that these can be developed in a manner that sustains the forest.

Pikangikum First Nation is taking a pro-active approach to involvement in the mineral sector. We will continue our dialogue with Ontario and the mineral industry to gain benefits and contribute to a vibrant minerals industry in Ontario.

Best Practices guidelines for mineral exploration in the Whitefeather Forest are being developed through a dialogue between the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, Ministry of Natural Resources and Pikangikum. These guidelines will stress the cultural and ecological integrity of the Whitefeather Forest and the need for collaboration between the community of Pikangikum and the mineral exploration industry.

• Enterprise Vision
• Customary Land Uses
• Commercial Forestry
• Non-Timber Forest Products
• Tourism
• Minerals
• Whitefeather Forest Community Resource Management Authority
• UNESCO World Heritage Site Project