Circular No. 11/2024/TT-BTNMT stipulates technical procedures for land investigation and assessment; land protection, improvement, and restoration.

CIRCULAR
Technical regulations for land investigation and evaluation;

technical regulations for land protection, improvement, and restoration

Pursuant to the Land Law dated January 18, 2024; the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Land Law No. 31/2024/QH15, the Housing Law No. 27/2023/QH15, the Real Estate Business Law No. 29/2023/QH15, and the Law on Credit Institutions No. 32/2024/QH15 dated June 29, 2024;

Pursuant to the Government Decree No. 101/2024/NĐ-CP dated July 29, 2024 concerning basic land investigation; registration, issuance of land use right certificates, ownership certificates of immovable property attached to land, and the land information system;

Pursuant to Decree No. 68/2022/NĐ-CP dated September 22, 2022 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment;

At the proposal of the Director of the Department of Planning and Development of Land Resources,

The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment promulgates this Circular stipulating technical regulations for land investigation and evaluation; technical regulations for land protection, improvement, and restoration.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Circular stipulates technical regulations for land investigation and evaluation; technical regulations for land protection, improvement, and restoration, including:

1. Technical regulations for land investigation and evaluation include:

a) Technical regulations for land quality investigation and evaluation as provided for in Clause 1, Article 53 of the Land Law;

b) Technical regulations for land degradation investigation and evaluation as provided for in Clause 2, Article 53 of the Land Law;

c) Technical regulations for land pollution investigation and evaluation as provided for in Clause 3, Article 53 of the Land Law;

d) Technical regulations for land quality monitoring, land degradation monitoring, and land pollution monitoring as provided for in Clause 4, Article 53 of the Land Law;

đ) Technical regulations for specialized land investigation and evaluation as provided for in Clause 2, Article 52 of the Land Law.

2. Technical regulations for land protection, improvement, and restoration as provided for in Article 54 of the Land Law.

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to state management agencies for land, local agencies with land management functions, organizations and individuals conducting land investigation and evaluation; land protection, improvement, and restoration, and related organizations and individuals.

Article 3. Definitions

In this Circular, the following terms shall be understood as follows:

1. Soil quality map is a map showing the distribution of soil plots according to soil quality levels at a specific time.

2. Contaminated land map is a map showing the distribution of contaminated soil plots according to types and levels of contamination and locations of contamination points at a specific time.

3Potential land map is a map showing the distribution of soil plots according to potential land levels at a specific time.

4. Degraded land map is a map showing the distribution of degraded soil plots according to degraded land levels at a specific time.

5. Soil quality is the characteristic of soil properties, topography, physical properties, chemical properties, biological properties, and other conditions according to the assessment level.

6. Soil plot is an area formed by one or more contiguous land parcels with the same characteristics, enclosed by outer boundaries.

7. Area requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration is the area of degraded land and contaminated land delineated based on the results of land investigation and evaluation activities.

8. Soil contamination is the increase in the concentration of certain substances or compounds beyond the maximum allowable limits stipulated in this Circular.

9. Soil quality monitoring is the systematic observation activity of indicators regarding the physical and chemical properties of soil.

10. Soil contamination monitoring is the systematic observation activity of heavy metal concentrations and organic phosphorus pesticide residues in annual crop soils and perennial crop soils.

11. Soil degradation monitoring is the systematic observation activity of indicators regarding soil fertility decline; soil erosion; soil drought, desertification, and salinization; soil cementation and calcification; soil salinization; and soil acidification.

12. Land potential is the capacity in terms of quantity and quality of land and economic, social, and environmental efficiency for agricultural and non-agricultural lands.

13. Abbreviations

Article 4. Objects of land investigation, evaluation; protection, improvement, and restoration of land

1. Objects of land quality investigation, degradation investigation nationwide, economic-social regions (hereinafter referred to as regional level), provinces, centrally governed cities (hereinafter referred to as provincial level) include agricultural land and unused land (excluding rocky mountains without forests).

2. Objects of land potential investigation nationwide, at regional and provincial levels include agricultural land, non-agricultural land, and unused land.

3. Objects of soil pollution investigation

a) Objects of national and regional-level soil pollution investigation include agricultural land and unused land (excluding rocky mountains without forests);

b) Objects of provincial-level soil pollution investigation include lands with pollution sources, including: agricultural land; unused land (excluding rocky mountains without forests); land planned for urban and rural residential areas.

4. Objects of soil quality monitoring, degradation monitoring, and pollution monitoring are types of land specified in Clause 1 and Clause 3 of this Article determined according to a network of fixed monitoring points across the country.

5. Objects of specialized land investigation and evaluation are one or more types of land specified in Article 9 of the Land Law decided by competent state agencies to organize specialized land investigation and evaluation tasks as determined in the mission upon approval.

6. Objects of land protection, improvement, and restoration are types of land in areas suffering from degradation and pollution.

Article 5. Provisions on field survey maps for land investigation and evaluation

1. Provisions on field survey maps

a) Field survey maps for national and regional-level land quality investigation, degradation investigation, and pollution investigation are based on current land use status maps at the provincial level for the same period;

b) Field survey maps for provincial-level land quality investigation and degradation investigation are based on current land use status maps at the district level for the same period;

2. Provisions on contents of field survey maps

a) Inherited elements from current land use status maps include: mathematical base layers and related contents; boundary and administrative boundary layers; topographic layers; transportation and water system layers and related objects; economic and social object layers; current land use status layers;

b) Boundaries of land plots for land quality investigation, land potential investigation; degradation investigation; pollution investigation. The boundary symbols for land plot investigation are shown according to the provisions in Section 2 Part B of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

The smallest delineated land plot area is determined based on the actual site boundaries and map scale, specifically as follows:

c) Labels for delineated land plot investigation

Labels for delineated land plot investigation for land quality and degradation show investigation information in the following order: abbreviated name symbol; plot number (represented by Arabic numerals, from 01 to the end within the investigation scope, numbered from left to right, top to bottom); soil type symbol; topography symbol.

Labels for delineated land plot investigation for regional-level soil pollution show investigation information in the following order: abbreviated name symbol; plot number (represented by Arabic numerals, from 01 to the end within the investigation scope, numbered from left to right, top to bottom); land type symbol; administrative unit name symbol at the commune level.

Labels for delineated land plot investigation for provincial-level soil pollution show investigation information in the following order: abbreviated name symbol; plot number (represented by Arabic numerals, from 01 to the end within the investigation scope, numbered from left to right, top to bottom); land type symbol; pollution source symbol;

d) Location of investigation points on field survey maps is shown as dots;

đ) Map name, map scale, construction unit, and legend (including: symbols inherited from current land use status maps, delineated land plot investigation boundaries, delineated land plot investigation labels, and investigation point symbols).

Article 6: Provisions on land survey and evaluation results; land protection, improvement, and restoration results

1. The data on land survey and evaluation results; land protection, improvement, and restoration results are compiled from the area of delineated plots according to the assessment levels of land quality, land potential, land degradation, soil pollution, and land protection, improvement, and restoration results. Data compilation shall be carried out in accordance with the system of forms prescribed in Clause 4 of this Article.

2. Maps of land survey and evaluation results; maps of land protection, improvement, and restoration results include: land quality map, land potential map, land degradation map, soil pollution map, and land protection, improvement, and restoration result map.

a) The map of land survey and evaluation results is established based on the current land use status map of the same period of land inventory at the following scales:

National land survey and evaluation result map at a scale of 1:1,000,000.

Regional land survey and evaluation result map at a scale of 1:250,000.

Provincial land survey and evaluation result map at a scale from 1:25,000 to 1:100,000.

Specialized land survey and evaluation result map is established at a scale suitable for the area, shape, and size of the surveyed and evaluated region.

b) The map of land protection, improvement, and restoration results is established based on the land survey and evaluation result map of the same level and period.

c) The minimum plot area according to the scale of the land survey and evaluation result map; land protection, improvement, and restoration result map is as follows:

3. The land survey and evaluation result map; land protection, improvement, and restoration result map shall display the following contents:

a) Factors inherited from the current land use status map as stipulated in Point a, Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular excluding the group of current land use classes.

b) Information layer of land survey and evaluation results for the land survey and evaluation result map; information layer of land protection, improvement, and restoration results for the land protection, improvement, and restoration result map. Boundaries, labels, and colors of delineated plots showing land survey and evaluation results; land protection, improvement, and restoration results according to the provisions of Section 4 and Section 5 Part B of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

c) Information layer of soil pollution survey and evaluation results for the soil pollution survey and evaluation result map.

