Community Profile Funded By

Our Vision: Dorion will be a welcoming community offering an exceptional quality of life for all.

Community Profile Funded By:

THE TOWNSHIP OF DORION

Community Profile TABLE OF CONTENTS

Dorion, Ontario: Overview...... 5

Population & Labour Force...... 7

Municipal Services...... 11

Health Care & Housing...... 12

Land Inventory...... 15

Parks, Recreation & Tourism...... 17

Transportation, Utilities & Telecommunications...... 18

Climate...... 20

Physical Geography...... 21

Learning Institutions...... 23

Economic Development & Future Growth...... 24

Community Profile Community Profile DORION, ONTARIO: OVERVIEW

“Explore Dorion in Canyon Country”

Dorion is a small rural community in Northwestern Thunder Bay regional hospital and international Ontario with a population of 380 people and a airport. As the economy continues to experience land mass of 212 square kilometres. Dorion is transition in the forest industry, current growth in located 70 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, mining exploration, research into wind energy Ontario on highway 11/17 on the Top of Lake and in agro-forestry shows potential to replace Superior. much of the base sector employment that has been lost. The Dorion area is rich in natural resources, abundant with tourism and recreational Dorion has a rich history and prides itself on the opportunities and offers a high quality of life quality of life it has to offer people. Dorion is a for residents and visitors in the community. great place for people to live, play and visit. Why The Township is well served by rail and road Dorion? It all comes down to quality of life! connections and is within an hour drive to

Community Profile Physical Environment

Latitude: 48.8oN Longitude: 88.5oW Elevation: 210 metres (689 ft) above sea level. Area: 212 square kilometres (81.85 square miles).

Why Dorion?

1) Affordable Housing – Dorion has low housing costs compared to other larger municipalities and is the ideal place to build the dream home, raise a family and retire.

2) Location & Quality of Life– Dorion offers residents all the benefits of rural living at a close distance (45 minutes) to the urban centre of Thunder Bay. of northern winters and the adventure that accompanies winter activities like 3) Education – Educational quality is second snowmobiling, ice fishing and cross-country to none in Dorion as it offers a relatively skiing. Summers are warm and full of new public elementary school as well as opportunities for eco-tourism exploration an Ontario Early Years Centre for toddlers. and outdoor activities. High school students access the regional high school in the Township of Red Rock 20 7) Wildlife – The animal habitat in Dorion minutes from Dorion. is unique and offers visitors a variety of opportunities to catch pictures of local 4) Employment Prospects – Although Dorion wildlife. From the bald-headed eagle to the has lost much of its base sector employment great Canadian Moose, Dorion is home to in the forest industry, there is a growing them all! demand for skilled labour in the emerging mining industry as well as potential 8) Community Pride & People – Dorion is full of opportunities in agro-forestry. people dedicated to the success and quality of life in Dorion. Come and experience the 5) Recreation & Tourism – Families and visitors northern hospitality that Dorion residents have close access to numerous lakes, rivers exude. and natural trails to explore. Ouimet Canyon is right in your back yard! In the fall, Dorion becomes alive with hunters from all over Canada and the U.S. looking to harvest black bear, deer and moose.

6) Weather – The area offers the uniqueness

Community Profile yard! In the fall, Dorion becomes alive with hunters from all over Canada and the U.S. looking to harvest black bear, deer and moose.

6) Weather – The area offers the uniqueness of northern winters and the adventure that accompanies winter activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing and cross- country skiing. Summers are warm and full of opportunities for eco-tourism exploration and outdoor activities.

7) Wildlife – The animal habitat in Dorion is unique and offers visitors a variety of opportunities to catch pictures of local wildlife. From the bald-headed eagle to the great Canadian Moose, Dorion is home to them all!

8) Community Pride & People – Dorion is full of people dedicated to the success and quality of life in Dorion. Come and experience the northern hospitality that Dorion residents exude. POPULATION & LABOUR FORCE POPULATION & LABOUR FORCE 2006 Population: 379 Total Private2006 Population: Dwellings: 379 188 PopulationTotal densityPrivate Dwellings:per square 188 kilometer: 1.8 Population density per square kilometer: 1.8

PopulationPopulation Trends Trends The demographic composition of Dorion has followed different trends overtime. The The demographicpopulation approximately composition doubled of Dorion from has 1911 toearly the 1950’s. early 1930’s The Baby due toBoom the inflowbegan ofin the mid followedpeople different from trends southern overtime. Ontario The population seeking home stead1950’s and which the wealth saw the of population northern natural increase 21% approximatelyresources. doubled After World from 1911War Two, to the the early populati oninto remained the late 60’s relatively and early stable 70’s seeing when noagriculture 1930’spositive due to thegrowth inflow from of people the mid from 1930’s southern to the earlyand 1950’s. forestry The were Baby prime Boom investment began inopportunities. the Ontariomid seeking 1950’s homesteadwhich saw the and population the wealth increase of 21%Since into the the late late 1970’s, 60’s and besides early 70’s an increase when in the northernagriculture natural resources. and forestry After were World prime War Two, investment population opportunities. in 1991, Since the population the late 1970’s, has continued the population remained relatively stable seeing to decline due to an ever changing economic besides an increase in the population in 1991, the population has continued to decline due no positive growth from the mid 1930’s to the environment. to an ever changing economic environment.

