The Convention on Wetlands came into force for Israel on 12 March 1997. Israel presently has 2 sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance, with a surface area of 366 hectares. A human-made wetland created as a result of an attempt to restore the drained swamps. Located on the coastal plain, the area supports an appreciable assemblage of rare, vulnerable or endangered species of plants and animals. Notable species include the endangered Pygmy Cormorant and the rare Greater Flamingo and Black-necked Grebe.
Vegetation includes reedbeds and wet meadows.
Human activities are limited but include an important conservation education programme. A visitor center is housed in an 800-year old Crusader fortress. To control the wet meadows, a grazing programme has been implemented. Hula Nature Reserve. A human-made wetland created as a result of an attempt to restore part of the drained Hula Lake and swamps.