Ontario’s oil and natural gas production, hydrocarbon storage, and salt/solution mining industry is located primarily in Southwestern Ontario.

The industry is a sector of the economy that dates back to before Canadian Confederation and it plays an important role in the province. In fact, North America’s first commercial oil production began in Oil Springs, Ontario in 1858 and natural gas in the early 1900’s.

Ontario has long life reserves of oil and natural gas and with demand expected to grow over the next two decades, there is clearly a role for Ontario production.

Presently, 120 companies are involved in oil and natural gas production, hydrocarbon storage, and salt/solution mining industry supported by drilling contractors, well and oilfield services, geologists and engineers as well as a range of professional consulting services. The industry employs a well-paid, educated, and productive labour force.