Year Population % Change Previous Year 1911 216 n/a 1921 292 26% 1931 440 33.6% 1941 448 1.8% 1951 440 -1.8% 1961 557 21% 1971 506 -9.6% 1981 478 -5.5% 1991 513 6.8% 2001 442 -13.8% 2006 379 -14.3% Source: Dorion’s Roots & Branches Source: Dorion's Roots & Branches

Population Trends The Township of Dorion,Dorion –ON Community Profile

Population

600

500 400

300

200 Population Population 100

0 1911 1921 1931 1941 1951 1961 1971 1981 1991 2001 2006 Year Population by Age Community Profile A good portion of Dorion’s population (58.82%) is between the age of 25 and 64. This is good for the community as it reveals a balance between the younger (25-44) families and older (45-64) citizens. This enables the community to grow and build young healthy families but also provide the experience needed to form responsible government for the elderly (65+) and student age (24 & under) residents.

Age Category 2001 % Share Age 14 & under 95 25.84 Age 15 – 24 70 21.49 Age 25 – 44 125 28.28 Age 45 – 64 135 30.54 Age 65 – 74 15 3.39 Age 75 + 10 2.26 Source: Statistics Canada

Population by Age 2001 % Share

160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 Age & Percent Share 0 Age 15 – 24 Age 45 – 64 Age 75 + Age 14 & under Age 25 – 44 Age 65 – 74 Age Category The Township of Dorion – Community Profile PopulationPopulation Trends Trends Dorion,Dorion, ON ON Population Population 600 600 500 500 400 400 300 300 200 200 Population Population

100 Population 100 0 0 1911 1921 1931 1941 1951 1961 1971 1981 1991 2001 2006 1911 1921 1931 1941 1951 1961 1971 1981 1991 2001 2006 Year Population by Age Year PopulationPopulation by by Age Age A good portion of Dorion’s population (58.82%) the community to grow and build young healthy families but also provide the experience needed is betweenA goodA the good portionage portion of 25of Dorion’sandof Dorion’s 64. This population population is good (58.82%)for (58.82%) is betweenis between the the age age of 25of 25and and 64. 64. This This is is to form responsible government for the elderly the communitygoodgood for fortheas the itcommunity reveals community a asbalance itas reveals it reveals between a balanc a balanc e betweene between the the younger younger (25-44) (25-44) families families and and the younger (25-44) families and older (45-64) (65+) and student age (24 & under) residents. olderolder (45-64) (45-64) citizens. citizens. This This enables enables the the community community to growto grow and and build build young young healthy healthy citizens. Also, a balanced population has enabled familiesfamilies but but also also provide provide the the experience experience need needed edto formto form responsible responsible government government for for the the elderlyelderly (65+) (65+) and and student student age age (24 (24 & under)& under) residents. residents.

AgeAge Category Category 20012001 % Share% Share AgeAge 14 &14 under & under 95 95 25.8425.84 AgeAge 15 –15 24 – 24 70 70 21.4921.49 AgeAge 25 –25 44 – 44 125125 28.2828.28 AgeAge 45 –45 64 – 64 135135 30.5430.54 AgeAge 65 –65 74 – 74 15 15 3.393.39 AgeAge 75 +75 + 10 10 2.262.26 Source:Source: Statistics Statistics Canada Canada

PopulationPopulation by byAge Age 2001 % Share 2001 % Share 160 160 140 140 120 120 100 100 80 80 60 60 40 40 20 20 Age & Percent Share

Age & Percent0 Share 0 Age 15 – 24 Age 45 – 64 Age 75 + Age 15 – 24 Age 45 – 64 Age 75 + Age 14 & under Age 25 – 44 Age 65 – 74 Age 14 & under Age 25 – 44 Age 65 – 74 Age Category Age Category TheThe Township Township of Dorionof Dorion – Community – Community Profile Profile

Community Profile Family Income

Average family income $: $60,059 FamilyMedian Incomefamily income $: $54,523 Standard error of average family income: $5,294 Source: Statistics CanadaAverage family income $: $60,059 Median family income $: $54,523 Population by Education: Dorion Standard error of average family income: $5,294 Source: Statistics Canada

Education Category 2001 % 2001 Total Population age 20 and Over 325 100 Grade 9 or less 45 13.85 Grade 9 – 13 Without Secondary 120 36.92 Certificate Grade 9 – 13 With Secondary Certificate 55 16.92 Trade Certificate or Diploma 20 6.15 Other Non – University Education 10 3.08 Without Certificate of Diploma Other Non – University Education With 45 13.85 Certificate or Diploma Some University without Diploma 0 0 Some University with Certificate 0 0 University Degree 30 9.23 Source: Economic Development Ontario (Statistics Canada) Population by Education: Comparison among Other Northwestern Ontario Communities

Community University Degree Trade Certificate (% Grade 9 or less (% of population) of Population) (% of population) Dorion 9.23 6.15 13.85 Manitouwadge 6.99 15.66 6.15 Marathon 10.89 18.09 5.36 Atikokan 7.95 19.13 11.93 Oliver-Paipoonge 11.38 17.19 11.38 Ignace 5.67 13.77 11.74 Pickle Lake 10.2 18.37 12.24 Sioux Lookout 13.05 11.40 10.30 Schreiber 4.90 15.20 9.31 Terrace Bay 7.66 16.79 5.47 Average 8.792 15.175 9.773 Source: Economic Development Ontario (Statistics Canada) Dorion was compared to nine other communities certificate or diploma compared to the average across Dorion three indicators was compared measuring among 9 the other quality communities (15.175 across %). three Finally, indicators the measuring percent of the residents of educationalquality of attainment. educational Dorionattainment. fairs Dorion well in fairs wellwith in grade university 9 or lesseduc isation, 4.077 but % poorly higher in than the universitytrades education, and high butschool poorly education in trades measures and . The average,percent of suggesting the population a relatively with a high instance of high schooluniversity education degree measures.in Dorion is The 0.438 percent % higher thanhigh the school average drop found rates among within the the 9 community. other On of the communities. population with However, a university the statistics degree al so in reveal the that positive Dorion side,(6.15 Dorion%) has aoffers 9.025 skilled % labour at Dorion loweris 0.438 instance % higher of people than the holding average a trade found certificate the oruniversity diploma level, compared but needs to the to average invest in regional among the nine other communities. However, the partnerships and programs to develop skills and statistics also reveal that DorionThe Township (6.15 %) of has Dorion a – Communitycapacity for Profile the trades. 9.025 % lower instance of people holding a trade

Community Profile (15.175(15.175 %). %). Finally, Finally, the the percent percent of of residents residents with with grade grade 9 9or or less less is is 4.077 4.077 % % higher higher than than thethe average, average, suggesting suggesting a arelatively relatively high high in instancestance of of high high school school dr dropop rates rates within within the the community.community. On On the the positive positive side, side, Dorion Dorion offers offers skilled skilled labour labour at at the the university university level, level, but but needsneeds to to invest invest in in regional regional partnerships partnerships and and programs programs to to develop develop skills skills and and capacity capacity for for thethe trades. trades.

EducationEducation DorionDorion ManitouwManitouw adge adge MarathonMarathon University AtikokanAtikokan University DegreeDegree OliverOliver Paipoonge Paipoonge Ignace Ignace TradeTrade Cer- Cer- PicklePickle Lake Lake tificatetificate SiouxSioux Lookout Lookout GradeGrade 9 or9 or less less SchreiberSchreiber TerraceTerrace Bay Bay AverageAverage

00 5 5 10 10 15 15 20 20 25 25 %% of of Population Population LabourLabour Force Force Indicators Indicators

LabourLabour Force Force Indicator Indicator 20012001 %% 2001 2001 TotalTotal in in Labour Labour Force Force 225225 62.562.5 TotalTotal out out of of Labour Labour Force Force 140140 38.8938.89 TotalTotal Population Population (15 (15 years+) years+) 360360 100.00100.00 TotalTotal Employed Employed 175175 77.7877.78 TotalTotal Unemployed Unemployed 5050 22.2222.22 ParticipationParticipation Rate Rate 62.562.5 % % Employment-PopulationEmployment-Population Ratio Ratio 48.6%48.6% UnemploymentUnemployment Rate Rate 22.22%22.22% Source: Source: Economic Economic Development Development Ontario Ontario (Statistics (Statistics Canada) Canada) LabourLabour Force Force by by Industry Industry IndustryIndustry Category Category 20012001 %% 2001 2001 MiningMining 0 0 0 0 AgriculturalAgricultural 110110 70.9670.96 ConstructionConstruction 0 0 0 0 FinanceFinance and and Insurance Insurance 0 0 0 0 RealReal Estate Estate 0 0 0 0 WholesaleWholesale Trade Trade 0 0 0 0 RetailRetail Trade Trade 1515 9.689.68 TransportationTransportation 1010 6.456.45 ProfessionalProfessional & & Scientific Scientific 0 0 0 0 HealthHealth Care Care 2020 12.912.9 Source: Source: Economic Economic Development Development Ontario Ontario (Statistics (Statistics Canada) Canada)

According to the 2001 census, Dorion’s labour (includes forestry) has declined substantially and no longer dominates the local labour market. force was primarily concentratedTheThe Township Townshipin the agricultural of of Dorion Dorion – –Community Community Profile Profile and forestry sector. According to a recent study Moreover, the Dorion area is experiencing an done in August of 2007, approximately 80 increase in mining exploration, which suggests employees in Dorion lost their jobs in forestry that mining is no longer absent as an industry related industries. This suggests that the providing employment for the local economy. percentage of the labour force in agriculture

10 Community Profile According to the 2001 census, Dorion’s labour force was primarily concentrated in the agricultural and forestry sector. According to a recent study done in August of 2007, approximately 80 employees in Dorion lost their jobs in forestry related industries. This suggests that the percentage of the labour force in agriculture (includes forestry) has declined substantially and no longer dominates the local labour market. Moreover, the Dorion area is experiencing an increase in mining exploration, which suggests that mining is no longer absent as an industry providing employment for the local economy.

MUNICIPAL SERVICES MUNICIPAL SERVICES

The majority of operating funds received by the Corporation of the Township of Dorion are dependent upon the taxes collected from property owners. These finances are used to provide the essential municipal services needed for community infrastructure, road maintenance, The majority of operating funds received by the Corporationeconomic of development, the Township of administration Dorion and are dependent upon the taxes collected from propertytourism. owners. The These fire finances hall in Dorionare used is to completely provide the essential municipal services needed forvolunteer community based infrastructure, and offers road the much needed maintenance, economic development, administrationfire andprotection tourism. and The emergency fire hall in Dorionservices for local is completely volunteer based and offers the muchfamilies needed andfire highwayprotection travelers. and emergency The Dorion Public services for local families and highway travelers. Also,Library the offers Community a full Access range Program of library services (CAP) the Dorion library provides free high speedincluding internet and the computerCommunity services Access for Program the (CAP) local community. site with free computer & internet access.

Taxation: 2007 Tax Rates

Tax Class Municipal Tax Rate Education Tax Rate Total Tax Rate Residential: 0.01455835 0.00264000 0.01719835

Commercial: Occupied 0.03602490 0.03046472 0.0664900

Commercial: Excess 0.02521743 0.02132530 0.0465430 Land/Vacant Land Pipelines 0.03360796 0.02945025 0.0630580

Farmlands 0.00363959 0.00066000 0.0043000

Managed Forests 0.00363959 0.00066000 0.0043000

The Township of Dorion – Community Profile

Community Profile 11 HEALTH CARE & HOUSING Health Care

Being a rural community sometimes requires traveling a longer distance to access health care services. Dorion however, is a reasonable distance to two regional hospitals – twenty minutes to Nipigon District Memorial Hospital and one hour to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Also, the community has access to free health care services on a monthly basis through a mobile health unit delivered by Norwest Community Health Centres. Emergency response care is provided by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) from the regional dispatch in Nipigon and the Thunder Bay District Health unit supports wellness promotion out of the regional office also located in Nipigon. Dorion promotes healthy communities and helps support regional health services through local taxes and volunteers.

Nipigon District Memorial Hospital Phone:(807) 887 - 3026 website: www.ndmh.ca email: [email protected]

Thunder Bay District Health Unit Nipigon Branch Office Phone: (807) 887 – 3031 Website: www.tbdhu.com

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Phone: (807) 684 - 6000 email: [email protected] website: www.tbrhsc.com

Norwest Community Health Centre Phone: 1-866-357-5454 (toll free) Local: (807) 622 - 8235 website: www.norwestchc.org/thunder_bay.htm

12 Community Profile Housing Costs

Local: (807) 622 - 8235 website: www.norwestchc.org/thunder_bay.htm

Housing Costs

A key indicator of the quality of life in Dorion is the low cost of living. Housing costs are relatively low in Dorion compared to the national average and other Northwestern Ontario communities.

Costs Amount (Dorion) $ National Average $ Average Gross Monthly Payments for $488.00 $753.00 rented dwellings Average Monthly Payments for owner $499.00 $964.00 occupied dwellings Average Value of Dwelling $94,985.00 $199,884.00

Source: Economic Development Ontario (Statistics Canada)

Housing Costs Compared across 9 other Northwestern Ontario Communities

Community Average Monthly Rent Average Monthly Average Value of $ Payment $ (owned Dwelling $ dwellings) Dorion $488 $499 94,985 Manitouwadge 493 535 38,006 Marathon 544 682 78,041 Atikokan 517 604 70,242 Oliver-Paipoonge 517 790 157,750 Ignace 818 589 86,950 Pickle Lake 551 737 163,721 Sioux Lookout 613 942 151,399 Schreiber 455 684 71,916 Terrace Bay 447 766 77,526 Average 544.30 682.80 99,053.60

Source: Economic Development Ontario (Statistics Canada)

Community Profile 13 The Township of Dorion – Community Profile Compared to nine other Northwestern Ontario communities, Dorion ranks the lowest for averageCompared monthly to nine other payments Northwestern for Ontario rented communities, and owned Dorion dwellings. ranks the lowest The for average average monthly value of a home payments for rented and owned dwellings. The average value of a home in the typical Northwestern in Ontariothe typical community Northwestern is $99053.60, whereas Ontario the communityaverage dwelling is in $99053.60, Dorion is valued whereas at $94,985 the– roughly average dwelling$4,000 below in Dorion the regional is valuedaverage. However,at $94,985 on average – roughly Dorion homes$4,000 are below still valued the higher regional than six average. However,of the nine oncommunities average studied. Dorion homes are still valued higher than six of the nine communities studied.