For regional level, it is displayed as points according to the provisions of Section 5 Part B of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

For provincial level, it is displayed as points according to the provisions of Section 5 Part B of Appendix I issued together with this Circular and as areas according to the provisions of Subsection 4.2 Section 4 Part B of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

d) Map name, map scale, construction unit, confirmation and approval information, and annotations (including symbols of factors inherited from the current land use status map and elements displayed as areas and points showing land survey and evaluation results; land protection, improvement, and restoration results).

4. The system of forms for land survey and evaluation results; land protection, improvement, and restoration results includes:

a) The system of forms for land quality survey and evaluation results according to Form Nos. 01/QDC, 02/QDC, and 03/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

b) The system of forms for land potential survey and evaluation results according to Form Nos. 04/QDC, 05/QDC, 06/QDC, 07/QDC, and 08/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

c) The system of forms for land degradation survey and evaluation results according to Form Nos. 09/QDC, 10/QDC, 11/QDC, and 12/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

d) The system of forms for soil pollution survey and evaluation results according to Form Nos. 13/QDC, 14/QDC, 15/QDC, 16/QDC, 17/QDC, 18/QDC, 19/QDC, 20/QDC, 21/QDC, 22/QDC, and 23/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

đ) The system of forms for monitoring land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution results according to Form Nos. 24a/QDC, 24b/QDC, 25a/QDC, 25b/QDC, 26/QDC, 27/QDC, 28/QDC, and 29/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

e) The system of forms for land protection, improvement, and restoration results according to Form Nos. 30/QDC, 31/QDC, 32/QDC, 33/QDC, 34/QDC, 35/QDC, 36/QDC, and 37/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

5. Land survey and evaluation result reports according to Form No. 07/CLD of Appendix II, Form No. 04/THD of Appendix III, Form No. 07/OND of Appendix IV, and Form No. 05/QTDD of Appendix V issued together with this Circular; land protection, improvement, and restoration result reports according to Form No. 03/BVD of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular.

Article 7. Provisions on storing and presenting data for land surveying, evaluation, protection, improvement, and restoration

1. Stored Data

a) Stored data includes: spatial data, attribute data of the network diagram points for cross-sectional investigation, sampling points, investigation points; information layers of the land surveying and evaluation result map; results of land protection, improvement, and restoration implementation; information layers of the land protection, improvement, and restoration result map and other related data (field investigation results; comprehensive reports; system of investigation and evaluation result tables; land protection, improvement, and restoration).

b) The content of stored data for land surveying and evaluation; stored data for land protection, improvement, and restoration shall be as specified in Table No. 04/QĐC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

2. Data Storage Format

a) Data is stored in numerical form;

b) Data storage files are in one of the following formats: *.pdf, *.docx, *.xlsx, *.shp, *.gdb, *.qdb, *.xml, *.gml, *.json, *.geojson. Files must be in an open format, allowing for editing and updating information when necessary, ensuring data integrity during format and structure conversion.

c) The structure and type of stored data information shall be as specified in Part D of Appendix II, Part D of Appendix III, Part D of Appendix IV, Part Đ of Appendix V, and Table No. 05/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular.

3. Presented Data

a) Presented data is organized into information layers, fully displaying the attributes of land parcels, where the boundaries of land parcels within the same set of criteria are defined within the same map information layer;

b) Files containing presented data for land surveying and evaluation results; presented data for land protection, improvement, and restoration results are in one of the following formats: *.wor, *.mxd, *.mpk, *.qgz.

Article 8. Establishing Tasks for Land Surveying and Evaluation; Tasks for Land Protection, Improvement, and Restoration

1. Collecting Documents to Serve Task Establishment

a) Collecting relevant documents, figures, and maps for task establishment;

b) Collecting previous research programs, projects, and topics related to the tasks.

2. Determining Objectives and Tasks of the Tasks.

3. Determining the Area, Scale, Investigation Subjects, and Maps Needed for the Tasks.

4. Evaluating the Quality, Timeliness, and Reliability of Collected Documents, Figures, and Maps; Selecting Suitable Collected Documents for Task Establishment.

5. Determining the Content, Volume, Implementation Methods, and Products of the Tasks, Including:

a) Determining the Content and Volume of Each Step of Work;

b) Determining Methods, Technical Measures, Economic and Social Solutions;

c) Determining the Products of the Tasks and Completion Time;

d) Determining the Implementation Period, Project Sponsor, and Investment Management Authority for the Tasks.

6. Preparing a Budget Estimate According to the Content and Volume of Work, Including:

a) Determining the Basis for Budget Estimation;

b) Determining the Total Budget Estimate for the Tasks;

c) Determining Detailed Budget Estimates for Each Component of the Tasks.

7. Completing the Land Surveying and Evaluation Tasks; Land Protection, Improvement, and Restoration Tasks for Approval by the Competent Authority.

Chapter II
Article 9. Investigation and Assessment of Land Quality and Potential

Article 9. Collection of Information, Documents, Data, Maps and Preliminary Surveys on Site for Investigating and Assessing Land Quality and Potential

1. Collect information, documents, data, and maps regarding the results of land quality investigation and assessment, land potential; soil quality monitoring results, soil degradation, and soil pollution conducted within the administrative area including: field survey results, intermediate data, main products, and other file documents.

2. Collect information, documents, data, and maps concerning natural conditions, natural resources; socio-economic conditions and land management and utilization situations related to land quality and potential over the five years prior to the investigation time, including:

a) Group of information, documents, and data on natural conditions (topography, climate, water regime), natural resources;

b) Group of information, documents, and data on socio-economic development situation; socio-economic development strategies, plans, and programs;

c) Group of information, documents, and data on current land use status, changes in land use, and land management and utilization situations; land use structure conversion situations, agricultural land use models, productivity trends, main and secondary product yields, and land cultivation techniques according to each type of agricultural land use;

d) Group of information, documents, and data on land price lists, land price adjustment coefficients, and other relevant land price information;

đ) The method of collecting secondary information, documents, and data as stipulated in Clause 1, Section I, Part A of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

3. Conduct preliminary surveys to determine the investigation route

a) Determine the investigation route on the field survey map;

b) Conduct preliminary surveys along the investigation routes based on topographical, soil, and current land use characteristics;

c) Prepare a report on the preliminary investigation and survey results.

Article 10. Evaluation and Selection of Collected Information, Documents, Data, and Maps

1. Aggregate, analyze, and evaluate the accuracy, objectivity, and timeliness of collected information, documents, data, and maps

a) Arrange and classify according to subject matter, source, or time of compilation;

b) Compare old data with current status to determine the suitability of each data source with reality;

c) Analyze and evaluate the accuracy, objectivity, and timeliness of the collected information, documents, data, and maps.

2. Select usable information, documents, data, and maps.

3. Prepare a report on the collection of information, documents, data, and maps.

Article 11. Determination of Content and Plan for Field Investigation

1. Preparation of Field Investigation Map

a) Edit and standardize elements inherited from the current land use map as stipulated in Article 5 of this Circular;

b) Establish the land investigation boundary information layer, the land cross-section investigation point information layer, and attribute data fields according to Section 1, Part D of Appendix II issued together with this Circular;

c) Determine the number of land investigation boundaries and cross-sections according to Section 1, Part B of Appendix II issued together with this Circular;

d) Establish the land investigation boundary information layer: convert, review, standardize, and enter attribute information about soil, topography (slope or relative topography), and soil layer thickness from collected information, documents, and data into the information layer at point b of this clause; determine the boundary and sequence number of the land investigation boundary according to point b and point c of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular;

đ) Establish the land cross-section investigation point information layer: determine the location of the land cross-section investigation points according to point d of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular; establish the network diagram of land cross-section investigation points according to Section II, Part A of Appendix II issued together with this Circular and enter attribute information into the information layer at point b of this clause;

e) Determine the content of the land investigation along the field investigation routes at the provincial level;

g) Update the attribute information of the land cross-section investigation point layer, previous investigation and assessment results of land quality and potential (if available) into the land investigation boundary information layer;

h) Edit and print the field investigation map.

2. Statistically determine the number and characteristics of land investigation boundaries according to Model No. 01/CLD of Appendix II issued together with this Circular; create a database for entering field investigation results according to Model No. 03/CLD of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

3. Prepare descriptions of land investigation boundaries and cross-sections according to Models No. 02/CLD, 04/CLD, 05/CLD, and 06/CLD of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

4. Prepare a report on the field investigation plan.

Article 12. Investigation and Sampling of Soil for Quality Assessment and Land Potential Evaluation

1. Delimitation and determination of the location of the investigation area; review and adjust the boundaries of the investigation area according to soil characteristics and topographical features as stipulated in Section II Part A Appendix II issued together with this Circular; investigate and describe information about the delimitation area as prepared in Clause 3, Article 11 of this Circular.

2. Determine the location of the cross-section investigation points on-site, the coordinates of the cross-section investigation points are determined using positioning equipment; update and supplement the location of the cross-section investigation points on the field investigation map (if there are changes); measure soil moisture and pH using handheld devices.

3. Cross-section investigation of soil

a) Excavate (drill) main cross-sections, secondary cross-sections, and exploration cross-sections;

b) Take photographs of the cross-section profiles of the soil and panoramic views of the investigation area;

c) Describe the cross-section profile of the soil;

d) Collect soil samples, soil specimens, package, and preserve the soil samples.

e) The methods for conducting cross-section investigations at points a, b, c, and d of this clause are specified in Section I Part A Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

4. Review and update the results of field investigations as stipulated in Clauses 1, 2, and 3 of this Article into the investigation data table established in Clause 2, Article 11 of this Circular.

5. Prepare a report on the results of the investigation and sampling of soil on-site.

Article 13. Compilation and Processing of Internal and External Information

1. Compilation and processing of investigation results

a) Review, compare, correct, and supplement information to ensure accuracy and consistency between the field investigation map and the cross-section description, investigation photos, soil specimens, and the investigation data table;

b) Create a statistical list of investigation cross-sections and soil samples; arrange soil specimens, soil samples, and descriptions according to the list; select soil samples for analysis; hand over soil samples to the analytical unit.

2. Analysis of soil samples

Analytical indicators include: total microorganisms; mechanical composition (sand, loam, clay); bulk density; specific gravity; soil acidity (pH);_{Soil pH}total organic matter (OM%); total nitrogen (N%); total phosphorus (P₂O₅%); total potassium (K₂O%), CEC. For coastal areas, additional indicators include total sulfur and total soluble salts.

The method for analyzing soil samples is prescribed in Section III Part A of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

3. Compilation and processing of information for soil quality assessment

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for soil quality as prescribed in Section I Part C of Appendix II issued together with this Circular;

b) Compile results of soil investigation including soil types and soil layer thickness;

c) Compile results of topography investigation (slope or relative topography);

d) Compile results of physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil by soil type and land type;

đ) Compile results of climate investigation (precipitation amount, total temperature sum, number of dry months).

4. Compilation and processing of information for land potential assessment for current land types and land use orientation

a) Determine and classify land potential assessment according to the provisions in Section II Part C of Appendix II issued together with this Circular;

b) Determine the area of each land type within each investigation area;

c) Compile results of water regime investigation by land type within each investigation area;

d) Compile results of economic efficiency assessment for each investigation area and each region within the investigation area;

đ) Compile results of social efficiency assessment for each investigation area and each region within the investigation area;

e) Compile results of environmental efficiency assessment for each investigation area and each region within the investigation area;

g) Compile and process information for land potential assessment for land types serving land use orientation.

5. Prepare a report on the results of compilation and processing of internal and external information.

Article 14. Construction of Land Quality Maps and Land Potential Maps

1. Standardize the base map elements for land quality maps and land potential maps in accordance with the provisions set out in points a and c, clause 2, and points a and d, clause 3, Article 6 of this Circular.

2. Establish information layers and attribute data fields within each specialized information layer according to the structure and type of information specified in Part D of Appendix II issued together with this Circular, including:

a) Information layer on soil characteristics;

b) Information layer on topography;

c) Information layer on physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil;

d) Information layer on climate;

đ) Information layer on soil types;

e) Information layer on land quality levels;

g) Information layer on water regime;

h) Information layer on economic efficiency;

i) Information layer on social efficiency;

k) Information layer on environmental efficiency;

l) Information layer on land potential levels;

m) Information layer on delineation of areas requiring protection, improvement, and restoration.

3. Construction of soil type information layer

a) Convert the data format from the current land use map at the same level as the map of land quality investigation and evaluation results and land potential;

b) Review and adjust the boundaries of delineated lands based on the field investigation results;

c) Standardize and enter the soil type information specified in Table 01/QDC and Table 02/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular into the information layer as stipulated in point đ, clause 2 of this Article.

4. Construction of land quality map

a) Review and adjust the boundaries of delineated lands in the delineation information layer of the field investigation map as stipulated in clause 1, Article 11 of this Circular according to the consolidated information processing results at points b and c, clause 3, Article 13 of this Circular;

b) Enter the soil sample analysis results into the information layer constructed at point e, clause 1, Article 11 of this Circular according to the consolidated information processing results at point d, clause 3, Article 13 of this Circular;

c) Construct specialized information layers on soil characteristics, topography, physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, and climate: transfer boundaries and enter attribute information into the information layers at points a, b, c, and d, clause 2 of this Article;

d) Overlay the specialized information layers constructed at point c of this clause to delineate areas and construct the land quality level information layer;

đ) Overlay the land quality level information layer with the soil type information layer at clause 3 of this Article to determine land quality by soil type;

e) Export data for land quality analysis and evaluation;

g) Edit and compile a report explaining the map and print the map;

h) The detailed procedure for constructing the land quality map is illustrated in Diagram 02/CLD of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

5. Delineate areas of land requiring protection, improvement, and restoration

a) Identify areas of land requiring protection, improvement, and restoration from the land quality level results at point d, clause 4 of this Article;

b) Transfer boundaries and enter attribute information of areas of land requiring protection, treatment, improvement, and restoration into the information layer at point m, clause 2 of this Article.

6. Construction of land potential map

a) Enter the consolidated information processing results at clause 4, Article 13 of this Circular into the information layer constructed at clause 3 of this Article;

b) Construct specialized information layers on water regime, economic efficiency, social efficiency, and environmental efficiency: transfer boundaries and enter attribute information into the information layers at points g, h, i, and k, clause 2 of this Article;

c) Overlay the specialized information layers at point b of this clause and point d, clause 4 of this Article to delineate areas and construct the land potential assessment level information layer;

d) Construct specialized information layers on land potential serving land use orientation for each soil type based on the consolidated information processing results at point g, clause 4, Article 13 of this Circular;

đ) Export data for land potential analysis and evaluation, land use orientation;

e) Edit and compile a report explaining the map and print the map;

g) The detailed procedure for constructing the land potential map is illustrated in Diagram 03/CLD of Appendix II issued together with this Circular.

7. Construction of data on land quality and land potential

a) Standardize data related to land quality and land potential in accordance with the laws on the national land database;

b) Scan other relevant data.

8. Update data on land quality and land potential into the national land database in accordance with the laws on the national land database.

Article 15. Analysis and evaluation of land quality, land potential, and proposals for land protection and improvement measures

1. Compilation, analysis, and evaluation of land quality

a) Compilation of the system of survey result tables and land quality assessment according to point a, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and evaluation of the processes of land quality formation and transformation;

c) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of natural conditions, socio-economic factors, and land management and utilization on land quality;

d) Analysis and evaluation of land quality by land type;

đ) Summary and evaluation of land quality.

