The Site is unique within the Murray-Darling Drainage Division bioregion for its juxtaposition of highly channelized floodplain with open water wetland habitat, spanning over 8,400 hectares. As part of a large terminal wetland system it plays an important hydrological role in the natural functioning of the Narran River. The vast floodplain is dominated by lignum (Muehlenbeckia florulenta): it represents one of the largest expanses of relatively intact lignum in New South Wales. The Site provides critical habitat for large colonial waterbird breeding events for nine colonial species such as straw-necked ibis (Threskiornis spinicollis), Australian pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus), Australian white ibis (Threskiornis molucca), glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) and royal spoonbill (Platalea regia), and is listed as an Important Bird Area by Birds Australia. The Site also supports the globally endangered Australasian bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus). The fish population has a high proportion of native species. The Site is part of an area that holds great significance for local Aboriginal people.