Swales - the simplest hydraulic structures

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study and application of swales - the simplest hydraulic structures designed to manage water resources and prevent soil erosion. The historical roots of this technology are considered, starting with the Neolithic revolution, when small swales were used to delay flood waters. The article analyzes the evolution of the use of swales, starting from ancient estuary systems to modern permaculture design, and describes their advantages in water management.

Swales are shallow ditches placed along contour lines of the relief, and serve to delay and gradually penetrate surface water into the soil. They prevent water erosion, promote moisture accumulation, improve water absorption and increase the productivity of agroecosystems. The author highlights their special significance in Kazakhstan, where frequent droughts and floods require effective anti-erosion measures.

The modern use of windrows is also presented in the context of permaculture concepts. The article highlights the role of key figures in permaculture, such as P.A. Yeomans and Bill Mollison, in popularizing windrows and integrating them into the principles of sustainable ecosystem management. Particular attention is paid to the use of GIS technologies that allow optimizing the planning and implementation of windrows, which increases the efficiency of water management measures.