Lac-Matawin is a freshwater lake located in the province of Quebec, Canada. It lies within the Matawin River watershed in the Laurentides administrative region, and it is encompassed by the Matawin Wildlife Reserve. The lake is part of an unorganized territory that shares its name, situated in the Antoine‑Labelle Regional County Municipality (RCM).
Geography
- The lake is positioned in the northern part of the Laurentian Mountains and contributes to the hydrology of the Matawin River, which ultimately flows into the Saint‑Maurice River system.
- The surrounding area is characterized by boreal forest, numerous other lakes and rivers, and is largely undeveloped, with minimal permanent human settlement.
Administrative status
- Lac-Matawin is not incorporated as a municipality; it is administered as an unorganized territory within the Antoine‑Labelle RCM. Consequently, census data typically report a permanent population of zero, reflecting the lack of residential communities directly on its shores.
Etymology
- The name “Matawin” is derived from an Algonquin term, often interpreted as meaning “meeting of waters” or “lake,” reflecting the lake’s role within the regional hydrography.
Recreation and conservation
- The lake and its surrounding reserve are used for outdoor recreation, including fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. The Matawin Wildlife Reserve manages the area to preserve its natural ecosystems and to support sustainable tourism.
References
- Geographic Names Board of Canada. “Lac-Matawin.”
- Quebec Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks – Matawin Wildlife Reserve documentation.
Accurate information is not confirmed for specific metrics such as exact surface area, maximum depth, and precise geographic coordinates.