Mineral Exploration and Development, Survey Definitions and Methodology

The bi-annual Survey of Mineral Exploration, Deposit Appraisal and Mine Complex Development Expenditures collects information related to mineral resource development activities in Canada and aims to produce high quality statistical data. It covers all companies currently engaged in mineral resource development activities in Canada. Quebec data are compiled by l’Institut de la statistique du Québec.

The survey provides reliable expenditure data based on a complete, accurate and comprehensive profile of the Canadian exploration and mining industry. These statistics help increase awareness and understanding of the efforts made to sustain and grow mineral and metal production capacity in Canada.

The Federal-Provincial-Territorial Committee on Mineral Statistics ensures national harmonization of the methodology and definitions.

The survey operates on a bi-annual collection cycle.

• Survey cycle #1 - Preliminary expenditures and spending intentions
  This cycle captures preliminary expenditures (an estimation of the expected spending) for the current calendar year (t) surveyed, as well as spending intentions (spending plans) for the following calendar year (t+1).
  This cycle is designed to anticipate trends and predict changes. These values will be revised in the following cycle, which then allows data users to gain insights into changes in the industry’s projections and actual expenses over time.
• Survey cycle #2 - Annual expenditures and revised spending intentions
  This cycle captures actual expenditures (total accumulated spending) from the previous calendar year (t-1) as well as revised spending intention (updated spending plans) for the current calendar year (t).
  This cycle is designed to provide the real values (actual amount of money spent) as well as an updated estimate of the expected spending for the period referenced.
  Intentions will be revised at the next cycle before being finalized.

Collecting information at different points throughout the year allows NRCan to provide relevant, accurate and timely statistical information.

Survey data are shared with Statistics Canada for inclusion in the Annual Capital and Repair Expenditures Survey.

Data are aggregated to protect the confidentiality of respondents.

Mineral Exploration Symbols

1. Mineral Exploration and Development, Symbols and Abbreviations

Reporting Guide and Quick Index for Survey Questionnaires

1. Mineral Exploration and Development, Reporting Guide
2. Mineral Exploration and Development, Guideline
3. Mineral Exploration and Development, Quick Index for Survey Forms