Environmental monitoring and analysis of the current state of water resources of the foothills of Dagestan used to irrigate pastures and watering of agricultural animals

The objective was to provide a comprehensive assessment of the hydrochemical status of water bodies in the Buynaksky District of the Republic of Dagestan, Russia, used for pasture irrigation and for watering farm animals.

Water samples were collected at representative points of each site; hydrochemical parameters were determined using standard methods. The ionic composition of NH⁴⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, Mg²⁺, Ca^2+, Cl^‐, HCO₃^‐, SO₄^2‐, NO₂^‐, NO₃^‐, PO₄^3‐ was analysed by capillary electrophoresis; total hardness was measured titrimetrically based on the combined Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ content; COD and BOD5 were determined photometrically; and pH was measured using a pH meter.

Exceedances of permissible levels were recorded for several parameters at all sites. The most pronounced were concentrations of nutrients (ammonium and phosphates) and mineralisation indicators, especially in the Shura‐Ozen River and Buglen‐2 Lake, indicating progressing eutrophication and a high anthropogenic load. For the Kapchugay Canal, intra‐channel dynamics of nitrogen compounds were identified, consistent with self‐purification processes. Novelty lies in the comparative analysis of the chemical composition of 3 regional water bodies based on 2024–2025 data and in identifying anthropogenic factors shaping current environmental risks.

The findings confirm the need for regular environmental monitoring and the implementation of conservation measures to stabilise aquatic ecosystems in the foothill zone of Dagestan.

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