An ESTUARY is a point where a river and sea meet. It is a semi-enclosed coastal body of water which has a free connection with the open sea. Estuaries are typically found where the land is low and the sea is higher, allowing the river to flow into the sea. Estuaries are important habitats for many species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They also provide important economic benefits, such as providing a safe harbor for ships and acting as a buffer against flooding.