Mining Information Kit for Aboriginal Communities: Exploration, Development, Operation, and Closure is available free on-line at this link. It is published by Natural Resources Canada. Here are a few opinions about this taxpayer production.

First, however, some replication from Natural resources Canada of their description of the volume:

A new educational tool, The Mining Information Kit for Aboriginal Communities, will inform Aboriginal communities across Canada about all the stages of the mining cycle from early exploration to mine closure. This information kit will help Aboriginal peoples better understand mining activities and identify the many opportunities that mining can bring to communities. This tool is conveniently designed in four modules corresponding to the main stages of the mining cycle. It provides examples of community experiences, positive relationships, and partnerships with mining companies. It also outlines the regulatory process to ensure Aboriginal peoples are well informed of the economic, social and environmental effects, benefits and opportunities in making decisions. The kit is the product of a partnership between Natural Resources Canada, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, The Mining Association of Canada, and the Canadian Aboriginal Minerals Association (CAMA).

I think this is a well conceived, well written, well compiled introduction to mining. Certainly one of the best I have come across. I recommend it to any community that finds itself the likely target of a government or company intent on exploring and/or mining on local community territory.I opine that the average citizen of a concerned community will learn and benefit from reading this volume. You won’t be able to deal on an equal footing with the government or company as a result of reading this volume—you will need a lot more education and study to achieve that. But at least you will be informed.

If you are interested, here are a few more links to similar products: