Cepkeliai mire (epkelis raistas). 04/10/93; Varena; 11,227 ha; 54°N 024°30°E. Strict Nature Reserve and Natura 2000 site. The epkeliai swamp (5,858 ha), also known as the epkeliai wetland, and the Pastalik swamp (966 ha) form the largest wetland in Lithuania. Upland bog covers more than half of the wetland territory. The wetland is surrounded by lowland bogs, wooded continental dunes, a sandy plain, and the Katra River valley. The upland bog is a habitat for species typical of the northern regions of Lithuania while the sands surrounding the upland bog are home to species typical of southern Lithuania. This gives the site special significance as a reservoir of species biodiversity. There is a visitor centre and an educational nature trail and tourism activity is limited to 2,000 to 3,000 visitors per year. The site is threatened by natural succession due to rapidly declining agricultural activities in the surrounding territories which results in increased forest coverage. A management plan was prepared in 2004 and is currently being implemented. Ramsar Site No. 625. Most recent RIS information: 2010.