This publication provides background information on the Ring of Fire, covering the following topics: the location, size and geology of the area; an overview of federal jurisdiction in the region; the potential economic benefits of mining development in the Ring of Fire; the challenges to mining development in the region; First Nations and the development of the Ring of Fire; and exampl [...] Instead, the sections that follow provide an overview of shared concerns, including: adequate consultations with First Nations and their role in the development of their traditional territories; sharing of benefits; and the readiness and capacity of First Nations to participate in decision-making. [...] Development of the region poses a number of challenges, including consideration of ecosystem sensitivity, the region’s remoteness and lack of infrastructure, First Nations concerns, and education and training of workers. [...] Going forward, attention on the Ring of Fire will likely be focused on three key areas: continuing negotiations following the recently announced framework agreement between the Matawa Tribal Council and the Government of Ontario; the ongoing environmental assessment of Noront’s Eagle’s Nest project; and the progress of Ontario’s forthcoming development corporation.