Abstract
Groundwater is an important natural resource and its importance for the agricultural sector of the economy of Kazakhstan is enormous. In conditions of limited surface water resources and due to the changes and increasing climate aridization, the southern regions of Kazakhstan are increasingly experiencing a shortage of water resources. The climate conditions of the south-eastern regions of Kazakhstan are characterized by a lack of moisture, which makes irrigation an integral part of agricultural production. In recent decades, water resource management has become increasingly important. The efficient use of water resources through modern irrigation technologies can contribute to increased land productivity and food security in the region. This paper presents the results of research on the use of groundwater in the southern part of the Kerbulak field for irrigation purposes. The paper analyzes the current state of groundwater use and prospects for the development of irrigated agriculture in the considered area. The article presents the results of the research of the hydrogeological conditions of the Shengeldy area (the southern part of the Kerbulak field), identified prospective aquifers, studied the quality of groundwater, and made conclusions about the use of groundwater for various purposes. The groundwater of the Kerbulak field can provide a stable water supply during the growing season, and this is critical for agriculture in poor years. However, despite all the benefits, irrigated agriculture faces a number of challenges, such as soil degradation, pollution and depletion of water resources. Therefore, the important task is to develop and implement effective strategies for the management of irrigated areas, aimed at integrating modern technologies, traditional knowledge and sustainable agricultural practices.