COMPREHENSIVE GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT FOR DESIGNING A RESERVOIR FOR COLLECTING MELTWATER IN AKMOLA REGION

Water scarcity and increasing climate variability pose significant challenges to sustainable water supply in the steppe regions of Northern Kazakhstan. This study presents a comprehensive geotechnical assessment for the design of a meltwater reservoir in Akmola region, Kazakhstan, aimed at improving water security and adapting to climate change. A pre—selected area of 105 (52°12'2" n, 68°17'38" E) was estimated based on an analysis of terrain slopes. The physical and mechanical properties of the foundation soils were characterized by field and laboratory studies. The optimal type of dam was selected by comparative analysis of soil, rock-fill and concrete alternatives. The slope stability analysis was performed using the methods of marginal equilibrium. The results show that Site 105, characterized by gentle slopes (0-1°) and favorable soil conditions, is the most suitable location. A homogeneous soil dam with a core of soil stabilized with 10% lime provides a stability margin factor of 1.569 at an embankment height of 7 m, which meets international criteria. The results obtained provide a scientific basis for designing meltwater collection infrastructure in cold, semi-arid steppe conditions.