Oil and gas exploration and development are key to Canada's economic well-being. One quarter of Canada's remaining discovered resources of conventional petroleum is in the North as well as one third to one half of the country's estimated potential.

INAC works in partnership with Northern and Aboriginal governments and people to:

• govern the allocation of Crown lands to the private sector for oil and gas exploration;
• develop the regulatory environment;
• set and collect royalties; and
• approve benefit plans before development takes place in a given area.

Benefit plans define oil and gas operators' policies and activities to maximize employment and training prospects for Northerners.  The plans also ensure that Northern businesses have opportunities to supply goods and services on a competitive basis.

What Information is Available?

In this section, find highlights as well as specific information on benefit plans and the Canadian North – active exploration and new development.  In addition, you will find Northern Oil and Gas contacts, useful data tools, maps, and information on rights management, land and exploration, Rights Management and the Royalty Administration.  Our publications and links pages also provide useful additional resources related to the oil and gas industry. Explore the new Petroleum and Environmental Management Tool (PEMT).

You may also be interested in:

• Oil, Gas and Energy
• Mackenzie Gas Project Office