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Abstract
The article is devoted to the study and application of swales – simple hydraulic structures designed for water management and prevention of soil erosion. The historical roots of this technology are considered, starting from the Neolithic revolution, when small embankments were used to retain floodwaters. The article analyses the evolution of the use of swales from ancient liman irrigation systems to modern permaculture design and describes their advantages in water resources management.
Swales are shallow ditches laid along contour lines of the terrain and serve to retain surface water and promote its gradual infiltration into the soil. They prevent water erosion, contribute to moisture accumulation, improve water absorption and increase the productivity of agroecosystems. The authors emphasise their particular importance for Kazakhstan, where frequent droughts and floods require effective anti‑erosion measures.
The modern use of swales is also considered in the context of permaculture concepts. The article highlights the role of key permaculture figures P.A. Yeomans and B. Mollison in popularising swales and integrating them into the principles of sustainable ecosystem management. Particular attention is paid to the use of geographic information system (GIS) technologies, which make it possible to optimise the planning and implementation of swales and thus increase the effectiveness of water‑management measures.