Anthropogenic influence on the state of Lake Shalkar in Western Kazakhstan

Abstract

Lakes are natural accumulating systems with slow water exchange, acting as a regulator of river systems. Small lakes, which include water bodies with a surface area of up to 10-50 sq. km, are found everywhere and are actively used for economic and recreational purposes. Lake Shalkar is located in Western Kazakhstan and is the “Pearl of Kazakhstan”, where there are many vacationers in the summer. The summer months are characterized by bright, dry weather. The average air temperature in the territory in July is 23.6°C, the absolute maximum temperature reaches 41-45°C. The article studies the ecological state of Lake Shalkar. Research was carried out on several parameters: the organoleptic and hydrochemical properties of the lake water were studied, as well as the anthropogenic impact on the lake, since the lake, due to its unique properties, has recreational significance. In this regard, field trips to the lake were organized during the summer resort campaign in order to identify the anthropogenic load on the lake. A decrease in water turbidity was observed in summer. According to the data obtained, water does not differ in smell and taste from year to year. On average, organoleptic indicators do not change much; the smell is salty, easily detected, and may be the reason that the water is undrinkable, but suitable for bathing. In Lake Shalkar, the average water temperature was 14.7, the hydrogen index was 6.33, the concentration of oxygen dissolved in the water was 10.16 mg/dm3 BOD5 - 2.82 mg/dm3. Exceedances of the MPC were recorded for substances from the group of main ions (chlorides -6.7 MPC, sulfates -1.2 MPC).