Improvement of aspects of efficient use of irrigated lands in the South-Eastern region of Kazakhstan

Abstract

Background and Aim. The article examines issues related to the rational use of irrigated lands in the southeastern region of Kazakhstan. This region is characterized by an arid climate and limited water availability, which necessitate improvements in irrigated agricultural practices. The aim of the study was to identify and substantiate effective approaches to the use of irrigated lands, including the introduction of intermediate crops to increase productivity and economic returns.

Materials and Methods. To achieve this goal, the thermal requirements of agricultural crops were calculated based on the sum of active temperatures and compared with the actual temperature conditions of the region. The study utilized data from field experiments conducted in Southeast Kazakhstan. The analysis assessed the economic efficiency of cultivating primary and intermediate crops, taking into account production costs, yield levels, and profitability.

Results. The findings showed that the introduction of intermediate crops after the main crop increased profitability from 129% to 149%. The highest net income, ranging from 171 to 197 thousand KZT per hectare, was obtained when winter triticale was grown as the main crop, followed by the sowing of intermediate crops. At the same time, the cultivation of Sudan grass for green mass as an intermediate crop did not produce a significant economic effect.

Conclusion. The rational use of intermediate crops enables the efficient utilization of irrigated lands under the arid conditions of Southeast Kazakhstan. This practice enhances economic efficiency, increases the productivity of agricultural lands, and contributes to the sustainability of agricultural production in water-limited environments.