The Mines Branch recognizes that prospecting provides a key basis for future mineral development and thus delivers programs to encourages the growth of the prospecting sector. The Branch provides advice, technical assistance, mentoring and training to prospectors from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, and administers financial assistance programs to aid them with their prospecting activities.
Financial Assistance and Formal Training
Genuine Prospector Status
The “genuine prospector” status is an optional designation that confers certain benefits to individuals. “Genuine prospectors” may stake up to 30 claims in no more than 5 licenses in a calendar year without posting a security deposit. In order to qualify for this designation, individuals should have completed the Department’s prospector’s training course or be able to demonstrate significant previous experience in the exploration field.
- Genuine Prospector Designation Application (106 KB)
- Renewal of Genuine Prospector Designation (111 KB)
Additional Advice and Assistance
- Call our Mineral Exploration Consultant
- Visit the Matty Mitchell Prospectors Resource Room
- Contact our Mineral Rights Office
Additional Resources
- Guidebook to Exploration, Development and Mining in Newfoundland and Labrador (273 KB)
- Learn more about mineral prospects in your area via our Mineral Occurrence Data System (MODS)
- Search for industry data in our GeoFiles
- Research your field area via GeoScience OnLine
- Stake a claim using our Mineral Lands Administration Portal
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