Housing Costs

Dorion Manitouw adge Marathon Atikokan Av erage Monthly Oliver Paipoonge Rent Ignace Av erage Monthly Pay ment (owned Pickle Lake dwellings) Sioux Lookout Schreiber Terrace Bay Average

$0.00 $500.00 $1,000.00

Monthly Payment

LAND USE INVENTORY

14 Community Profile

The Township of Dorion – Community Profile LAND USE INVENTORY

There is a limited quantity of vacant industrial and commercially zoned property available for development in Dorion. Historically, private land in Dorion was used primarily for agricultural production. Today, as agricultural production has diminished significantly, there remains an excess supply of underutilized rural zoned land in Dorion. As the forest industry continues to face transition, communities like Dorion throughout Northwestern Ontario are seekingparticularly new opportunities in agro-forestry, for economic other value- diversification,added industry and cottage development. To particularlycapture in agro-forestry, the potential availability other value-added for future industry land development, the Township of Dorion and cottageconducted development. a basic analysisTo capture and the inventory potential of availability land holdings for future to identify land development,new opportunities the Township of Dorion conducted a basic analysis and inventory of land holdings to identify new opportunities for for rural land use. rural land use.

LandLand Inventory Inventory Analysis Analysis

Based onBased the 2005 on the Municipal 2005 Municipal Property Property Assessment Assessment Corporation Corporation (MPAC) (MPAC) assessment assessment roll there roll are a total of 334there freehold are a total parcels of 334 located freehol ind theparcels Township located of in Dorion the Township comprising of Dorion a total comprisingarea of 24,206.59 a acres withtotal a totalarea currentof 24,206.59 value acresassessment with a totalof $25, current 715,300. value assessment of $25, 715,300.

Ownership Total % of Number Average Total % of *Average Type Acreage Overall of Parcel Assessed Overall Value Per Total Parcels Size Value ($) Total Acre Acreage (acres) Assessment

Rural Land 15, 964.18 65.97% 181 98.54 $12,826,400 51.36% $803 > 5 acres Out of 1,440.26 5.95% 11 130.93 337,200 1.35% $234 Country Owners Rural Land 130.83 0.54% 63 2.08 $3,496,000 14% *$26,722 < 5 acres Estates 321.00 1.33% 8 40.13 $398,600 1.66% $1,242 Companies 2,252.83 9.31% 20 112.64 $1,392,900 5.58% $614 Township 101.51 0.42% 8 12.69 $354,800 1.42% $44,350 District 15.18 0.15% 1 15.18 $1,359,000 5.44% *$89,526 School Board

Provincial 3,449.15 14.25% 21 164.25 $1,134,600 4.54% $329$ Agencies Churches 169.71 0.7% 5 33.94 $583,500 2.33 *$3,438 Railways & 334.62 1.38% 10 33.46 **$3,090,700 12.38 $797 Utilities Overall 24,199.27 100% 328 73.77 $24,973,700 100% ** $915 Totals Source: Municipal Property Assessments Corporation (MPAC).

*Assumed to include value of on-site building **No acreage shown for TransCanada Pipelines Transmission Lines – value excluded

Opportunities for Rural – Agricultural Land Development Community Profile 15

According to MPAC data, over sixty six percent of freehold land in Dorion is zoned for rural and/or agricultural purposes. For all rural land parcels larger than five acres, the average parcel size is 98.54 acres with an average value of $803 per acre.

To capture the potential availability of land parcels larger than five acres, the Township conducted a basic area resident survey covering 15, 964.18 acres (181 parcels) to identify local interest in land development for agro-forestry, bio-energy and general industrial The Township of Dorion – Community Profile Opportunities for Rural – Agricultural Land Development

According to MPAC data, over sixty six percent of basic area resident survey covering 15, 964.18 freehold land in Dorion is zoned for rural and/or acres (181 parcels) to identify local interest in agricultural purposes. For all rural land parcels land development for agro-forestry, bio-energy larger than five acres, the average parcel size is and general industrial use. Moreover, basic 98.54 acres with an average value of $803 per land development features were measured by acre. identifying the current & historical use(s) of each privately owned holding. To capture the potential availability of land parcels larger than five acres, the Township conducted a

use. Moreover, basic land development features were measured by identifying the current & historical use(s) of each privately owned holding.

SurveySurvey Findings Findings

Out of theOut total of the 38 total survey 38 surveyrespondents, respondents, 20 (52.6%) 20 (52.6%) indicated indicated that theythat theycurrently currently own ownrural-zoned land that is underutilizedrural-zoned land and thatpotentially is underutilized available and for development.potentially available From this, for development.area residents From indicated that a total of this,2270.24 area acres residents (29 parcels)indicated with that ana total average of 2270.24 parcel acressize of (29 78.28 parcels) acres with of rural an average land is potentially availableparcel for development size of 78.28 and/or acres ofalternative rural land land-use. is potentially available for development and/or alternative land-use.

Land Development Features

Percent of total available land with the following Development Features development features 90% Fairly good soils & drainage 85% Mostly level elevations 90% Available road frontage 90% Available electrical service 35% Farmed within the past 20 years 35% Still in use as farmland 40% Features mature timber stands 50% Harvested (timber) within the past 20 years 10% Prospected for mineral development 15% Mines, gravel pits or quarries developed in the past 20 years

Overall,Overall, the development the development features features for available for avai landlable in land Dorion in Dorion are relatively are relatively conducive conducive for agricultural and/or industrialfor agricultural development and/or industrial purposes. developm Survey findingsent purposes. and general Survey land-use findings analysisand general suggest that the potentialland-use for development analysis suggest in Dorion that is the high potential and that fo rre-zoning development and inattracting Dorion isinvestment high and thatfor newre- and/or alternativezoning land and use attracting could create investment the much for needednew and/ boostor alternative to the local land economy. use could create the much needed boost to the local economy.

PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM

16 Community Profile

The Township of Dorion – Community Profile PARKS, RECREATION & TOURISM

The natural attractiveness of Dorion’s physical geography is well known throughout Ontario, Canada and the world. Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park and Eagle Canyon attract over 65,000 tourists on an annual basis. The eco-tourism attractions in the area include Cavern Lake Nature Reserve, Hurkett Cove Conservation, Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area and the Dorion Fish Culture Station. Dorion offers a variety of privately owned camping and outdoor activity-based businesses and there are many local lakes and rivers that offer visitors and residents the opportunity to enjoy outdoor and water-based activities like kayaking, boating, fishing and bird watching. Dorion is within a 30 minute drive of two Marina’s in the neighboring Townships of Nipigon & Red Rock which give boaters access to the best cruising grounds on Lake Superior. In the fall, Dorion becomes alive with hunters from all over North America looking to harvest black bear, deer and moose. Whether it’s hiking down the trails at Ouimet Canyon or just sitting down at Hurkett Cove Conservation to enjoy a picnic and watching the birds, Dorion is a unique & exceptional community to explore, relax and enjoy life with friends and family.

Ontario Parks For more information: Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park c/o Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Pass Lake, Ontario P0T 2M0 807-977-2526

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority For more information contact: Lakehead Region Conservation Authority P.O. Box 10427; 130 Conservation Rd. Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6T8 (Canada) Telephone:(807) 344-5857 Fax:(807) 345-9156

Community Profile 17 TRANSPORTATION, UTILITIES & TELECOMMUNICATIONS The Township of Dorion is located on the Trans Canada Highway 11/17 along the Terry Fox Courage Highway. Dorion is within one and a half hours to one eastern United States border crossingThe in PigeonTownship River of Dorionand is withinis located four onhours the Trans Canada Highway 11/17 along the Terry to two westernFox Courage border Highway. crossings Dorion in Fort is Frances, within one and a half hours to one eastern United States ON andborder Rainy crossing River, ON.in Pigeon Thunder River Bay, and ONis within is four hours to two western border crossings the largestin Fort city Frances, located ONwithin and an Rainy hour’s River, drive ON. of Thunder Bay, ON is the largest city located Dorion withinTownship. an hour’s Finally, drive the ofCorporation Dorion Township. of the Finally, the Corporation of the Township of Township of Dorion maintains 11.1 kilometres of Dorion maintains 11.1 kilometres of paved roads and 44.2 kilometres of gravel roads paved roads and 44.2 kilometres of gravel roads within the Township boundaries. within the Township boundaries. Distance to Major Urban Centres

City Km Miles Alliston: 1249.5 776 Hamilton: 1350.4 839 Ingersoll: 1331.8 827 Kingston: 1549.9 963 Kitchener/Waterloo: 1399.7 869 London: 1292 802 Montreal: 1610 1000 North Bay: 1056.6 656 Ottawa: 1412.9 877 St. Catharine’s 1482.9 921 Sault Ste Marie: 640 397 Thunder Bay: 70 43 Toronto: 1305.9 811 Windsor: 1189.7 739

Distance to Major Border Crossings

Border Crossing Km Miles Massena/Cornwall: 1532.1 952 Ogdensburg/Prescott: 1482.9 921 Alexandria Bay/Ivy Lea: 1540.3 957 Lewiston/Queenston: 1499.6 931 Niagara Falls/Niagara Falls: 1502.3 933 Buffalo/Fort Erie: 1524.2 947 Detroit/Windsor: 1189.7 739 Port Huron/Sarnia: 1193.7 741 Sault Ste Marie/Sault Ste Marie: 640 397 Grand Portage/Thunder Bay: 140 87 International Falls/Fort Frances: 405.5 251 Baudette/Rainy River: 496.1 308

Source: Economic Development Ontario Energy 18 Community Profile Electricity in Dorion is supplied and serviced by Hydro One. Electricity prices of Hydro One are determined through the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). As part of the Regulated Price Plan (RPP), electricity prices are reviewed and adjusted by the OEB more frequently — every six months if necessary. To obtain current information on electricity

