Nissum Fjord. 02/09/77; Region Midtjylland ; 10,952 ha; 56°21N08°14E. Natura 2000 (SAC, SPA); Nature Conservation Area; Wildlife Reserve. A shallow, very eutropic, brackish fjord connected to the North Sea through a lock system. There are areas of saltmarshes, uninhabited islands supporting heathland vegetation, brackish meadows, and extensive reedbeds. The site is an internationally important area for breeding, wintering and staging of various species of endangered waterbirds such as Baltic Dunlin Calidris alpina schinzii and Ruff Philomachus pugnax. The site regularly supports over 20,000 staging waterbirds during spring and autumn. Human activities include reed harvesting and cattle grazing. Eutrophication and loss of underwater vegetation have reduced the numbers of birds of passage. Bird observation platforms and public foot and bicycle paths have been established. Guided tours are organized to raise public awareness about the value of the site for migratory birds. Ramsar Site no.143. Most Recent RIS information: 2012.