Where to Find Natural Resource Maps of Canada

The authoritative source for Canadian natural resource maps is Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) — the federal department responsible for geography, forestry, minerals, energy, and earth sciences.

Primary Source

Natural Resources Canada Website (nrcan.gc.ca)
• Atlas of Canada — Interactive maps: forests, minerals, water, energy, land use
• Open Maps — Downloadable GIS data and map services
• Geological Survey of Canada — Mineral deposits, bedrock geology, geohazards
• Canada Centre for Mapping and Earth Observation — Topographic maps, satellite imagery

Additional Sources

• Provincial/Territorial Governments — Each jurisdiction publishes regional resource maps (e.g., BC Ministry of Energy, Mines & Low Carbon Innovation; Ontario Geological Survey; Québec Ministère des Ressources naturelles)
• Geoscan / GEOSCAN Database — NRCan's bibliographic database for maps, reports, publications
• Library and Archives Canada — Historical resource maps
• Industry Associations — Mining Association of Canada, Forest Products Association of Canada

Map Types Available

Forest cover & timber inventory • Mineral occurrences & mining claims • Oil & gas basins • Hydroelectric potential • Watersheds & aquifers • Permafrost • Protected areas • Indigenous traditional territories

Most digital maps are free to access and download under Canada's Open Government License.