As a result of the Aral Sea environmental crisis, the Syr-Darya River delta lakes are the only place where high concentrations of regional fauna can still be found, like the migratory birds that fly through the south of Kazakhstan. However, the limited water-flow of the Syr Darya River is decreasing the total area of most lakes, and other problems like poaching, destruction of vegetation, irrational land and water resource use, irrational agriculture, land degradation and desertification negatively influence the fragile wetland ecosystem. As a result, there is a very serious threat to the biodiversity of these lakes.

This demonstration project aims to preserve the water levels in the Syr-Darya delta lakes and protect their biodiversity, thus creating an effective and sustainable land and water resource management system. This system will improve the livelihoods of the local population, by using Makpal Lake and its neighbouring lakes of Kamystybas district, Kyzyl-Orda area as an example. Biodiversity in the lakes will be restored by replenishing water levels, and by introducing species protection and revitalisation measures. In order to encourage the rational use of land and water resources, agricultural practices will be revised through the introduction of recommendations for new technologies that will reduce land salinity, change water use regimes, and work to implement new farming facilities. In addition, land use schemes will be revised and new water use rules implemented. Local livelihood will be improved by developing 2000 ha of irrigated pastures and hayfields, and 60 ha pumpkin fields. Environmental education of the local population and informational campaigns will be carried out to raise public awareness.

This project will restore the water levels in Makpal Lake and the neighbouring lakes, and will conserve these critical environments for the migration of rare, endemic and endangered birds. It will also heighten awareness of ecological issues in the region, strengthen environmental preservation activities and positively impact land and water resource regimes in the area.

The project has links with both international (UNSO, UNDP, World Bank and GEF/SGP) and national projects and programs. It has global environmental benefit, is very sustainable and will positively influence state policy. Co-financing has been secured, the local population will be actively involved in the project activities, and capacity building will result.