Within the context of the Estuarine Programme that forms part of South African Oceanographic Research, an outline is given of environmental problems resulting from human activities in estuaries, of current state of research, and of legislation that relates to South African estuaries. With this background, a programme framework is developed which outlines the types of research that will be needed over the next five years. While being aimed at obtaining a fundamental understanding of estuaries, such research will also aid in the rational management of estuaries. Estuaries on which research should be concentrated are identified and guidelines are given for project proposals and reporting.
