Hobby Mineral Collecting…

Hobby Mineral Collecting Policy

At times holes are left, trees undermined, broken rock dispersed. Mention of how sites are to be left once collecting for the day is finished would be useful.

How large a disturbance can be made while mineral collecting? Disturbance thresholds trigger the need for a work permit for mining/prospecting related activities. Does this also apply to hobby mineral collecting?

There are no restrictions listed on how many times a site may be accessed. A large area might not be excavated/disturbed in one day, but over multiple days would exceed the threshold for a work permit. How can this be addressed?

Enforcement discretion. What branch of MNDMNRF is the contact for concerns regarding mineral collecting activities that affect third parties? If issues generated involve Mining Act, Ontario Public Lands Act, and/or Trespass to Property Act will Conservation Officers be the local contact?

The document suggests that minerals are not to be sold. Tourists from outside Ontario collect and may sell minerals in other jurisdictions when they return home. Should consideration be given to also allow Ontario residents to sell minerals?