2. Compilation, analysis, and evaluation of land potential

a) Compilation of the system of survey result tables and land potential assessment according to point b, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of natural conditions on land potential;

c) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of socio-economic development on land potential;

d) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of land management and utilization on land potential;

đ) Analysis and evaluation of land use efficiency (economic, social, and environmental benefits);

e) Analysis and evaluation of land potential by land type and land use orientation.

3. Analysis and evaluation of trends in changes in land quality and land potential compared to previous surveys for areas that have conducted land quality and land potential surveys;

a) Evaluation of changes in land quality compared to previous surveys;

b) Evaluation of changes in land potential compared to previous surveys;

c) Analysis and evaluation of trends and causes of changes in land quality and potential compared to previous surveys.

4. Proposals for land protection and improvement measures.

5. Preparation of specialized reports evaluating land quality and land potential.

Article 16. Preparation of reports on the results of land quality and land potential surveys

1. Preparation of appendices and small-scale maps attached to the report.

2. Compilation of a comprehensive report summarizing the results of land quality and land potential surveys.

3. Preparation of summary reports and final reports on tasks.

Chapter III
LAND DEGRADATION SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT

Article 17. Collection of information, documents, data, maps, and preliminary field surveys for land degradation surveys and assessments

1. Collection of groups of information, documents, data, and maps on the results of land quality and land degradation surveys; results of land quality monitoring and land degradation, soil pollution surveys already conducted in the area including: field investigation results, intermediate data, main products, and other documentation.

2. Collection of groups of information, documents, data, and maps on natural conditions, natural resources; socio-economic factors, and land management and utilization related to land degradation according to points a, b, and c, Clause 2, Article 9 of this Circular.

The method of secondary information collection is stipulated in Clause 1, Section I, Part A of Appendix III issued together with this Circular.

3. Preliminary field survey

a) Preliminary survey to determine the survey route according to points a and b, Clause 3, Article 9 of this Circular;

b) Preliminary survey along the survey routes to identify areas with characteristic forms of degradation appearing in the area based on existing land degradation survey results;

c) Preparation of a preliminary survey results report.

Article 18. Evaluation and selection of collected information, documents, data, and maps

1. Aggregate, analyze, and evaluate the accuracy, objectivity, and timeliness of the collected information, documents, data, and maps in accordance with Clause 1 of Article 10 of this Circular.

2. Select usable information, documents, data, and maps.

3. Prepare a report on the collection of information, documents, data, and maps.

Article 19. Determination of content and plan for field investigation

1. Preparation of Field Investigation Map

a) Edit and standardize elements inherited from the current land use map as stipulated in Article 5 of this Circular;

b) Establish a layer of information for delineating land for investigation, a layer of information for points of investigation of various forms of degradation, and attribute data fields according to Part D of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

c) Determine the number of delineated lands and points of investigation in accordance with Part B of Appendix III of this Circular;

d) Establish the land investigation boundary information layer: convert, review, standardize, and enter attribute information about soil, topography (slope or relative topography), and soil layer thickness from collected information, documents, and data into the information layer at point b of this clause; determine the boundary and sequence number of the land investigation boundary according to point b and point c of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular;

đ) Develop a layer of information for points of investigation of degradation: location of points of investigation of degradation as stipulated in Point d, Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular; develop a network diagram of points of investigation of degradation (location of points of investigation of degraded land coincides with the location of cross-sectional points of investigation within the same delineated land area) and enter attribute information into the information layer specified in Point b, Clause of this Article;

e) Determine the content of the land investigation along the field investigation routes at the provincial level;

g) Update the attribute information of the layer of points of investigation of various forms of degradation and the results of previous investigations and assessments of land degradation into the information layer for delineated land for investigation;

h) Edit and print the field investigation map.

2. Statistically determine the number and characteristics of delineated lands for investigation according to Model No. 01/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular; establish a database to facilitate the entry of field investigation results according to Model No. 03/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

3. Prepare a description of the results of investigating various forms of degradation according to Model No. 02/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular.

4. Prepare a report on the field investigation plan.

Article 20. Field Investigation for Assessing Land Degradation

1. Delineate areas, determine the location of delineated lands for investigation; review and adjust the boundaries of delineated lands for investigation based on soil characteristics, topography, water regime, type of land, land use form, vegetation cover ratio, land protection cultivation methods, and features of various forms of degradation onto the field investigation map as stipulated in Section I, Part A of Appendix III issued together with this Circular.

2. Determine the location of points of investigation of degradation at the site: these points coincide with the locations of cross-sectional points of investigation as stipulated in Clause 2, Article 12 of this Circular.

3. Investigate various forms of degradation and describe the investigation results into the prepared description as stipulated in Clause 3, Article 19 of this Circular.

4. For areas that have already conducted investigations and assessments of land degradation, determine changes in current land use status and degraded areas according to each form of degradation: investigate and identify new degraded land areas, forms of degradation that have changed in severity, including on-site delineation and mapping to adjust the boundaries of delineated lands identified with changes in degradation severity onto the field investigation map, and describe the investigation information of various forms of degradation into the prepared description as stipulated in Clause 3, Article 19 of this Circular.

5. Take photographs illustrating the landscape of the area and investigation points; conduct soil moisture and pH measurements using handheld devices.

6. Review and update the field investigation results from Clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of this Article into the investigation database established as stipulated in Clause 2, Article 19 of this Circular.

7. Develop a report on the results of field investigation.

Article 21. Consolidation and Processing of Internal and External Information

1. Compilation and processing of investigation results

a) Review, compare, correct, and supplement information to ensure accuracy and consistency regarding investigation results between the field investigation map and descriptions of various types of land degradation, investigation images, and investigation data tables;

b) Select the analysis results specified in point d, Clause 3, Article 13 of this Circular for surface soil layer cross-section samples;

2. Consolidation and Processing of Information for Land Degradation Assessment

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for land degradation according to Part C of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

b) Consolidate investigation results as stipulated in points b, c, d, đ, Clause 3 and point c, Clause 4, Article 13 of this Circular;

c) Consolidate investigation results for assessing land with reduced fertility; land subject to erosion; land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization; land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation; land with salinization; land with acidification; according to classification criteria specified in point a, Clause 3 of this Article;

3. Prepare a report on consolidated and processed internal and external information.

Article 22. Construction of Land Degradation Maps

1. Standardize base elements of land degradation maps as stipulated in point a and point c, Clause 2, and point a and point d, Clause 3, Article 6 of this Circular;

2. Create information layers and attribute data fields within each thematic information layer according to the structure and type of information specified in Part D of Appendix III issued with this Circular, including:

a) Information layer on soil characteristics;

b) Information layer on topography;

c) Layer of physical-chemical properties of soil;

d) Information layer on climate;

đ) Information layer on soil types;

e) Layer of water regime;

g) Layer of land with reduced fertility;

h) Layer of eroded land;

i) Layer of land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization;

k) Layer of land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation;

l) Layer of salinized land;

m) Layer of acidified land;

n) Layer of degraded land;

o) Layer of delineated areas of degraded land requiring treatment, improvement, and restoration;

3. Construction of soil type information layer

a) Convert data format from current land use maps at the same level as the investigation and assessment result maps;

b) Review and adjust the boundaries of delineated lands based on the field investigation results;

c) Standardize and enter land type information specified in Table 01/QĐC of Appendix I issued with this Circular into the information layer as stipulated in point đ, Clause 2 of this Article;

4. Review and correct boundaries of delineated investigation land in the delineation layer of the field investigation map as stipulated in Clause 1, Article 19 of this Circular based on the consolidated and processed information results as stipulated in point b, Clause 2, Article 21 of this Circular;

5. Construct a Map of Land with Reduced Fertility

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for land with reduced fertility according to Section 6, Part C of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

b) Construct a layer of current soil fertility information according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay current soil fertility information layers; past soil fertility information layers; and the delineation investigation land layer as stipulated in Clause 4 of this Article according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause to construct a layer of land with reduced fertility;

d) Overlay the layer of land with reduced fertility and the layer of land type to determine the degree of reduced fertility by land type;

