Abstract
The study addresses the problems and the history of formation and functioning of one of the largest intracontinental estuaries in Kazakhstan—the Ili River waterway. Being a natural regulator of the ecological status of the region, the estuary of Ili River also influences the water regime of Lake Balkhash. This work studied the current state of hydrographic and hydrological networks in a selected area and the distribution of water flow entering the estuary through the various ducts. Using a water balance method, this study calculated the loss of water in the delta, estimated runoff to the peak of delta and the inflow of river water into Lake Balkhash for two periods: the natural-conditioned and disturbed. As a result of the work performed, it was possible to trace the dynamics of hydraulic parameters for a multiyear period.