The Site lies in an agriculture-dominated area of south-western Norway with formerly extensive wetlands. The coastal wetlands remain largely intact, but freshwater sites have been drained on a large scale. Marine areas are dominated by sand, mud, pebble and stone shores, with large areas of dune systems, and the freshwater areas by shallow water and extensive stands of Phragmites communis. Three smaller mire systems have also been included in the Site. The coastline of Jæren is one of the most important resting and breeding areas in Norway for migratory and wintering seabirds, waterfowl and shorebirds. Given the influence of agriculture and the high levels of nitrogen pollution in the area, the remaining wetlands are extraordinarily important as sediment traps and for water purification. The shorelines host the densest collection of archaeological sites in Norway, with grave mounds dating back a thousand years or more. Action plans to decrease agricultural runoff are showing promise, and buffer zones are being considered. Many tourists come for the walking, sunbathing and birdwatching.