This town
was founded in 1963, largely as a result of mining and
forest activity in the area. The name Matagami means
«meeting of waters»; the town is located
at the confluence of the Bell, Allard and Waswanipi
Rivers flowing into Matagami lake. In earlier days,
the discovery of vast halieutic resources in the region
led to a fishing industry with the Nottaway Fish Company
supplying the Hudson Bay Co. post. Dr. Robert Bell,
a geologist working for the Canadian Government, explored
the region in 1895. His discoveries and analysis gave
birth to the area’s first mining operations. In
1960, timber companies set up shop and a new industry
was born. Today, Noranda and Domtar are two of the main
employers in this town. Matagami’s development
was also a result of the hydroelectric projects undertaken
in James Bay. These major dam projects were the reason
behind the construction of another engineering marvel:
the James Bay highway. At Km 10, James Bay Highway Mount-Laurier
is a site of exceptional beauty and a favourite destination
for photographers and those who love trekking. A nature
trail leads to the summit and to a spectacular panorama
of the town, Matagami lake and the boreal forest in
all its splendour!
| Address : |
195, boulevard Matagami
PO Box 160
Matagami
J0Y 2A0 |
| Telephone : |
(819) 739-2541 |
| Administrative
Region : |
Nord-du-Québec (10) |
| Census Canada
Region : |
Nord-du-Québec (99) |
