description Esker de Matagami Overview
help Esker de Matagami FAQ
What is an esker, and why is Esker de Matagami one?
An esker is a long ridge of sand and gravel deposited by meltwater flowing through or beneath glacial ice. Esker de Matagami is a large Quebec example formed by that glaciofluvial process. [Quebec geology guide](https://gq.mines.gouv.qc.ca/quaternaire_en/eskers_en/)
Where is Esker de Matagami located?
It is in the Matagami area of northern Quebec, in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region. Geological mapping describes the feature as running generally north to south and forming the bed of Highway 109 in places. [Quebec geological report](https://gq.mines.gouv.qc.ca/documents/examine/GM50883/GM50883.pdf)
Was Esker de Matagami studied for mineral exploration?
Yes. A 1968 survey covered about 180 square kilometres of the Matagami esker area and collected 170 samples for elements including copper, lead, zinc, molybdenum, gold, and silver. [Natural Resources Canada survey](https://geochem.nrcan.gc.ca/cdogs/content/svy/svy200082_e.htm)
How is Esker de Matagami different from a moraine?
An esker is mainly sorted sand and gravel laid down by flowing meltwater, while a moraine is a less sorted accumulation of glacial debris. Quebec's official place-name records list Esker de Matagami and Sakami Moraine as separate landforms. [Quebec geology guide](https://gq.mines.gouv.qc.ca/quaternaire_en/eskers_en/)
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