đ) Edit and prepare a report explaining the map and print the map of land with reduced fertility;

e) The procedure for constructing a map of land with reduced fertility is detailed in Diagram 02/THĐ of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

6. Construct a Map of Eroded Land

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for eroded land according to Section 7, Part C of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

b) Construct layers of information on rainfall erosion factor (R), soil erosion factor (K), slope length factor (L), slope gradient factor (S), vegetation cover and land management factor (C), and land conservation practice factor (P);

c) Overlay the information layers as stipulated in point b of this clause and the delineation investigation land layer as stipulated in Clause 4 of this Article to construct a layer of eroded land;

d) Overlay the layer of eroded land and the layer of land type to determine the degree of erosion by land type;

đ) Edit and prepare a report explaining the map and print the map of eroded land;

e) The procedure for constructing a map of eroded land is detailed in Diagram 03/THĐ of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

7. Construct a Map of Land Affected by Drought, Desertification, and Salinization

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization according to Section 8, Part C of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

b) Construct layers of information on irrigation system; climate; and investigation results on drought, desertification, and salinization according to classification criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay the information layers as stipulated in point b of this clause and the delineation investigation land layer as stipulated in Clause 4 of this Article to construct a layer of land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization;

d) Overlay the layer of land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization and the layer of land type to determine the degree of drought, desertification, and salinization by land type;

đ) Edit and prepare a report explaining the map and print the map of land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization;

e) The procedure for constructing a map of land affected by drought, desertification, and salinization is detailed in Diagram 04/THĐ of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

8. Construct a Map of Land with Cemented Structure and Calcareous Transformation

a) Determine and classify evaluation criteria for land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation according to Section 9, Part C of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

b) Construct a layer of information on land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation from investigation results on land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation and evaluation results from collected materials according to classification criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay the layer of land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation and the layer of land type to determine the degree of cemented structure and calcareous transformation by land type;

d) Edit and prepare a report explaining the map and print the map of land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation;

đ) The procedure for constructing a map of land with cemented structure and calcareous transformation is detailed in Diagram 05/THĐ of Appendix III issued with this Circular;

9. Construct a Map of Salinized Land

a) Determine and classify the criteria for evaluating saline land as prescribed in Section 10 Part C of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

b) Construct a layer of information on the total dissolved salt currently present according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay layers of information on the total dissolved salt currently present; the layer of information on the total dissolved salt in the past and the layer of information on delineated investigation lands as stipulated in Clause 4 of Article 10 of this Law, according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause, to construct a layer of information on saline land;

d) Overlay the layer of information on saline land and the layer of information on land types to determine the levels of salinity by land type;

đ) Edit and construct a report explaining the map and print the map of saline land;

e) The procedure for constructing a detailed illustrative map of saline land is illustrated in Diagram 06/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;.

10. Construct a map of acid sulfate soil;

a) Determine and classify the criteria for evaluating acid sulfate soil as prescribed in Section 11 Part C of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

b) Construct a layer of information on the total sulfur currently present according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay layers of information on the total sulfur currently present; the layer of information on the total sulfur in the past and the layer of information on delineated investigation lands as stipulated in Clause 4 of Article 10 of this Law, according to the criteria specified in point a of this clause, to construct a layer of information on acid sulfate soil;

d) Overlay the layer of information on acid sulfate soil and the layer of information on land types to determine the degree of acid sulfate soil by land type;

đ) Edit and construct a report explaining the map and print the map of acid sulfate soil;

e) The procedure for constructing a detailed illustrative map of acid sulfate soil is illustrated in Diagram 07/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

11. Construct a map of degraded land;

a) Classify the criteria for evaluating land degradation as prescribed in Section 12 Part C of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;

b) Overlay layers of information on land with reduced fertility; eroded land; land affected by drought, desertification, and deforestation; land affected by cementation and silicification; saline land; and acid sulfate soil to construct a layer of information on land degradation according to the classified criteria specified in point a of this clause;

c) Overlay the layer of information on land degradation and the layer of information on land types to determine the degree of land degradation by land type;

d) Determine the area of delineated degraded land by type of degradation and type of degraded land on the map;

đ) Export data for land degradation assessment;

e) Edit and construct a report explaining the map and print the map of land degradation;

g) The procedure for constructing a detailed illustrative map of land degradation is illustrated in Diagram 08/THĐ of Appendix III issued together with this Circular;.

12. Delineate areas of degraded land requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery;

a) Identify areas of degraded land from the results of classifying land degradation levels as specified in point b of Clause 11 of this Article;

b) Transfer boundaries and incorporate attribute information of areas requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery into the layer of information as specified in point o of Clause 2 of this Article;

13. Construct land degradation data;

a) Standardize data related to land degradation in accordance with the laws on national land database;

b) Scan other relevant data.

14. Update land degradation data into the national land database in accordance with the laws on national land database.

Article 23. Analysis and assessment of current land degradation status, causes, and proposals for solutions to reduce land degradation

1. Compilation, analysis, and evaluation of the current status of land degradation

a) Compilation of the system of survey results and evaluations of land degradation according to point c, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of natural conditions, socio-economic factors, and land management and utilization on land degradation;

c) Analysis and evaluation of land degradation by type of degradation and type of land;

d) Compilation and evaluation of land degradation.

2. Determination of trends, causes, and prediction of risks of land degradation

a) Comparison of the results of land degradation assessments with previous periods' results (if available) by type of degradation and type of land;

b) Identification of causes of land degradation;

c) Evaluation of the results of technical measures and economic and social solutions implemented in the treatment, improvement, and recovery of degraded land in the previous survey period (if available);

d) Prediction of risks of land degradation.

3. Proposals for measures and solutions to reduce land degradation.

4. Preparation of specialized reports on land degradation surveys and assessments.

Article 24. Preparation of reports on the results of land degradation surveys and assessments

1. Preparation of appendices and small-scale maps attached to the report.

2. Compilation of comprehensive reports on the results of land degradation surveys and assessments.

3. Preparation of summary reports and final reports on tasks.

Chapter IV
SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT OF SOIL POLLUTION

Article 25. Collection of information, documents, data, maps, and preliminary field surveys for soil pollution surveys and assessments

1. Collection of groups of information, documents, data, and maps on natural conditions, natural resources; socio-economic factors; land management and utilization related to soil pollution, carried out according to points a, b, and c, Clause 2, Article 9 of this Circular.

2. Collection of groups of information, documents, data, and maps related to soil pollution for regional soil pollution surveys and assessments

a) Group of information, documents, data, and maps on the results of regional soil pollution surveys and assessments (if available), including field investigation results, intermediate data, main products, and other file documents;

b) Group of information, documents, data, and maps on the use of waste products, fertilizers, pesticides, contaminated irrigation water in agricultural production; feed, chemicals, and water quality in aquaculture;

c) Group of information, documents, data, and maps related to the actual status and degree of soil and water environmental pollution according to environmental protection laws affected by agricultural cultivation, contaminated irrigation water, and other pollution sources.

3. Collection of groups of information, documents, data, and maps related to soil pollution for provincial soil pollution surveys and assessments

a) Group of information, documents, data, and maps on the results of provincial soil pollution surveys and assessments (if available), including field investigation results, intermediate data, main products, and other file documents;

b) Group of information, documents, data, and maps on the status of environmental treatment in areas with pollution sources such as industrial zones, industrial clusters; small-scale industrial zones, craft villages; mineral extraction and processing zones; waste disposal sites, waste treatment facilities, and other pollution sources;

c) Group of information, documents, data, and maps related to the actual status and degree of soil and water environmental pollution according to environmental protection laws affected by pollution from industrial zones, industrial clusters; small-scale industrial zones, craft villages; mineral extraction and processing zones; waste disposal sites, waste treatment facilities, and other pollution sources.

