The GeoConnections Discovery Portal is an on-line metadata catalogue of geospatial and geoscience data products and Web services for Canada. The Discovery Portal enables GIS users, developers and data suppliers to find, evaluate, access, visualize and publish Canadian geospatial and geoscience data products and Web services.
What data can I find using the GeoConnections Discovery Portal?
Some examples of geospatial and geoscience data accessible through the GeoConnections Discovery Portal include: air photos, topographic data, remote sensing images, tabular statistics, and thematic map layers.
Who manages the GDP?
The GDP is managed by the Mapping Information Branch of Natural Resources Canada.
How do I use the GeoConnections Discovery Portal?
Do I need to register?
You don't need to register to search for data; however you may register if you would like to use additional features such as saving your search criteria and/or search results. Data suppliers and publishers must register.
How do I find Web Services such as WMS, WFS, Z39.50, etc.?
Choose the Search Catalogue option, and specify the Web services in the "Resource Types" check boxes.
Can I publish my data to the GDP?
Yes, if it is either geospatial or geoscience data or a related Web service. First, you need to register an account on the GDP. After you login, select "Publish Content" to open the Publishing Wizard for step by step input of your metadata. Save your input. An email notification will be sent to GDP staff indicating new content for review.
How do I create an account?
Choose the "Sign In" option or select Publish Content on the home page and follow the steps. Please link to our privacy policy page from the "Create Account" page for important details.
Is there a fee to use the GDP?
No, there is no fee for clients to search for data using the GDP or to publish data to the GDP.
What do I do if I need help?
Can you send me specific data or maps?
The GDP is a search engine that allows you to search for Canadian geospatial data products and Web services, however we don't provide these products directly to users. Simply input your key criteria using one of the search options provided. Pertinent details are returned allowing you to acquire the geospatial data directly from the source.
If you encounter any difficulties while using the GDP or if you would like assistance, please contact GeoConnections Discovery Portal Client Support at: geodiscover@nrcan.gc.ca
What do I do if I've forgotten my email address and/or password?
If you've forgotten your password, there is a link beside the password field. If you've forgotten the email address (or both your password and email address) that you used to create the account please contact GeoConnections Discovery Portal Client Support at: geodiscover@nrcan.gc.ca. We will assist you.
How do I get a new user name and password?
Use the My Account function or contact GeoConnections Discovery Portal Client Support at: geodiscover@nrcan.gc.ca
Federal Geographic Data Committee Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata (FDCG CSDGM)
ISO 19115 - geographic information, metadata
Dublin Core
Machine-Readable Cataloging 21 (MARC21)
Data Interchange Format (DIF)
How do I locate global thematic geospatial datasets?
The GDP provides quick links to popular thematic, regional, national and international portals on the home page. Watch for new sites to be highlighted.
