Gediz Delta. 15/04/98; Izmir Gulf; 14,900 ha; 38°30'N 026°55'E. Cultural and Natural Asset; Wildlife Protection Area. An extensive coastal wetland with bays, salt and freshwater marshes, large saltpans, and four highly saline lagoons located at the mouth of the Gediz River near Izmir. The site supports dry grasslands, arable land, and some woodlands. The globally threatened pelican Pelecanus crispus breeds at the site. An important area for breeding, feeding, wintering, and sheltering internationally important numbers of numerous species of waterbirds. Human activities include fishing, agriculture, cattle grazing, and the largest salt production centre in the country. A number of ancient cities, such as Leukai and Larissa, are found there. The Gediz River is of vital importance for agriculture in the region, but is becoming significantly polluted. Ramsar site no. 945. Most recent RIS information: 2008.