Taureau Reservoir, Reservoir in Matawinie, Lanaudière, Quebec, Canada
Taureau Reservoir is a large body of water in the forested Lanaudière region of Quebec. It spans a wide area with over 40 islands, sandy beaches stretching along the shoreline, and calm waters suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing.
The reservoir was created in the early 1930s when a dam was constructed at Matawin. Several communities were flooded to form the basin, and remnants of these submerged settlements remain beneath the water.
The name comes from a Matawin River rapid flooded in 1931; its roar was likened to a bellowing bull, though an 1888 map labels the spot Ox Bow rapids, perhaps for the river's curve. Today the sandy shores of Baie du Milieu, des Embranchements and du Poste draw wilderness campers and swimmers.
The reservoir is easily reached by well-marked roads, with several access points and boat launches around the water. Boat rentals, campsites, and accommodations are located at various spots, making it straightforward to organize your activities.
The name comes from a rapids flooded in 1931; an 1888 map of the Matawin River labels them Ox Bow rapids, possibly for the curve they formed rather than any bellowing. The Matawin dam at the outlet holds the water at 356.58 m.
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