The Township of Dorion – Community Profile Energy Fuel Oil & Propane The main bulk fuel and oil comes from Thunder Bay and is supplied by Pye Brothers and Mikus Electricity in Dorion is supplied and serviced by Fuels. Superior Propane and Cal-gas supply the Hydro One. Electricity prices of Hydro One are entire propane market in Dorion. determined through the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). As part of the Regulated Price Plan (RPP), electricity prices are reviewed and adjusted by Pye Brothers Fuels Ltd. the OEB more frequently — every six months 1250 Rossyln Rd. if necessary. To obtain current information on Thunder Bay, ON electricity prices for residential and commercial Phone: (807) 475 – 7667 customers, visit www.hydroone.com or www. oeb.gov.on.ca. Mikus Fuels-Shell Canada 1401 Walsh St. Water Thunder Bay ,ON. Phone: (807) 475 - 4241 Water is accessed in Dorion through individual property wells. Residents are responsible for Superior Propane their own water quality which includes meeting 3014 Arthur Street provincial regulation for water testing and potable Thunder Bay, ON water access. Dorion is well known as having Phone: (807) 939 – 2568 some of the purest natural springs in Ontario. For more information contact the Chief Building CAL-GAS Inc. Inspector at the Municipal Office. 130 Island Dr. Thunder Bay, ON. Municipal Office Phone: (807) 344 - 3300 Building Inspector: Alan Cooke 170 Dorion Loop Road Dorion, ON P0T 1K0 Tel. (807) 857 – 2289 Fax. (807) 857 – 2203 Email [email protected]

Telecommunications

Dorion is connected worldwide with high speed T-bay Tel internet, cellular and satellite service through Business Solutions Thunder Bay Telephone (Tbay Tel) and Bell Phone: 1-866-999-0626 Canada. Also, through the government funded Local: (807) 623 – 8800 Community Access Program (CAP) the Dorion website: www.tbaytel.net library provides free high speed internet service to the community. Bell Canada Business Customers Phone: (807) 623 - 4255 website: www.bell.ca

Community Profile 19 government funded Community Access Program (CAP) the Dorion library provides free high speed internet service to the community.

T-bay Tel Business Solutions Phone: 1-866-999-0626 Local: (807) 623 – 8800 website: www.tbaytel.net

Bell Canada Business Customers Phone: (807) 623 - 4255 website: www.bell.ca CLIMATE CLIMATE

The climate of Dorion is typical of a mid-latitude inland location with a Great Lake (Lake Superior) moderating influence, resulting in cooler summer temperatures and warmer winter temperatures. The average daily temperatures range from a high of 17.6 °C in July and a low of -14.8 °C in January. The average daily high in July is 24.2 °C and the average daily high in January is -8.6 °C. The surrounding area is quite sunny with an average of 2184 hours of bright sunshine each year, ranging from 283.4 hours in July to 88.8 hours inThe November climate -of sunnier Dorion than is typical any area/region of a mid-la titude inland location with a Great Lake (Lake in CanadaSuperior) located moderating to the east influence of it. , resulting in cooler summer temperatures and warmer winter temperatures. The average daily temperatures range from a high of 17.6 °C in July and a low of -14.8 °C in January. The average daily high in July is 24.2 °C and the average daily high in January is -8.6 °C. The surrounding area is quite sunny with an average of 2184 hours of bright sunshine each year, ranging from 283.4 hours in July to 88.8 hours in November - sunnier than any area/region in Canada located to the east of it.

Average Weather Conditions

Temperatures Precipitation Extreme Maximum 35.7oC Avg. Annual Rainfall 550mm Extreme Minimum -40.5oC Maximum Rainfall 89mm (August) Average summer temp 16oC Maximum Snowfall 46cm (December) Average Winter temp -9.5oC Avg. annual Sunshine 2,184 hours Hours

Average WeatherThe Comparis Township ofons Dorion among – Community Communities Profile

Area Average Annual Average Annual Average Annual Hours Rainfall (mm) Snowfall (cm) of Sunshine Calgary, AB 320.6 mm 126.7 cm 2395 hours Winnipeg 415.6mm 110.6 cm 2377 hours Dorion, ON 550 mm 196 cm 2184 hours Montreal, QC 760 mm 214.2 cm 2028 hours Kelowna, BC 298 mm 101.8 cm 2000 hours Vancouver, BC 1154.7 mm 48.2 cm 1920 hours London, ON 781 mm 213 cm 1861 hours Whitehorse, YT 163.1 mm 145 cm 1852 hours Saint John, NB 1157 mm 283 cm 1681 hours

Source: The Weather Network

20 CommunityPHYSICAL Profile GEOGRAPHY

Geology & Physiography

Mining in Dorion consists of potential exploration for deposits of gold, silver, uranium, copper and other industrial minerals. Mining exploration in the Dorion area has been increasing since the 1970’s particularly for uranium deposits in the Sibley Basin, which according to geologists shares much of the geological structure with the Athabasca Basin in Northern Saskatchewan.

Source: Ministry of Natural Resources

The Township of Dorion – Community Profile PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Geology & Physiography

