Kazakhstan's Zhetisay District kicks off melon harvest with record irrigation support
Farmers in Zhetisay District, Turkestan Region, have begun harvesting this year’s melon crop. The region has allocated over 1 billion cubic meters of water for agriculture, with a focus on supporting key harvests. Early results show strong yields, thanks to steady irrigation efforts. The regional branch of Kazvodkhoz secured a reliable water supply for local fields. Zhetisay District alone received 293 million cubic meters, of which 49 million were dedicated to melon and gourd crops. These measures helped maintain consistent irrigation throughout the growing season.
Al-Farabi peasant farm, one of the area’s producers, planted melons across 20 hectares. So far, the farm has harvested 65 tons of the crop. Anarbayuly, the farm’s head, credited the successful yield to the uninterrupted water access. Meanwhile, rice-growing regions in Kazakhstan have suggested adopting alternating wetting techniques for irrigation. This method could further optimise water use in future seasons.
The melon harvest in Zhetisay District is now underway, supported by targeted water distribution. With 65 tons already collected at Al-Farabi farm, the region expects a productive season. The ongoing irrigation strategies aim to sustain agricultural output across Turkestan.
