The Barnbruch is a wetland of international importance in the old glacial valley of the river Aller that provides a habitat for endangered species of birds, amphibians and insects. It lies between the city of Wolfsburg and town of Gifhorn and consists of an enclosed woodland area of around 1,500 hectares (3,700 acres) with surrounding meadows and pastures. This low-lying depression lies partly within the territory of the city of Wolfsburg and partly within Gifhorn district.