Dorion is located on the Canadian (Boreal) Shield or Precambrian Shield which covers two-thirds of Ontario. The geology of the area consists of “rocks of Proterozoic age (i.e. 600 million to 2.5 billion years old), which represents a zone of orogenesis or “mountain-building” (e.g. large-scale folding, thrusting and faulting of rocks) which occurred about 1.8 billion years ago.” Evidence of this can be found in Dorion at Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park and the Pinnacles, which are two very popular tourist attractions in the area. The terrain of the forest ranges from lowland peat bogs to deep fertile upland soils to bedrock covered by thin layers of soil and moss. Rivers & Lakes Mining in Dorion consists of potential exploration for deposits of gold, silver, uranium, copper and The whole eastern boundary of Dorion shores the other industrial minerals. Mining exploration in Great Lake Superior, the largest National Marine the Dorion area has been increasing since the Conservation Area in North America. Dorion is 1970’s particularly for uranium deposits in the home to over twenty-five lakes of various sizes, Sibley Basin, which according to geologists the major ones being Wolf Lake and Innes Lake. shares much of the geological structure with the The major river that runs through Dorion is the Athabasca Basin in Northern Saskatchewan. Wolf River. Along the Wolf River there are many Source: Ministry of Natural Resources waterfalls and attractions for tourists to explore. Most of the drainage off local lakes runs through 3 creeks in the area: Furcate Creek, Coldwater Creek and MacIntosh Creek. The longest running creek in the township is by far Coldwater Creek which runs approximately 12.5 kilometers before draining into Lake Superior

One of the most popular public access lakes in the area is Wolf Lake, which actually lies just outside of Dorion Township to the north in the unorganized area of Glenn Township. Wolf Lake is known for its great walleye fishing, swimming and camping getaways. Innes Lake also deserves mentioning as a major lake in terms of size and physical attraction. The main fish species found in Innes Lake are Lake Trout. Source: Lakehead Region Conservation Authority

Community Profile 21 Flora & Fauna

Dorion is located deep in the heart of the boreal deciduous species are white birch and poplar. forest -- the largest forest region in Ontario and The forests in Dorion are similar to those in Canada. In geological terms, the boreal forest upper Michigan and northern Minnesota. The is quite young. Until about 13,000 years ago, boreal forest is home to a variety of wildlife, glaciers covered much of Ontario and Canada. It including moose, white-tailed dear, black bear, wasn’t until approximately 5,000 years ago that jays and song birds, wolves, beaver and otter. the boreal forest was established in northern Dorion is frequently referenced as a popular Ontario. bird watching location. In addition, the forest contains hundreds of species of plants, In Dorion the main conifer species are white and such as ferns, mosses, shrubs, herbs and black spruce, balsam fir, jack pine, tamarack mushrooms. and eastern white cedar; the predominant Source: Ministry of Natural Resources

22 Community Profile LEARNING INSTITUTIONS

Education and training are one of the most essential resources that a community needs to function and thrive. Having access to a high quality of education and training provides people with the necessary skills and disciplines to raise healthy families and support a growing economy. Dorion has a relatively new elementary school as well as an Ontario Early Years Centre that provides elementary students with the necessary educational upbringing. After completion of elementary school students must travel a reasonable distance to a nearby High school in the bordering township of Red Rock approximately 20 km away. Post-Secondary education and training is accessible within an hour drive of Dorion in Thunder Bay where many programs and disciplines are offered at the certificate/diploma, undergraduate and graduate levels.

Lakehead University CDI College of Business, 955 Oliver Road Technology and Health Care Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1 28 North Cumberland Street Phone: (807) 343 – 8110 Thunder Bay, ON Fax: (807) 343 – 8023 Toll Free: 1 – 800- 965 – 7055 www.lakeheadu.ca www.cdicollege.com

Confederation College Northwestern Transport Training & 1450 Nakina Drive Heavy Equipment Training Thunder Bay, ON P7C 4W1 195 East Gore Street Toll Free: 1800 – 465-5493 Thunder Bay, ON www.confederationc.on.ca Phone: (807) 622-1152 email: [email protected] Academy of Learning Career www.northwesternworldwide.com and Business College 416 E. Victoria Avenue Thunder Bay, ON Phone: (807) 624 – 2380 www.academyoflearning.com

Community Profile 23 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & FUTURE GROWTH

The quality of life in Dorion is an attractive feature [DEDC]. Also, there are regional government and significant driver of economic development ministries and nonprofit organizations that act in the area. The onset of the emerging mining on behalf of each community in the region for exploration industry as well as continued business development and consulting services. development and research into tourism, agro- As a potential investor or site selector, information forestry and wind energy will ensure a bright and on Dorion and its development opportunities can prosperous future for Dorion and the regional be found through the following contacts: economy.

Economic development initiatives are dealt with by the Dorion Economic Development Committee

The Township of Business Outreach Officer: Dorion Municipal Office Anne-Marie Bourgeault 170 Dorion Loop Road Email: [email protected] Dorion, ON P0T 1K0 www.sncfdc.org Phone: (807) 857 – 2289 Fax: (807) 857 – 2203 Ministry of Northern Development Email: [email protected] & Mines www.doriontownship.ca Regional Advisor: Guylene Levesque Phone: (807) 857 – 0267 Superior North Community Futures Email: [email protected] Development Corporation www.mndm.on.ca 7, Chemin Mill Road P.O. Box/C.P. 716 Terrace Bay, ON P0T 2W0 Phone: 1-888-445-9999 Fax: (807) 857 – 9664

24 Community Profile CONTACT US

Dorion Economic Development Township Office 170 Dorion Loop Road Dorion, ON P0T 1K0 Phone (807) 857 – 2289 Fax: (807) 857 – 2203 email: [email protected]

Community Profile 25 26 Community Profile

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