4. Methods for collecting secondary information, documents, data prescribed in Clauses 2 and 3 of this Article shall be carried out according to Clause 1, Section I, Part A of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

5. Preliminary survey to determine the direction of investigation routes

a) Preliminary survey to identify agricultural land areas along each investigation route based on the level of use of waste products, fertilizers, pesticides; areas of aquaculture using large amounts of feed, chemicals, or contaminated irrigation water for regional soil pollution surveys and assessments;

b) Preliminary survey along investigation routes to identify areas with pollution sources and pollution agents from wastewater and waste from industrial zones, industrial clusters; small-scale industrial zones, craft villages; mineral extraction and processing zones; waste disposal sites, waste treatment facilities, and other pollution sources for provincial soil pollution surveys and assessments;

c) Prepare a report on the preliminary investigation and survey results.

Article 26. Evaluation and selection of collected information, documents, data, and maps

1. Aggregate, analyze, and evaluate the accuracy, objectivity, and timeliness of the collected information, documents, data, and maps in accordance with Clause 1 of Article 10 of this Circular.

2. Select usable information, documents, data, and maps.

3. Prepare a report on the collection of information, documents, data, and maps.

Article 27. Determining the content and plan for field investigation

1. Preparation of Field Investigation Map

a) Edit and standardize elements inherited from the current land use map as stipulated in Article 5 of this Circular;

b) Establishing the layer of information on delineated land for pollution investigation, the layer of information on pollution investigation points, and the attribute data fields as prescribed in Part D of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular;

c) Determining the number of pollution investigation points and soil sampling points; delineating land for investigation according to the provisions at Point b, Section I, Part B of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular;

d) Building the layer of information on delineated land for investigation

For regional soil pollution investigation and assessment, it shall be carried out as follows: converting, reviewing, standardizing, and entering attribute information about land types and commune-level administrative units into the layer of information at Point b of this Clause from collected information, documents, and data; determining the boundaries and sequence numbers of delineated land areas according to the provisions at Points b and c of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular.

For provincial soil pollution investigation and assessment, it shall be carried out as follows: converting, reviewing, standardizing, and entering attribute information about pollution sources and land types into the layer of information at Point b of this Clause from collected information, documents, and data; determining the boundaries and sequence numbers of delineated land areas according to the provisions at Points b and c of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular;

đ) Building the layer of information on investigation points: determining the location of investigation points according to the provisions at Point d of Clause 2, Article 5 of this Circular; establishing the network diagram of investigation points according to the provisions at Section II, Part A of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular and entering attribute information into the layer of information at Point b of this Clause;

e) Determine the content of the land investigation along the field investigation routes at the provincial level;

g) Updating the attribute information of the layer of investigation points and the results of previous soil pollution investigation and assessment (if any) into the layer of information on delineated land for investigation;

h) Edit and print the field investigation map.

2. Statistics on the quantity and characteristics of delineated land for investigation according to Form No. 01/ONĐ and Form No. 02/ONĐ of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular; creating a database for entering field investigation results according to Form No. 05/ONĐ and Form No. 06/ONĐ of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

3. Preparing a description of the investigation results and soil sampling forms according to Form No. 03/ONĐ and Form No. 04/ONĐ of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

4. Prepare a report on the field investigation plan.

Article 28. Investigation and Sampling for Soil Pollution Assessment

1. For regional pollution investigation and assessment

a) Delineating areas and adjusting boundaries of delineated land areas based on factors affecting soil such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, feed, chemicals used in aquaculture, or contaminated irrigation water, and describing the investigation results in the prepared description under Clause 3, Article 27 of this Circular;

b) Determining the location of soil sampling points in the field, coordinates of sampling points determined by positioning equipment; updating the location of sampling points on the investigation map (if there are changes);

c) Collecting soil samples;

d) Taking photographs of the investigation area and sampling points;

đ) Filling out soil sampling forms;

e) Packaging and preserving soil samples;

g) Reviewing and updating field investigation results at Points a, b, c, d, and đ of this Clause into the investigation database established under Clause 2, Article 27 of this Circular;

h) Preparing a report on the results of field investigation and sampling;

2. For provincial pollution investigation and assessment

a) Investigating the spread direction of pollution; investigating topographical and physical features that can block or stop the spread of pollution; delineating areas and adjusting boundaries of delineated land areas based on pollution sources and pollution factors, and describing the investigation results in the prepared description under Clause 3, Article 27 of this Circular;

b) Conducting soil investigation and sampling, updating field investigation results as prescribed at Points b, c, d, đ, e, and g of Clause 1 of this Article;

c) Preparing a report on the results of field investigation and sampling;

d) The investigation of contents as prescribed in this Clause shall only be conducted in areas without existing results of environmental soil pollution investigation, assessment, and classification as stipulated by environmental protection laws.

Article 29. Consolidation and Processing of Internal and External Information

1. Consolidation and Processing After Field Survey

a) Review, compare, correct, and supplement information to ensure accuracy and consistency between the field survey map and soil sampling forms; survey images and data tables;

b) Prepare a statistical list of soil samples, select analysis indicators; hand over soil samples to the analysis unit.

2. Analysis of soil samples

Analysis indicators include heavy metal indicators (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, As, Cr, Hg, Ni). For regional soil pollution surveys, additional chemical pesticide group indicators (organic phosphorus) are analyzed.

The analysis method is stipulated in Section III Part A of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

3. Consolidation and Processing of Information for Soil Pollution Assessment

a) Determine and classify soil pollution assessment indicators according to the provisions at Point a and Point d Clause 3, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Consolidate and assess soil sample analysis results by delineated areas and survey points.

4. Develop a report on the consolidation and processing of internal and external information.

Article 30. Construction of Contaminated Land Map

1. Standardize the base elements of the contaminated land map according to the provisions at Points a and c Clause 2, Points a and d Clause 3, Article 6 of this Circular.

2. Establish information layers and attribute data fields within each specialized information layer according to the structure and type of information specified in Part D of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular, including:

a) Soil type information layer;

b) Pollution level classification information layer;

c) Information layer for delineating areas requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and restoration.

3. Construction of soil type information layer

a) Convert the data format from the current land use map of the same level as the pollution investigation and evaluation map;

b) Review and adjust the boundaries of delineated lands based on the field investigation results;

c) Standardize and enter soil type information specified in Table 03/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular into the information layer at Point a Clause 2 of this Article.

4. Review and adjust the boundaries of the delineated survey areas in the delineation information layer of the field survey map as stipulated in Clause 1, Article 27 of this Circular based on the consolidated and processed information in Clause 3, Article 29 of this Circular.

5. Construct the contaminated land map

a) Construct the pollution level classification information layer according to the indicators specified in Point a Clause 3, Article 29 of this Circular;

b) Export data for analysis and assessment of the current state of contaminated land;

c) Edit and construct an explanatory report and print the contaminated land map;

d) The procedure for constructing the contaminated land map is detailed in Diagram 02/ONĐ of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

6. Delineate areas of contaminated land requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and restoration

a) Identify contaminated land areas from the pollution level classification results at Point a Clause 5 of this Article;

b) Transfer boundaries and enter attribute information of areas requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and restoration into the information layer at Point c Clause 2 of this Article.

7. Construct contaminated land data

a) Standardize data related to contaminated land according to the laws on national land database;

b) Scan other relevant data.

8. Update contaminated land data into the national land database according to the laws on national land database.

Article 31. Analysis and assessment of current soil pollution status, causes, and proposals for reducing soil pollution

1. Compilation, analysis, and assessment of the current status and causes of soil pollution

a) Compilation of the system of investigation and evaluation results on soil pollution according to point d, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and assessment of the current status and causes of soil pollution by type of soil;

c) Assessment of the results of implementing technical measures and economic and social solutions in treating, improving, and restoring polluted soils (if applicable).

2. Warning and forecasting the risk of soil pollution.

3. Proposals for reducing soil pollution.

Article 32. Preparation of reports on the results of soil pollution investigations and assessments

1. Preparation of appendices and small-scale maps attached to the report.

2. Compilation of comprehensive reports on the results of soil pollution investigations and assessments.

3. Preparation of summary reports and final reports on tasks.

Chapter V
NATIONAL SOIL INVESTIGATION AND ASSESSMENT

Article 33. National Soil Quality Investigation and Assessment

The results of the national soil quality investigation and assessment are compiled and summarized from the regional soil quality investigation and assessment results as stipulated in Chapter II as follows:

1. Construction of soil quality maps

a) Integration and continuation of soil quality maps of economic and social regions at a scale of 1:250,000;

b) Compilation and summarization of the contents of the national soil quality map at a scale of 1:1,000,000;

c) Editing and construction of explanatory reports and printing of the national soil quality map.

