Decree No. 20/GOV on the Management of Water Catchments and Reservoirs.

This Decree establishes the principles and regulatory measures for managing, monitoring, and inspecting water catchments and reservoirs across Laos. It aims to ensure sustainable water use and ecological balance while supporting national socio-economic development through "green" environmental practices. The Decree applies to all activities involving the survey, registration, and allocation of water resources to protect natural water systems and biodiversity.
The Decree defines technical procedures for administrative committees to categorize water sources and establish safety monitoring points for flood prevention. It mandates the creation of management plans that regulate water quality and flow volumes for various sectors, including agriculture and hydropower. Furthermore, it outlines the specific duties of the natural resources and environmental sector in coordinating emergency responses to hazards like dam erosion or critical water level fluctuations.