Nagao Wetland Fund: Call for Applications
19 January 2021The Nagao Wetland Fund (NWF) is open for applications from Contracting Parties in the Asia and Oceania regions included in the DAC List of ODA Recipients.
The importance of global wetlands to sustainable development
Learn moreThe Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.
Number of Contracting Parties: 171
Number of Wetlands of International Importance: 2,414
Total surface of designated sites: 254,543,972 ha
The Site consists of 13 subsites with sheltered intertidal mudflats, salt marshes, permanent shallow marine waters and rocky shores. There are also the two largest river estuaries in the fjord, notably Gaulosenas, one of very few unspoilt large-river estuaries in southern Norway. Both estuaries play an important role in flood regulation. These wetlands support outstanding biodiversity and are of great importance for migratory birds, in particular geese, ducks, waders and wintering seabirds. Nearly the entire Svalbard population of pink-footed goose Anser brachyrhynchus uses the Site as a staging area both in spring and autumn. The nutrient-rich freshwater areas and the numerous islets and skerries in the fjord are the most important areas for breeding species such as the horned grebe Podiceps auritus and the great crested grebe Podiceps cristatus. The shallows also comprise important moulting areas for common eiders Somateria mollissima and mallards Anas platyrhynchos during summer months. Ørin, Gaulosen, Vinnan and Velvangen are important spawning grounds for the local fjord population of Atlantic herring Clupea herengius. The Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and brown trout Salmo trutta also use some of the sub-sites as migratory paths. The main human activities include recreation, fishing and birdwatching.