This wetland complex in the north-east of Estonia consists of raised bogs, swamp forests, fens, primaeval forests, bog-pools and ephemeral streams. It is located in the catchment areas of the Tagajõgi, Pungerja, and Purtse rivers, and is especially important for the maintenance of their hydrological regimes. Its biodiversity is one of the richest in Estonian mires, and some species found in the wetland such as the ghost orchid (Epipogium aphyllum) and the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) are rarely seen in other parts of the country. It is also one of the few breeding places for the jack snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus). Nationally threatened species can also be found, including the southern dunlin (Calidris alpina schinzii) and willow grouse (Lagopus lagopus). Pollution from nearby power stations has been reduced but still poses a threat to the wetland, along with intensifying forestry and increasing pressures from tourism.