Abstract: On the basis of a review of the cutoff history of downstream Yellow River in the last two decades,the causes and damages of the cutoff are analyzed ,and control measures suggested.Several misleading opinions on Yellow River development are discussed.Study in the area includes geomorphology and ecology of the catchment and the relationship between the river channel and changes in the North China Plain.The author proposed that the study of Yellow River be carried out at a catchment system level and compatible with sustainable development.Details of working plan are proposed.