The management and conservation of reservoir areas are directly linked to the effective operation of critical functions such as flood control

water supply

and power generation. These functions are also closely connected to the economic and social development of surrounding regions. Reservoir area management involves multiple departments

including water conservancy

energy

ecology

natural resources

and judiciary. These departments often have overlapping responsibilities and conflicting interests. Balancing protection and development in reservoir area management remains a fundamental challenge for engineering management. Strengthening reservoir management and ensuring reservoir safety are crucial to safeguarding national water security and public safety. However

the reservoir waters and shorelines are also valuable spaces and resources for the production and daily lives of local residents. Using the Panjiakou and Daheiting reservoirs as case studies

this paper analyzes typical issues in current reservoir area management

such as imperfect management mechanisms

imbalanced protection and development priorities

and the intersection of historical challenges and current constraints. Based on this analysis

targeted recommendations are proposed

focusing on clarifying responsibilities

enhancing communication and collaboration

leveraging technological support

and promoting green development. The management practices of the Panjiakou and Daheiting reservoirs demonstrate that protection and development in reservoir areas are not zero-sum games. Through appropriate institutional design and technological innovation

mutually beneficial outcomes can be achieved

fostering high-quality development alongside robust safety and protection.