2. Analysis and assessment of national soil quality

a) Compilation of the system of survey result tables and land quality assessment according to point a, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and evaluation of the processes of land quality formation and transformation;

c) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of natural conditions, socio-economic factors, and land management and utilization on land quality;

d) Analysis and assessment of the current soil quality by type of soil;

đ) Compilation and assessment of national soil quality.

Article 34. National Land Potential Investigation and Assessment

The results of the national land potential investigation and assessment are compiled and summarized from the regional land potential investigation and assessment results as stipulated in Chapter II as follows:

1. Construction of national land potential maps

a) Integration and continuation of land potential maps of economic and social regions at a scale of 1:250,000;

b) Compilation and summarization of the contents of the national land potential map at a scale of 1:1,000,000;

c) Editing and construction of explanatory reports and printing of the national land potential map.

2. Analysis and assessment of national land potential

a) Compilation of the system of survey result tables and land potential assessment according to point b, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and assessment of the impact of natural conditions, economic and social factors, land management and utilization on land potential;

c) Analysis and assessment of land use efficiency (economic, social, and environmental benefits);

d) Analysis and assessment of the current land potential by type of soil;

đ) Compilation and assessment of national land potential.

Article 35. National Soil Degradation Investigation and Assessment

The results of the national soil degradation investigation and assessment are compiled and summarized from the regional soil degradation investigation and assessment results as stipulated in Chapter III as follows:

1. Construction of soil degradation maps

a) Integration and continuation of soil degradation maps of economic and social regions at a scale of 1:250,000;

b) Compilation and summarization of the contents of the national soil degradation map at a scale of 1:1,000,000;

c) Editing and construction of explanatory reports and printing of the national soil degradation map.

2. Analysis and assessment of national soil degradation

a) Compilation of the system of survey results and evaluations of land degradation according to point c, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and evaluation of the impact of natural conditions, socio-economic factors, and land management and utilization on land degradation;

c) Analysis and assessment of soil degradation by type of degradation and degraded soil type;

d) Compilation and assessment of national soil degradation.

Article 36. Nationwide Soil Pollution Investigation and Assessment

The results of nationwide soil pollution investigation and assessment are compiled and generalized from the regional soil pollution investigation and assessment results as stipulated in Chapter IV as follows:

1. Construction of Soil Pollution Maps

a) Integration and connection of soil pollution maps of economic and social regions at a scale of 1:250,000;

b) Compilation and generalization of contents of national soil pollution maps at a scale of 1:1,000,000;

c) Editing, construction of explanatory reports for the maps and printing of national soil pollution maps.

2. Analysis and Assessment of National Soil Pollution

a) Compilation of the system of investigation and evaluation results on soil pollution according to point d, Clause 4, Article 6 of this Circular;

b) Analysis and assessment of soil pollution by soil type;

c) Compilation of national soil pollution assessment.

Article 37. Construction of Comprehensive Report on Results of Soil Quality Investigation and Assessment, Land Potential; Land Degradation; National Soil Pollution

1. Preparation of appendices and small-scale maps attached to the report.

2. Preparation of a comprehensive report on the results of soil quality investigation and assessment, land potential; land degradation; national soil pollution.

3. Construction of Summary Report.

Chapter VI
SOIL QUALITY MONITORING, LAND DEGRADATION
AND SOIL POLLUTION

Article 38. Establishment of a Network of Fixed Monitoring Points Nationwide and Determination of Monitoring Indicators and Frequency

1. Establishment of a network of fixed monitoring points nationwide shall be carried out as follows:

a) Identification of fixed monitoring points according to the principles and criteria specified in Part A of Appendix V issued together with this Circular and creation of a schematic layout of the network of fixed monitoring points nationwide on the current land use map at a scale of 1:250,000;

b) Creation of a list of fixed monitoring points nationwide according to Model No. 03/QTĐ of Appendix V issued together with this Circular;

c) Creation of a database to facilitate entry of information on field investigation results according to Model No. 04/QTĐ of Appendix V issued together with this Circular.

2. Determination of monitoring indicators and frequency, including:

a) Monitoring indicators for soil quality, land degradation, and soil pollution as specified in Part C of Appendix V issued together with this Circular;

b) Annual frequency of soil quality, land degradation, and soil pollution monitoring. In case of emergencies caused by natural disasters or human activities that pose a risk of abnormal soil pollution or degradation, urgent monitoring will be conducted upon request of competent state authorities.

Article 39. Investigation, Sampling, and Analysis of Monitoring Samples for Soil Quality, Land Degradation, and Soil Pollution

1. Investigation and Sampling for Monitoring Soil Quality, Land Degradation, and Soil Pollution

a) Preparation of necessary conditions to support investigation and sampling work, including preparation of manpower, materials, equipment, tools, documents; detailed planning of investigation and sampling for each region; construction of investigation and sampling plan reports;

b) Organization of field investigation and sampling and implementation of soil sample preservation. Methods of investigation, sampling, and soil sample preservation for soil quality, land degradation, and soil pollution monitoring are as stipulated in Part B of Appendix V issued together with this Circular;

c) Review and update field investigation results into the investigation database according to Model No. 04/QTĐ of Appendix V issued together with this Circular;

d) Review, classify, create a list of soil samples, and establish an analysis indicator table;

đ) Hand over soil samples to the analytical unit;

e) Construction of field investigation and sampling result reports for each region.

2. Implementation of soil sample analysis. Soil sample analysis methods are as specified in Section III Part A of Appendix II and Section III Part A of Appendix IV issued together with this Circular.

Article 40. Monitoring changes in land quality, land degradation, soil pollution, and early warning of abnormal changes

1. Compile a system of observation results on land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution as prescribed in Point d Clause 4 Article 6 of this Circular.

2. Compare with the previous observation results (if available) to analyze and assess changes in land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution.

a) Prepare a comparison chart of current year's observation results with those of the immediately preceding year or the most recent spot check.

b) Analyze and assess changes and trends in land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution.

3. Identify and issue early warnings for areas where observation points show abnormal changes in land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution.

4. Determine causes and propose solutions to be implemented in areas where observation points show abnormal changes in land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution as stipulated in Clause 3 of this Article.

5. Review the system of observation points, replace or supplement observation points (if necessary) according to the principles and criteria specified in Part A of Appendix V issued together with this Circular.

6. Prepare a report on the results of land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution observations according to Model No. 05/QTĐ of Appendix V issued together with this Circular.

Article 41. Updating land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution monitoring data into environmental resource monitoring databases and national land databases

1. Standardize data related to land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution monitoring according to laws on environmental resource monitoring databases and national land databases; scan other relevant data.

2. Update land quality, land degradation, and soil pollution monitoring data into environmental resource monitoring databases and national land databases.

Chapter VII
PROTECTION, IMPROVEMENT, AND RESTORATION OF LAND

Article 42. Classification of areas for land protection, improvement, and restoration

1. Collecting and processing information and numerical data

a) Results of delineating areas of degraded land and polluted land requiring protection, improvement, and restoration as prescribed in Clause 12 Article 22 and Clause 6 Article 30 of this Circular;

b) Measures and solutions proposed for each area requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration as prescribed in Clause 3 Article 23 and Clause 3 Article 31 of this Circular;

c) Projects, programs, plans already implemented for land protection, improvement, and restoration in the region (if any);

d) Summarize the total area of degraded land and polluted land requiring protection, improvement, and restoration according to Model No. 30/QDC and Model No. 31/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular;

đ) Summarize technical measures and economic and social solutions proposed for each area requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration according to Model No. 32/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

2. Classify areas requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration

a) Classify degraded land and polluted land by type of land;

b) Classify the degree of land degradation and soil pollution by type of degradation and type of pollution;

c) Classify technical measures and economic and social solutions proposed when conducting land surveys and assessments for areas of degraded and polluted land by type and degree of degradation and pollution.

