ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT STATE OF FORAGE RESOURCES AND PASTURE ECOSYSTEMS IN THE WESTERN PART OF KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

Currently, the western region of Kazakhstan plays a crucial role in feed production, as pastures serve as the primary source of nutrition for farm animals. These forage pastures are essential for sustaining livestock, directly impacting both meat and dairy production. However, research findings indicate that over 82% of Kazakhstan's pastures are in unsatisfactory condition, with a significant portion experiencing severe or moderate degradation.

The study was conducted in 2023-2024 in the spring, summer and autumn periods in the districts of Atyrau, Mangystau, West Kazakhstan and Aktobe regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. To assess the current state of pastures and forage lands, various modern methods were used, including field research, cartographic analysis, as well as livestock data from statistical books of the Department of Statistics of the studied regions. Particular attention was paid to the impact of livestock growth on the use of pasture lands and changes in the load on hay and pasture lands. Studies have revealed an increase in pasture use in the West Kazakhstan and Aktobe regions, whereas a decline in forage land productivity has been observed in the Atyrau and Mangystau regions. Geobotanical research has been conducted, allowing for the identification of key plant communities and the assessment of their productivity. Based on the findings, recommendations have been developed for the sustainable management of pasture resources to prevent further degradation.