This Site is one of the last remaining raised bogs in the Netherlands, with dry heathland, birch forests, ditches and drainage channels. Apart from the active raised bog core, the area consists of wet heath which features drier areas. Some small birch forests can be found along the edges of the Site. In 2014 the Site boundary was aligned with the Natura 2000 boundary, resulting in the addition of an area of 105 hectares. The Site is an important breeding, resting and moulting area for many species of duck, goose, swan and waders. It regularly supports protected species such as the common crane (Grus grus) as well as more than 1% of the population of tundra bean goose (Anser serrirostris). The wetland plays an important role in groundwater replenishment and carbon sequestration. Land use is dedicated to water management, recreation and tourism. The main potential threat to its ecological character is drainage and air pollution.