2011 Ontario Exploration and Geoscience Symposium >
November 8th & 9th, 2011, Radisson Hotel, Sudbury, Ontario
The OPA hosts four mineral exploration symposia every year. Sioux Lookout hosts the February symposium and two events take place in April: the Northwestern Ontario symposium is held in Thunder Bay and the Northeastern Ontario symposium is held on a rotating schedule. The fourth symposium is held in Sudbury in December. Although smaller than some of the other conventions, these events are very effective networking opportunities. The pace is a bit slower, allowing more time for one-on-one conversations with suppliers, contractors, prospectors, mining company representatives and government staff. The Ontario Geological Survey uses these events to showcase recent field work and often releases new data such as geological, geophysical or geochemical surveys. OGS staff are on hand to explain the results of field work and offer advice on where to explore for your favourite commodity.
Many junior exploration companies and contractors use the opportunity to meet shareholders, clients and long-lost associates. Companies display core and rock samples as well as videos from their active projects, affording visitors an opportunity for a virtual tour without the bugs.
A variety of speakers are featured at all of the events, covering topics from project descriptions to advanced geophysical techniques. Talks usually run concurrent with the poster displays/trade show, giving everyone the choice to visit booths or attend talks of interest. Short courses are also held but, since they may take up to a full day, are usually just before or after the main event. Field trips are also offered at some events and, when offered, are usually quickly filled. They too are usually held just before or after the main event.
Booth rental rates and registration fees are affordable to everyone from the part time prospector to the small time contractor.