[Objective] To provide theoretical basis and technical support for low-benefit protection forest restoration and reconstruction on Yellow River delta saline alkali land, and improve the construction of existing protection forest system.[Methods] Based on a comprehensive in-depth investigation and research documents conducted previously, the possible causes of low benefit protection forest were discussed, and then combined with standing conditions and in situ growth status, the forest was zoned and improvement methods were put forward accordingly.[Results] Influenced by natural factors, non natural factors and their combined effects, a considerable number of protection forests have formed low-benefit forests in the Yellow River Delta, and the low-benefit forests can be divided into 6 main types. Different techniques and methods should be adopted for the transformation of low-benefit forests for each type.[Conclusion] Low-benefit forest restoration technique involves a serious of issues, such as causes analysis, low benefit classification and technique selection. They should be understood thoroughly before the practice of the restoration of low-benefit forest is carried out. Besides, the link between technique and present policy of public service forest should be dealt with well in the Yellow River delta.