Article 43. Compilation, determination of scope and extent of land protection, improvement, and restoration

1. Determine the scope of degraded land areas requiring protection, improvement, and restoration according to the type of degradation as per Model No. 33/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular, and determine the levels of protection, improvement, and restoration required for degraded land as specified in Table No. 02/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular.

2. Determine the scope of polluted land areas and the levels of protection, improvement, and restoration required in accordance with environmental protection laws.

3. Compile the areas of land requiring protection, improvement, and restoration as per Model No. 34/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

Article 44. Development of Land Protection, Improvement, and Restoration Plan

1. Determine the legal basis, necessity, viewpoint, objectives, and requirements of the land protection, improvement, and restoration plan.

2. Determine the content and volume of tasks for land protection, improvement, and restoration

a) Determine the content of work to be carried out for each area requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration within the jurisdiction;

b) Determine the volume of work to be carried out for each area requiring land protection, improvement, and restoration within the jurisdiction according to technical measures and economic and social solutions as per Model No. 35/QDC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

3. Propose tasks, programs, and projects in priority order to implement the land protection, improvement, and restoration plan for areas of degraded and polluted land as stipulated in Clause 1 and Clause 2 of Article 43 of this Circular.

4. Determine the implementation schedule for tasks, programs, and projects for each area of land protection, improvement, and restoration as stipulated in Clauses 1, 2, and 3 of this Article, including:

a) Determine the funding sources for implementing the plan;

b) Determine the implementation schedule for the plan;

c) Determine the responsibilities of relevant agencies, organizations, and individuals;

d) Determine the monitoring and reporting mechanisms.

5. Compile and complete the documentation for developing the land protection, improvement, and restoration plan for degraded and polluted land.

6. Submit the plan for approval.

Article 45. Determination of Technical Measures and Economic and Social Solutions for Implementing Tasks of Land Treatment, Protection, Improvement, and Restoration

1. Determine the technical measures and economic and social solutions to be applied to each area requiring treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration of degraded land as specified in Table No. 01/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular, including:

a) Identify, analyze technical measures and economic and social solutions, and select optimal options;

b) Decide on the implementation of technical measures and economic and social solutions for each area requiring treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration of degraded land.

2. Determine the technical measures and economic and social solutions for each area requiring treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration of polluted land in accordance with environmental protection laws.

Article 46. Implementation of Tasks of Land Treatment, Protection, Improvement, and Restoration

1. Organize and implement technical measures and economic and social solutions according to the approved land treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration tasks.

2. Evaluate the results of implementing the land treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration tasks, including:

a) Evaluate the volume, quality, and progress of implementing the approved land treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration tasks;

b) Evaluate the results of implementing the land treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration tasks as specified in Point c, Clause 1 of Article 47 of this Circular.

3. Prepare a summary report on the implementation of land treatment, protection, improvement, and restoration tasks, including:

a) Develop appendices, tables, and data;

b) Prepare a report on the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration as per Model No. 04/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular;

c) Prepare a summary report and a final report on the tasks;

d) Other related documents and materials.

Article 47. Supervision and control of the process of handling, protecting, improving, and restoring land

1. Supervise and control the process of handling, protecting, improving, and restoring land for areas of degraded land according to approved tasks

a) Supervise and control the implementation of technical measures, economic and social solutions for areas requiring handling, protection, improvement, and restoration regarding quality, volume, and technical indicators during construction works as required by the approved tasks;

b) Supervise and control the progress of implementing the approved tasks;

c) Supervise and control the results of handling, protecting, improving, and restoring land for each task to evaluate the degree of land restoration carried out in accordance with Table No. 03/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular;

d) Propose adjustments to technical measures, economic and social solutions in cases where the contents stipulated in Clause 2 and Clause 5, Article 8 of this Circular are not met.

2. Supervise and control the process of handling, improving, and restoring land for areas of polluted land in accordance with the provisions of laws on environmental protection.

Article 48. Preparing maps of the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration

1. Prepare base maps to establish maps of the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration in accordance with Point b, Clause 2, Point a, and Point d, Clause 3, Article 6 of this Circular.

2. Create attribute data fields for information layers for each area requiring protection, improvement, and restoration of land. Content, structure, and type of information in accordance with Table No. 05/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular

a) Information layer about areas requiring protection, improvement, and restoration of land as stipulated in Clause 12, Article 22 of this Circular;

b) Information layer about the degree of land protection, improvement, and restoration;

c) Information layer about the plan to implement land protection, improvement, and restoration;

d) Information layer about the results of supervising and controlling the process of handling, protecting, improving, and restoring land;

đ) Information layer about the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration;

e) Information layer about zoning and warning against activities not permitted or restricted on land.

3. Review and adjust boundaries and enter attribute information into the created information layers under Clause 2 of this Article.

4. Overlay the information layers under Clause 3 of this Article to form an information layer of the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration for each area.

5. Determine the area of land that has been protected, improved, and restored.

6. Edit and compile explanatory reports for the map and print the map of the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration.

7. Establish land protection, improvement, and restoration data

a) Standardize data related to land protection, improvement, and restoration in accordance with the provisions of laws on national land database;

b) Scan other relevant data.

8. Update land protection, improvement, and restoration data into the national land database in accordance with the provisions of laws on national land database.

9. The procedure for establishing maps of the results of land protection, improvement, and restoration from Clause 1 to Clause 6 of this Article is illustrated in detail in Diagram No. 02/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular.

Article 49. Evaluation of the results of implementing plans and supervision of areas of degraded and polluted land that have not been protected, improved, and restored

1. Statistic and consolidate the results of implementing land protection, improvement, and restoration according to the plan using Form No. 36/QĐC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

2. Statistic areas of degraded and polluted land that have not been protected, improved, and restored according to the approved land protection, improvement, and restoration plan using Form No. 37/QĐC of Appendix I issued together with this Circular.

3. Establish a report on the results of implementing the land protection, improvement, and restoration plan, including:

a) Establish appendices and tables;

b) Propose areas for warning against activities not permitted or restricted on land to minimize negative impacts on land;

c) Compile a report on the results of implementing the land protection, improvement, and restoration plan using Form No. 03/BVĐ of Appendix VI issued together with this Circular.

Chapter VIII
SPECIALIZED LAND SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT

Article 50. Provisions on specialized land survey and assessment

1. The techniques for surveying and assessing the quality and potential of specific types of land according to specialized topics shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Chapter II of this Circular.

2. The techniques for surveying and assessing land degradation according to specialized topics for specific types of land shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Chapter III of this Circular.

3. The techniques for surveying and assessing land pollution according to specialized topics for specific types of land shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Chapter IV of this Circular.

4. The scale and scope of implementing specialized land surveys and assessments shall be determined by the competent state agency responsible for organizing such surveys and assessments as specified in the tasks approved for implementation.

Chapter IX
IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 51. Transitional Provisions

For the national soil resource monitoring network system in economic and social regions that have been approved by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment before the effective date of this Circular, they shall be used to review, adjust, and supplement the establishment of a nationwide fixed monitoring network in accordance with Clause 1 of Article 38 of this Circular.

Article 52. Effective date

1. This Circular takes effect from August 1, 2024.

2. The following circulars shall cease to be effective from the date this Circular takes effect:

a) Circular No. 14/2012/TT-BTNMT dated November 26, 2012 issued by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment on technical regulations for land degradation surveys;

b) Circular No. 35/2014/TT-BTNMT dated June 30, 2014 issued by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment on land survey and assessment procedures;

c) Circular No. 60/2015/TT-BTNMT dated December 15, 2015 issued by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment on technical regulations for land survey and assessment.

3. The Director of the Land Planning and Development Department, the Chairpersons of the People's Committees of provinces and centrally-administered cities, the Directors of Provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment, the Heads of units under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and related organizations and individuals are responsible for implementing this Circular.

During the implementation process, if there are difficulties or obstacles, it is recommended that agencies, organizations, and individuals promptly report them to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment for consideration and decision.