Ramsar sites are designated under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, agreed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.
Originally intended to protect sites of importance as waterfowl habitat, the Convention has broadened its scope to cover all aspects of wetland conservation and wise use. It recognises wetlands as being extremely important for biodiversity conservation in general as well as for the well being of human communities.
The Lee Valley Special Protection Area is also designated as a Ramsar site.